Overview

The Oregon Cascade Mountains are part of one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in North America. The Cascade Range extends over 700 miles from British Columbia to Northern California. In Oregon, the Cascade Mountain Range stretches from Mt. Hood in the north – the highest Oregon peak – to Mt. McLoughlin near Klamath Falls. Passing through 5 of Oregon’s national forests, the spectacular beauty of the Cascade Mountains combined with the variety of recreational opportunities it provides attract millions of visitors every year.

Location and Information

The Cascade Mountains Oregon stretch through central Oregon. Mount Bachelor, which is part of the Cascades, is 21 miles west of Bend via the Cascade Lakes Highway.

• Contact Information: Willamette National Forest, 3106 Pierce Parkway Suite D, Springfield, OR 97477. Phone: 541-225-6300.  Visit the USGS Central Oregon High Cascades website here.

Activities

• Hiking and Backpacking – From late spring to early fall, the Oregon Cascades are a popular destination for hikers and backpackers. A variety of splendid wildlife, sparkling alpine lakes, beautiful wildflowers, and spectacular views attract hikers from all over.
• Mountain Climbing – Several of the Cascade peaks attract eager mountain climbers every year.
• Skiing and Snowboarding – The two most popular ski resorts in the Oregon Cascades is Mt. Hood Meadows and Mt. Bachelor. There are several smaller ski areas in the range as well.

Fun Facts

• The Oregon Cascade Mountains pass through the following national forests: Mt. Hood, Deschutes, Willamette, Umpqua, and Rogue River.
• The Cascade Range began to rise during the Pliocene Epoch, several million years ago.
• Mt. Jefferson, located about 50 miles northwest of Bend, is the second highest peak in the Oregon Cascades at 10,497 feet.
• The Cascades divide the wet western side of Oregon from the dry eastern side.
• Lewis and Clark passed through these mountains in 1805 via the Columbia River.