Nov. 6, 2008 -- UPDATE
McKenzie Pass has been closed for the winter. See this post for details.
On the final weekend of October Mike and I took a favorite day trip to McKenzie Pass, Oregon. At this time of year the colors in the forest really pop, the air is crisp, and the sun plays with the essence of those qualities to always always always ensure a memorable time.
I saved these photos to post during the final two days prior to the election as my offering of reverie and respite from the chaos and excitement of this upcoming historic event. Take a cleansing breath and enjoy the journey to one of my favorite places. The only commentary I will add to the following description from byways.org is to identify those in the photo taken at the parking lot of Dee Wright Observatory. That's me with our dogs, Abby and Bonbon.
Discover the highest concentration of snowcapped volcanoes and associated glaciers in the lower 48 states when you drive the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway. Enjoy the overwhelming sight of Broken Top Mountain and the Three Sisters. . .
. . . While viewpoints such as Belknap, show 'recent' volcanic activity, the Dee Wright Observatory offers panoramic views of the Cascade Mountain Range and the Windy Point overlook provide points where you can take in portions of the Byway from a unique perspective. . .
There is much to do and see on the Byway, whether it is walking through the cool overhangs of Willamette National Forest or cooling your feet in the waters of Clear Lake. Ancient lava fields and numerous bodies of water will provide you with a gentle reminder of the area's violent beginning. This area illustrates best how the Cascade Range was built.
`
