The historic McKenzie River cabin

Welcome to the historic forest service cabin within the Willamette National Forest! Step back in time as you hear the river roar below you in this cozy log cabin. We are a quarter mile from the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail popular with bikers, runners and hikers. Take a relaxing walk along the river or head out for a day-long biking adventure on the McKenzie River Trail – all without having to get into your car! Your stay includes full use of this quintessential historic log cabin. A large lava rock fireplace anchors two of the three cozy sitting areas that are perfect for snuggling up with a book or working on a puzzle in between times spent outdoors. The cabin is an ideal getaway for couples and families. It can sleep up to eight people with two bedrooms with queen beds and a sleeping loft with four twin beds. The large, fully stocked kitchen with vintage range includes cooking staples and coffee. In the living room, shelves full of games, puzzles and books offer countless ways to relax. Outside, enjoy the roar of the McKenzie River on the deck overlooking the river. Sit and watch the rafters float by, enjoy the sunset against the hills and relax with a drink after a long day exploring. A campfire ring in the front yard is perfect for an evening campfire (as long as no fire bans are in place). A taste of history: This historic log cabin was built and first occupied by members of the U.S. Forest Service who worked in the Willamette National Forest. The driveway in front of our cabin – along the river – is a part of the historic McKenzie Wagon Road pioneers and early settlers followed after crossing over the Cascades heading to the southern end of the Willamette Valley. The road was relocated further back from the river and widened in 1920 to become the current highway. Adventure awaits! McKenzie Bridge is the perfect launching point for all kinds of adventures. Within 30 minutes of the cabin are lava flows, natural hot springs, waterfalls, alpine lakes, rafting, fishing holes, golf, skiing and much more. A grocery market, gas station, three wonderful restaurants and seasonal entertainment are just a five-minute drive away! Drive or bike the “Old Pass” Highway 242 – the historic leg of the Oregon Trail – and visit Proxy Falls and Scott Lake on the way to the summit’s Dee Wright Observatory, made entirely of lava rock, with its panoramic views of Oregon’s mid-Cascade Range. Two hot springs are located nearby. Relax in Belknap Resort’s hot spring-fed pool, then explore their beautiful grounds. Terwilliger Hot Springs offers a more natural experience. Tokatee Golf Course is 15 minutes away. Two different outfitters can offer whitewater rafting or drift boat fishing trips. We don’t live near the cabin, but am happy to answer any questions you may have during your visit! We are fortunate that our cabin is outside of the September 2020 Holiday Farm fire area. The cabin has one other occupied house nearby. The cabin is heated solely by the wood stove. When the weather is cool, the cabin will be chilly until the stove gets hot. You may have to restart the fire in the morning. During the warmer summer months, this is much less of an issue, but please be prepared to test out your pioneering, wood-building skills if you want an indoor fire!