2018 Route Guide

Home , Crane Mountain, Detroit Lake, Drake Peak, Fremont National Forest, Hager Mountain, Maiden Peak (Oregon)

2018 ROUTE GUIDE

The Oregon Timber Trail is an iconic 670-mile backcountry mountain bike route spanning Oregon’s diverse landscapes from California to the Columbia River Gorge.

The small towns the route passes through, large amount of alpine singletrack and people of Oregon and Cascadia were truly special! - 2017 OTT Rider

Overview ...... 6 By the numbers ...... 12 Logistics ...... 18 Getting There ...... 19 Stay Connected ...... 19 Is this route for you? ...... 19 Season & Climate ...... 20 Navigation and wayfi nding ...... 21 Resupply & water ...... 22 Camping and Lodging ...... 23 Leave No Trace ...... 24 Other trail users ...... 26 A note about trails ...... 27

4 © Gabriel Amadeus

Disclaimer ...... 27 Springwater School Contribution ...... 27 Gateway Communities ...... 28

Fremont Tier ...... 34 Segment 1 of 10 - Basin Range ...... 40 Segment 2 of 10 - Winter Rim ...... 42 Segment 3 of 10 - Mazama Blowout ...... 46

Willamette Tier 48 Segment 4 of 10 - Kalapuya Country 52 Segment 5 of 10 - Bunchgrass Ridge 56

Deschutes Tier 60 Segment 6 of 10 - Cascade Peaks ...... 64 Segment 7 of 10 - Santiam Wagon Road ...... 67

Hood Tier ...... 70 Segment 8 of 10 - Old Cascade Crest 75 Segment 9 of 10 - Wy’East 78 Segment 10 of 10 - The Gorge 80

Oregon Timber Trail Alliance 84

5 Kim and Sam, Oregon Timber Trail Pioneers. © Leslie Kehmeier

The Oregon Timber Trail is an iconic 670-mile backcountry mountain bike route spanning Oregon’s diverse landscapes from California to the Columbia River Gorge.

The Oregon Timber Trail is a world-class bikepacking destination and North America’s premiere long- distance mountain bike route. It runs south to north and travels through a variety of landscapes, communities, ecosystems, terrain, and, most importantly—mountain bike trails. Divided into four unique tiers, the Oregon Timber Trail is approachable by a wide variety of cyclists.

6 If it sounds familiar, you’re not mistaken: the Oregon Timber Trail is inspired by the Pacific Crest Trail and other trails in the National Scenic Trail system. What sets it apart is that it’s designed with mountain biking in mind and consists of more than 60 percent singletrack. Created in 2017, only a few dozen people have completed the rough and rugged almost 700-mile journey. We’re excited to share the route and this guide with you to inspire and inform you to ride it this summer or in a subsequent year. We want you to have fun and be safe, so please read this guide carefully to understand the challenges Kim and Sam, Oregon Timber Trail Pioneers. © Leslie Kehmeier you’ll face. The Oregon Timber Trail is a new, unrefined route and this guide is likely to be incorrect or lacking in some sections. As a Fremont Tier Stewardship Campout. © Gabriel Amadeus bikepacker, be aware that change is inevitable and adaptability is the best skill you can take with you out on the trail. Stay in touch, we’d love to hear from you after the journey about your favorite areas, the hardest parts and what improvements you think could be made. Start scheming, plan carefully, rope in some friends and have fun exploring the varied wild landscapes that have enthralled generations of Oregonians before you. On behalf of the Oregon Timber Trail Alliance we sincerely hope you have a great season exploring the bounty of beauty that is Oregon.

Riding Logistics 7 Remoteness, views, and backcountry singletrack were the most rewarding part of my experience. - 2017 OTT Rider

Willamette National Forest. © Gabriel Amadeus

SUMMARY Riders depart the California border and start their journey north just outside of Lakeview—the highest town in Oregon. Within the fi rst ten miles the route crests 8,000 feet and continues north along the Fremont National Recreation Trail through little-traveled basin and range country. The riding is rugged, dry singletrack and the grandiose vistas of faraway Mt Shasta, the Three Sisters, and the giant Fort Rock Basin are keen on distracting one’s eyes away from the trail. As the route meanders through loose volcanic blowout from the massive Mount Mazama eruption the landscape slowly begins to change. Lakes and streams start appearing, and then as you crest the spine of the Cascades at Timpanogas Lake the forests shift dramatically from dry, tan open forests to dank, green towering groves. You’ll follow the faint gurgling streams as they come together and merge into the Middle Fork of the Willamette River leading you to the mountain biking mecca of Oakridge. Roughly halfway, and one of the largest towns on the route, Oakridge is a great place to treat yourself to some cask ale at the Brewers Union Local 180, a clean bed and shower at one of the lodges, or even a day of unloaded shuttles on some of the legendary trails in the area.

Fort Rock Basin from Hager Mountain. © Gabriel Amadeus

8 Willamette National Forest. © Gabriel Amadeus

Once well-fed and rested, you begin the ascent of Bunchgrass Ridge through majestic old growth groves and alpine beargrass meadows. Eventually you descend the slopes of Fuji Mountain, crossing the Cascades a second time, and enter the Deschutes Tier. These high cascade lakes and peaks are the work of relatively recent and dramatic volcanic activity that created a rocky, sandy, and dry alpine environment. After crossing the shoulder of Mount Bachelor and camping in the shadow of the Three Sisters you descend into Sisters and cross over the range once again along the historic Santiam Wagon Road. Say goodbye to open ponderosa forests as you enter the roller coaster of the Old Cascade Crest and Olallie Lakes exploring lush ridges, pocket lakes and roaring streams all dominated by Mount Jefferson looming to the east. The trails are steep, narrow and demanding. As you continue north, Mount Hood steals your attention away as Jefferson recedes behind you. The trails loop around lakes and old forest camps while slowly leading you up Gunsight Ridge, prepping you for your final descent along Surveyor’s Ridge and towards Hood River via Parkdale and the Post Canyon trail system. Dip your tires in the Columbia River, lay in the grass, and buy yourself a beer and burger—you just rode your mountain bike across the whole state. Fremont Tier. © Gabriel Amadeus

Riding Logistics 9 Big Bunchgrass Ridge Stewardship Campout © Daniel Sharp

669 Miles 69,250’ Elv. gain 20-30 Days FOUR Tiers TEN Segments

12 Four unique tiers and landscapes

Diverse backcountry singletrack

Alpine lakes and quiet campsites

Countryside steeped in native legends and settler’s lore

Old growth groves and vast prairies

Bubbling trout streams and herds of antelope

Historic pack routes and rowdy flow trails

Ghost towns and backwoods diners

Riding Logistics 13 © Gabriel Amadeus NORTHBOUND Recommended riding direction: 62% Lakeview to Hood River Singletrack 100 MILES Longest stretch 11% between resupply 4x4

45 MILES Longest stretch between 18% water sources Gravel

MOUNTAIN BIKE 9% with front suspension Paved MIN 2.25” KNOBBIES recommended tire type

14 NORTHBOUND Recommended riding direction: Lakeview to Hood River

100 MILES Longest stretch between resupply

45 MILES Longest stretch between water sources

MOUNTAIN BIKE with front suspension

MIN 2.25” KNOBBIES recommended tire type

Riding Logistics 15 © Gabriel Amadeus 8/10 Average physical difficulty 7/10 Average technical difficulty ADVANCED Bikepacking challenge

16 A NOTE ON RATINGS In this guide we’ve adopted the rating system developed by Bikepacking Roots, it consists of the three following scales: Physical Difficulty, Technical Difficulty, and Bikepacking Challenge. As more trail rehabilitation is done and more people ride the route, these ratings will likely change.

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: 1-2 - Relatively level riding

3-4 - Regular rolling terrain with sustained climbing

5-6 - Rugged terrain with frequent climbs, some of which may be steep and unrelenting

7-8 - Very rugged terrain with abundant climbing, some of which is very steep and unrideable

9-10 - Numerous very steep, climbs requiring bike-pushing and/or carrying

TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY: 1-2 - Smooth riding surface with few obstacles (e.g., graded dirt roads, rail trails); suitable for novice mountain bikers

3-4 - Track has occasional obstacles and steep sections (e.g., maintained forest roads, mellow singletrack); suitable for beginner mountain bikers

5-6 - Continuous sections of track may be rocky, loose, and steep; (e.g., 4x4 roads or singletrack in rugged/rocky terrain) suitable for intermediate mountain bikers

7-8 - Narrow trail with regular obstacles, sustained steep grades; suitable for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers

9-10 - Very challenging riding with frequent large obstacles, exposure, very steep grades; suitable for advanced mountain bikers

BIKEPACKING CHALLENGE: Beginner, Moderate, Advanced - This rating includes factors like distance between resupply locations and water resources, and how remote the route is. Routes with a greater degree of challenge will require more careful planning based on past bikepacking and backcountry experience; problems encountered on route will likely have greater consequences.

