Known for their fantastic wildlife viewing, birdwatching, wildflowers, and nearby running and biking trails, the Delta Ponds are one of Eugene, Oregon's most well known casual recreation areas. The area is a 150 acre network of ponds, sloughs, and waterways near Valley River Center that act as a major haven for wildlife of all kinds. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded at Delta Ponds and the adjacent stretches of the Willamette River along with numerous fish and aquatic wildlife, including the threatened Western Pond … [Read more...]
Newberry Volcanic Monument – Paulina and East Lake
Newberry Volcanic Monument - Officially created in 1990 within the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry Crater is a 17sq mile geologic wonder. The monument contains lakes stocked with fish, cinder cones, obsidian flows, waterfalls, camping, hiking and even some elusive hot springs if you know where to look for them. It's two main lakes, Paulina Lake and East Lake are surrounded by lush forests ands amazing peaks. The access road is seasonal and it is not uncommon for it to be blocked until after Memorial Day. The Location: Paulina Lake (the … [Read more...]
McKenzie River Rafting: Finn Rock to Prince Helfrich
One of the most popular McKenzie River White Water Rafting runs is from Finn Rock to the Prince Helfrich Boat Landing. This 10 mile run offers rapids for paddlers of all skill levels, amazing scenery, and some of the best play spots the McKenzie River has to offer. Between a few calm quiet sections are interspersed class II+ and class III rapids with amazing holes and some of the best fishing on the McKenzie River. Caution should always be taken as the water is cold and snags are sometimes numerous. Access: There is easy access to both the … [Read more...]
North Umpqua River: Rafting, Kayaking, Hiking, Camping, Fishing
The North Umpqua River offers activities for all outdoor enthusiasts. These activities range from rafting and kayaking to hiking and biking. There are many great waterfalls to hike to and there are some great hotspings to soak in. The river is very clean, clear and refreshing. The North Umpqua River is nestled in the beautiful Umpqua National Forest. Location: Just east of Roseburg Oregon along highway 138, 1.5 hours from Eugene. Eugene to North Umpqua River - General Area - Click Here for the Map Time Involved: A trip here can range … [Read more...]
Alton Baker Park
Alton Baker Park is Eugene's largest developed park with over 400 acres to explore. The park features miles of running trails (paved and dirt), river paths, duck ponds, large open fields, a dog park, and an overall beautiful environment. Named after Register-Guard founder Alton F. Baker, the park is divided into two distinct areas: the more developed West Alton Baker Park and the natural and serene East Alton Baker Park. Location: North bank of the Willamette River smack dab in the middle of Eugene. Click Here for a Google Maps … [Read more...]
Trail Bridge Reservoir – Fishing, Camping, Hiking, Swimming
Trail Bridge Campground surrounds beautiful 120 acre man made reservoir located just over an hour outside of Eugene Oregon. The area around the reservoir is home to 46 camp sites, hiking trails, and some amazing fishing. During the summer, Trail Bridge is often full of campers and other outdoor enthusiasts looking to take in the scenery of the Oregon Cacades. Location: Trail Bridge is located just over an hour outside of Eugene and 13 miles east of McKenzie Bridge, OR on Highway 126. Eugene to Trail Bridge - Click Here for a Google … [Read more...]
Clear Lake – Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Camping
Clear Lake is a crystal clear glacial spring fed lake located 90 minutes outside Eugene on highway 126. If was formed over 3,000 years ago when lava flows damned the McKenzie river and created the lake the see today. The lake itself is divided up into two sections, the North end and the South End. The water in the lake has a temperature of about 40 degrees farenheit year round. (COLD!) Location: Clear Lake is located approximately 90 minutes outside Eugene Oregon directly off of highway 126. Look for the sign for Clear Lake on the right … [Read more...]
Wildwood Falls
Wildwood Falls is a beautiful swimming hole and waterfall located on the Row River near Cottage Grove, Oregon. The falls are about 20ft. and pour off a rock ridge into a large swimming hole. The cliffs above the swimming hole are great for cliff diving and jumpers usually leap off to the left of the main falls. Location: Wildwood is located about 45 minutes outside Eugene, Oregon or 25 minutes outside Cottage Grove, Oregon. Google Maps - Eugene to Wildwood Click Here for the Map Time Involved: All day or just an afternoon. I usually spend … [Read more...]