Santiam Pass, Oregon

As one of the nearest mountain recreational areas to both Salem and Eugene, Oregon, the Santiam Pass is a popular site. Located on State Highway 22, it is also on the path of one of the most traveled routes to Sisters and Bend, in Central Oregon. Here you will find great rivers, spectacular backpacking areas and in the winter, excellent downhill and cross-country skiing.

The Santiam Pass was discovered in 1859 by Andrew Wiley who named it for the Santiam Indians who lived near the Santiam River. The route leading to the Pass crosses the route of the Willamette Valley Cascade Mountain Wagon Road, later known as the Santiam Wagon Road.

As you travel to Santiam Pass, you will see a side road for Hoodoo Ski Area, which features downhill and cross-country skiing from December to March. Big Lake, a popular recreation area with a dramatic view of Mount Washington, can also be accessed from this road. Shortly beyond the Hoodoo turnoff, the highway crosses the Pacific Crest Trail and 4,817-foot Santiam Pass. From the top of the Santiam Pass, you can see a portion of the original railroad grade of the Hogg Railroad, constructed in the late 1800s. This section of Pacific Crest Trail accessible from Santiam Pass provides backpackers with a unique opportunity to hike the crest of a major volcanic mountain range.