Exploring Oregon’s Cascade Range: Crater Lake National Park, Willamette & Umpqua National Forests (Waterfalls & Hot Springs)

The Cascade Range is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest, stretching from Northern California through Oregon and into Washington. This volcanic mountain range is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the country, from towering peaks to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and even geothermal hot springs.

A Brief History & Fun Facts About the Cascade Range

Millions of years of volcanic activity have shaped the Cascade Range, creating a dramatic landscape of rugged peaks and deep valleys. The range is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire,where the Juan de Fuca Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate, fueling volcanic activity. The Pacific Ring of Fire is a zone known for its active volcanoes, including Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, and the legendary Mount Mazama, which collapsed nearly 7,700 years ago, forming what we now know as Crater Lake.

Fun facts:

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S., plunging 1,943 feet at its deepest point.
The Cascade Range is home to over 4,000 miles of hiking trails, winding through pristine wilderness. The famous Pacific Crest Trail, aka PCT, runs through the Oregon Cascades, offering breathtaking alpine scenery and remote wilderness for long-distance hikers.
The historic Timberline Lodge, which was built in the 1930s on Mount Hood, is famous for its rustic architecture and was used as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in The Shining.
Oregon’s Cascade mountains are dotted with hot springs, thanks to the geothermal activity beneath the surface.
A bucket list must scenic drive, McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway. A stunning highway through the Cascades, featuring ancient lava fields and incredible views of the Three Sisters.

Now, let’s dive into the best things to do and the three must-visit destinations in the Oregon Cascades: Crater Lake National Park, Willamette National Forest, and Umpqua National Forest!

Crater Lake National Park: The Crown Jewel of Oregon

There’s nothing quite like seeing Crater Lake for the first time. The sapphire-blue water, framed by dramatic cliffs, is a sight you’ll never forget. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to soak in the scenery, here’s how to make the most of your visit:

Best Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park

Drive the Rim Drive: This 33-mile loop offers unbeatable panoramic views of the lake with over 30 scenic overlooks.
Take a Boat Tour to Wizard Island: If you want to get up close and personal with Crater Lake, this is the way to do it! *Due to major rehabilitation work on the Cleetwood Trail and lakeshore facilities, boat tours will not be available in 2025 or 2026.
Visit the Historic Crater Lake Lodge: Enjoy a meal with a view or cozy up by the fireplace in this stunning 1915 lodge.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: In winter, Crater Lake becomes a snow-covered paradise perfect for outdoor adventures.

Scenic Drive in Crater Lake National Park

One of the best ways to experience the jaw-dropping beauty of Crater Lake is by driving the Rim Drive, a 33-mile loop that circles the entire caldera, offering unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding Cascade peaks. With 30 scenic pullouts and overlooks, this drive allows you to soak in the deep blue waters from every angle and capture iconic views like Wizard Island, Phantom Ship, and Pumice Castle.

Must-Stop Viewpoints:

Watchman Overlook: Perfect for sunset and capturing the iconic view of Wizard Island.
Cloudcap Overlook: The highest point on the Rim Drive with panoramic views of the lake and distant peaks.
Pumice Point: Known for its unique volcanic rock formations and striking blue water contrasts.

Pro Tip: Drive clockwise for the best access to pullouts and fewer crowds. And if you visit in early summer, keep an eye out for patches of snow that add to the magical scenery.

Best Hikes in Crater Lake National Park

Garfield Peak Trail (3.6 miles round trip) – One of the best trails for sweeping lake views from 1,900 feet above.
Cleetwood Cove Trail (2.2 miles round trip) – The only trail that allows access to the lake’s shore.
Watchman Peak Trail (1.7 miles round trip) – A short, steep hike to an incredible sunset viewpoint.

Camping at Crater Lake

Mazama Campground: Open during the summer with 200+ sites, great for tents and RVs.
Lost Creek Campground: A smaller, more primitive option with just 16 sites, perfect for a quieter experience.

Wizard Island is a remarkable cinder cone formed by volcanic activity after the ancient eruption of Mount Mazama.

