Paradise Found

Long ago, Oregonians figured out what a precious commodity we have in our mountains, beaches, deserts, rivers and lakes. Which is why visitors and locals alike continue to have unfettered access to nature’s playlands, including countless freshwater swimming holes. Recently I set out to cool down at three magical spots I’d heard of—but not yet seen—including an epic 100-foot natural water slide…

LAKE CREEK
Just a half-mile south of Triangle Lake in the Siuslaw Watershed I explored a spot that perfectly defines the term “nature’s playground.” Lake Creek Falls, which was formed after a massive rockslide ages ago, is a serene site surrounded by towering trees and moss-covered boulders. The hike from the parking lot is a measly G mile, but on this hot summer day that was just fine. I crossed the street from the parking lot and descended the stairs leading to the middle section of the falls. Of the three tiers, this is the most popular spot among intrepid visitors. Its sloping bedrock doubles as a 100-foot natural water slide that dumps the curious—if not a little brave—into a wide swimming hole at its base.

Getting There: Head north from Eugene on Highway 99 for 25 miles to Junction City, then head west on Highway 36 for 28 miles to the Lake Creek Falls trail parking area. Cross the street, following the trail along the road until it reaches a staircase. Descend to an interpretive sign at the middle section of the falls. About 1/4 mile. Please use caution when swimming. For more information call the Convention & Visitors Association of Lane County in Eugene at 541.484.5307/ 800.547.5445 or visit www.TravelLaneCounty.com.

ONEONTA GORGE
Located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the Oneonta Gorge swimming hole turned out to be more of a swimming hike. Oneonta is a narrow canyon with towering mossy rock cliffs overhead and a flooded trail below, so walking through the canyon feels a lot like trudging through a shallow creek. And though the water is mostly ankle-deep, it can get deeper in parts (sometimes waist-high) depending on the time of year, so my advice is: Be prepared to get wet. I did, and it was worth it once I reached the gorgeous hidden pool and waterfall at the end of the 1.5-mile canyon trail.

This spot is a favorite among locals and can get pretty crowded on particularly hot days, so keep an eye on small children. Wear sturdy shoes (a pair you won’t mind getting soaked). Water is usually lowest—and the temperature is highest—in August. Getting there: Travel I-84 east from Portland to the Bridal Veil exit, about 30 minutes. Head east on the Old Columbia River Scenic Highway for five miles. On the far side of the stone bridge spanning Oneonta Creek is the parking area and trailhead. For more information call the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 503.669.7473 or visit www.westcolumbiagorgechamber.com.

OPAL CREEK
The old sarcastic saying “another rotten day in paradise” rang in my head as I made my way down the forested Opal Creek Wilderness Trail on a beautiful, crisp summer morning. The canopy of old-growth trees—a medley of fir, cedar, maple, some of which are 500 to 1000 years old—cast shadows over the dirt path as it hugged the Little North Santiam River in the Cascade Foothills, 30 minutes east of Salem. I crossed the 60-foot-tall bridge over Gold Creek and passed a few early-bird hikers who were already retracing their steps, wet towels hanging off their backpacks. I picked up my gait ’cause at the end of this easy, 2.5-mile hike was La Cascada de Los Niños, the reason for my visit. Within no time I passed Merton Mill, a historic steam-powered sawmill that once logged five acres—the only spot ever logged on this 13,640-acre Scenic Recreation Area. From there I followed signs to La Cascada, a 30-foot waterfall that dumps into a clear pool surrounded by large boulders. It was breathtaking. Despite my swimming intentions, however, I chickened out—it was, after all, still early in the day and not yet balmy enough. I opted, instead, for a quick toe dip before heading back.

For an extended hike, trek another 1.5 miles to Jawbone Flats, a 1930s mining town that has been converted into an old-growth research center. From here, continue through camp, cross the Battle Axe Creek Bridge, and follow signs to Opal Pool, set within a rock gorge and surrounded by bigger-than-thou ancient trees.

Getting There: 90 minutes from Salem. Follow Highway 22 (East of I-5) 25 miles toward North Fork Road in Lyons and turn north. After 20 miles you will enter the Willamette National Forest. Follow Forest Service road No. 2209 to the left at the fork in the road and continue another four miles to the parking area. A $5 day-use fee is required. National Forest day passes can be purchased at most Forest Service offices and outdoor stores. For more information call the Salem Convention & Visitors Association at 503.851.4325 / 800.874.7012 or visit www.travelsalem.com.