Riding Logistics 17 © Gabriel Amadeus Traveling under your own power and carrying everything you need is a great feeling - you can imagine what it might have been like for a pioneer. - 2017 OTT Rider

RIDING LOGISTICS

© Gabriel Amadeus 18 GETTING THERE GETTING HOME The route can be ridden in either a Your best options for transit in Hood northbound or southbound direction, River at the end of your journey are: though the alignment is designed with northbound travel in mind. Not Columbia Area Transit only is there is a net elevation loss, (541) 386-4202 or catransit.org but getting to the California border is simpler at the beginning of your Columbia Gorge Express trip than the end. (888) 246-6420 or columbiagorgeexpress.com The route begins about 20 miles south of Lakeview, Oregon on Enterprise, Greyhound, and U haul the California border. The closest are all options as well. public transit to the southern terminus is the Sage Stage to LONG TERM PARKING Alturas, CA. Alturas is roughly 60 miles south of the California Contact Tall Town Bike and Camp border and the Alturas-Highgrade in Lakeview or the City of Hood Approach (find this approach River for long term parking: (541) route on oregontimbertrail.org) is a 386-1488 mostly offroad route from Alturas to Cave Lake. Sage Stage buses with STAY CONNECTED bike racks travel to Alturas from Klamath Falls, Redding, and Reno Changes, trail closures, weather on weekdays only, reservations alerts, and important information required: (530) 233-6410 or are likely arise. We’ll try to sagestage.com. post all important updates on OregonTimberTrail.org and in If you are coming from Portland, an the associated email newsletter, Amtrak train runs to Klamath Falls but use the Facebook group which is roughly a 100-mile road “Oregon Timber Trail Riders” to ride to Lakeview, or if you prefer communicate with other pioneer to stay on dirt, use the suggested riders about current trail conditions Klamath Falls start option on and planning logistics. OregonTimberTrail.org to tie into the Oregon Timber Trail at Moss IS THIS ROUTE FOR Pass (Mile 70). YOU? Shuttle operators are also available A route like the Oregon Timber to shuttle you to the southern end Trail is unique and inspirational. of the route: Many people want to ride it, however, not everyone possesses Zach’s Bikes, Klamath Falls, Oregon the skill and experience required to ride it safely. You can ride it fast Portland Sag Wagon, Portland, or slow, and make it easy or hard Oregon on yourself, but there is a baseline of experience that you should have

Riding Logistics 19 before attempting the whole route. bicycle. Say hi, share a story, buy The Oregon Timber Trail is much them a beer, or ask where their more difficult than the Oregon favorite swimming hole is. We’re all Outback, the Great Divide Route, ambassadors of the Oregon Timber and the Baja Divide. The Oregon Trail and we want to leave a good, Timber Trail falls more in line with friendly, and respectful impression the likes of the Arizona Trail and everywhere we go. the Colorado Trail. It is strenuous, technical, challenging, complicated SEASON AND CLIMATE and barely existent in some sections. Make sure you are prepared Late June - Mid October. High- physically, mentally and technically. elevation snow pack usually clears It’s important not to let your ego get up by mid-June, but note that in the way if you end up over your many backcountry trails may still head. Many easy bail options exist, be blocked by fallen trees which and there’s no shame in coming may not be removed until mid- back to finish the job next year. late summer by trail stewardship volunteers.

SHORTER OPTIONS Most of the route is above 4,500 We’re in the midst of developing the feet and parts will likely be under best day rides of the Oregon Timber snow well into June. (Timpanogas Trail as well as bikepacking loop area will likely be the last to melt out routes for each tier. Stay tuned on each year) Snow flurries can begin oregontimbertrail.org to learn about to fall again as early mid October. these options. Expect freezing temperatures overnight at high elevation almost BE A (NICE) anytime of year, as well as heat AMBASSADOR during the day reaching 90º or higher. The Fremont Tier will You’ll be traveling through areas typically be the hottest and most sun that will be visually stunning and exposed of the whole route, while through communities that are not the Willamette Tier will have the accustomed to people traveling on highest likelihood of precipitation.

Snowpack persists well into June © Dylan VanWeelden

20 Wayfinding can be a formidable challenge© Gabriel Amadeus

The route is open to bikes during and waypoint route files found on the summer months unless OregonTimberTrail.org are integral otherwise noted in the route guide, to successfully riding the OTT, as is though nearby trails may have this written route guide. seasonal closures due to wildlife or safety concerns. Other temporary ROUTE GUIDE closures may occur for various This route guide breaks down reasons throughout the season, the Oregon Timber Trail into please adhere to any posted signage an overview, four tiers, and ten and check OregonTimberTrail.org segments. These are based on for updates. Nearly all the trails and natural landscape changes and roads the OTT is comprised of are resupply points. The route guide multi-use—you’re welcome to enjoy will serve as a long-form description the route on foot or horseback as of the route and what to expect in well as bicycle. each area in terms of highlights, terrain, riding conditions, landscape, NAVIGATION AND resupply, historical context, WAYFINDING ecological sensitivities, seasonal closures, lodging and off-route The Oregon Timber Trail follows opportunities. existing trails and road systems throughout the state. The surface, GPS FILES quality and signage of these roads The GPS tracks are your primary and trails can vary dramatically. tools for navigation. The majority The route does not have signage of the route has no cellular service, anywhere indicating it as part of the and having a navigation system that Oregon Timber Trail. It is up to the works offline is mandatory. The rider to obtain detailed paper maps alignment of the Oregon Timber and GPS files before attempting a Trail is fluid and may change slightly thru-ride or segment ride. The GPS

Riding Logistics 21 year-to-year as barriers, or better before embarking on the Oregon alignments arise. You’ll need to Timber Trail. download the most current version from OregonTimberTrail.org. In PAPER MAPS order to use the GPS track you’ll There is no one paper map or map need to upload it to a GPS device publisher that covers the entire like a Garmin or a smartphone Oregon Timber Trail route. Maps app. There’s typically a bit of a such as the popular Gazetteer are learning curve with this process all but useless for a route at this and we suggest getting comfortable scale. That said, roughly 80 percent with the interfaces before venturing of the planning and wayfinding can out on the Oregon Timber Trail. be accomplished with the following Having paper maps or detailed print maps: topographical map files downloaded to your GPS device as a backup is Adventure Maps: Oakridge, Bend, highly recommended. Mount Hood, Hood River

WAYPOINTS National Geographic Trails Waypoints or POIs serve as key Maps: Three Sisters, Mount indicators of trailheads, resupply Jefferson, Mount Hood, Columbia points, good campsites, potential River Gorge water sources, lodging, bike shops and other route highlights. These Appropriate US Forest Service should be uploaded to your GPS Ranger District maps device in addition to the track, and often include valuable notes about the resources and trail. They are RESUPPLY & WATER included in each GPX file. Water sources on this route are limited, especially in the Fremont DIGITAL WAYFINDING Tier, and may dry up as summer progresses. Waypoints for these There are many different types of potential water sources are provided GPS devices and mapping apps, all with labels like “poor” (unreliable, with varying features. Bikepacking. likely silty) and “good” (more reliable, com and other websites detail how cleaner water). DO NOT plan that to use these tools to not only follow every source will have water, and a route, but also to navigate in the carry more water than you expect backcountry and make complex, to need and have alternate plan. informed decisions. Make sure Carry a backup means of chemical your device will stay charged, show water treatment like Aqua Mira or you detailed topographic maps iodine; or be prepared to treat your even while offline, and can display water by boiling. In areas where not only the route file, but also water is more prevalent (available associated waypoints. Test your roughly every 10 miles or more) navigation system and ensure you water waypoints are not noted in are familiar with its limitations the digital route files.

22 Many lodging opportunities, developed campgrounds, and dispersed campsites exist © Gabriel Amadeus

Food resupplies are also limited. To Unless otherwise marked, dispersed maintain the backcountry essence primitive camping is allowed of the route, larger cities with anywhere on National Forest land. full-service grocery stores are rare We ask you to use sites that show and most resupply points will have signs of previous use instead of minimal food choices and limited creating your own. Don’t add fire hours. Pack up your leftovers, carry rings or tables to dispersed sites, dry meals, and figure out how to get and pitch your tent and walk where creative with convenience store fare. vegetation is minimal. Call ahead to stores if you have particular concerns or questions Many Forest Service structures are about services and hours. marked on the map. Most require a reservation and will be occupied so please respect these guests’ privacy CAMPING AND LODGING and don’t trespass without explicit Many official National Forest permission. campgrounds exist on the route. These vary in size and amenities but There are many private lodging most campgrounds that are marked opportunities along the route as waypoints will have vault toilets, ranging from rustic cabins to sites, tables, fire rings and tent pads. luxurious resorts. We try to note Fees will vary, carry cash in small where these are located in this bills. guide, but call ahead for reservations and lodging information.

Riding Logistics 23 The route travels through many fragile and pristine landscapes © Gabriel Amadeus

Plan ahead and prepare. Dispose of waste properly. Check with land managers, local Use restroom facilities where bike shops, local cycling groups and possible. Bring along a trowel and OregonTimberTrail.org for the most dig a cat hole six to eight inches up-to-date trail information. deep at least 200 feet away from water sources and trails. Cover and Stick to the trail. When biking, disguise the cat hole when finished. durable surfaces include established Inspect your campsite and rest areas trails and campsites, dirt roads and for trash or spilled foods. Pack out pavement. The Oregon Timber all trash, leftover food and litter. To Trail route travels through many wash yourself or your dishes, carry sensitive and important ecosystems, water 200 feet away from streams stay on the trail and don’t skid. or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained Good campsites are found, dishwater. not made. Altering a site is not necessary. Protect ecologically Leave what you find. Preserve sensitive areas by camping at least the past: examine, but do not 200 feet from lakes and streams. In touch cultural or historic structures popular areas concentrate use on and artifacts. Leave rocks, plants existing trails and campsites. Walk/ and other natural objects as you ride single file in the middle of the find them. Do not build structures, trail, even when wet or muddy. furniture, or dig trenches. Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent. Watch out for stowaways. In pristine areas, disperse use to Avoid introducing or transporting prevent the creation of campsites non-native species. Seeds, and trails. Avoid places where vegetative matter, and mud can impacts are just beginning. stick to your bike and clothing and

24 LEAVE NO TRACE

The route travels through many fragile and pristine landscapes © Gabriel Amadeus

then fall off miles down the trail. Respect wildlife. Observe This has the potential to introduce wildlife from a distance. Do not harmful plant species to fragile and follow or approach them. Never vulnerable ecosystems. Shake out feed animals. Feeding wildlife your clothes in camp each morning damages their health, alters natural and keep your bike clean to prevent behaviors and exposes them the spread of invasive species. to predators and other dangers. Protect wildlife and your food by Minimize campfire impacts. storing rations and trash securely. Not only are burn bans prevalent Control pets at all times, or leave throughout Oregon in the summer them at home. Avoid wildlife during months, campfires can cause lasting sensitive times: mating, nesting, impacts to the backcountry. Check nursing, or hibernation. fire regulations before heading into the backcountry and where/when Be considerate of other fires are permitted use established visitors. Travel on designated bike fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. trails. Respect land management Use a lightweight stove for cooking by avoiding travel over trails where and enjoy a candle lantern for light. biking is prohibited. Respect other Keep fires small. Only use sticks trail users and protect the quality from the ground that can be broken of their experience. Be courteous. by hand. Burn all wood and coals to Yield to other users on the trail. ash, put out campfires completely, Step to the downhill side of the trail then scatter cool ashes. Burying when encountering horses. Take fires does not extinguish them, it breaks and camp away from trails allows them to smolder and likely and other visitors. Let nature’s re-ignite. Never use fires to burn sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices your trash. and noises.

