Weekends and holidays are a great time to refresh yourself and take a step outside the daily morning routines, work, and pressure. No problem if you are free for one day; a small hike is all you need to recharge your batteries.
Today, let’s explore Koosah Falls, located in Oregon, and know why it is one of the go-to hiking places in the United States of America. Thus, stay with us until the end to get every detail.
Why Koosah Falls – Some Highlights of the Natural Beauty
- Formerly known as Middle Falls, Koosah is one of the major waterfalls on the McKenzie River located inside the heart of the Willamette National Forest in Linn Country, Oregon.
- The Waterfall descends sharply over a lava cap to a waiting pool that is 74 feet (22.6 meters) below.
- Before reaching Koosah, you must cross the breathtaking Sahalie Falls view.
- Three thousand years ago, two heavy flows of basaltic andesite lava blocked Clear Lake and proceeded into the McKenzie River, ending at these falls. The outcome is a pair of magnificent waterfalls separated by cascades of frothy white water.
- Koosah means Sky in Chinook, and the Koosah Falls Hike is sure to mesmerize you with its natural beauty and breathtaking views.
How Long is The Hike To Koosah Falls? How to Get There?
There are multiple ways to get to the Koosah Waterfall, and you also have the option to either watch or leave the Sahalie Falls, as both Koosah and Sahalie have separate parking spots.
However, watching both falls would be a treat as the entire round trip, including Sahalie Falls, takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. But if you want to skip the crowd, you can directly park at the Koosah Falls parking area, which is far from the main highway.
Your first destination is to reach McKenzie Bridge and drive approximately 17 miles northeast to the Sahalie Falls parking lot, which is a short drive from Eugene, Bend, and Salem. But if your destination is only hiking towards the Koosah Falls, you have to drive a little more to reach Koosah’s parking.
From there, continue on the Waterfalls Loop Trail and reach the Carmen Reservoir Trailhead. Hike up to the River’s Waterfalls Loop Trail South Junction. Then, after a right turn and a left, congratulations, you have reached your destination.
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Difficulty Level of the Hike – What to Expect?
Multiple reports claim that the Koosah Falls Hike is one of the most accessible hikes in the United States of America. It is suitable for children, adults, and elderly. Further, there is no need to pay to begin the hike.
This is the ideal hike for individuals who cannot complete lengthy hikes or would rather not hike more than three miles. The hike’s loop design helps to keep things interesting, and there’s plenty to view to keep kids from growing bored.
Below are the Trail Stats of the hike.
| Miles | 2.4 Miles Round Trip |
| Elevation Profile | Close to 350 Feet Elevation Gain |
| Trail Difficulty | Easy |
| Permit | Not Required |
| Water | 1-2 Liters (Recommended) |
Since there is rarely much snow and the height is low, this is also an excellent hike to do in early winter. The trail is easy to stroll and is kept in excellent condition.
Most of the places are spacious and crowdless, but it gets heavily crowded near the waterfalls. So, you need to take care of yourself and your company not to become part of a tragedy.
On a similar note, you might be interested in reading about the Tamolitch Blue Pool Hike.
Best Time to Go Koosah Falls Hike
Even though the hike is open 365 days, experts believe that the best time to visit the Waterfall is April, May, and June for the best waterfall flow. However, if you are an adrenaline junkie and want to challenge yourself, you can hike any time, any day.
Further, the trail can be icy or muddy based on the season, and during snowy seasons, the trails are difficult to find as they are covered with snow. Nonetheless, you would still be able to reach your destination all right.
Also, you can bring your friends, family, well-wishers, and your pet dog on a leash. This Koosah Falls hike is sure to make your day memorable and full of excitement. Thus, do visit at your earliest convenience.
FAQs
Q: Where is Koosah Falls in Oregon?
A: Off Highway 126, Koosah Falls can be found along the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass and West Cascades National Scenic Byways.
Q: What is the height of Koosah Falls?
A: The total height of the fall is 64ft.
