Oakridge, Oregon

The Fall River Trail follows meanders through an old growth ponderosa pine forest along the banks of the Fall River. There are several pull-out parking spots along Forest Service Road 42 but probably the easiest is to start at the Fall River Campground day-use area. The day-use area has pit toile...

Horse Rock Ridge Research Natural Area in Sweet Home, Oregon, offers a unique hiking trail that spans approximately 3.74 miles. The trail is moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of 951 feet, making it suitable for intermediate hikers. The trail begins in a dense forest of Douglas fir and ...

It’s so peaceful to be out snowshoeing through the Cascade Mountains. There are views of Mt. Bachelor, the South Sister and Broken Top on a clear day. Also, feeding the birds at the end is really fun! The trail is a little over 6 miles round trip (it's a loop if you go around the lake at the end...

Starting from Scott Lake in the Willamette National Forest, take the Benson Lake Trail head that starts at the end of the road. This climbs gradually up to Benson Lake, a large, deep, cold lake. From there follow the trail up until you see a junction and a sign to Tenas Lakes. Follow this trail u...

The Obsidian area is at least six miles from the closest trail head and 1800 feet of elevation gain. The best way to see the area is to plan a multi-day backpacking adventure. It is limited entry which is strictly enforced by the Forest Service. Only 30 day hikers and 40 overnight hikers are al...

If you’ve been anywhere near Central Oregon, you’ve seen the Three Sisters Mountains dominate the skyline. Each of these volcanoes exceeds 10,000 ft. and are some of the highest peaks in the state of Oregon. Though they are truly considered sister peaks to one another, each has unique climbing ro...

The hike out to Tamolitch Pool, or "Blue Pool," is 2 miles each way and follows the McKenzie River to a lava flow pool. Off Highway 126 14 miles east of McKenzie Bridge, turning into the Trailbridge Campground, drive right 1/3 of a mile to the trailhead. The trail is relatively flat, which gives ...

Todd Lake is a beautiful yet small lake just 24 miles West of Bend. Its location is perfect for accessing Broken Top Mountain, and even better for the view of Mount Bachelor. Spend a day at Todd Lake and enjoy fishing (mostly rainbow trout), swimming, and free access to three different locations...

The Sunrise to Summit Trail on Mt. Bachelor is the easiest and most straightforward way for peakbaggers to reach the summit of one of Central Oregon’s classic volcano climbs. The top boasts views of Broken Top, the Three Sisters, and even Mt. Jefferson beyond. Mt. Bachelor’s official Sunrise to S...

There is an official trail to the summit that begins just North of the Dutchman Flat Sno-Park parking area. The trail is signed and states 1.5 miles to the summit. When there is snow on the ground, you will not see the the official trail. You will need snowshoes or skins, but you just head straig...

Start by parking at Dutchman Flat Sno-Park, which is located just opposite to the base area at Mt. Bachelor. If you're doing this adventure during the summer, late spring, or early autumn you should be able to follow the Tumalo Mountain hiking trail all the way to the top. However, if you're visi...

The hike takes you along a glacial lake and to unbeatable mountain views at the end. It’s a hidden gem! The trail isn’t marked and the best way to get there is know someone that’s been before. The lake is unbelievably beautiful with deep blue glacial water and the view of the mountains at the end...

The Trail begins at Mt. Thielsen Trailhead/Sno Park and takes you up through a vast forest of pines. As you ascend, Diamond Lake will slowly start to peak through. Continue straight at mile marker 1.6 and keep an eye out for Mt. Thielsen ahead. Just before entering Mount Thielsen Wilderness aroun...

It may look quite intimidating from the base and surrounding areas but this hike/climb to the summit is quite straightforward and the standard route is non-technical. That being said, there are areas with some significant exposure with 2200 foot drops on its north and east faces that will definit...

Soda Creek Falls flows 150 feet down a curvy basalt rock groove at Cascadia State Park. The trail follows Soda Creek through a lush Oregon rain forest. The site was a former hotel and health spa with the mineral water from the creek as the main attraction. The park has a small campground, and pic...

The trail starts at 5200 feet and climbs through the forest for 1.6 miles to an opening with a great view off diamond lake and the beautiful and very recognizable Mt. Thielsen. There are several small outcropping here that make a perfect spot to stop and get out the backpacking stove for some mou...