Water in Oregon

An attractive free-plunge waterfall outside Bend in the Deschutes National Forest.

The ruins of a failed dam that was built over land later described as a "sponge."

In eastern Oregon, two mineral hot springs sit along the Malheur River in a fairly desolate area where peace and quiet are abound.

Oregon's only closed-basin hypersaline lake, an important stopover for migrating waterfowl, is in danger of drying up completely.

Along the Outback Scenic Byway, adjacent to hot springs, this human-made geothermal feature takes unexplained breaks.

Approximately 50,000 gallons of water gush from these springs, creating the Metolius River.

Rushing water plunges over a 100-foot drop created by an ancient lava flow at this majestic waterfall.

The last water-powered mill in Oregon is open daily for free tours and has a surprising history.

Unknown to many, this sparkling turquoise lake hides amid Oregon's snowcapped mountains.

The eerie remnants of an ancient forest were hidden under the sand for centuries.

This lake in the Cascades lives up to its name, disappearing down a hole every spring.

A public fountain that spouts "health water" from a nearby spring.

On the Oregon coast there is a natural hole that seems to be draining the sea.

This frequently-photographed waterfall takes only a short hike to visit.

The second largest waterfall by volume in the U.S., Willamette Falls is outdone only by Niagara in the amount of water that is pushed northward.

Only known mainland rookery of the threatened Stellar sea lion.