Any time of year is the perfect time for a hike in Oregon, but in fall months, the trails are particularly beautiful. Experience a blaze of fall foliage when you head to central Oregon for a stroll on the West Metolius River Trail.
The Metolius River might be one of Oregon’s most underrated rivers. It flows from Metolius Springs, heading north until making a u-turn into Billy Chinook Lake. The river has some excellent fly-fishing, and its banks are vibrant with color during autumn months.
Bonnie Moreland/flickr
To reach the trailhead, take Highway 20 until you reach Road 1419. You’ll travel along that road for about 4.8 miles, then hop onto Road 1420 until you see a sign for Canyon Creek Campground. Turn toward the campground, and find the trailhead about a mile down the road.
The trail is 5.4 miles long, round-trip, and it’s absolutely beautiful in the autumn. It’s an easy stroll with almost no elevation change.
Jessica Ellis/Alltrails
The rapidly-moving Metolius provides a vibrant soundtrack to your hike. The trail follows the river, so you’ll have plenty of picturesque river views the entire way.
Jim Bloom/Alltrails
As you make your way down the first part of the trail, you’ll soon come to some springs tumbling over the banks of the river, creating tiny waterfalls.
Brian Hamilton/Alltrails
Continue on to the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery. Bring a couple quarters for the fish food machines and toss your aquatic friends a couple treats.
Randy Huey/Alltrails
The Metolius runs at 50,000 gallons per minute, and is home to trout and kokanee salmon, both of which haunt the dreams of fly-fisherman who frequent the river in hopes of landing a big one.
Jessica Ellis/Alltrails
This riverside trail is perfect for kids and pups, so bring ’em along for an adventure, and don’t forget your camera!
Jim Bloom/Alltrails
Have you hike this river trail? We’d love to see your photos in the comments!
Bonnie Moreland/flickr
Jessica Ellis/Alltrails
Jim Bloom/Alltrails
Brian Hamilton/Alltrails
Randy Huey/Alltrails
If you’re looking for some more gorgeous fall foliage in Oregon, you might want to head to the Hoyt Arboretum in Portland.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