Riding Logistics 25 Respect other trail users and their experience © Gabriel Amadeus

OTHER TRAIL USERS users on the trail: being polite and giving horses and hikers a The entirety of the Oregon Timber clear path to pass is paramount to Trail route is multi-use. The route continued access for multi-use trails. pieces together singletrack trails, Maintain line-of-sight and control of motorized trails, historic pack routes, your bicycle. Slow and stop when wagon roads, dirt roads, gravel nearing other users. Alert them to roads, and even a few miles of quiet your presence with a simple hello. asphalt ribbons. The route was If you’re traveling with a group it’s created with mountain biking in courteous to say how many more mind but expect to see equestrians, riders are behind you as you meet hunters, hikers, backpackers, Off- another trail user. Highway-Vehicle (OHV) riders, motor vehicles and other trail users Don’t pass horses until you’ve at any point. When on roads, follow stopped and the equestrian has all traffic laws and be aware that acknowledged your presence and vehicle and OHV traffic may be given you an indication it’s safe present. Many areas are near active to do so. If you’re stopping to let logging zones where fast-moving horses by, it’s much safer to step off logging trucks won’t be accustom to the downhill side of the trail and let people on bikes. the rider pass. Remember, a smile and “good morning/afternoon” is The route is aligned on low-use the best tool in your toolkit as a backcountry trails and many bikepacker. different types of users can coexist with common sense and common The Oregon Timber Trail and the courtesy. As a cyclist it is your Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) cross responsibility to yield to all other

26 each other four times. Bikes are Ranger Districts of the Willamette not allowed anywhere on the PCT, National Forest; the Chemult, Bend, please respect these use-restrictions and Sisters Ranger Districts of the and make sure you continue on Deschutes National Forest; and the the Oregon Timber Trail route at Clackamas, Zigzag, Barlow, and these intersections. Or pitch camp Hood River Ranger Districts of the nearby, and go on a day hike using Mount Hood National Forest. the PCT to access nearby peaks and Wilderness areas. DISCLAIMER The content of this guide is purely A NOTE ABOUT TRAILS for informational purposes and is The Oregon Timber Trail is intended as a reference guide. The almost 700-miles long but only authors and everyone involved in utilizes a fraction of the thousands the creation of this guide make of miles of trails we have here no warranty of correctness or in Oregon. These trails require thoroughness and disclaim any and constant maintenance by dedicated all liability from its use. volunteer trail groups in every Respect other trail users and their experience © Gabriel Amadeus area. If you want to give back to Oregon trails, each of the following organizations would love a donation or your boots on the ground at their next work party. A huge thanks to Klamath Trails Alliance, Backcountry Horsemen, Central Oregon Trail Alliance, Pacific Crest Trail Association, Greater Oakridge Area Trail Stewards, High Cascades Forest Volunteers, Disciples of Dirt, Salem Area Trail Alliance,

Oregon Equestrian Trails, Bend © Gabriel Amadeus Trails, Sisters Trails Alliance, Trans- Cascadia, Northwest Trail Alliance, SPRINGWATER SCHOOL 44 Trails Association, and Hood CONTRIBUTION River Area Trail Stewards for their continued dedication to Oregon’s Throughout this document you’ll find snippets fabulous trails. of geologic and cultural history researched and written by the seventh and eighth grade In addition to the thousands of students at Springwater Environmental volunteer hours invested, none of Studies School. These student spent six weeks these trail systems would be possible in 2017 studying the length of the Oregon without the land management Timber Trail and choosing areas of study. The support from the Lakeview, Paisley, breadth of geologic information and cultural Silver Lake, and Chemult Fremont- history they unearthed is impressive—we Winema National Forest Ranger hope you enjoy their contributions as much as Districts; the Middle Fork, Sweet we have. Home, McKenzie River, and Detroit

Riding Logistics 27 GATEWAY COMMUNITIES

One of the best things about riding in the backcountry is finding those LAKEVIEW MILE 0 remote corners of civilization, The highest town in Oregon at 4,800’ rewarding yourself, and recouping boasts an active geyser, a giant cowboy, and a hot springs resort if you want to for the next leg of your adventure. start your journey off right. Here are the key resupply points Trail Log at: Tall Town Bike and Camp where you can pull up a bar stool and load up your seatbag. Be on the lookout for the Trail Logs at PAISLEY MILE 92 participating businesses in each Home of the Mosquito Festival and a bar community—you can read accounts that’s traveled all the way around Cape of other rider’s journeys and add Horn. The Chewaucan River is great for your own stories. a dip or a few casts. Trail Log at: Paisley Mercantile While these aren’t the only places you’ll find a resupply along the route, they are some of the largest SILVER LAKE MILE 148 or most necessary. For detailed Home of the famous Cowboy Dinner resupply information dig into the Tree and one of the most welcome pit segment descriptions. stops on the Oregon Outback route. Trail Log at: Silver Lake Mercantile

28 I am a sucker for back road western towns and the diners, stores and people who live in those places which are so often driven through at max speed. I appreciate having the time and the necessity GATEWAY of stopping in these places. - 2017 OTT Rider

COMMUNITIES You’ll be eager for some civilization, and the locals want to hear your stories. © Daniel Sharp

CHEMULT MILE 207 IDANHA MILE 515 A bustling truck stop town on Hwy Blink and you’ll miss it if you’re driving 97 and home to a booming seasonal along Hwy 22, but it’s a welcome sight mushroom industry. Your last stop until for bikepackers in the middle of the Oakridge. rugged cascades. Yes, there’s ice cream. Trail Log at: Pilot Travel Center Trail Log at: Idanha Country Store

OAKRIDGE MILE 300 PARKDALE MILE 639 The midpoint of the OTT is also a world- Nestled in the scenic and fertile Hood renown MTB destination. Spend a day River Valley, Parkdale produces some of or two riding the vast trail network and the fi nest fruit in Oregon—and the beer, enjoying some creature comforts. wine, and mead that goes along with it. Trail Log at: Willamette Mercantile Trail Log at: Old Parkdale Inn

SISTERS MILE 432 HOOD RIVER MILE 669 This bustling western town is as active a A famous adventure destination in its hub today as it was 100 years ago along own right, Hood River is the northern the Santiam Wagon Road. Load up— terminus of the OTT and can satiate all there’s nothing but trees until Idanha. your cravings from the last 669 miles. Trail Log at: Blazin Saddles Trail Log at: Dirty Fingers Bikes

Riding Logistics 29 THE ROUTE The Oregon Timber Trail is naturally divided into four tiers based on the type of forests and landscapes it travels through, and subsequently the four National Forests it passes through. To make the 670 miles and four tiers even more digestible the route is broken into 10 segments. These are defi ned by major re-supply or geographic points.

30 So... drifty! - 2017 OTT Rider

Chewaucan Valley, Fremont Tier © Dylan VanWeelden Riding Logistics 31 207 23k’

Lakeview to Chemult. Traverse Basin and range country along Winter Rim and through the vast Oregon Outback.

BASIN AND RANGE - 91 MILES Cave Lake to the Chewaucan Valley

WINTER RIM - 57 MILES Chewaucan Valley to Silver Lake

MAZAMA BLOWOUT - 59 MILES Silver Lake to Chemult

148 13k’

Timpanogas to Waldo Lake via Oakridge. Legendary trail systems, lush green forests, and roaring rivers.

KALAPUYA COUNTRY - 94 MILES Chemult to Oakridge

BUNCHGRASS RIDGE - 55 MILES Oakridge to Waldo Lake

32 113 8k’

Cascade Lakes to Santiam Pass. Violent volcanic geology, historic wagon roads, alpine lakes, and mountain views.

CASCADE PEAKS - 77 MILES Waldo Lake to Sisters

SANTIAM WAGON ROAD - 37 MILES Sisters to Fish Lake

200 26k’

Santiam Pass to Hood River. Forest camps, hot springs, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge.

OLD CASCADE CREST- 78 MILES Fish Lake to Olallie Lake

WY’EAST - 92 MILES Olallie Lake to Parkdale

THE GORGE - 30 MILES Parkdale to Hood River

Riding Logistics 33 Crane Mountain Cox Pass Moss Pass Paisley Winter Rim

The Oregon Timber Trail aptly Lakeview to Chemult starts in the middle of nowhere on the California border. You’ll leave Oregon’s highest town and traverse 207 MILES the 140 mile Fremont National Recreation Trail. You’ll be rewarded 22,737 FEET with the stunning views from Winter Rim, a feast at the legendary 6-10 DAYS Cowboy Dinner Tree, and have the opportunity to stay at a number of primitive fi re lookouts.

