Three new Oregon Scenic Byways designated

Three new stretches of Oregon roads have been singled out for the rich experience they offer when you travel along them, earning new “Scenic Byway” designations. With approval from the Oregon Transportation Commission on April 19 and the Oregon Tourism Commission last weekend, the new routes bring to 29 the number of Scenic Byways crisscrossing our state.

“The Scenic Byway program thrives on and is the focal point for many communities across the state,” Director Matt Garrett told the Oregon Transportation Commission. “The program is a grassroots effort, with support from local residents and businesses interested in preserving and enhancing local scenic roads, diversifying the local economy and promoting tourism opportunities.”

The three new designations are (NOTE: Links below are to fairly large PDF files that include a map and photo highlights of the routes):

McKenzie River Scenic Byway – State Highway 126 east of Eugene that travels along the McKenzie River and connects to the existing West Cascades Scenic Byway. Mary’s Peak to Pacific Scenic Byway – State Highway 34 that connects I-5 to the coast by way of Corvallis to Waldport, including spurs to Mary’s Peak and Alsea Falls. Tillamook Trees to Seas Scenic Byway – State Highway 6 starting in Banks in rural western Washington County, passing through Tillamook State Forest and ending at the Cape Mears peninsula.

The purpose of the Scenic Byways Program is to identify, preserve and enhance Oregon’s most outstanding scenic transportation corridors. The routes are proposed by local organizations and are reviewed and recommended by the Oregon Scenic Byways Advisory Committee. State designation results in placement of State Scenic Byway signs, recognition of the route and its publication in tourism promotional materials. The routes will be included in the next printing of the Oregon Scenic Byways Official Driving Guide (LARGE FILE).