Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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| Forest Route 46 | |
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway shown highlighted in green
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| Route information | |
| Maintained by Oregon Department of Transportation | |
| Length | 66 mi (106 km) |
| Restrictions | Closed December–March |
| Major junctions | |
| North end |  US 97 in Bend |
| South end |  OR 58 40 miles (64 km) southeast of Oakridge |
| Location | |
| Counties: | Deschutes & Klamath |
| Highway system | |
| Oregon highways Routes • Highways |
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The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (also known as Forest Route 46) is a special road in central Oregon, USA. It's called a National Scenic Byway because of its amazing views. This road is about 66 miles (106 km) long. It goes through the beautiful areas of Deschutes and Klamath counties. These counties are on the east side of the Cascade Range mountains.
Along the byway, you can see incredible mountains. These include Mount Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters (Oregon). The road is named "Cascade Lakes" because it passes many small, natural lakes. It also goes by several reservoirs on the upper Deschutes River. This byway offers access to lots of fun outdoor activities in central Oregon. Remember, the byway is usually closed from December to March because of heavy snow!
Exploring the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The northern part of the byway starts in Bend. Here, it becomes a road called NW Century Drive. It follows this two-lane road west into the Deschutes National Forest. You will pass the Mt. Bachelor Ski Area on your way.
The byway then turns south. It continues along the Cascade mountains into northern Klamath County. The southern end of the byway connects with Oregon Route 58. This is about 40 miles (64 km) southeast of Oakridge.
Lakes and Scenery Along the Way
After you pass the Mount Bachelor Ski Area, the byway continues south. You will drive past many beautiful lakes. These include Todd Lake, Sparks Lake, and Devils Lake. Other lakes you will see are Elk Lake, Hosmer Lake, and Lava Lake. You will also pass Little Lava Lake and Cultus Lake.
South of Crane Prairie Reservoir, the scenic byway keeps heading south. It goes towards its end point at Oregon Route 58. Another road, Century Drive, turns east here. It goes north of the Wickiup Reservoir. Then it heads northeast, following the western shore of the Deschutes River. This road eventually crosses the river. It then goes north for a few miles. Finally, it ends at an intersection with US 97 near the Sunriver resort.