34 Winter Rim Segment © Gabriel Amadeus

I found the whole Fremont section to be uniquely rugged, varied, and kind of whimsical...the solitude was stunning. - 2017 OTT Rider

Winter Rim Silver Lake Yamsay Mountain

The Fremont Tier is one of the most water, living off the cornucopia of challenging Tiers but also one of the aquatic life. most rewarding. Services are few and far between but the landscapes Today the sea has dried up and its you’ll pass through are unparalleled fl oor dried out. The mountains are in the state. 14,300 years ago, buried in snow each winter, feeding much of the low basin range country the gurgling small rivers and streams and alkali lakes were part of a giant that meander out into what is now inland sea teeming with wildlife. ranch land. North America’s fi rst settlers lived on the shores of this vast body of You’ll crest the highest point of the whole route at 8,200 feet shortly

Overview 35 FREMONT TIER

Summer Lake Hot Springs © Gabriel Amadeus 2% Paved after starting and continue along 20% Dirt road ridge lines of ponderosas, rock and dry grassland. Nearby peaks 78% Singletrack offer rentable fi re lookouts like Drake Peak, Currier Guard Station, Percent rideable: Bald Butte, Fremont Point and Hager Mountain. The valleys are 90% punctuated by trout streams, bird life, and even some relaxing hot Physical diffi culty: springs. 8 /10 HIGHLIGHTS Technical diffi culty: 7/10 Lily and Cave Lake - The southern tip of the route begins at these two Bikepacking challenge: idyllic alpine lakes Advanced Crane Mountain - The highest Longest stretch between elevation on the OTT at 8,200 feet resupply: Fremont National Recreation Trail - 95 miles, 3-4 days a lightly-used and stunningly scenic trail spanning south-central Oregon Longest stretch between water sources: Round Mountain - Open ridge line 45 miles, 2 days riding with views of prehistoric lake beds and Gearhart Mountain

36 Klamath Falls Caves by Klamath Falls History by Sawyer Sawyer Springwater Environmental Sciences Springwater Environmental Sciences School School The many Oregon caves in this Klamath Falls is a city in the area are actually one connected lower part of Oregon with a cave and is almost 1600 feet population of over 21,000. long and carved out of marble. Although It is one of the largest They were formed by water cities in the area it has a very dripping down from the above interesting and unique history. forest and carving out marble George Nurse lived in New to create the cave system. York in the 1860s but moved The Klamath hills are a large to Oregon for the gold rush. isolated fault block about 10 After giving up on the prospect Summer Lake Hot Springs © Gabriel Amadeus miles south of Klamath falls. of gold, Nurse began working This means the area is isolated to supply hay for a Klamath from the large tectonic plate military post. However the close to it, similar to an island post became a trading post in the middle of the ocean. between the Klamath Native The block has Basalt flows Americans and the soldiers in associated Breccia, Scoria 1867. The post had became and Cinder Predominate. The very well known and used with Klamath hills have Olivine trade of gold, fur and fish from Basalt, Lacustrine and Fluvial the nearby Willamette river. sedimentary rocks, and Basalt. Many Europeans settlers and These rocks are from the people traveling to the gold Pliocene (13 MYA), Miocene rush settled in the area. The (25 MYA), and Pleistocene (.5 city was formally established MYA) eras. Crescent Lake, a on October, 17, 1882 and was lake near the area is on the called Linkville but was elected eastern side of the Cascades. to be changed to be called Klamath Falls after the native tribe in 1884.

Chewaucan Valley - A small, Cowboy Dinner Tree - Legendary vivacious trout stream draining from backwoods diner the forests of the Fremont National Forest Silver Lake resupply - Quiet plains town of Silver Lake for supplies Winter Rim - A 3,000 foot east- facing escarpment with a stunning Rentable forest service lookouts - rim trail Reserve a night or two at one of six Forest Service cabins and lookouts Summer Lake Hot Springs - Relax along the route in the warm mineral waters and historic ranch buildings

Overview 37 Moss Pass © Leslie Kehmeier LOGISTICS Drake Peak- Inter Ridge Getting to the southern terminus Segment by VanE can be somewhat of a hurdle (see Springwater Environmental Sciences the “Getting There” section at the School beginning of this guide). At the start of the Winter Ridge Segment, just east of where The Fremont Tier is certainly you will be riding, is Drake the most remote of the whole Peak, a fault block mountain. Timber Trail. Trails may difficult At an elevation of 8,407, you to navigate—or even find— and should able to see it while daily mileage may be slower than you’re riding. As the mountain anticipated. This, combined with type name implies, this peak the minimal resupply points, means was formed basaltic fault riders should be extra judicious when blocks being pushed upward by meal and water planning. The first activity in the Earth’s mantle 90 miles are remote and without approximately 23 million services. There will be only two years ago. All the rocks that obvious bail points. can be found here, are also about that age, and part of There are several long (~50 mile) the “Drake Peak” geologic sections without water, and the assemblage. The rocks included existing water sources are small in this assemblage are: Basalt, intermittent springs. The quality and Andesite, Dacite, Rhyolite, and reliability of these are unknown. Olivine Basalt. Some water Check OregonTimberTrail.org for bodies found near Drake Peak more current updates throughout are Lake Abert, Mill Lake, Mud the season. Severely debilitating Creek, and Lillie Lake. mud can be a factor with these eastern Oregon soils, beware of rain in the forecast.

38 The only supply points are in BIKE SHOPS Lakeview, Paisley (7 miles off route Tall Town Bike and Camp, at mile 91), Silver Lake (9 miles off Lakeview, OR - (503) 314-6095 route at mile 148), and Chemult (Mile 206). Zach’s Bikes, Klamath Falls, OR - (541) 851-9200 TRAIL & FOREST INFO Fremont–Winema National Forest - NEAREST MEDICAL (541) 947-2151 FACILITIES Lake Health District - 700 S. J St. RECOMMENDED MAPS | Lakeview, OR 97630 | (541) USGS Topographical Quadrants 947-2114 available at USGS.gov Sky Lakes Medical Center - 2865 Moss Pass © Leslie Kehmeier Fremont-Winema/Upper Klamath Daggett Ave. | Klamath Falls, OR Basin - 1/2”, 2006 97601 | (541) 882-6311 St. Charles Medical Center - 2500 Crane Mountain by Grant NE Neff Road | Bend, OR 97701 Springwater Environmental Sciences | (541) 382-4321 School Crane mountain is in south LAW ENFORCEMENT central Oregon. It is a part of the Warner Mountain Range. Lake County Sheriff: It is also a part of the Fremont (541) 947-2504 Winema National Forest. The Klamath County Sheriff: US Forest Service had a fire (541) 883-5130 lookout somewhere close to the peak but was removed in 1972. Crane mountain is mainly made up of Basalt rock.

Fremont National Forest © Leslie Kehmeier

Overview 39 Goose Lake from Crane Mountain © Leslie Kehmeier

SEGMENT 1 OF 10 Segment length: 91 miles BASIN AND RANGE Total climbing: Cave Lake to the Chewaucan +11,873 feet

Number of days: 3-4 RESUPPLIES Mile 0: Lakeview (before starting) - 7% Paved Full services, Safeway

15% Dirt road Mile 91: Paisley (7 miles off route) - Limited services, Paisley Mercantile, 78% Singletrack Pioneer Saloon, Homestead Cafe

Percent Rideable: COMMERCIAL LODGING 95% Mile 0: Honker Inn Lodge

Physical diffi culty: Mile 27: Squirelville lodge 9/10 Mile 91: Paisley Sage Rooms Technical diffi culty: 6/10 The Oregon Timber Trail and the Fremont Tier begin high up in the Bikepacking challenge: Warner Mountains quite near the tristate corner of California, Nevada Advanced and Oregon. You’ll crest 8,300 feet in the fi rst 15 miles—the highest Longest stretch between point on the whole route as you resupply: work your way north along exposed, 98 miles, 3-4 days rocky ridge lines. Mount Shasta will be viewable in the distance across Longest stretch between vast plains and valleys to the south, water sources: and the snowy tips of the Three 24 miles, 1 day Sisters to the north will start poking from the horizon. The Basin and Range segment deals a healthy dose

40 of ups and downs giving riders an appreciation for the geologic forces Drake Peak by Madison that shaped this landscape. It also Springwater Environmental Sciences School lends a glimpse into Oregon’s rich This is where Drake Peak is located, as well as ranching history and how settlers a beautiful part of this trail. Drake Peak was and modern farmers manifest their formed by a rhyolite disruption. The Rhyolite livelihood. disruption was created when a previous Goose Lake from Crane Mountain © Leslie Kehmeier Rhyolite formation was destroyed by ground The forest here is dry, high elevation movements. Drake peak holds many types and sparse. Be on the lookout for of rocks such as, Basalt, Andesite, Dacite, migrating birds, deer and pronghorn Rhyolite, Olivine Basalt from the Miocene. antelope. Groves of quaking aspen Drake Peak is 8,222 feet elevated. And line seasonal streams and ring from the top you can see Oregon, and both freshwater springs. Ponderosa California and Nevada. stands grace the flanks of ridge lines and deposit thick needle beds on the nice primitive campground with forest floor. vault toilets and a mountain stream. Rejoin the route by following Leaving the southern tip at Cave NF3915 to Rogger Meadows. At Lake the route climbs for about mile 26, just before crossing the three miles on forest roads before Warner Highway there’s the rustic turning into faint trail rolling up and Squirrelville Lodge, available to rent. down over Crane Mountain. The first reliable water source, Camas After crossing Warner Highway Creek, lies at mile 27 but if you and a short climb you can choose detour to the east off of Crane to stay on the ridge route or detour Mountain at mile 12 on NF4011, towards Bull Prairie and Drake Willow Creek Campground is a Peak. A few miles off the route on NF3615 you’ll find Mud Spring Campground with potable water and Basin and Range by Grant toilets. Nearby is the rentable Aspen Springwater Environmental Sciences Cabin; or the really adventurous School can climb to Drake Peak Lookout At the very start of the trail (rent in advance). From here, follow there are two lakes on either Crooked Creek for a stunning 7 mile side. One is Cave Lake and the descent back to relative civilization other is Lily Lake. These lakes on Highway 395. Don’t forget to fill were formed by runoff from up on water at the Crooked Creek Crane Mountain. Towards the Mill Trailhead, the next reliable end of the 9th miles there is a water is 25-miles away. mountain. Crane Mountain is in South Central Oregon. It is Ride south for about 3 miles on a part of the Warner Mountain Highway 395, and then turn north Range. It is also a part of the once again and climb to reach Cox Fremont Winema National Pass Trailhead, Moss Pass, Round Forest. Crane mountain is Mountain and the spectacular ridge mainly made up of Basalt Rock. line to Morgan Butte. A final 10

Segment 1 of 10 - Basin and Range 41 mile scenic descent off Morgan coffee stand and small grocery Butte drops you at the Chewaucan store offer up good conversation River and the end of the Basin and and warm meals. The city hosts Range segment. A short, fl at 7-miles a Mosquito Festival on the last away lies the fi rst resupply on the weekend of July, so plan your trip route: Paisley. A lively tavern, diner, accordingly!

