"The McKenzie River... canoeing, hiking and the wildlife adventure!"

"Where is the best place to vacation, with wildlife and canoeing, and mild hiking? We don't want to be around ANY hunters or any guns going off or anything. We want peaceful canoeing, sightseeing, and good places to dine."

Thanks for your question!

I am the Travel Oregon AskOR Willamette Valley Ambassador and the first place that popped in to my head for canoeing was the McKenzie River area of the Willamette Valley!  My friends at the Eugene, Cascades and Coast Adventure Center in Eugene have an awesome website so here is the link for more info:  http://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/visitors/things-to-do/water-activities/

You will find outfitters on the website too!  It looks like you'll be totally covered with gear and be set up perfectly for the ride!

The McKenzie River is gorgeous and there you will find many species of birds and other wildlife. Here is a blurb I found to give you some idea of what kind of wildlife may or may not be found along the McKenzie depending on the time of year:

"The McKenzie's streams and forests provide critical habitat for numerous endangered and threatened species, including Northern Spotted Owl, Spring Chinook Salmon, Bull Trout and Oregon chub.  This area is also vital habitat for elk, black bear, mountain lion, otter, mink, red tree vole, flying squirrel and many other species that rely on healthy forests for survival."

Last December I was invited to go hiking along the McKenzie and wow... such a beautiful place.  There are tons of trails and many places to enjoy some "mild hiking" as you have asked about.  Check out this link for more info:  http://www.oregonwild.org/about/hikes_events/explore-wild-oregon/northwest-oregon-hikes/oregon-wild-hikes-mckenzie-river-and-sahalie-falls

As far as good places to dine, I would choose Eugene!  My favorite places include the Granery for pizza and beer, Sweet Basil for the best Thai Food in the valley and Marche' for fine dining experience.  And... if you are considering lodging, check out a new hotel attached to Marche' called Inn at the 5th!  It a gorgeous hotel!

There is so much to see in the Willamette Valley so if you are wanting to do more here, let me know and I can help you find more places to enjoy!  Thanks again for your question!

Debbie

Travel Oregon AskOR Willamette Valley Ambassador