Class II-III McKenzie River, OR

The McKenzie River is an important and valuable river to Oregon in terms of challenging the skills of whitewater rafters, kayakers, and drift boaters. Its close proximity to the Eugene-Springfield area helps make it one of the most popular developed and dispersed recreational areas easily accessible from the Willamette Valley. Another highlight is the 26-mile McKenzie National Recreation Trail which provides recreation opportunities and allows easy accessibility to some spectacular geological phenomenon.

The McKenzie Wild and Scenic River was designated in 1988 for its outstandingly remarkable values of fish, scenic quality, recreation, hydrology/geology and water quality.

The "Blue McKenzie" is well-known for its exceptional water quality, resulting from low turbidity, absence of organic material and the high water quality of its tributaries. The excellent quality of its fish habitat supports a variety of fish species, including three native wild trout—rainbow, bull and cutthroat trout—as well as wild spring Chinook.

Recent vulcanism, including three distinctive lava flows, has shaped the river into pools, dramatic waterfalls and cascading whitewater. These features provide for exceptional whitewater boating, hiking and fishing.

 

For More Information Visit:

Mckenzie River - rivers.gov