It is with incredible sadness we report on all the fires just to the West of us, burning along the North Santiam River area, also the McKenzie River and down on the North Umpqua River.
We believe the devastation along the McKenzie is going to be very sad when the news comes out around the Blue River area and our thoughts go out to the many good people that lost homes suddenly over night.

As of today, there are 2 passes open to get to Central Oregon. Hwy 58 coming from Eugene to Hwy 97 south of Lapine and the Mt Hood route from Portland to Madras (Hwy 26). Another option is I84 up Hwy 97.

We’d recommend waiting a few days or more to make sure it is safe.

This is an Oregon tragedy that occurred over the last 24 hours. Many of the things we cherish as Oregonians are going be forever lost.

For those thinking of coming from the I 5 corridor/valley area;
Don’t.
Stay Put. Stay safe. There is no fish worth risking your life for. And for the next 3 to 7 days or so it is likely to be not worth the risk coming up the McKenzie or Santiam corridors.

If there is one tiny glimmer of hope, at least on the Metolius, it appears the east wind has spared the Metolius from the Lions Head Fire (for now).
From what we can tell the fire has changed course and is not threatening the river or Camp Sherman at this time. Keep praying, sending good thoughts & vibes and crossing fingers to keep that treasure safe.
This is not said to take anything away from any other place, just a happiness to have dodged a bullet on one very special place.
We all shed tears for the places that are burned.