Segment length: 57 miles

Total climbing: +5,613 feet

Number of days: 2-4

0% Paved

2% Dirt road

98% Singletrack

Percent rideable: 95% Winter Rim at Currier Springs © Gabriel Amadeus Physical diffi culty: 8/10 SEGMENT 2 OF 10 WINTER RIM Technical diffi culty: 7/10 Chewaucan to Silver Lake Bikepacking challenge: Advanced RESUPPLIES Mile 91: Paisley (7 miles off route) - Longest stretch between Limited services: Paisley Mercantile, resupply: Pioneer Saloon, Homestead Cafe 69 miles, 2-4 days

Mile 148: Cowboy Dinner Tree Longest stretch between (reservations required) water sources: 45 miles, 2-3 days Mile 148: Silver Lake (off route) - Limited services: Silver Lake Mercantile & Motel, Silver Lake Café and Bar

42 COMMERCIAL LODGING the oldest DNA evidence of human habitation in North America was Mile 91: Paisley Sage Rooms found in that same Summer Lake Basin where early generations of Mile 91: Summer Lake Hot Springs the first Americans camped in caves Mile 148: Cowboy Dinner Tree on the shores of a giant inland sea some 14,300 years ago. Cabins Distinct north-south topographic Mile 148: Silver Lake Motel features such as Winter Rim serve as Winter Rim is the gem of the important routes for migrating birds. Fremont Tier. The Fremont And indeed, with the Klamath basin, National Recreation Trail follows Sycan Marsh, and Malheur Marshes the dramatic rim as it drops 3,000 to the west and east Winter Rim lies feet to the Summer Lake Valley smack dab in the midst of a migrant below. General John C. Fremont bird mecca. Keep your eyes on the wrote of the landmark in his journal, sky looking for waterfowl, golden and subsequently named it on his eagles, hawks and even owls and expedition through the state over accipiters in the open pine forests. 150 years ago. The Fremont National Recreation But Fremont’s discovery of the area Trail follows a scenic path along the is quite tardy when put in context— rim and through the forest. It’s only

“At our feet–more than a thousand feet[sic] below–we looked into a green prairie country, in which a beautiful lake, some twenty miles in length, was spread along the foot of the mountains, its shores bordered with green grass. Just then the sun broke out among the clouds, and illuminated the country below; while around us the storm raged fiercely.”

Captain John C. Fremont’s expedition on Winter Rim. December 16th, 1844

Segment 2 of 10 - Winter Rim 43 62 miles, but it’s a rugged segment, sensitive growth reestablishing itself expect to detour and wayfind after the fire. frequently along Winter Rim. As you leave the Chewaucan River Fremont Point hosts a reservable and begin the Winter Rim segment cabin, toilet, and small picnic area. water sources will become quite And, of course, views of a huge scarce as you crest the rim and no swath of southeastern Oregon. After food resupply will be available until another eight miles of meandering Silver Lake. along the rim, the Fremont National Recreation Trail veers westward Beginning this segment the trail juts away from Summer Lake and up steeply at first, then gradually gains 2,500 feet over 10 miles as you climb to Government Harvey General John Charles Pass and Winter Rim along the Bear Fremont by Madison Creek drainage. Springwater Environmental Sciences A very important School water resupply is General John Charles Fremont at Currier Spring died the fifth territorial governor (Mile 104) with of Arizona. But while he was a slight detour living he was a U.S. Senator, to the west. American military officer and Currier Spring is explorer. He was released the only reliable from his duty by president Summer Lake Hot Springs © Gabriel Amadeus water source on Lincoln for insubordination, the Winter Rim he had freed the slaves in his segment, a distance of 62 miles district without consent from between the Chewaucan River and the U.S. government. The first Silver Lake. candidate of the anti-slavery Republican Party carrying The next twelve miles may be most of the north was General some of the most scenic on the John. He went on few major whole route. The Fremont National expeditions,but his second was Recreation Trail follows the rim to through Oregon and reaching Fremont Point and beyond, but is areas. His self assigned mission difficult and ponderous to follow. was to redesign and re-describe Most of the downed trees have been the Oregon trails maps. He and cut out by Oregon Timber Trail his team mapped the Great Salt Alliance stewardship crews, but the Lake, Snake River, Columbia trail can be overgrown in sections River, Mount St. Helens, Fort and wayfinding done by following Vancouver, Mt. Hood, the large cairns. The trail consists of Cascade Range and Lake large chunky babyheads, making Tahoe. Congress later released forward progress slower than his “report and map” to the expected. This entire area is in a public. It guided thousands period of wildfire rejuvenation, tread of out landers to Oregon and lightly and be aware of the new, California.

44 gradually descends to Farm Wells Campground, eleven miles away. Before segment two is finished, you climb again, up the flank of scenic Hager Mountain and down to NF28.

You can detour up to the peak of Hager Mountain (7,200 feet) at mile 146 for some spectacular 360º views and a reservable fire lookout. Once you hit NF28 Silver Lake’s small store is a fast nine miles (paved) away, but don’t forget to make reservations at Cowboy Dinner Tree outside of town—their 30oz steak dinners are legendary.

Hager Mountain By Oliver Springwater Environmental Sciences School The geology near Hager Mountain is quite different than the geology directly surrounding Summer Lake. Instead of an arid desert is more mountainous with a lot Cowboy Dinner Tree © Gabriel Amadeus of buttes and other mountains such as Yamsay though that is further west than Hager Lake Abert and Summer Lake by Ryder Mountain. There are also a lot Springwater Environmental Sciences School of lakes there are 7 including Lake Abert and Summer Lake were one a reservoir. One of the largest big lake called Chaucan Lake that extended geologic features there is Hager across Winter Ridge. Abert Lake is the only Mountain, Hager Mountain is a salt water lake in Oregon. Abert Lake is large silicic lava dome structure. now drying up for unknown reasons which It’s rock primarily came from is driving away thousands of migratory birds the Hayes Butte basalt flows and killing brine shrimp, which are the only 6 million years ago. The area creatures that can tolerate its severely salty consists of multiple types of water. Scientists first thought it was shrinking rocks including Andesitic Rocks because of the big drought in Oregon but such as qtp which is a basaltic it wasn’t. All the other lakes in the area are and andesitic ejecta, and tvs also drying up. The rock types in the area are which is Silicic Vent deposits Olivine Basalt, Cndisite, and Costal Terrain. that also primarily makes up Hager Mountain.

Segment 2 of 10 - Winter Rim 45 Night sky © Leslie Kehmeier SEGMENT 3 OF 10 Segment length: MAZAMA 59 miles BLOWOUT Silver Lake to Chemult Total climbing: +5,330 feet

RESUPPLIES Number of days: 1-2 Mile 148: Silver Lake - Limited services: Silver Lake Mercantile & 3% Paved Motel, Silver Lake Café and Bar 55% Dirt road Mile 206: Chemult - Full services: several large gas stations and 42% Singletrack markets 95% Rideable COMMERCIAL LODGING Physical diffi culty: 6/10 Mile 148: Silver Lake Motel Technical diffi culty: 5/10 Mile 206: Chemult - Several motels and lodges Bikepacking challenge: The Mazama Blowout segment Intermediate begins with a long climb to the summit of Yamsay Mountain and Longest stretch between then descends through the fallout resupply: zone of the Crater Lake eruption. 59 miles, 1-2 days The most distinct change in landscape you’ll notice here is the Longest stretch between prevalent red rock lining the roads water sources: and forest fl oor. These millions of acres of pumice scattered through 20 miles, 1 day the forest used to lay deep under the earth where Crater Lake now sits. About 7,700 years ago Mount

46 Mazama blew up and the resulting debris field buried a huge swath of The Hole in the Ground central Oregon. Today it’s covered by Evan in giant ponderosas and a network Springwater Environmental Sciences School of quiet red roads. The Hole in the Ground is This segment serves as an important a giant crater. It looks like it connector between the Fremont was created by a meteor but it Tier and the Willamette Tier—basin was actually created by steam and range country to the famous old coming out of the ground growth firs of Oregon. The forest is causing the displacement of open and sparse, providing many sediment. When it happened, good dispersed camping options. the steam flung rocks as big as Once leaving the summit of Yamsay 26 feet in size. The scientists Mt, Jackson Creek (Mile 179) and studying the crater know it Lost Creek Spring (Mile 199) are wasn’t created by a meteor your only water sources. because there weren’t metal shards that appear in meteor In Chemult, you can rent a hotel craters. Some people assume room, eat some hot food, or grab craters are made by meteors some cold beverages and relax at but a crater is just a bowl Walt Haring Campground less than shaped cavity in the ground. a mile out of town. It is 300-450 feet deep and roughly 1 mile wide. Gilchrist Oregon by Wyatt Springwater Environmental Sciences School Mazama Geology by Stella Gilchrist Oregon is a small Springwater Environmental Sciences logging town less than twenty School miles from Crescent Lake. Buck Creek is a stand alone The town was founded in creek that does not connect 1938 by the Gilchrist Timber to anything. This creek could Company. Around the mill have been created by a spring, homes for about 500 residents or created by runoff from the were built and painted Gilchrist mountain and is in the High Brown. In 1991 the company Desert. The different types was sold to the Crown Pacific of rocks that can be found in Partners, however, in 2003 this area are: Lacustrine and the Crown Pacific Partners fluvial sedimentary rocks (1.8 declared bankruptcy. This small mya) , Olivine Basalt ( 5.333 town features a restaurant with mya) , Rhyolite and dacite ( a historic bowling alley and a 5.333 mya) , and Mafic and beautiful old fashioned movie Intermediate vent rocks ( 5.333 theater. This is also a fantastic mya). Buck Creek has its own place for snowmobiling, cross small waterfall which is the country skiing, hiking, biking, source of white salmon’s water camping, fishing, and hunting. supply.

