Trail Overview
Bun Creek - NF1004 is an easy and scenic gravel passage tailored for adventurers looking to traverse the Tillamook Range on the Oregon Coast. Serving as a crucial segment of the longer 'City to Coast' overland route, this trail offers one of the most continuous off-pavement journeys connecting the Portland Metro area to the Pacific ocean. Starting near the quiet town of Beaver off Highway 101, drivers will embark on a 10.4-mile trek that steadily climbs the lush, forested slopes of the coastal range. The route peaks near the summit of Buzzard Butte at over 1,500 feet before descending toward the coast, making it accessible for most stock high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and all-wheel-drive crossovers looking for a straightforward but scenic dirt route.
The well-maintained gravel surface presents minimal technical challenges, maintaining an easy rating throughout its length, though travelers should watch for occasional washboards and active logging traffic. As the road winds downward, it delivers drivers directly toward the Sand Lake OHV Recreation Area, a popular coastal playground famous for its expansive sand dunes, beach driving, and nearby campgrounds. This route is typically passable year-round, though winter storms can occasionally bring downed trees or temporary snow at higher elevations near Buzzard Butte. Whether used as a scenic bypass or as part of a multi-day overland journey, this trail provides an excellent transition from the deep forests of the Tillamook to the sandy shores of the Pacific.
