This Scenic Oregon Drive Has Some of the Brightest Fall Foliage Colors in the Pacific Northwest

The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway is one of Oregon’s most beautiful drives. I’ve driven through the Pacific Northwest many times, but what I love about this road is how it feels like several trips in one, thanks to its mixed terrain. The 82-mile loop travels along lava fields, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and displays mountain views of six Cascade peaks. It runs between the town of Sisters and Belknap Springs, and in the fall, the road becomes one of the best places in the Pacific Northwest to see the season’s changing colors.

The drive begins in Sisters, a small town known for its antique shops, art galleries, and outdoor adventures. The road leaving town is lined with tall pines, and in the fall, the first glimpses of yellow and orange leaves start to appear among the trees.

Continuing along Oregon 242, the scenery changes as dark lava fields stretch across the hillsides, revealing the volcanic history that shaped this part of the state. A popular stop here is the Dee Wright Observatory, built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps from the surrounding lava rock. On a clear day, the observatory offers views of countless Cascade peaks, including the Three Sisters, Mount Washington, and Mount Jefferson.

From McKenzie Pass, the road continues into Willamette National Forest, where even more mountain views open up. One of the best stops here is Scott Lake, which reflects the Three Sisters peaks in its calm water. On a clear day, it feels like looking into a mirror—a favorite spot among photographers and one of the most memorable views along the route.

Next, the drive takes you onto Highway 126, leading to some of the area’s most popular waterfalls. Stop at the Koosah and Sahalie Falls Trail, a roughly 2.6-mile loop that takes you past both waterfalls.

From there, continue along Santiam Pass, passing the Hoodoo Ski Area and heading toward Suttle Lake, which is framed by vine maples that turn bright hues of orange, red, and yellow in autumn.

The drive loops back to Sisters, and without stops, it takes about two hours to complete. But if you want to take your time, explore a few trails, and snap plenty of photos, plan for three to four hours so you can fully enjoy the scenery.

The McKenzie Pass section of the byway closes in winter due to its high elevation and snowy conditions, typically starting in early November. That makes fall the perfect time to visit, when the vibrant foliage contrasts beautifully with snow-dusted peaks in the distance.