If you’re heading to Oregon and want to experience one of the best hiking days of your life, add the Willamette National Forest to your list. Nestled along the scenic McKenzie Highway, this route takes you through burnt lands, ancient lava flows, and lush emerald forests. And the best part? Each stop offers an unforgettable hike, breathtaking waterfalls, and plenty of dog-friendly adventure.

Here’s how to plan the ultimate 3-stop day:

Stop #1: Proxy Falls

Kick off your adventure with the Proxy Falls Loop Trail, a short but magical 1.7-mile loop. This hike takes you to two waterfalls, but the real showstopper is the Lower Proxy Falls, a towering, misty cascade that feels straight out of a fantasy movie. To get to the base of the falls, you’ll need to navigate a steep incline and balance across a large fallen tree. While it adds a little thrill, it could be tricky for young kids or anyone with mobility issues. If you can make it down, the reward is worth it, the sheer power and beauty of the falls are breathtaking.

Stop #2: Tamolitch Blue Pool (McKenzie River Trail)

Next, head to the Tamolitch Blue Pool via the McKenzie River Trail, a 5-mile out-and-back hike that feels like stepping into another world. Even before reaching the pool, the trail itself is magical, winding through mossy forests with whimsical vibes that feel part FernGully, part enchanted forest, part Dr. Seuss. The payoff is the impossibly clear, brilliantly blue pool waiting at the end. While some hikers scramble over rocks to reach the bottom, the descent can be challenging to navigate. We chose to admire it from above, which was still jaw-droppingly beautiful. Take your time on this one, it’s a hike you’ll want to savor.

It is important to note that even though you can swim in the Tamolitch Blue Pool, it is strongly discouraged due to the water's extremely cold temperature, which remains around 37-38°F (3°C) year-round, and can be dangerous even for short periods of time.

Stop #3: Sahalie & Koosah Falls

Wrap up your day with a short and rewarding hike to two powerful waterfalls along the McKenzie River. From the parking lot, you’ll immediately be greeted by the roaring Sahalie Falls, a force of nature surrounded by vibrant greenery. From there, follow the river about a mile downstream to reach Koosah Falls, another stunning cascade framed by mossy forests and brilliantly blue water. 

Why This Day Belongs on Your Bucket List

In total, you’ll clock about 8 miles of hiking across three very different but equally awe-inspiring trails. Between magical forests, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Blue Pool, this trio of hikes makes for one of the most epic days you (and your dog!) could ever have outdoors. Every stop is dog-friendly, so your four-legged bestie gets to join in on the adventure too.

This wasn’t just a day of hiking, it was one of the most memorable outdoor experiences we've ever had. If Oregon is calling your name, don’t skip this bucket list adventure.