Trail Overview
Nestled within the lush, densely wooded Willamette National Forest, FS 2253136 offers a beautifully shaded and secluded backcountry escape. This tranquil, winding route is accessed directly off the main Bingham Ridge Road - FS 2253 and is clearly marked at the entrance by a brown vertical Forest Service post displaying the 136 route number. Outdoor enthusiasts frequently utilize this quiet dirt spur to find primitive dispersed camping spots, access remote hunting grounds, or simply enjoy the stunning, wide-open mountain vistas of the surrounding Cascade Range that reveal themselves through breaks in the heavy timber. As you travel deeper into the towering pines and vibrant green ferns, the old roadbed shows peaceful signs of nature reclaiming the path, with soft grasses and moss growing prominently between the wheel tracks before the route ultimately comes to a dead end with a view out over the hills below.
Difficulty
Earning a mild Grade 2 difficulty rating, this is a relatively narrow, little-used dirt and gravel out-and-back spur characterized by encroaching vegetation and a few uneven surface features. While navigating this highly scenic drive, you will encounter some moderate rain ruts and mildly washed-out sections that require thoughtful tire placement to maintain solid traction. A few small downed logs and bright green branches also crowd the edges of the trail, meaning some light brush contact is highly likely. By keeping a slow, deliberate momentum and carefully straddling the deeper earthen washouts, you can comfortably clear the uneven terrain without risking undercarriage contact and fully enjoy this immersive woodland journey.
