Robert Aufderheide Memorial Drive is in west-central Oregon about 40 miles east of Eugene. It begins just east of Blue River and travels south to Westfir. The byway is 65 miles long and follows FSR 19, which is a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles. Travelers can pick up an audio cassette tape of the tour from ranger stations in Blue River or Oakridge. The tape is free and is returned when you complete the drive. Robert Aufderheide Memorial Drive is generally open April through October.

Robert Aufderheide Memorial Drive is named in honor of a man who devoted 24 years of his life to forestry. Robert Aufderheide was the Supervisor of Willamette National Forest from 1954 until his death in 1959.

The byway travels through a mixed conifer and hardwood forest alongside the South Fork of the McKenzie River and the North Fork of the Middle Fork of the Willamette River, a long name but a scenic river. This river is part of the National Wild and Scenic River System and provides good opportunities for catching rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Those interested in hiking, backpacking, or horseback riding will find a lot of trails along the byway. There's the Waldo Wilderness Trail that takes you into Waldo Wilderness. Another trail is called the Grasshopper Trail and takes you through the Chucksney Roadless Area, not a designated wilderness but offers seclusion just the same. There is a self-guided trail in the area of Constitution Grove that will guide you among a grove of trees over 200 years old.

Travelers of the byway could easily spend a week or longer here. The national forest has developed numerous campgrounds with hundreds of campsites to choose from. Most of the campgrounds are situated on the banks of pretty meandering rivers and streams. Plan on finding a spot and staying awhile.

Information: Willamette National Forest, 211 E 7th Ave, Eugene OR 97401 / 541-465-6521. Oregon Parks & Recreation Dept., 1115 Commercial St NE, Salem OR 97310/ 800-551-6949