Overview

Tucked into the wild beauty of the McKenzie River Valley, Tokatee Golf Club is where championship golf and Oregon’s untamed landscape shake hands. Framed by towering evergreens and distant views of the Three Sisters mountains, this 18-hole course feels less like a manicured facility and more like a journey through a living postcard.

What Makes It Special

Tokatee isn’t just a place to play golf, it’s a place to experience it. Designed by renowned architect Ted Robinson, the course flows naturally through open meadows, forest corridors, and water features that feel like they’ve always been there.

• Dramatic Setting: Snow-capped peaks, river valley air, and towering fir trees create one of Oregon’s most scenic rounds
• Dynamic Course Layout: Starts wide and forgiving, then winds into tighter, tree-lined challenges
• Walkable & Welcoming: A rare blend of accessibility for beginners and strategy for seasoned players
• “Hidden Gem” Status: Regularly praised as one of Oregon’s best-kept golf secrets

There’s a moment here, usually somewhere between the front nine and the back, when the forest opens up and the mountains step into view. That’s when people stop keeping score and just… take it in.

Why People Love It

Golfers don’t just remember their score at Tokatee, they remember the feeling.

“Once you drive in, the grounds open up like an oasis… some of the best golf views in the state.”

Visitors consistently highlight:

• Immaculate greens and fairways
• Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
• Friendly, community-rooted staff
• A true “get away from it all” experience

Amenities

• 18-hole championship course (Par 72)
• Driving range, putting green & short game area
• Clubhouse with food, drinks, and patio views
• Pro shop and equipment rentals
• Tournament and group outing hosting

Perfect For

• Destination golfers seeking a memorable Oregon round
• McKenzie River visitors looking to add a standout experience to their trip
• Couples & groups wanting a scenic, relaxed outdoor activity
• Road trippers traveling between Eugene and Bend

Why It Belongs on Your Itinerary

Tokatee is the kind of place that quietly ruins other golf courses for you. Not because it’s flashy, but because it feels honest, grounded, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

If your idea of a great day includes fresh mountain air, the sound of a well-struck iron echoing through the trees, and a cold drink overlooking a fairway at sunset… this is your spot.

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Helfrich McKenzie Rafting brings expertly guided, customizable river trips powered by family legacy, safety gear, optional squirt-gun battles, and hands-down gorgeous McKenzie River views—all with access as easy as Highway 126.

Ready to pick your river adventure vibe—gently floating or paddle-and-laugh extreme? Let me know, and I’ll help you prep (or suggest what to bring and what to leave behind).

The Streamlined Scoop on Helfrich McKenzie Rafting

What Makes Them Stand Out?

• Generations of River Expertise
  Helfrich McKenzie Rafting is part of A. Helfrich Outfitter, a family-run outfit with roots stretching back to the 1920s. Today, Aaron and Jonnie Helfrich—third-generation outfitters—bring decades of river know-how to every trip.

• Trips Designed for All Adventure Levels
  Fancy a mellow float or moderate thrills? They’ve got both. Whether you’re dipping your toes in or paddling like a pro, each trip—half-day or full-day—caters to groups who want a bit of everything.

• Options: Half-Day and Full-Day Rafting
  Full-day trips stretch 14–16 miles and last around 4–5 hours, including a lunch break—or just soak in the river views and dip your paddle in during a half-day excursion.

• All the Gear (and Giggles) You Need
  Each raft comes loaded with safety gear—lifejackets for all! (Just let them know if kiddos or lightweights are joining so they can fit appropriately) Plus, expect a cooler with drinks and a waterproof bag for your essentials.

• Bonus Fun: Water Gun Fights
  That’s right—each boat comes equipped with squirt guns for impromptu river water wars. Prepare for grin-inducing spill-your-drink moments.

• Easy Access & Stunning Locations
  Nestled along scenic Highway 126, access is a breeze from Eugene or Central Oregon. You’ll paddle through pristine blue waters framed by old-growth forest, snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and even historic covered bridges.