Segment 3 of 10 - Mazama Blowout 47 Chemult Windy Lakes Timpanogas Lake Middle Fork Trail

The Willamette Tier is markedly Chemult to Waldo different from the Fremont Tier. The dry deserts, sparse ponderosa Lake via Oakridge forests and wide open rangeland give way to dark, verdant and loamy forests as soon as you crest 148 MILES the Cascade Range. You’ll follow feeder streams and springs of the 12,978 FEET Willamette River’s Middle Fork for much of this tier, putting your water 4-6 DAYS scarcity worries at ease—at least for now.

48 Willamette National Forest © Gabriel Amadeus

The wet to dry ecological transition over the cascades is spectacular. - 2017 OTT Rider

Middle Fork Trail Oakridge Bunchgrass Ridge Fuji Mountain Waldo Lake

Oakridge, one of the largest towns of Moon Point, Larison Rock or on the whole route, is a good Alpine. halfway point to take a rest day, enjoy the pub, dip your feet in the Once you’ve had your fi ll of rest and river or hire a shuttle to take you relaxation, you’ll climb the infamous unloaded to the top of one of the Bunchgrass Ridge through glorious many world-famous Oakridge trails. stands of old growth Douglas fi r and If shuttling isn’t your thing, there sun-drenched alpine meadows. The are still a multitude of opportunities tier rounds up with a descent down to ditch your bags at camp and ride the slopes of Fuji Mountain and a some unloaded singletrack runs lap around the bucolic shores of Waldo Lake.

Overview 49 WILLAMETTE TIER

Crumbling old growth © Gabriel Amadeus 5% Paved HIGHLIGHTS 33% Dirt road Summit and Timpanogas Lake - Gorgeous peak-rimmed alpine lakes 62% Singletrack perfect for pitching camp

Percent rideable: Windy Ridge - An optional loop 95% along ridges around Timpanogas Lake, this trail is one of the most Physical diffi culty: stunning and unique in the state 8/10 Middle Fork Trail - A long, arduous Technical diffi culty: classic following the Middle Fork of 7/10 the Willamette River over a variety of terrain Bikepacking challenge: Advanced Oakridge - A sleepy little logging town with a chance to go rafting, Longest stretch between fi shing, hire some shuttles, soak resupply: in some hot springs, or just stay in 92 miles. 2-3 days town and enjoy some R&R at the brewery, BBQ, or distillery

Longest stretch between Bunchgrass Ridge - A backcountry water sources: epic up and over the Cascades a 15 miles, 1 day second time

Waldo Lake - A large bucolic lake, perfect for spending a summer day

50 LOGISTICS BIKE SHOPS The only resupply point is Oakridge, Willamette Mountain Mercantile, roughly in the middle of this tier. Oakridge, OR - (541) 782-1800 That said, Oakridge has everything you’d need, and there is plenty of NEAREST MEDICAL water available throughout the entire Willamette Tier. FACILITIES St. Charles Medical Center - 2500 Both Bunchgrass and the Middle NE Neff Road | Bend, OR 97701 Fork trails are remote, backcountry | (541) 382-4321 trails where bail options are limited. PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical This tier is heavily forested and Center University - 1255 Hilyard receives a substantial amount of St. | Eugene, OR 97401 | (541)

Crumbling old growth © Gabriel Amadeus snowfall and windstorms each year. 686-7300 This leads to a lot of big timber falling and blocking the trails that may not get cleared until mid LAW ENFORCEMENT summer. Be prepared to lift your Lane County Sheriff: bike and navigate around these 541-682-4150 formidable obstacles. (Or, ahem, volunteer at one of the Oregon Timber Trail Alliance’s stewardship Middle Fork Geology Mile:260-270 by events.) Chayndler Springwater Environmental Sciences School TRAIL & FOREST INFO These are some facts about Oregon’s Middle Middle Fork Ranger Station - Fork. When Crescent Lake was created, Willamette National Forest - (541) glaciers cut through valleys and landslides 782-2283 opened pathways for water to flow in. Lakes filled in a basin after it was carved out by a glacier to create Odell Butte. Summit Lake RECOMMENDED MAPS was originally formed by a landslide, but it USGS Topographical Quadrants went through many destructive phases that available at USGS.gov changed its appearance called geomorphic changes. The Cascades were formed when Crescent Ranger District (2000) - heated magma shot up from the ground after Deschutes NF years of built tension. Most of the rocks in the area are volcanic, like Volcanic-Miocene Middle Fork Ranger District (2013) - and Volcanic clastic Rock. Almost all of the Willamette NF Middle Fork was created by some destruction or geomorphic changes. Adventure Maps, Oakridge, Oregon Trail Map

Overview 51 Sun dappled undergrowth © Gabriel Amadeus

SEGMENT 4 OF 10 Segment length: KALAPUYA 94 miles COUNTRY Chemult to Oakridge Total climbing: +4,158 feet RESUPPLIES Number of days: 2-3 Mile 206: Chemult - Full services: large gas station, market, and 6% Paved restaurants. 45% Dirt road Mile 301: Oakridge - Full services: Ray’s Grocery, Willamette 49% Singletrack Mercantile (Bike Shop), Brewer’s Union Local 180, many small 95% Rideable markets, stores, and restaurants. Physical diffi culty: 5/10 COMMERCIAL LODGING Technical diffi culty: 7/10 Mile 206: Chemult - Several motels and lodges Bikepacking challenge: Intermediate Mile 296: Double Diamond Lodge

Mile 301: Oakridge - Oakridge Longest stretch between Lodge and Guest House, Westfi r resupply: Lodge (off route), several motels 94 miles, 2-3 days Longest stretch between water sources: Frequent natural water sources

52 The Kalapuya Country segment is stunning in its shift from the dry Kalapuya Tribe by eastern slopes of the Cascades Chandylar to the lush, thick stands of cedars Springwater Environmental Sciences School and firs on the west side and down the Willamette River’s Middle The Kalapuya tribe lives in Fork watershed. You’ll experience the Middle fork, but they are serene mountain lakes, technical very nomadic so you will be singletrack descents, and lay on the very lucky to see one. Most banks of natural springs bubbling of the tribe was wiped out from the forest floor. The segment by a plague that took them finishes with a long flat pedal along from a population of 12,000 the shores of Hill Creek Reservoir people to 600 people. This before ending in Oakridge, a great is another reason it would be stop for a resupply and a rest day lucky to see a member of the or two. tribe. They liked the coast range and cascade mountains The lakes and streams of the Middle especially. The area they lived Fork have ample native trout at depended on the climate. If populations and keep your eyes it was Summer then they were open for dippers feeding in the in a open area where it was not stream or even a shy black bear or cramped and in winter there bobcat. The forests here are some homes tended to be more small of the most dramatic on the whole and compact to reserve body route. You’ll travel past alpine lakes, heat. and down through dense jungles of giant twisted cedars, hemlocks, and Douglas Fir that allow only a rare beam of sunlight all the way to the forest floor. At times you’ll burst into sunny meadows, or fire-burned slopes. Take small detours and enjoy the springs and their miniature ecosystems. Watch as the grade mellows, the river slows down, and the forest transitions to sunlight dappled alder and poplar glades.

The first 30 miles of segment 4 and the Willamette Tier are relatively flat and easy gravel roads, slowly Windy Lakes © Gabriel Amadeus working their way deeper into the Cascade Lakes region. Water is still a scarce commodity here, but streams become more prevalent as you near Crescent Lake. At mile 232 you veer off the forest roads towards the little known Windy

Segment 4 of 10 - Kalapuya Country 53 Lakes area and one of only two Timpanogas is a great base camp singletrack trails that cross the with toilets, potable water, and Cascades in all of Oregon. After a access to an optional (and highly meandering 1,200 feet climb past recommended) loop around Windy Oldenberg Lake, spend one more Ridge. Be warned: the mosquitoes night on the dry east side at several of Windy and Timpanogas Lakes dispersed campsites near one of the can be overwhelming during the mid summer months. There’s a rentable log shelter on its western shore maintained by the local snowmobile club.

Once you’ve had your fill of the surrounding trails and ridge lines start your long descent towards Oakridge. It’s almost 30 miles of descending and 20 flat miles to finish it off. Don’t be deceived however—it’s a very exhausting 30 miles. Don’t miss Chuckle Springs, Sacandaga Meadows, or Timpanogas Lake © Gabriel Amadeus the alternate ambitious side loop on Moon Point Trail. Finish segment Windy Lakes or continue on towards 4 and roll around the shores of Hill Summit and Timpanogas Lake. Creek Reservoir and across the You’ll enjoy a mossy descent from pedestrian bridge to Greenwaters Windy Lakes to Summit Lake and Park and the town of Oakridge. a pleasant pedal around its shores on a jeep road before connecting to Oakridge was a bustling timber Timpanogas Lake and the Middle harvest community in the years Fork Trailhead. following World War II until the domestic timber industry collapsed in the 90s. The city has reinvented itself as a small town mountain bike mecca and quickly attracted international media and a slew of sold-out mountain bike racing events. The large trail network that made this transition

Bear grass in bloom © Leslie Kehmeier

54 possible has been around a long quickly and return to their natural time, originally serving pack and state. The trail network is large and saddle trains to remote outposts. beckons a rest day (or three) with a Without the constant vigilance hired shuttle guide to explore them of MTB stewardship groups like unloaded. Greater Oakridge Area Trail Stewards, Disciples of Dirt, Alpine Oakridge is roughly the halfway Trail Crew Association, Trans- point on the OTT and offers a well Cascadia, and the Willamette stocked grocery store, a full service National Forest these trails would bike shop (that also sells carhartts and cast iron), a popular brewpub, distillery, and several lodging options. If you’re committed to sleeping on dirt, Salmon Creek Falls campground is just a few flat singletrack miles

Undulating mountain layers © Gabriel Amadeus east of town.

