Rogue-Umpqua Byway - The Most Scenic Drives in America: 120 Spectacular Road Trips - page 123

Toketee Falls: Gold Ray Dam with Lower Table Rock in the background
5. Toketee Falls
Thousandsofyearsago,amassivevolcanocalledMt.Mazama rainedathicklayeroffiery
debris across much of this region. Many centuries of erosion, however, have worked their
magic, washing away and reforming the volcanic deposits. Several of these rock forma-
tions are likely to catch your eye on the way to Toketee Falls.
Large outcrops of porous, sand-colored pumice shine at intervals on the riverbanks,
and Eagle Rock, composed of tightly packed pillars of basalt, stands just past Eagle Rock
Campground. Also visible from the road are Old Man and Old Woman rocks—two stony
peaks that rise above the surroundings.
Farther on, follow Rte. 34, a forest road that leads to the parking lot at the start of the
Toketee Falls Trail. Tracing the North Umpqua River through a narrow chasm, the hike
endsatanobservationplatform.Theviewoverlooksthetwo-tieredwaterfall.Thefirstcas-
cade plummets 40feet into apool,andthe second makes an80-footdroptothe NorthUm-
pqua River Canyon below.
Farther east, the Toketee Reservoir makes an ideal camping spot, with some waterside
sites. For the anglers, the catch might include brook, rainbow, and brown trout—tempting
campfire fare.
6. Watson Falls
Not far from the highway, Watson Falls plunges 272 feet, making it one of the tallest wa-
terfalls in Oregon. A half-mile trail leads to the thunderous marvel. Still more cascades,
Clearwater and Whitehorse falls, lie to the east.
7. Lemolo Lake
Rte. 2610, a side trip to the north, traverses the forest to Lemolo Lake, a picturesque locale
with deep coves and sandy beaches. Located some 4,000 feet above sea level, the lake is
usually chilly, but water-skiers are undeterred, chancing a frigid dip in its waters for an ex-
hilarating ride behind a speeding boat. Those unwilling to brave getting wet might try fish-
ing; landlocked kokanee salmon and German brown trout are among the potential prizes
for anglers. In winter the area becomes a sports haven for cross-country skiers and snow-
mobilers, who follow trails through the snowy pines.