Trail Overview
This 5-mile point-to-point route provides a scenic ascent from Gold Digger Pass toward FS 46A21K, offering an immersive journey through a diverse high-desert landscape. The trail is framed by thick sagebrush, swaying grasses, and scattered pine trees, with seasonal wildflowers often coloring the path during the spring and summer. Halfway through the journey, the route opens into an expansive, flat meadow, providing a perfect vantage point for views of the valleys below and the distant Oregon mountains. As you reach the southern portion of the trail, the geography shifts to showcase dramatic lava beds. The route also serves as a historical marker of past fire activity, weaving through areas showing remnants of previous burns, which makes it a compelling path for those interested in forest ecology and evolution.
Difficulty
This rating 2 trail is manageable but requires attention, especially on the initial steep climb from the northern approach. The surface consists of loose, dusty pumice dirt that can become challenging for vehicles with limited traction; while an AWD vehicle with high-quality tires may suffice in dry conditions, the hill climb remains a notable hurdle. You will encounter small ruts under 12 inches and several notably bumpy sections. High clearance is essential, as the trail features overgrown vegetation in the center median throughout the route. Beyond the 1.5-mile mark from the north, the grass becomes significantly denser, making route-finding a more active process. Additionally, the southern section features encroaching bushes and low-hanging branches that pose a high risk of pinstriping.
