5-11A - Fort Rock to Hole in the Ground

Trail 5-11A from Fort Rock to Hole-in-the-Ground is a classic Central Oregon high desert route that blends easy navigation with unique volcanic scenery. The road is primarily hard-packed dirt and pumice with stretches of washboard and loose sand, plus occasional rocky sections and mild off-camber spots to keep things interesting. It’s not especially technical in dry conditions. Starting near Fort Rock, you’ll travel through wide-open sagebrush flats with sweeping views of the basin before gradually working your way toward the dramatic rim of Hole-in-the-Ground, a massive volcanic maar nearly a mile wide and hundreds of feet deep. The contrast between the flat desert and the sudden drop of the crater makes this a memorable destination. Once there, it’s worth parking and hiking down into the crater or circling the rim for panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. There are plenty of opportunities to explore along the way. Side roads branch out toward other geologic features like Big Hole, Fort Rock itself, and scattered lava flows across the basin. Take time to wander this area, which is full of hidden campsites, quiet viewpoints, and lesser-known volcanic formations that reward a slower pace and a bit of curiosity.