About 54 miles west of Redmond, roughly 4,500 gallons of water pass over Sahalie Falls every second. The iconic waterfall is just over an hour away and presents a different hiking experience compared to what is immediately available around Redmond.

The journey to the falls passes through part of the Deschutes National Forest and culminates in the lush Willamette National Forest. It’s only a couple minute walk from the parking lot off Highway 126 to the falls, but trails go upstream and downstream for the adventurous. The viewpoint has the standard vault toilet amenities and the path to the falls is paved and fully accessible.

While the round trip is about three hours —- including viewing time — visiting the falls is almost a necessity for Oregonians and is a must if it has been left for another day. Koosah Falls is about half a mile away and a family-friendly trail (not wheelchair accessible), which parallels the McKenzie River, connects to the two falls.

If a full day can be spent to visit the falls then hiking the Waterfall Loop trail, about two and a half miles, shouldn’t be passed up. The loop has two trailheads, one at each of the Sahalie and Koosah falls parking lots. It follows the McKenzie until it meets the Carmen Reservoir where it crosses the river. The trail goes back upstream to a crossing about a fifth a mile up river from Sahalie falls. The loop is connected to the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail which follows most of the upper McKenzie River. A smaller waterfall is a short hike up river from Sahalie falls and is accessible on the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail. The nearest town, McKenzie Bridge, is about 20 miles away which offers a place to grab snacks and water for longer hikes.

Sahalie Falls is about a 100-foot drop and Koosah falls is about 70 feet. The names are Chinook, Sahalie meaning “Heaven,” and Koosah meaning “Sky.” Current conditions of the trails are wet and muddy, with puddles of water in some areas.

The destination offers a versatile point for outdoor recreation. From a short visit, to a full day of hiking, the Sahalie Falls viewpoint is a great weekend plan.

— Reporter, 541-548-2185, cbrown@redmondspokesman.com