Sahalie Falls with a Ninkasi Chaser!

Being the Travel Oregon "Ask Oregon" Willamette Valley Ambassador has it's perks for sure!  A good excuse for me anyways to get out and learn and explore more about Oregon and especially this week, explore the Eugene area!  Cari from Eugene, Cascades and Coast offered to be my guide and what a great day we had.  It started at The Pump Cafe in Springfield with Blueberry Pancakes and Stuffed French Toast.  

 Right off of HWY 126, the falls are on the left at the Koosah Falls turn out.  Hiking the trail to the falls is relatively easy although, we had a little snow and ice to walk over.  Later in the spring, summer and again the fall, this trail is very easily accessible and even has a trail that is stroller and wheelchair friendly.  

We had a bite to eat at Takoda's just off the HWY on the way back to Eugene.  We chose to dine inside of course but when the weather is warm, the patio is quite amazing!  Having lunch along the McKenzie River would be perfect.  We're already planning our next hiking trip and lunch this way for early summer 2012!

 Back in Eugene, we stopped at the Eugene, Cascades and Coast Adventure Center!  I think this place is the most interesting of all the visitor's centers I have been in.  Staffed with the nicest folks and full of information on what to see and experience in Lane County!  The center is also stocked with maps and brochures of what to do and see as well as shelves stocked full of local wines and beers.  And this brings me to Ninkasi!

 Only five years in the making and Ninkasi has already made a huge name for itself.  Expanding again, Ninkasi can be found at pretty much every brew pub in Oregon and bottled and sold at markets all over Oregon as well!  Tasting and touring Ninkasi Thursday afternoon was a great ending to an already great day with Cari.  So glad Meg and Emily could join us too.  And I have to say when Ninkasi was mentioned way before this day was planned, Ray and Steven kindly offered to come along as well.  There's something about really good beer that brings people together!

 Thanks Cari for a great day!  You know what I like... food, hiking and really good beer!  My idea of a perfect "fam tour!"  

I will be enjoying the falls again this summer and being able to share with travelers that are looking for that great Eugene area experience will come pretty easy.  The Willamette Valley has so much to offer to everyone.  Whatever it is you love to do, I hope you do it here this year to come!