The teal water of the Metolius River has long been described as magical, mesmerizing visitors with its crystal clarity and rejuvenating flow. The river begins its journey at the base of Black Butte and moves prestigiously for nearly 30 miles, showcasing its standing as one of the largest spring-fed tributaries in the country. The river’s birthplace (the Head of the Metolius) can be seen from a short hike to the spot where headwaters emerge, revealing the source of its pure water with invigorating temperatures year-round. [Photo above by Steve Giardini]
The name Metolius means “white fish,” and the waters were considered a sacred source of life for Oregon’s native people. A fall visit to the Metolius reveals how its life-giving setting still casts a spell today. Mossy banks, smoothed boulders and deep pools set nature’s stage for world-class bird watching, fly fishing and hiking.
The area carved by the Metolius offers an unrivaled experience to watch summer’s leisurely hand-off to autumn, as the crisp air arrives and the vine maple leaves transform into ember hues of fiery red and golden yellow. With inspired lodging options that offer crackling fires, seasonal fare and strolls under the glowing deciduous trees, the Metolius holds the best fall has to offer for a weekend retreat.
Lake Creek Lodge
Nestled in a cradle of wooded pines and aspens, Lake Creek Lodge embodies a vintage nod to fall during a stay in one of its 22 creekside cabins. The sprawling grounds host modern amenities while preserving the nostalgia of its 100-year history, featuring a fly-fishing pond, pickleball courts, a heated pool and 40 acres of meandering trails. Rustic yet comfortably renovated cabins (some dating back to the 1920s) can accommodate up to seven guests. Its main lodge offers an idyllic evening respite, with a roaring stone hearth, a rec room and oversized chairs to bookend a day of fall enchantment. Read more about Lake Creek Lodge here.
House on Metolius
The setting of the House on Metolius is true serenity, boasting 200 acres of private land with unrivaled views and welcoming riverside cottages. The property has been family-owned for decades, originally purchased as a summer retreat in the 1920s, and later opened to the public as a commitment to the preservation of its enduring beauty. The original 10,000-square-foot, eight-bedroom main house and eight additional distinctive cabins are available for gatherings and rentals. Framed in the distance, snow-capped Mt. Jefferson creates a picturesque backdrop inspiring wedding goers, anglers and writers alike. One thing is clear: The House on Metolius is unparalleled for nature-enthusiasts seeking privacy and impressive views. Read more about the House on Metolius here.
Metolius River Lodges
Location is everything at the Metolius River Lodges, home to 13 modest and fully equipped cabins tucked under the ponderosa pines lining the river’s edge. Each cottage is just a stones-throw away from the Metolius and features river-facing decks that invite lazy afternoon relaxing and al fresco dining. The lodge’s sought-after proximity makes it an ideal family base from which to explore the area. Guests can stroll on the river trail to the neighborly Camp Sherman’s General Store for fishing bait and a frozen treat, or hike to Wizard Falls to see the area come alive with vivid splashes of fall color. A library and stocked game closet encourage evening merriment after the day’s adventures. Read more about the Metolius River Lodges here.
Metolius River Resort
For a more luxurious retreat, the rustically elegant Metolius River Resort features 11 award-winning cabins with knotty pine interiors and upgraded finishes like granite countertops and river-stone fireplaces. Many feature spacious floor plans and expansive decks with Adirondack chairs—a spot to enjoy morning coffee amidst the ground’s lush setting that becomes ablaze in autumn. Peace and tranquility feel effortlessly in abundance here. After a day of biking or fishing from the resort’s doorstep, visitors can enjoy tapas and a margarita at Hola!, a Mexican-Peruvian inspired restaurant located on-site. Read more about the Metolius River Resort here.
