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Koosah and Sahalie Falls Hiking Guide
The Koosah and Sahalie Falls hiking trail is more like a relaxing walk than a hike. Consequently, it’s great for all skill levels. The McKenzie river is a 90-mile tributary of the Willamette River and runs through old growth forest, waterfalls, and brilliant blue pools of water. The McKenzie River Recreation Trail is a 24 mile trail used by hikers and mountain bikers that runs along the McKenzie River. One of the most popular section includes Koosah and Sahalie Falls. This trail offers two great waterfalls on one beautiful riverside trail. Another longer trail (9.5 miles) includes Koosah, Sahalie and Tamolich Falls. Check out this hiking guide to learn more…
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A Night at the Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
The Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast is a magical place nestled in the hillside of the Oregon Coast. The keeper’s house was built over 100 years ago. A lighthouse keeper operated the Fresnel Lens from 1894 until the 1930s when electricity became available. As a result, the lighthouse was automated and the keeper was no longer needed. Consequently, the house was sold for the unbelievable price of just $10! Many years later, in 1995, it was converted to a bed and breakfast. Enjoy Your Stay The welcome drink pairs nicely with the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from the front porch. Grab a blanket, cozy up in an…
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10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring
What are the 10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring? The 10 Essentials is a list of items for outdoor adventurers to keep on hand in case of an outdoor emergency. This list originated in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based adventure group. It contained specific supplies to bring in your pack to increase your odds of survival should an emergency arise. The list included a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife and extra food. The original list has evolved over the years but the basic systems needed for survival remain an important part of outdoor emergency preparedness. Options for outdoor gear…
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Tamolich Blue Pool Hiking Guide
The crystal clear turquoise water of Tamolich Blue Pool makes the Blue Pool hike a popular destination on warm summer days. Tamolich Blue Pool gets its name from the Cherokee word for “bucket.” Most locals just refer to it as Blue pool. The turquoise pool formed where the McKenzie River seeps to the surface via underground lava fields that formed over 600 years ago. About the Trail The first part of the Blue Pool hiking trail is an easy walk through fir trees along the McKenzie River. The tranquil sounds of the river below will make this first section of the Blue Pool hike even more enjoyable. There are several…
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McDowell Creek Falls Hiking Guide
The McDowell Creek Falls hike under a lush woodland canopy is a peaceful place to enjoy nature with calming sounds of nearby McDowell Creek. There are several trail options going past multiple falls. Royal Terrace Falls, (not pictured) was just a trickle mid summer, so a fall hike would be a great time for ideal water flowing over the falls. About the Trail This wooded trail is fairly easy, but has a moderate rating due to the number of stairs. If you have mobility issues, this might not be a good choice. The stair cases will get your heart racing, but they are only in a couple areas. We hiked…