McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway explained

State:OR
Type:NSB
Route:McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway
Maint:ODOT
Map Custom:yes
Map Notes:McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway highlighted in red
Length Mi:82.0
Length Ref:[1]
Formed:February 8, 1989
Allocation: from Sisters to Belknap Springs
from Belknap Springs to Sisters
from near Santiam Junction to Sisters
Tloop:Mount Washington
Direction A:CCW
Terminus A: in Sisters
Junction:
Direction B:CW
Terminus B: in Sisters
Counties:Deschutes, Lane, Linn, Jefferson

The McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway is an 82adj=midNaNadj=mid National Scenic Byway in the U.S. state of Oregon. The route is a loop designed to provide a tour of the high Cascade Range northwest of Bend, passing over both McKenzie Pass and Santiam Pass.

Route description

The route begins on its eastern end at the town of Sisters in northern Deschutes County. It follows Oregon Route 126 westward over Santiam Pass south of Three Fingered Jack, then south along the valley of the McKenzie River. It then follows Oregon Route 242 eastward over McKenzie Pass, north of the Three Sisters then back to the town of Sisters. The route is considered a summer tour route, since the road over McKenzie Pass is closed in winter due to snowfall.

History

The McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway was designated a National Forest Scenic Byway on February 8, 1989. It was later made an Oregon State Scenic Byway on February 19, 1997 before becoming a National Scenic Byway on June 9, 1998.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Staff . McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway . National Scenic Byways . Federal Highway Administration . September 11, 2011.
  2. Web site: Staff . McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway . Official Designations . . September 11, 2011.