McKenzie Pass
OR 242McKenzie Bridge to Sisters · Oregon
Distance21.6mi · 35 km
Drive time45 minon the road
DifficultyModerate
MountainForest
A narrow old highway across a sea of black lava in the Oregon Cascades.
OR 242 over McKenzie Pass winds through old-growth forest to a startling field of black lava at the crest, with the Three Sisters volcanoes rising close beyond. Open only in the warmer months; mind the very narrow, winding sections, the cyclists, and the lack of barriers.
Where it runs
McKenzie BridgeStart · Oregon
SistersEnd · United States
Character
Corners40bends
Tightness6of 10
Max gradient8%≈ 1-in-13
Hairpins6tight bends
Climb10 mtotal ascent
Summit1607 mhighest point · 5272 ft
SummerAutumn
Elevation
1091 m rangeKnow before you go
- Very narrow and winding
- Closed most of the year by snow
- Cyclists on blind bends
Along the road
- viewpoint Three Sisters Viewpoint
Sources
Nearby roads
The closest great drives to McKenzie Pass.
