Blachly Mountain Forest State Scenic Corridor

Blachly Mountain Forest State Scenic Corridor protects a scenic stretch of Coast Range forest along the route between the Willamette Valley and the Oregon coast. The corridor preserves the natural character of this mountain drive through towering Douglas firs and lush understory vegetation typical of Oregon's wet westside forests.

The Coast Range forests support black-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and numerous small mammals. The forest provides habitat for spotted owls, varied thrushes, and other forest-dwelling birds. Streams within the corridor may support salmon and steelhead during spawning runs. Roosevelt elk occasionally pass through the area.

Dense Douglas fir and western hemlock forests dominate the corridor, with western red cedar in wet areas. The understory is lush with sword fern, Oregon grape, and salal. Moss and lichens festoon the tree branches. The high rainfall supports exceptionally verdant vegetation throughout the year.

The corridor traverses the Oregon Coast Range, composed primarily of marine sedimentary rocks and volcanic formations from the Eocene epoch. Streams have carved valleys through these soft rocks. The mountains were uplifted as the oceanic plate subducted beneath the continent.

The area experiences a mild, wet climate with annual precipitation often exceeding 80 inches. Summers are pleasant with temperatures in the 70s°F, while winters are cool and wet with temperatures in the 40s. Fog and low clouds are common, particularly in winter.

The Coast Range has been traversed by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Euro-American settlement brought logging, which heavily impacted the original old-growth forests. Highway development opened the mountains to automobile travel. Some areas have regenerated while others retain remnant old-growth stands.

The scenic corridor was designated to protect the forested character of this mountain route. Oregon State Parks manages the corridor to ensure that development does not diminish scenic values. The designation helps maintain the natural beauty that travelers enjoy.

The scenic drive through old-growth and second-growth forests is the primary attraction. Roadside pullouts allow visitors to experience the peaceful forest atmosphere. The corridor provides access to adjacent forest lands for hiking. Seasonal wildflower displays add color to the green forest.

This scenic corridor has no developed facilities. Travelers pass through along the highway. Forest Service roads provide access to surrounding lands. The corridor is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may require caution.

The corridor protects forest lands from development, helping maintain habitat connectivity across the Coast Range. Sustainable forestry practices on adjacent lands help ensure long-term forest health. The designation preserves scenic values while allowing continued transportation use.