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Dee Wright Observatory, Blue River

4.9
#6 of 12 in Childrens Museums in Oregon
Must see · Observatory · Museum
Dee Wright Observatory is an observation structure at the summit of McKenzie Pass in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon. The structure is an open shelter constructed with lava stone. It is located in the midst of a large lava flow, and offers an exceptional view of numerous Cascade peaks.

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Dee Wright Observatory reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
104 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By Karen S
    I have been here several times, with children and adults, and each time I see more! As strange an wonderful as the observatory is, do not miss the interpretive trail to the east of the actual...  more »
  • By bruceb428
    This is a must see if you have time and willing to drive miles of curved highway (no open in the winter). Wasn't the clearest weather, but was able to see most the mountains around. Bring a lunch...  more »
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Google
  • By Chuck deSully
    A very interesting lookout right in the middle of a lava flow. The lookout tower is composed of the natural rock. There are 2 levels, the roof where a bronze capstone points to the various mountains viewable, and the first level that's kind of cave–like and has port holes built in the walls to view the specific mountains around. You also have trails you can walk through the flow. Throw a crumb to a chipmunk while you're there.
  • By matthew woods
    Absolutely amazing! Completely worth any drive time to see it. The southern approach up historic hwy 242 is a pretty cool experience on it's own. If you can plan it for a clear or mostly clear day that is best. The views are so wonderful and the informative trail through the lava flow is really neat and easy to travel. This will certainly be somewhere we visit again!
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