Koosah Falls, McKenzie River

Description

Koosah Falls, McKenzie River

Willamette National Forest, Oregon Cascades

Koosah Falls is a gorgeous 70 foot waterfall on Oregon’s majestic McKenzie River.  “Koosah” means “sky” in the Chinook language. Like nearby Sahalie Falls, Koosah was formed 3,000 years ago when a basalt lava flow dammed up nearby Clear Lake. Clear Lake, Koosah, Sahalie Falls and the beautiful Tamolitch Pool are all located on the epic McKenzie River Trail.  This remarkable trail is celebrated by mountain bikers and hikers for its varied volcanic terrain, old growth trees, the McKenzie River and beautiful waterfalls.

Oregon’s McKenzie River tumbles down a series of rapids between Sahalie and Koosah

This section of the McKenzie River is characterized by thunderous,blue-tinted rapids, an old growth temperate rain forest, easy access  and stunning waterfalls. It is a must see for visitors to Willamette National Forest. Another nearby waterfall that is also a magical visit is Proxy Falls.

The McKenzie River Waterfalls Loop Trail is part of the longer McKenzie River Trail. It is 2.6 miles in length and be started at the parking areas near either Koosah or Sahalie. The waterfall trail loops around the river and connects upstream at a footbridge above Sahalie and connects downstream at Carmen Reservoir where there is a bridge that crosses the river.

The Fine art Print

This stunning new print has an elegant feel heightened by the obvious leading lines of the McKenzie River and the remarkably still autumn colored foliage terminating at the silky flow of Koosah. did I mention that the foliage was still? I’m amazed by that. Foliage adjacent to rivers has tormented many a landscape photographer.Regardless, I’m grateful as the textured leaves form a wonderful textural variation next to the mesmerizing flow patterns of the river. I love that this image captures both the falls and the river without encumbrances diminishing their visual impact.