• Safety & Local Lore Included
  Guides aren’t just there to yell “paddle left!”—they’re seasoned experts who blend river lore, local history, safety, and storytelling into your float.

Why Book With Helfrich? Because It’s a River Party That Actually Cares

• Splashy Fun Meets Thoughtful Adventure
  Whether your group is all about teamwork in the rapids or taking the scenic route, Helfrich packs in both exhilaration and comfort—plus optional lunch stops if you’ve got room for more snacks.

• Historic River Family Vibes
  You’re not just rafting—you’re linking arms with nearly a century of river tradition. That’s some next-level authenticity worth bragging about.

• Customizable Chaos
  Full-day or half-day? Squirt-gun fight or serene drift? Their flexibility means you get to choose your own river adventure (or water war).

• Kids, Dogs, and Everyone Welcome
  With adjustable gear and accommodating staff, even the shortest paddlers can join the fun—not to mention furry friends, if you check with them ahead of time!

• Glow-Up from Sightseeing to River Stories
  Scenic floats are great, but guides who share lore about the McKenzie as you’re paddling through mossy forests and rapids? That’s storytelling with a river soundtrack.

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Here’s a little visual getaway to get you in the vibe—historic woodsy charm, riverside serenity, and magic-ready glamping grounds at Loloma Lodge in McKenzie Bridge, Oregon.

1. A Historic Gem in the Woods

• The main lodge dates back to 1932, featuring remarkable craftsmanship—like hand-hewn 30-foot beams and a grand stone fireplace in the main room that’s straight out of a cozy fairytale.

• The property’s story unfolds even deeper: originally a log cabin from 1928, a “Peeling Barn,” carriage house, and more—all thoughtfully repurposed today for gatherings and rustic charm.

2. Riverside Cabins That Are the Bee’s Knees

• Built in the ’60s, there are four riverfront cabins each with full kitchens, a queen bed plus a futon sofa, radiant heated stone floors, and a crackling wood-burning fireplace. Floor-to-ceiling windows let the McKenzie River’s crystal-clear water be your morning coffee view.

• Pricing starts around $225/night—a solid deal for forest-side comfort.

3. Family Cabin for the Nostalgic

• The Family Cabin, a log “little house” from 1927, sleeps up to 6. It’s laid out cozy-style: a master bedroom with dreamy views, a lofted area with low queen beds under skylights, and the gentle sound of river-fogged mornings drifting in.

4. Location, Location, Location!

• Tucked right on Highway 126 between Eugene/Springfield and Sisters/Bend, it’s the perfect base for cyclists, outdoor lovers, and anyone craving an Oregon forest escape.

• Amenities? You’ve got water views, Wi-Fi, kitchens, pet- and family-friendly spaces, fireplaces, air-conditioning, laundry, and even bike-friendly perks like charging and water.

Why You Should Stay (a slightly fun yet practical list)

• Time travel vibes meet modern comfort
  Clink your mug by a roaring stone fireplace in a lodge built in 1932—or drift to sleep on heated stone floors in a riverside cabin. It’s history with hygge.

• Riverside front-row seats
  Sip coffee or crack open a book with the McKenzie River as your soundtrack and movie screen.

• A choice for every traveler
  Solo getaway? Grab a riverside cabin. Family or friend posse? Kick back in the Family Cabin or take over the main lodge for ultimate cozy clubhouse status.

• Adventure is your neighbor
  Hike, kayak, fish, bike, or chase waterfalls nearby. Plus, hot springs like Terwilliger are just a splash away.

• Romance, retreat, or reunite
  The vibe works for that honeymoon-style snugglefest, solo recharge, or even a wedding or creative event nestled among mossy trees and river murmurs.

• A lodge that’s part of Oregon’s soul
  From the historical timber to the thoughtfully maintained cabins, it’s like staying in an old storybook but with great lighting and Wi-Fi.

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If you’ve ever wanted to ride your bike through an enchanted forest, chase waterfalls (sorry, TLC), and high-five a moss-covered tree, the McKenzie River Trail is calling your name—possibly in bird song.

