Route 138 in Oregon

138 is a gorgeous drive from the Crater Lake turnoff for about 20 miles. From 97 west it's a long straight climb to the Crater Lake turnoff. Then it's a nice semi curvy scenic drive until you get closer to Roseburg then it's just some brown rolling hills. I've driven, towed and ridden my MC's over that hwy many times. Done hwy 58 too many times to count. I prefer 138. Check the weather before you go this time of year.

3X on Rt 138 & the short hikes to waterfalls. There is also Susan Creek BLM Campground - dry camping, but hot showers. Here is a link to some waterfall photos I took last October.

My Favorite - Whitehorse Falls:

donn0128 wrote:
I think 58 and I5 would be a better choice. From south of Eugene where 58 hits I5 your only about an hour south to Roseburg.

I respectively disagree. Why go 75 miles south to turn and go NW to I-5? If the OP wants to head to I-5 then south it would be to his advantage just to stay on OR 126 into Eugene/Springfield then south. This is only 20 miles or less to the OR 58/I-5 junction, doesn't have the long downgrade of the Willamette Pass and the road is just as good but does have several small towns to slow for.

To the OP I feel it is about a toss up either way you go. But then I'll drive out of my way to avoid a freeway, but unfortunately US 97 is just about one.

I going to Eugene from Sisters I'd think 20 and 126 would be more direct than 97 and 58.

To Roseburg, Google maps gives 126 as shortest and fastest, 138 a bit longer, 58 longer still.

From the east the 59 pass is easiest - a barely noticeable climb from 97

138 has a long straight grade from 97 to the Crater Lake entrance. I believe this is the highest paved pass in the state. But it's not a hard grade. As mentioned, 138 has a number of nice waterfalls.

58 also has at least one good waterfall, and a covered bridge at Oakridge.

I think the west bound downgrade is similar in all 3 routes.

I think 58 and I5 would be a better choice. From south of Eugene where 58 hits I5 your only about an hour south to Roseburg.

I have driven 138 in the Journey towing the Cherokee. I chose that route to visit several waterfalls along the route. If you have the time, stop and hike in to some of the waterfalls.