Sahalie Falls
The Sahalie and Koosah Falls were formed about 3,000 years ago where two thick flows of basaltic andesite lava that moved into the McKenzie River and created the natural dam that also formed Clear Lake. The results are two breathtaking waterfalls with foaming white water cascades in between.
The Chinook Indian Nation designated the word Sahalie to mean ‘heaven’ and even pioneered the term ‘Sahalie Tyee’ (heaven chief) to translate to ‘God’. Lending the term to Sahalie Falls demonstrates the significance of this 120 ft (36.5 m) waterfall to the indigenous tribes of the Northwest.
The Kalapuya, Molalla, Sahaptain and Chinook peoples traveled and traded here, perhaps on their way to obtain obsidian in the high Cascades or to gather huckleberries.
Features
Sahalie Falls viewpoint is handicap accessible (the Waterfall Loop Trail is not). The parking area is well signed from Hwy 126.
The parking area includes interpretive panels that tell the story of area geology and also has restrooms.
Travel Notes
- No cell service is available in this area.
- Parking can be an issue on weekends during the summer.
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Sahalie Falls
There's a good reason the native tribes named this "Heaven". Along with its sister Koosah Falls, Clear Lake and Tamolitch Blue Pool the McKenzie River is one of those places so special, its a spiritual connection for many.
October 7, 2021