Willamette National Forest spans more than 100 miles along Oregon’s central Cascade Range, encompassing high volcanic country, deep river valleys, and heavily forested slopes. Its present form was created in 1933 by combining the Santiam and Cascade national forests, building on federal protection that began in 1893 with the Cascade Forest Reserve. About one fifth of the forest is designated wilderness, including parts of several major wilderness areas and seven Cascade peaks. Its abundant snow and rainfall feed extensive rivers, streams, and lakes, support old-growth forests and diverse wildlife, and supply downstream cities. The forest’s history has continually balanced timber use, natural disturbance, and conservation.