Oregon City Municipal Elevator — Attraction in Oregon City

How fun can this be? It's a beautiful day for a walk. I read an article in the Oregonian a while back, and they mentioned a historical path that one may enjoy through the McLoughlin Promenade in Oregon City. It's amazing that one can live here a lifetime and never stop and smell the roses. Literally. I started at the base of the elevator then moved on. The view at the top was awesome. Great view of the OC bridge and downtown. Spent some time looking at all the pictures of the building of the elevator and scoping out all the activity below. Next time I'm going to bring my binoculars. You can hang out there for awhile or make a short trek to the McLoughlin house. If you feel more adventurous, I recommend taking the walk on the promenade. Head south from the elevator and check out the view of the Willamette heading toward the falls. You get a bird's eye view of the old Blue Heron Paper Company facility, which is a bit of an eyesore, but I was fascinated imagining what it must have looked like in full operation. Then the path leads to a walking bridge over McLoughlin Blvd. From there you head south on street level to the turnout overlooking the falls. Cross the street and head up 2nd then left on Tumwater past (or stop in) the Historical Museum (I didn't even know it was there) to the VFW where you'll hook back up to the promenade back to the elevator. I'm handicapped and walked with a cane, so I took my time and stopped for refreshments at the Irish pub on 2nd & McLoughlin. Met some people on outdoor deck where I engaged in a little conversation while I rested. So it took me a few hours, but I had a great time and got well needed exercise. I will definitely...

The Oregon Municipal Elevator is a breathtaking marvel that not only transports visitors between the upper and lower parts of Oregon City but also provides an awe-inspiring panorama of the surrounding natural beauty. As you step into the vintage elevator car and ascend, you're treated to a mesmerizing visual feast that unfolds before your eyes.

From the elevator's observation deck, one can marvel at the picturesque views of the Willamette River as it gracefully meanders through the heart of Oregon City. The sight of the tranquil waters reflecting the vibrant hues of the sky creates a sense of serenity and harmony with nature. The gentle sound of the waterfall adds a soothing soundtrack to the experience, further enhancing the overall ambiance.

The vantage point from the elevator allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur of the Willamette Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the United States. The cascading water creates an impressive display of raw power and beauty, leaving spectators in awe of its magnitude. It's a reminder of the incredible forces of nature and the wonders that exist in our world.

The Oregon Municipal Elevator not only serves as a means of transportation but also offers a unique and immersive experience that combines history, engineering, and natural splendor. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the elevator provides a captivating glimpse into the charm and allure of Oregon City, leaving an indelible impression on all who embark on this...

This is an old landmark of Oregon City. The lookout has been there far longer than the elevator. There are lenticular photographs depicting what was and how the local landscape has changed...some for the worse...such as waterfalls destroyed by manufacturing. They run along the breadth of the half circle, concrete wall. The view is beautiful at some angles. You can see the small bridge, built in 1922, from overhead. There are some concerning cracks and signs shoring up is soon needed in the floor but it appears stable for now. It is interesting to read how the elevator was originally steam powered and took over three minutes to ascend. There are also 722 steps you can take instead. I did the first time I saw this lookout. A smooth, wheelchair friendly, downward sloped ramp feeds pedestrians under the train tracks and into the face of the elevator. There is no cost to enter and sometimes there are people on hand for questions or to explain facts, such as dotted outlines depict what once was and no longer is, as well as telling you about the lady of the mansion who fought the elevator as it was built in front of her...