Trail Overview

This route, for the most part, follows China Hat Road from the point at which it turns to gravel. Later as you head to the South and West, near Paulina Lake, the roads become narrow and more challenging (toward Lava Butte & HWY97). However - none of the trail is difficult.

Photos of Arnold Ice Cave to Lava Butte

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Some parts are narrow and rutted and can become muddy with rainfall.

Technical Rating

Rich Brenner

Feb 23, 2025

Open

Easy going, right up until it isn't. First area to present a challenge was at 43.88076, -121.30032, but if you're determined it won't be a problem.

Andrew Esther

May 12, 2024

Open

Gets snowy and wet above Lockit Butte, some sandy mud, potential traction issues. Washouts prevalent above Lockit. Below Lockit to powerline road, very good packed gravel, minimal washboarding, few very small washout spots less than 20’ long.

J R

Feb 10, 2024

Open

Pretty easy most of the trail, some deep snow patches got stuck in the wet snow. Snow wouldn't pack or stick so vehicles sunk. Cut one tree out of the path but turned around at the second one closer to Arnold

Jacob Vandermeer

Dec 24, 2023

Open

Light snow on the road for about half of Anderson loop. East 2wd ride.

Max Blair

Dec 18, 2023

Open

Not too bad just muddy and slushy… very slushy

Cesar Rojano

Jul 02, 2023

Open