Trail Overview

Offering epic views of central Oregon, this extension to the very tame Pine Mountain Observatory road can be accessed from either side. It is primarily one lane, but there are wide spots where someone could pass if needed. Cell service is spotty. Be cautious, the elevation and shade can make this very difficult in the winter. In the summer, the observatory makes a great evening destination.

Photos of Pine Mountain Observatory Back Road

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Difficulty

Mostly an easy drive. The end of the trail from Spencer Wells Road can be washed out at times, and there are a few small rocky areas.

Technical Rating

Nate alex Aguirre

Jun 15, 2026

Open

road close due to heavy rain a few eeks back road is heavily blocked with rocks near the observatory it is still open with the right vehicle 4x4 suggested with high clearance if you're trying to get to the top for star gazing or camping

Brayden Way

Jun 14, 2026

Open

road is heavily washed out from recent storm and posted closed from recent fire activity 4x4 and decent tires are needed if you choose to drive

Joe McCormick

May 25, 2025

Open

Mostly easy, narrow dirt road. Areas of rutting, rocks projecting up about 6 to 12 inches and narrow vegetation clearances make getting thru some spots tricky if you aren’t willing to suffer some pinstripes on your rig. Some traverses pitched our rig about 13 degrees, which felt like a lot with a truck camper on the back and a huge drop off on one side of the road, but it goes as long as you take it slow. A spotter helps in a few spots, too.

Rick Hall

Jun 25, 2024

Open

Michael cutone

Jun 21, 2024

Open

terrifyingly fun trail. shelf road for the first half, super rocky. take it slow and enjoy the views. worth the heart attack from the fear of heights.

Nate Webster

Apr 21, 2024

Open

Trail was clear of any snow.

Stephan Schmidt

Apr 06, 2024

Open

Lots of snow on the trail above 6,000 ft elevation on April 6th. Trail was clear below, though.