One of the most beautiful and rewarding rides in Oregon, if not the US. The McKenzie river trail offers mild sections of single track in areas, but many section pass through very diffucult lave formations, bridge crossings, loose rocky sections, and fast, tight watch out for trees and rocks sections. It also overs breath-takeing views of saphire blue Clear Lake, the spring fed head-waters of McKenzie river, views of water-falls, another, emerald green lake, and passes by hot-springs 20' off the trail. It is a taxing ride for those not in shape and is reccommended that the map is studied for possible bail points in case they are required. It is also reccomended to bring extra food and water. The elevation is 3200' at the trailhead and is covered in snow much of the winter. Call ahead to be sure the trails (and roads) are open. Mckenzie Ranger Station (541) 822-3381

Directions:  First, stop at Santiam Bicycle and get a map of the trail. There are two ways to get to the McKenzie River Trail. One is to drive East out of Salem on Hwy 22 and drive 80 miles past Detroit Lake to Hwy 20. Turn right (West) onto Hwy 20 and drive 3 miles to Hwy 126. Turn left (South) onto Hwy 126 and drive approx. 3 miles to Clear Lake lodge. The other is to head South on I-5 out of Salem to Albany. At Albany take the Hwy 20 Exit East and drive 70 miles to the intersection of Hwy 126. Turn right (South) and drive approx. 3 miles to the Clear Lake Lodge. At this point, if the lodge is open and you don't already have one, get a map and follow the map's instructions to find the trail. If it is closed, there is a permenent map posted on a brown wooden sign. This trail is relitively hard to get lost on. The trail follows the McKenzie river, and the river follows Hwy 126. Once found, follow the trail down. There are a few places where one can get turned around so it is best to have a map.