Diamond Peak by Wyatt Oakridge Geology by Izzy Springwater Environmental Sciences Springwater Environmental Sciences School School Diamond peak is a shield As you near Oakridge to your volcano in the Cascade left will be Salmon Creek. This mountain range. A shield creek is 15-2 million years volcano is a broad, domed old and is mainly made up volcano that is a characteristic of and Sandstone, Siltstone, of fluid basaltic lava. It is less Mudstone, and Claystone. than 100,000 years old. It Over millions of years, the was formed by eruptions and creek deposited these rocks glacial erosion. This created in valleys and basins making 15 cubic kilometers of basaltic the landscape you see today. andesite and glacial deposits. These have deposited sediment It’s elevation is 8,748 ft and compacted to create a soft its prominence is 3,104. The rock, in some areas this rock first eruption was from the has been uplifted from their north side and then a new vent original spots and eroded away. opened slightly to the south. It In many places, the rocks are has been dormant for at least layered with lava flow. 11,000 years.

Segment 4 of 10 - Kalapuya Country 55 Shaded forests of Bunchgrass Ridge © Gabriel Amadeus

SEGMENT 5 OF 10 the most iconic and remote ridge lines on the whole route. No other BUNCHGRASS trail gets bantered about in mountain RIDGE biking circles so much, yet ridden Oakridge to Waldo Lake so little. Usually done as a shuttle from east to west, Bunchgrass is a formidable challenge in its RESUPPLIES “downhill” direction. Yet the Oregon Timber Trail climbs Bunchgrass and Mile 301: Oakridge - Full services: follows it to Fuji Mountain and down Ray’s Grocery, Willamette around Waldo Lake’s shores. Mercantile (Bike Shop), Brewer’s Union Local 180, many small Some of the Willamette National markets, stores, and restaurants. Be Forest’s most humbling old sure to stock up, there’s only small growth stands grace the slopes resort stores until Sisters, 150 miles of Bunchgrass Ridge. Here you’ll away. fi nd some of the tallest giants in the state—stands of Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, and Western COMMERCIAL LODGING Hemlock that have had roots in Mile 301: Oakridge - Oakridge the ground since before Europeans Lodge and Guest House, Westfi r stepped foot in North America. Lodge (off route), several motels As you ascend to the spine of the ridge, the forest thins, shifting to Bunchgrass Ridge may be the Mountain Hemlock and Silver Fir most intimidating segment on the and eventually thinning further to elevation profi le, but it’s also one of open bunchgrass meadows.

56 These stands were the site of one of lines to travel from the eastern the nation’s tensest and lengthiest valleys and trade with the Kalapuya timber sale blockades in the mid and Molalla tribes. nineties after an arsonist set fire to 10,000 acres of spotted owl habitat. It’s a difficult, remote segment but Long before that, Kalapuya natives also some of the most rewarding would set fire to controlled burns on backcountry riding of the whole the ridge lines which would maintain the namesake bunchgrass meadows that they preferred for game hunting Maiden Peak by Izzy and camas harvesting. Klamath Springwater Environmental Sciences School tribes would use these same ridge On August 12, 1997, in Japan (October 2, 1998, in America) ghost of maiden peak also called The Ghost Pokémon and the Segment length: Summer Festival aired as the 20th episode of 55 miles Pokemon. The scenery was roughly based on maiden peak Oregon. Total climbing: +8,821 feet

Number of days: 2-3

3% Paved

22% Dirt road

75% Singletrack

90% Rideable

Physical difficulty:7/10 Giant ferns and hewn cross cuts © Gabriel Amadeus Technical difficulty:7/10

Bikepacking challenge: Intermediate

Longest stretch between resupply: 55 miles, 2-3 days

Longest stretch between water sources: ~20 hard miles

Sheep Camp on Big Bunchgrass meadow © Gabriel Amadeus

Segment 5 of 10 - Bunchgrass Ridge 57 route. You and a few dispersed sites along the leave Oakridge western shores. Kick your shoes well-rested off and pat yourself on the back along the flat for crossing the Cascade Range flowy Salmon a second time and finishing the Creek Trail, Willamette Tier. before taking a right and beginning your Waldo Lake Shelter © Gabriel Amadeus long ascent of Bunchgrass on the NF 2408 road. Most of the elevation gain is done on this gravel forest road, connecting to the trail at Little Bunchgrass (Mile 318) and continuing on singletrack along the ridge line for 10 strenuous miles. Once leaving Salmon Creek for the climb there are very few, if any, water sources until the small lake at mile 329.

Savor the deeper than deep forest, the precariously exposed meadows, and the fun, technical descent from Fuji Mountain to Gold Lake. Here it’s a short climb to Waldo Lake with several large, busy campgrounds, Deep in the shadows © Gabriel Amadeus

Re-entering the dry side © Leslie Kehmeier

58 Waldo Lake Trail © Gabriel Amadeus

Waldo Lake by Reece, Bryson and Raven Springwater Environmental Sciences School Mile marker 335-350 on the Timber Trail lies Waldo Lake. It is the second largest natural non-alkali lake in Oregon. Waldo Lake is a part of the Cascade Range. The rock types include Pleistocene, Pliocene, Basalt and Basaltic Andesite. Waldo Lake is in a glacial depression that is 10 miles long and 420 feet deep. Waldo Lake is beautifully clear and very popular for hiking and camping around.

Waldo lake is named in honor of Judge John. B Waldo of the Supreme Court, who pushed preservation in the cascades. It was first inhabited by Native Americans. Then later the lake was discovered by the Molalla Indian Charlie Tufti.

Later, after settlers came to the area, it was dubbed Pengra Lake by Byron J. Pengra. Again, the name was changed to Waldo lake in honor of the passing of Oakridge Judge John B. Waldo. The lake grew as a tourist site, and the average visitors per year rose to 32,000 in 1989. In 1996, forest fire appeared along the edge of the lake, forcing campgrounds to evacuate.

Segment 5 of 10 - Bunchgrass Ridge 59 Charlton Lake Lava Lake Tam McArthur Rim

The Deschutes Tier takes you back Waldo Lake to Fish over to the dry, volcanic eastern flank of the Cascade Range. Bend Lake via Sisters is famous for its large network of world-class mountain bike trails and the Oregon Timber Trail takes 113 MILES advantage of them as it leaves Waldo Lake and winds its way 7,402 FEET through the Cascade Lakes region 3-6 DAYS and around Mt. Bachelor.

60 Little Three Creek Lake © Gabriel Amadeus

The most rewarding thing for me was riding singletrack connecting alpine lakes. - 2017 OTT Rider

Tam McArthur Rim Sisters Suttle Lake Santiam Wagon Road

Crossing under the shadow of leave Sisters skirting Black Butte Broken Top and the Three Sisters and Camp Sherman (worth a side you’ll visit Tam Mcarthur Rim trip) before popping out at Suttle and Three Creeks Lake before Lake. A newly remodeled lodge descending into Sisters for a stop at offers rooms, cabins, hot food, cold the brewery, stocking up at the co- cocktails and even canoe rentals. op, and getting your bike tuned up. Once you’ve had your fi ll, you’ll climb to Big Lake with views of The second leg of the Deschutes Mount Washington and descend the Tier takes you over the Cascade sandy wagon ruts to Fish Lake and Range yet again on the historic the headwaters of the McKenzie Santiam Wagon Road. You’ll River.

Overview 61 DESCHUTES TIER

0% Paved HIGHLIGHTS 33% Dirt road Secluded alpine lakes and dry alpine forests 67% Singletrack Intense volcanic geology Percent rideable: Many Cascade peaks dotting the 95% horizon

Physical diffi culty: Small lake resort stores 5/10 Little Three Creeks Lake Technical diffi culty: 6/10 Suttle Lodge

Bikepacking challenge: Santiam Wagon Road Intermediate LOGISTICS Longest stretch between The Deschutes Tier has no resupply: substantial resupplies aside from 37 miles, 1-2 days Sisters. It does, however, have many small resort stores and restaurants. Longest stretch between Make a plan and carry plenty of water sources: food. 15 miles

62 The Indian Ford bridge is out. (Mile TRAIL & FOREST INFO 440) Use caution when detouring Deschutes National Forest, Bend, around on Hwy 126 for .25 miles. OR - (541) 383-5300

The area around Big Lake is used by a lot of OHV traffic, stay alert and RECOMMENDED MAPS share these dirt roads. USGS Topographical Quadrants available at USGS.gov The Metolius-Windigo Trail is a multi-use trail between Lava Lake Bend Area Adventure Map and Sisters of which the OTT shares some sections. It is a perceived high- Bend Three Sisters National conflict zone between equestrians Geographic Trail Map and people on bikes. Be alert and friendly when passing through Deschutes National Forest Map this area. See the beginning of Tam McArthur Rim © Gabriel Amadeus this guide for suggestions on NEAREST MEDICAL how to courteously interact with FACILITIES equestrians and other trail users. St. Charles Medical Center - 2500 Please be comfortable yielding NE Neff Road | Bend, OR 97701 right-of-way on trails shared with | (541) 382-4321. equestrians along this section. LAW ENFORCEMENT BIKE SHOPS Deschutes County Sheriff: Mt. Bachelor Repair Shop, Mt. (541) 388-6655 Bachelor - (800) 829-2442

Blazin Saddles, Sisters, OR - (541) 719-1213

Overview 63 Sun kissed forests © Leslie Kehmeier SEGMENT 6 OF 10 Segment length: 77 miles CASCADE PEAKS Total climbing: Waldo Lake to Sisters +5,071 feet RESUPPLIES Number of days: 2-4 Mile 375: Cultus Lake Resort: Busy 0% Paved resort store and restaurant

