On a beautiful day in autumn, the Middle Fork Willamette River reflects blue sky as it makes its way downstream towards Lookout Point Reservoir. After exiting the muddy confines of Hills Creek Dam and Reservoir, the Middle Fork passes the mountain community of Oakridge, as it flows through a wide mountainous valley that’s entirely surrounded by the Willamette National Forest. This section of the river is characterized by its meandering course, with occasional bends and calm shallow stretches mixed with deep pools and swift runs. The river’s flow is heavily influenced by the operation of Hills Creek Reservoir, as well as its undammed tributaries, which include: the North Fork, Salt Creek, Hills Creek, and Salmon Creek. Surrounding this large mountain valley are steep forested hills of Douglas-fir and Mountain Hemlock, which rise in a series of hills to elevations of 4,000 to 5,000. These ‘Big Green Hills’ provide a dramatic backdrop of dense upland forests, and lush riparian corridors of cottonwood, Ash and Alder trees. The Middle Fork Willamette River is a key part of the greater Willamette River watershed, with water quality and flow closely monitored to ensure the health of the aquatic ecosystem and the stability of water resources for local communities.
Autumn, Lane County, Middle Fork Willamette River, Oakridge Oregon, Willamette National Forest
