McKenzie River Trail, Willamette National Forest, Oregon, USA

© Don Paulson/Danita Delimon

Willamette National Forest, Oregon, USA

Willamette National Forest is located in Oregon in the United States. More specifically, in the Cascade Range, a major mountain range in western North America. Comprised of more than 600,000 hectares, with over 150,000 hectares of designated wilderness and seven major mountain peaks, visitors here can hike through the sprawling conifer forest landscape, explore scenic lookouts, bathe in alpine lakes and even take part in nature and heritage tours.

Today’s photo shows McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, part of the Willamette National Forest. This trail winds by lakes, rivers and springs, guiding you through shady old-growth forests. One highlight here is the view overlooking Tamolich Blue Pool, a crystal-clear pool created by the river bubbling up into it.