Best time to visit Crater Lake National Park

Summer is the best time of year to visit to get the full experience. We visited in the middle of May and the park was still covered in snow. So much of the park and many roads are closed in the winter so plan accordingly. The park receives an average of 42 feet (13 meters) of snow per year. According to the NPS, ‘Winter time offers excellent opportunities for lake viewing and photography. However, picture-perfect days with lake views are not the average experience in winter. The lake is obscured 50% of the season by clouds and snowstorms.’

Mt. Thielson

Located just north of Crater Lake National Park, and worth a stop on your road trip, this dramatic Cascade Range peak is a favorite for adventurous hikers and climbers seeking epic views of the surrounding forests and volcanic landscape. Known as the "Lightning Rod of the Cascades," Mount Thielsen is a striking, jagged peak that rises to 9,182 feet in southern Oregon. Formed from ancient volcanic activity, its sharp, spire-like summit was shaped by centuries of erosion and ice.

Willamette National Forest: Waterfall Wonderland

Willamette National Forest is a hidden gem for waterfall lovers. Nestled in the heart of the Cascades, this lush forest is home to some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Oregon.

Waterfalls Loop Trail

If you love waterfalls, you can’t miss the Waterfalls Loop Trail, a stunning 2.6-mile loop featuring multiple falls along the McKenzie River. It’s a must-hike for anyone visiting Willamette National Forest. I have done quite a bit of hiking around the US and this is one of my favs! This bucket-list-worthy trail truly captures the quintessential magic of the Pacific Northwest.

Sahalie Falls & Koosah Falls

Sahalie Falls: A powerful, 100-foot cascade, surrounded by lush, moss-covered cliffs.
Koosah Falls: Just downstream from Sahalie, this 70-foot waterfall plunges into a deep blue pool.

According to the US Forest Service, “Sahalie (or "Heaven") and Koosah (or "Sky") are Chinook Jargon words - part of a rudimentary trade language that allowed people to exchange news and goods in the area.” It really does feel like a slice of heaven!

Waterfalls Trail - Willamette National Forest

Check out the absolutely stunning turquoise-blue water of the McKenzie River.

Umpqua National Forest: Hot Springs & Majestic Falls

Umpqua National Forest is a haven for waterfall chasers and hot spring lovers. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, this is the place to be!

Umpqua Hot Springs

Nestled deep in the forest, Umpqua Hot Springs offers steaming pools on the edge of a cliff overlooking the North Umpqua River. The hot springs area series of pools that vary in temperature. It’s a short, steep hike (0.6 miles) to reach these geothermal pools, where you can soak and unwind while taking in the scenery.

Watson Falls

Standing at 272 feet, Watson Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Oregon. The short, scenic 0.8-mile round-trip trail takes you to an incredible viewpoint where you can feel the mist on your face and the insane power of falling water.

Toketee Falls

This jaw-dropping two-tier waterfall is one of the most photographed in Oregon. The 0.8-mile round-trip trail leads to a breathtaking viewpoint where the water plunges into a deep basalt pool.

Camping in Umpqua National Forest

For those craving an immersive experience in the heart of Oregon’s Cascade Range, camping in Umpqua National Forest is a must. With lush, mossy forests, crystal-clear rivers, and epic waterfalls this forest offers some of the most magical campsites in the Pacific Northwest. There are 40 campgrounds within the forest. Popular spots include Toketee Campground and Diamond Lake Campground, which provide easy access to hiking trails and the famous Umpqua Hot Springs. For the adventurous, dispersed camping is also available, which I highly recommend! Check out this incredible camping spot!

Your Ultimate Cascade Adventure Awaits

The Cascade Range in Oregon is packed with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling hikes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re gazing into the depths of Crater Lake, chasing waterfalls in Willamette National Forest, or soaking in Umpqua’s hot springs, this region is a dream destination for outdoor lovers.

Have you explored the Cascade Range? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments below!

Relive your best adventures to Oregon’s Cascade Range with a unique souvenir crafted from a real photo of Crater Lake! Wear Your Memories✨

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Cascade Mountain Range - Oregon