Winding like a magical spaghetti noodle through old-growth forests, lava fields, and crystal-clear pools, this 26-mile trail is a choose-your-own-adventure for hikers, bikers, and even trail runners with a flair for drama. You’ll pass everything from Tamolitch Blue Pool (so blue it looks like a Photoshop filter) to Sahalie and Koosah Falls, where thundering water makes you feel tiny in the best way possible.

The upper trailhead is just above Clear Lake off hwy 126 – Clear Lake was created by natural lava dams and feature enormous underground springs, the main source of the majestic McKenzie River.

Why should you visit?

• Because Nature Turned the Saturation All the Way Up – We’re talking moss so green it looks fake, water so blue you’ll doubt your eyes, and lava rock that reminds you Oregon has a fiery past.

• Because You Deserve a Forest Bath – Not a bath in the forest (unless you count a dip in the pool), but a stress-melting, phone-silencing, mood-boosting wander through tall trees and gentle breezes.

• Because It’s Just the Right Amount of Wild – Technical enough to keep mountain bikers grinning, but well-marked and maintained for mere mortals on foot.

• Because You’ll Feel Like You Fell Into a Fantasy Novel – Except instead of fighting trolls, you’ll be snacking on trail mix and posing in front of waterfalls.

Whether you’re out for a full-day trek or just a casual meander to a waterfall selfie spot, the McKenzie River Trail isn’t just a hike. It’s a love letter from Oregon—one signed in pine needles, river mist, and a little bit of trail dust. Go read it with your feet.

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• breakfast burritos,
• breakfast bagels,
• chicken burritos,
• sandwiches,
• wraps,
• salads,
• smoothies,
• shakes,…

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Hidden in the lush Willamette National Forest, Proxy Falls is one of Oregon’s most photogenic and serene waterfalls.

Proxy Falls has 2 separate waterfalls on a beautiful 1.6 mile loop trail.

Where is Proxy Falls?

Proxy Falls is located off Highway 242 (McKenzie Pass) in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. It lies within the Three Sisters Wilderness area in the Willamette National Forest.

Trailhead GPS: 44.2333° N, 121.9847° W
Nearest Towns: McKenzie Bridge (16 miles) 20 min by car, Sisters (28 miles) 55 min by car.

Hiking the Proxy Falls Trail

• Trail Length: 1.6-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: ~150 feet
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: On leash

Trail Features:

Lava rock fields
Dense mossy forest
Two waterfalls: Upper Proxy Falls (less visible) and Lower Proxy Falls (iconic view)

Pro Tip: The best photo spots are just off the official trail—carefully follow side paths to the lower falls for stunning front-on shots.

When to Visit for the Best Photos

• Best Season: Late spring to early fall (June–October)
• Golden Hour: Early morning or late afternoon
• Water Flow Peak: Late May through July

Photography Tips:

• Bring a tripod for long exposure shots.
• Use a polarizer filter to reduce glare on wet rocks.
• Wear waterproof shoes—splash zone!

What to Bring

• Daypack with snacks and water
• Waterproof hiking shoes
• Bug spray (especially in July)
• Camera or phone with extra battery
• Lightweight rain jacket

Know Before You Go

Amenity	Available?
Parking	Yes (limited)
Vault Toilets	At trailhead
Cell Signal	None
ADA Accessibility	Not accessible

Note: Highway 242 is closed in winter due to snow—check ODOT for updates.

Nearby Attractions & Stays

• Dee Wright Observatory – Volcanic views just up the road

• McKenzie River Trail – Epic mountain biking & hiking

• Belknap Hot Springs – Soak just 20 mins away

• Camping: Scott Lake, Limberlost, Coldwater Cove

• Lodging: McKenzie River Cabins, Tokatee Inn

Helpful Resources

• Willamette National Forest – Official Page

• AllTrails – Proxy Falls

• TripCheck (ODOT)

Plan Your Visit to Proxy Falls Today

It’s not just a hike—it’s a journey into Oregon’s living postcard. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a waterfall chaser, Proxy Falls offers the perfect blend of ease, beauty, and magic.

