Trail Overview
This 5-mile point-to-point route begins at the intersection with FS 47A21B and concludes at the foot of Sheep Camp Butte. The trail offers an immersive journey through open, high-altitude meadows framed by the rugged beauty of volcanic ridges and distant volcanic cones. As you head north, the horizon is dominated by the majestic mountain ranges of Oregon, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the drive. During the spring and summer months, the meadows are often punctuated by seasonal blooming wildflowers. Keep a watchful eye for local wildlife, as the area is frequently populated by deer, coyotes, long-eared rabbits, and various bird species that thrive in this diverse volcanic landscape.
Difficulty
While the majority of the route is a manageable rating of 2, the final northern half-mile is notably rough, and the presence of deep ruts elevates the overall rating to a 3. The trail surface consists of hard-packed dirt mixed with volcanic rock, though visibility of the path is often hampered by significant overgrown brush and grass in the center median. Drivers will encounter several sections with ruts reaching up to 12 inches, though these are typically wide enough to be bypassed with careful line selection. The trail also features occasional off-camber sections and rocky terrain. In early spring, the meadows can become saturated, leading to potential bogging issues, so verify ground conditions before attempting.
