Twin Buttes Trail

Getting There There are a couple of different routes to the summit of Iron Mountain. This adventure article focuses on the shorter but more strenuous hike to the summit of Iron Mountain. To get there, drive to the upper trailhead (Trail # 3389) via Highway 20. Take Forest Service Road (FSR) 035 and drive 2.6 miles to the trailhead. A Northwest Forest Pass or $5 self-pay at the trailhead is req...

The hike out to Tamolitch Pool, or "Blue Pool," is 2 miles each way and follows the McKenzie River to a lava flow pool. Off Highway 126 14 miles east of McKenzie Bridge, turning into the Trailbridge Campground, drive right 1/3 of a mile to the trailhead. The trail is relatively flat, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the lush Douglas Fir forest that winds you to the pool. Once you arrive...

Unlike many other springs you'll find, this pool has basically no barriers to entry – it is accessible via a short hike, has no fee, and is available year-round. While the temperature is less than 100 degrees, the scenic surroundings make up for the slightly less than hot water.

Soda Creek Falls flows 150 feet down a curvy basalt rock groove at Cascadia State Park. The trail follows Soda Creek through a lush Oregon rain forest. The site was a former hotel and health spa with the mineral water from the creek as the main attraction. The park has a small campground, and picnic area. The nearby Santiam River offers swimming and fishing.  Cascadia State Park is 14 miles eas...

Koosah Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Sisters, Oregon.

This loop might be on the shorter side, but the hike is more than worth it for the scenery. Start at Sahalie Falls, a 100-foot tall waterfall pouring into the river below and covering the moss-covered valley with cool mist. Continue down the trail, walking past the 70-foot Koosah Falls, and finish the first half of the loop at Carmen Reservoir. As you turn back along the other side of the river...