Sahalie and Koosah Falls
Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls are located along the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass and West Cascades National Scenic Byways off Highway 126.
The Waterfalls Loop Trail, part of the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, connects the two waterfalls and offers up close views of the wild McKenzie River.
These falls mark the terminus of two thick flows of basaltic andesite lava that dammed Clear Lake and moved into the McKenzie River 3,000 years ago. The results are two breathtaking waterfalls with foaming white water cascades in between.
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. The Kalapuya, Molalla, Sahaptain and Chinook peoples traveled and traded here, perhaps on their way to obtain obsidian in the high Cascades or to gather huckleberries.
Both sites feature parking area, interpretive panels that tell the story of area geology, restrooms and observation points.
Amenities
The Sahalie Falls viewpoint is fully accessible with easy access along a paved pathway.
Accessible Adventures: McKenzie Pass National Scenic Byway on the Willamette National Forest
Points of Interest
Location |
---|
Carpenter Mountain Lookout |
Indian Ridge Lookout |
Sahalie and Koosah Falls |
Sand Mountain Lookout |
Silver Creek Boat Landing Watchable Wildlife |
Taylor Landing Day Use Area |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gauge | Streamflow |
---|---|
No Santiam R Blw Boulder Crk
USGS 14178000 |
1,170 cfs |
North Santiam River At Mehama
USGS 14183000 |
3,420 cfs |
North Santiam River At Niagara
USGS 14181500 |
1,600 cfs |
Little North Santiam River Near Mehama
USGS 14182500 |
1,540 cfs |
Shitike Cr
USGS 14092750 |
116 cfs |
Breitenbush R Abv French Cr Nr Detroit
USGS 14179000 |
745 cfs |
Winberry Creek Near Lowell
USGS 14150800 |
177 cfs |