Willamette National Forest, Central Oregon Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  To reach Willamette National Forest from most locations in Central Oregon, start by getting onto US-20 East or OR-126 East, depending on your starting point. If you are near Bend, take US-20 East; if you are closer to Eugene, take OR-126 East. Follow the road signs towards Sisters or Springfield, respectively. Continue on US-20 or OR-126 for approximately 50-60 miles until you reach Blue River, OR. The forest is located just outside of Blue River. Look for signs pointing to Willamette National Forest and follow them. Note that there may be a parking fee at certain trailheads or recreational areas, so be prepared for a possible cost.

• Public Transportation

  If you are using public transportation, start by taking a Greyhound bus or local transit options to reach Eugene, OR. From Eugene, you can take a shuttle service such as the Cascades Rideshare or a local taxi company to reach Blue River, which is the nearest town to Willamette National Forest. Ensure to check the shuttle schedules in advance, as they may not run frequently. Once in Blue River, you can request drop-off at designated points near Willamette National Forest. Be aware that costs for buses and shuttles can vary, so budget accordingly.

• Bike

  For the adventurous, biking to Willamette National Forest can be a rewarding experience. If you are based in Eugene, take the Willamette River Bike Path until it connects to the McKenzie River Trail. Follow this trail which eventually leads into the national forest. It is roughly a 40-mile ride. Ensure you have a good map or GPS device, as some paths can be less marked. Be prepared for varying terrain and potential elevation changes. This method is free, aside from any potential bike rental costs if you don’t have your own.