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Sahalie & Koosah Falls

The Sahalie and Koosah Falls Trail, located along the McKenzie River in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, offers a stunning 2.6-mile loop featuring two magnificent waterfalls and scenic river views. This popular trail is part of the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail and provides up-close views of the wild McKenzie River as it cascades through a lush, old-growth forest.

Trail Summary

Trailhead: Sahalie Falls North of McKenzie Bridge

Length: 2.6 Miles

Elevation: 400 ft. Gain

Difficulty: Easy

Surface Conditions: Overall Well Maintained with Roots & Rocks in Places

Featured Landmark: Sahalie Falls

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Trailhead Locations and Access Points

The Sahalie and Koosah Falls loop hike offers multiple access points, with the main trailheads located at Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls. The Sahalie Falls parking lot, situated near milepost 5 on Highway 126, is the most popular starting point but tends to be crowded. For a quieter alternative, hikers can begin at the Koosah Falls parking lot, located about 1/4 mile south on Highway 126. This lot is set farther back from the highway and typically less busy.

  • Additional access points include:
    • Carmen Reservoir Trailhead, offering a connection to the southern part of the loop
    • Ice Cap Campground, providing access to Koosah Falls
    • Clear Lake, connecting to the northern extension of the McKenzie River Trail (1.5 miles beyond Sahalie Falls)

When parking lots are full, some visitors park along Highway 126, though this is not recommended due to safety concerns. For those seeking a less crowded experience, starting at Koosah Falls or Ice Cap Campground is advised, especially during peak seasons.

Scenic Highlights Along the Route

The Sahalie and Koosah Falls Loop Trail offers a spectacular journey through a lush, old-growth forest, showcasing the raw beauty of the McKenzie River. Hikers are treated to stunning views of two majestic waterfalls:

  • Sahalie Falls: A 70-foot wide, 100-foot high cascade that thunders over a lava dam, creating a misty veil visible from multiple viewpoints.
  • Koosah Falls: A 70-foot plunge waterfall with varying profiles depending on water levels, offering dramatic views from a head-on vista point.

Between the falls, the trail meanders alongside the McKenzie River, revealing picturesque cascades and rapids tumbling through a mossy, conifer-lined corridor. The vibrant blue water, a result of minerals in the lava rock, provides a striking contrast against the verdant forest backdrop. Interpretive signs along the route offer insights into the area’s unique geology, formed by lava flows about 3,000 years ago.

MCKENZIE BRIDGE

Trail Surface and Conditions

The Sahalie and Koosah Falls Trail offers varied surface conditions throughout its 2.6-mile loop. The path is primarily composed of dirt and gravel, with exposed tree roots and rocks in some sections. Hikers should be prepared for potentially muddy or slippery conditions, especially during rainy periods or in early spring when snowmelt is common.

  • Trail conditions to expect:
    • Uneven terrain with roots and rocks
    • Stairs in some sections, making it unsuitable for wheelchair access
    • Possible ice and snow in winter months, requiring appropriate footwear
    • Well-maintained trail overall, particularly on the McKenzie River Trail portion

While the main viewpoints at Sahalie Falls are accessible via a paved, wheelchair-friendly path, the loop trail itself is considered moderately challenging due to its terrain and elevation changes. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for changing conditions, especially when visiting outside the peak summer season.

 

Sources:

Go Wander Wild, Hike Oregon, Oregon Hikers, Forest Service

All Trails, Melia in the Mountains, Eugene Cascades & Coast

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