Trail Overview
This 7.9 -mile overland route serves as a primary, scenic gateway into the rugged Elliott State Forest, climbing steadily from the low-lying Larsons Way up to the high-elevation junction with the 2000 Road at Trail Butte. The road is a single-lane gravel track that carves through a verdant landscape of dense, second-growth Douglas fir and lush coastal underbrush. While generally wide enough for travel, the route is characterized by its serpentine curves and occasional pullouts that demand driver awareness. Along the ascent, explorers will find numerous secluded dispersed campsites tucked into the tree line, offering privacy and solitude. Note: Drivers should be aware of a designated shooting area along the route that currently requires community cleanup efforts. The drive offers a mix of enclosed canopy tunnels and, at higher elevations, dramatic views of the surrounding ridges and clear-cuts
Difficulty
(Potholed Forest Road): This rating reflects the inconsistent surface conditions typical of the Oregon Coast Range winters. While the road base is solid gravel, frequent rough patches and numerous deep puddles created by heavy rainfall require a vehicle with high clearance to navigate comfortably without bottoming out. 4WD is not strictly mandatory for traction, but is highly recommended for stability on slick, wet corners and to maintain momentum through the deeper water hazards. The narrow, single-lane nature of the road also requires vigilance for oncoming logging traffic.
