Westfir,
Oregon
47441
Westoak Road
PO Box 296
Westfir Oregon
97492
541-782-3733
Fax: 541-782-3983
westfircity@trip.net
The
second
you pull into the town of Westfir, you know what the past
was and the future is. The landmark for this former lumber
community is the Office Bridge. At a length of 180 feet,
the Office Bridge is Oregon's longest covered bridge. Originally
built in 1944, it connected the Westfir Lumber Company mill
to the main office. Today the office is the Westfir Lodge,
Bed & Breakfast, which still contains the original vault.
A distinct feature of the bridge is the covered walkway,
which allowed people safe access across without being in
the way of loaded log trucks. It was not only the vast abundance
of timber that brought people to this booming town but the
many recreational opportunities that are still enchanting
people today.
From
the Office Bridge you can access the North Fork of the Middle
Fork of the Willamette River which is a fly fishermen's delight.
With many access point from the West Cascade Scenic Byway,
deep fishing whole hide the catch of lifetime. The Byway is
one of the nation's first 50 National Scenic Byways, this
drive gives the opportunity to view spectacular scenery and
points of cultural, geologic, and historic interests. Generally,
the Byway is closed during the winter due to snowfall, though
at lower elevations some areas are accessible. To obtain more
information, contact the Middle Fork Ranger District. When
stopping by or calling, ask about the Tape Tour for the route.
Hikers
and Bikers will also find plenty to do in Westfir. From
the
Office Bridge, hiking enthusiast can access the North Fork
Trail #3666. Follow the trail 5.5 miles along the North
Fork
River to view whitewater and meandering sections of the river.
To access the trail, cross the Office Bridge. The trail
head
is to the immediate right. Hikers and bikers can both enjoy
the Alpine Trial #3450. Encounter many different landscapes
along this 5.5 mile trail from meadows to wooded areas. Access
trail by going Hemlock and turning left on to Forest Road
5821. Follow 5821 through Hemlock to trail head on the right,
about 1 mile. Bikers will enjoy riding the West Cascade
Scenic
Byway. This Byway has been part of the Tour de Lane and offers
excellent viewing of the North Fork River, forested areas,
wildlife and much more.
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