Visitor Reviews & Tips

“Absolutely stunning. Easy trail. The lower falls feel like another world.” — @hikingchica
“Crowded by mid-morning. Go early for quiet and clean photos.” — @oregontrailsnapper

Leave your own tip or photo below!

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Why Should You Visit?

1. Nature’s Concierge Service
Think of the ranger station as your personal guide to the great outdoors. The friendly staff can provide up-to-date trail conditions, recommend the best spots for wildlife viewing, and even share a few local secrets. It’s like having a forest-savvy friend who knows all the hidden gems.

2. Trailhead Treasure Trove
Located near the southern trailhead of the renowned McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, the station is your launchpad to 26 miles of scenic beauty. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, or leisurely strolls, the trail offers something for everyone.

3. Interpretive Displays 

There are some cool interpretive displays included featuring local wildlife and the local mountains.

4. Gateway to Adventure
Beyond the station, a world of natural wonders awaits. From the cascading Sahalie and Koosah Falls to the serene Clear Lake and the rejuvenating Belknap Hot Springs, the area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

So, if you’re yearning for an adventure where maps are real, trees are tall, and the only traffic jam involves a family of deer crossing your path, the McKenzie River Ranger Station is your whimsical starting point. Don’t forget to say hello to the rangers—they might just have the perfect trail recommendation for your next escapade!

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Once a majestic waterfall, the McKenzie River has changed course and gone underground a few miles up stream.  The river only flows over the falls a few times a year, the rest if the time the water emerges from the rocks underwater in the basin of waterfall pool.  Its is rare to see a large waterfall ledge completely dry, the color and composition of the pool is also unique.

Iridescent Water

One of the first things you’ll notice is the color of the water.  The topaz blue color of the water is almost iridescent – like a blue Otter Pop (and almost as cold).  The water is so clear that some might assume it to be only about 5 ft deep – yet closer inspection will reveal that in many spots its over 30 ft deep.  So pure in fact that you’d swear the water wasn’t  moving – yet at the end of this glass like pond –  a huge volume of water rushes out as the McKenzie River is reborn.

Accessing Tamolitch Blue Pool

You get to the waters edge by hiking over the waterfall ledge and taking the trail that leads you down to the side of the pool.  Accessing the waters edge is not an easy feat – it requires bouldering over large rocks and then a steep trail down to the water.  You can always jump off the ledge to the water, but we don’t recommend it.  The water is cold, the jump is high and the climb back up is hard.

The Hike is 2 miles to the pool (total of 4 miles round trip).

A lot of people mistake this for a swimming pool, either from errant reporting (Tamolitch Blue Pool was named one of the worlds top 50 swimming pools in one article), or by mistaking photos or videos as people taking a leisurely swim.  People do go in the water, but just like any cold water plunge, time spent in the water is usually short.

Hypothermia symptoms can start in less than 5 minutes, with exhauistion or unconsciousness in 15-30 minutes.   Hypothermia information from the Mayo Clinic.

Cliff jumping into the pool is discouraged. People have died here from cold water exposure (hypothermia) and accidents while diving from the cliff.  For emergency help, there is a pay phone at the lower Blue Pool trailhead.  EMTs have to hike to you and that can take time.  Cell service in not available in this area. (Safer Cliff Diving Options at nearby Blue River Reservoir.

Please enjoy this special place with awe, respect and caution.

Hiking this Section of the McKenzie River Trail

Tamolitch Blue Pool has two access points:

• Trail bridge Reservoir – the main access point is about midway on Oregon’s famous McKenzie River Trail.  From this trailhead it is a 2 mile hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool and another 2 miles back to the start after the visit for a total of 4 miles.
• Sahalie or Koosah Falls – The upper access point is at the access point of one of these waterfalls.  From here it is a 3 mile hike down to Tamolitch Blue Pool.

We recommend starting at the lower trailhead – it easier to stay on the trail and not get lost. We encourage you to have a map when accessing from the Waterfalls.  A down loadable trail map is available here at McKenzieRiverTrail.com. (Free – no registration required.)

