Waterfalls on McKenzie Pass

I am a waterfall lover and would like to see Proxie Falls and some of the other waterfalls in that area along the McKenzie Highway. But I noticed one of the maps I have indicates a section of that road is closed in the winter. I plan to visit in early June and was wondering if it is likely the road will be opened by then? Or is there another way to access the falls when that road is closed? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Waterfalls on McKenzie Pass

Proxy Falls is off OLD McKenzie Hwy (#242), which usually doesn%26#39;t open until July. Sometimes the section from the McKenzie Hwy (126) to Proxy opens sooner. As pretty as Proxy is, a far more powerful and impressive waterfall, Sahalie Falls, is right off Hwy 126 just before it merges into #20 to go over the pass to Sisters and Bend. Also open usually by the time you come will be Clear Lake just across the hwy from Sahalie Falls. There is a great 5.5 mile trail around Clear Lake, the source of the McKenzie River. You can also hike from Clear Lake down to Sahalie Falls and its nearby downstream falls. That%26#39;s all part of the McKenzie River Trail which goes for another 20 or so miles.

The opening and closing of Old McKenzie HWY are subjects of bets and pools. Last year, with construction and snow, it was hardly open at all.

Proxy Falls is sometimes accessible in early June, but you%26#39;ll have to check much closer to the date.

Waterfalls on McKenzie Pass

We have lots of wonderful waterfalls in Lane County. What is your itinerary? Are Kentucky Falls or Sweet Creek Falls on your list. Both will be very accessible (but involve some easy hiking).

And just east of Salem is Silver Falls State Park with its 10 waterfall loop (three of which have the trail going behind the falls)...a special treat!

Silver Falls is really something to see. McKenzie Pass and trail are a favorite of my brother and his wife (avid outdoorspeople in Bend). Depending on which way you are going, a scenic route to get from one to the other is to use Santiam Junction and go by Detroit Lakes.