Willamette National Forest – Middle Fork Ranger District

Located within the Middle Fork Ranger District, in Oregon’s Willamette National Forest, low cloud rises from an old growth forest of Doug-fir near Tufti Mountain. Encompassing 750,000 acres, the Middle Fork Ranger District contains a diverse and expansive landscape, offering visitors a wide range of recreational opportunities, scenic beauty, and natural resources. Elevations within the district range from less than 1000 feet to over 7,000 feet at the highest peaks. This rugged landscape is characterized by dense forests, volcanic peaks, rocky outcrops, numerous streams and waterfalls, and several large watersheds, which include: The Middle Fork Willamette River, Salmon Creek, Hills Creek, Fall Creek, and the North Fork of the Middle Fork Willamette River. This mountainous terrain is largely covered in dense coniferous forests, with climax species including Douglas fir, Western hemlock, and Western red cedar. There are also areas of mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, as well as meadows, wetlands, and riparian zones along rivers and streams. The diversity of vegetation provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including elk, deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. The district is home to two designated wilderness areas: Diamond Peak Wilderness and Waldo Lake Wilderness. These protected areas offer pristine and largely unspoiled landscapes for visitors to explore, with opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation. The Middle Fork Ranger District is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, with a focus on sustainable land management, conservation, and recreation. Efforts are ongoing to maintain and restore the health of the forest ecosystem, protect sensitive habitats and species, and provide recreational opportunities while minimizing environmental impact. Lane County, Oregon West Cascades                     Douglas-fir, Lane County, Oakridge Oregon, Willamette National Forest