Accessibility

This is not wheelchair or stroller friendly.  This is a moderate hike through some rocky lava flows.

• Wear sensible hiking shoes and be ready for a vigorous adventure.
• Hiking poles/sticks can add stability for those who might need them.
• Bring water and snacks – just remember to Leave No Trace – carry out all wrappers and trash with you.

There are trash cans and bathrooms at the lower trailhead.

If you have babies or infants you may find a baby backpack will help – Strollers will NOT make it through the trail.

Parents, consider whether or not your young child can do a vigorous 4 mile hike.  This is a lot for most small kids – especially if they are not super active outside.

Hiking Shuttles are Available

See the best highlights of the trail with a one way hike that covers Tamolitch Blue Pool along with Sahalie, Koosah Falls and even Clear Lake!  McKenzie River Mountain Resort & Shuttle offers a shuttle for hikers and mountain bikers.  Options include 5, 6 (add the 2 waterfalls) or 9 mile hike (add Clear Lake). Shuttle rates are approximately $30-40 per person.  Shuttles are daily during the season and by appointment. Reservations required (Rates as of 5/2025)

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Nestled in the heart of Blue River, our meetinghouse offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for individuals and families seeking to grow closer to Jesus Christ. Whether you’re a lifelong member or visiting for the first time, you’ll find a warm community, uplifting worship services, and opportunities to serve and connect.

Worship Services
Join us each Sunday for sacrament meeting—a time to reflect, renew covenants, and feel the Spirit through music, prayer, and inspired messages. Additional classes are offered for all ages, focusing on gospel principles, scripture study, and strengthening faith in Christ.

A Place for Everyone
Our congregation is made up of people from all walks of life, united in a shared commitment to follow Jesus Christ. From children’s programs and youth activities to adult and family support, there’s something for everyone here.

Serving Our Community
We believe in living our faith through service. Members of our congregation regularly participate in community outreach, volunteer efforts, and support for those in need—both within and beyond Blue River.

Plan Your Visit
All are welcome. Come as you are, and experience the peace and purpose the gospel of Jesus Christ brings. We look forward to seeing you.

Sunday Services

Church service times and schedules vary from congregation to congregation. Please call for specific times. All church meetings follow the same 2-hour format: one main meeting for everyone and one other class separated by age groups or general interests.

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A Sanctuary of Peace, Prayer, and Spiritual Renewal

Nestled in a serene natural setting, Saint Benedict’s Lodge is more than a place of worship—it’s a sacred space where faith and tranquility meet. Rooted in the Benedictine tradition, the Lodge offers a warm and contemplative environment for individuals and groups seeking a deeper connection with God.

Our chapel, centered around daily prayer and reflection, welcomes all who seek quiet devotion or communal worship. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the grounds invite guests to embrace silence, meditate in nature, and rediscover the rhythms of spiritual life.

Whether you’re visiting for a retreat, attending Mass, or simply pausing for a moment of stillness, Saint Benedict’s Lodge is a refuge for the soul—a place where hearts are renewed and spirits find rest.

Apart from worship services, Saint Benedict’s Lodge may host retreats, spiritual direction sessions, or periods of quiet reflection for individuals and small groups. Hospitality is central to the lodge’s mission—mirroring St. Benedict’s teaching to “welcome all guests as Christ.” It is a place where both religious and laypeople can come to deepen their faith, seek guidance, or simply rest in the presence of God.

Chapel and Liturgical Schedule

Saturday Vigil Mass – 5:00 PM

Sunday Mass – 9:30 AM

Weekday Mass (M-F) – 8:00 AM*

Confessions – 4:15-4:45 PM Saturday; 8:45-9:15 AM Sunday

Office of Readings and morning prayer – 7:30 AM (Friar’s Chapel)

Evening Prayer – 5:00 PM (Friar’s Chapel)

*Winter season: Weekday Masses in the Friar’s Chapel

Ministry days and time are current at time of posting.  Follow web link to verify times with Saint Benedict’s.

A Ministry of The Western Dominican Province

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