34% Dirt road Mile 384: Lava Lake Lodge: Quiet small resort store 66% Singletrack Mile 397: Mount Bachelor Resort: 100% Rideable Bike shop, grab and go food items, restaurant (limited hours, chairlift Physical diffi culty: 4/10 access)

Technical diffi culty: 5/10 Mile 411: Three Creeks Lake Store: Tiny & friendly lakeside store with Bikepacking challenge: basic snacks and beer (limited hours) Intermediate Mile 432: Sisters: Full Services Longest stretch between resupply: COMMERCIAL LODGING 37 miles, 1-2 days Mile 375: Cultus Lake Resort: Busy resort with cabins Longest stretch between water sources: Many options off route in Bend and ~15 miles Sunriver Mile 432: Sisters: Many options

64 The Cascade Lakes segment is defined by high elevation lakes that collectively form the headwaters of the Deschutes River system. These quiet lakes are nestled in volcanic rock and tree-lined shores and the segment connects the dots between them as it skirts Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters. Alpine meadows © Leslie Kehmeier You’re back on the dry side of the cascade range now, and while riding the 370 road as it can the forest makes that apparent. be quite busy during peak summer Ponderosas, Mountain Hemlock, season. Lodgepole Pine, and Juniper hug After a few more miles you’ll pop wet, grassy marshes and jagged out at Three Creek Meadow. Either dusty outcroppings. In contrast with take a left to the busy Three Creek the Willamette Tier, the Deschutes Lake Campground or hoof it into forest is sparser, dryer and typically Little Three Creek Lake for a much made up of much smaller desert more secluded campsite. This evergreens. zone is a great place to relax for a Leaving the shores of Oregon’s day and explore the Three Sisters second deepest lake—Waldo—you’ll Wilderness and Tam McArthur first pop over to Charlton Lake, Rim by foot. From camp it’s a fast then Lemish Lake, Little and big descent on the Metolius-Windigo Cultus Lakes, the Blue Lagoon, Trail to the Peterson Ridge Trail both Lava Lakes… you get the idea. It’s likely going to be quite hot Mt. Bachelor by Gibsen and sunny, so make sure to stop at Springwater Environmental Sciences each one for an ice-cold dip. There School is relatively little elevation gain The centerpiece of the Oregon throughout this section save for a Cascade Mountain Range, little hop over the shoulder of Mount is known as the premiere ski Bachelor. A bike shop, lift service destination in Central Oregon. trails and food are available at Mt. The mountain at 9,065 feet, Bachelor Lodge. with a vertical drop of 3365 feet, features nearly 4300 At Lava Lake or Todd Creek detour acres of ski-able terrain. Mount to Bend’s vast trail network and Bachelor is so called because alluring brewery selection, or stay it “stands apart” from the on route and push on towards three sisters, a group of three Sisters on the rough and tumble volcanic mountains that are NF 370 road. This road travels just northwest of Mount Bachelor. below treeline through fragile sub- The ski resort was founded by a alpine meadows and groves. Many former 10th mountain elite ski dispersed campsites are available trooper, Bill Healy in 1958. along its length, but be cautious

Segment 6 of 10 - Cascade Peaks 65 Three Sisters by Hollie Springwater Environmental Sciences School The Three Sisters are near mile maker 510 to 520. Each of the Three Sisters are different ages. The South Sister or also known as Charity, is the youngest of the Three Sisters, but is the tallest. The South Sister is about 50,000 years old, and last erupted about 2,000 years ago. The Middle Sister or Little Three Creek Lake Trail © Gabriel Amadeus Hope, is the second youngest. system. Peterson Ridge is a dense The Middle Sister is the network of fast rolling singletrack smallest of the Three Sisters, with great sight lines. It can be and was formed about 55,000 confusing at first but almost all trails year ago, and is thought to will lead you to town and every have last erupted about 50,000 intersection is well-signed. Head year ago. The North Sister or straight to the brewery or explore Faith, is the oldest sister, and is the small but well-stocked town of only a slight bit taller that the Sisters. Cheap showers are available Middle Sister. The North Sister in the city park—you’ll probably is estimated to have last erupted need them by this point. about 100,000 year ago, so it is a older than that.

Lewis L. McArthur by Savannah Springwater Environmental Sciences School Lewis L. McArthur also known as Tam McArthur named this rim after himself, he was also known as an early geographer. Tam was born April 27, 1883, in the Dalles, Oregon. His family was associated with Oregon’s history and government. Tams Grandfather Conducted the first survey of Pacific Coast for the USA in 1849 and 1850. His father served as a justice on the Oregon Supreme Court from 1870 to 1878 and as the United States Attorney for the State of Oregon. His mother organized the Oregon Historical Society and served on its board from 1898 until 1924. Tam’s family history goes in depth, on the resettlement of Oregon. Tam received many awards, he served as president for two years at the American Name Society.

SEGMENT 7 OF 10 Segment length: 37 miles SANTIAM WAGON ROAD Total climbing: Sisters to Fish Lake +2,386 feet

Number of days: 1-2 RESUPPLIES Mile 432: Sisters: Full Services 0% Paved Mile 449: Suttle Lodge bar & 32% Dirt road restaurant

68% Singletrack Mile 469: Clear Lake Resort: Very minimal snacks at store 90% Rideable (sandy) COMMERCIAL LODGING Physical diffi culty: 4/10 Mile 432: Sisters: Many options

Technical diffi culty: 4/10 Mile 449: Suttle Lodge

Bikepacking challenge: Mile 469: Clear Lake Resort Cabins Beginner A relatively short segment, the Longest stretch between Santiam Wagon Road takes you resupply: west across over Santiam Pass to the headwaters of the McKenzie 15 miles, <1 day River and historic Fish Lake Work Center. The Santiam Wagon Road Longest stretch between was built as a response to the infl ux water sources: of settlers coming to the Willamette 10 miles, <1 day Valley on the Oregon Trail. Soon all the workable land was snatched

Segment 7 of 10 - Santiam Wagon Road 67 Suttle Lodge © Gabriel Amadeus up and emigrants headed back east and connect to the stunning Suttle over Santiam Pass to settle Oregon’s Lodge. They’ve got quaint cabins, central valley ranch land. While less delicious cocktails, a giant outdoor rugged and steep than many routes, beer garden, and enticing dock for the wagon road was—and still is— jumping off. an arduous journey. Belknap Crater and numerous spatter cones belched Once refueled, begin the short but out loose volcanic sand across the steep climb out of the basin and range a few thousand years ago connect to the Santiam Wagon creating a frustratingly unstable road surface for wagons and mountain Mt. Washington by Hayden bikes alike. Springwater Environmental Sciences School Similar to the rest of the Deschutes Mt. Washington is a very Tier, the Santiam Wagon Road interesting mountain. There takes you through thin lodgepole are a lot of geologic facts. and ponderosa forests, transitioning First of all it has an elevation to darker, greener groves as you of 7,795’ and it is 3 miles in make your descent to the spring-fed diameter. It is a Shield Volcano Clear Lake. in the Cascade Range, a Shield Volcano is when a volcano is Leaving Sisters, wind your way formed with mostly fluid lava through the hypnotizing orange and usually makes a dome or trunks of Ponderosa pines towards shield shape. The latitude is Black Butte. You may encounter 44.30 and longitude is-121.80. equestrians between Sisters and It is also a active volcano, its Black Butte, say hi and move off the most recent eruption was only trail to let them pass. Hop on the 1,330 years ago. Suttle Tie Trail to skirt Black Butte

68 Road. Big Lake has campsites and great views of Mount Washington but is busy in summer months, keep going through the (very) slow sand and eventually you’ll start descending, once you cross the gravel road, the sand disappears and a super fun and fast forest grove trail opens up, taking you quickly to the upper parking lot for the McKenzie River Trail. Detour for a side loop on the MRT or push on into the fourth and final Hood Tier.

Transcontinental Auto Race By Ashleigh Springwater Environmental Sciences School The transcontinental auto race was very tough. In one section of the race it was so tough it took the racers 18 hours to go 11 miles. After the big delays they were 11 days behind. Santiam Wagon Road © Gabriel Amadeus They predicted time was 30 days, but it ended up taking 44.

Black Butte by Ryan Springwater Environmental Sciences School The volcano is a cone shaped, it is a stratovolcano. A stratovolcano is a volcano built up of alternate layers of lava and ash. It is a it is not an active volcano at the moment the last eruption was 1,400,000 years ago. Because The rock age is Pleistocene. The main rock type is sandstone, and if you were to climb the volcano it’s a 6,436 ft elevation.

Fish Lake Work Center Old Cascade Crest Idanha Breitenbush Ollalie Lake Timothy Lake

As you head into the Hood Tier Fish Lake to you may think you’re on the final stretch—that is if you haven’t Hood River looked at the elevation profile. The Hood Tier takes you up and down across countless backcountry ridges 200 MILES and streams, first teasing you with imposing views of Mount Jefferson +25,993 FEET and eventually Mount Hood itself. The Old Cascade Crest is steep and 5-9 DAYS rewarding, eventually dropping you

70 I deeply appreciate the uncertainty of challenges such as this. I love to get lost in a adventure which I’m not certain I can nish. - 2017 OTT Rider

Timothy Lake Barlow Trail Gunsight Ridge Surveyors Ridge Parkdale Post Canyon

near Detroit Lake and up to Olallie should have a good selection for the Lakes through the Breitenbush Hot bikepacker as well. Springs valley. Keep heading north—here the The Olallie Lakes Scenic Area Oregon Timber Trail follows dusty is another quiet, high-elevation roads that were once the Oregon landscape speckled with pristine Skyline Trail, a predecessor to the pocket lakes brimming with trout. Pacifi c Crest Trail established in (and mosquitoes) Many great 1968. You’ll loop around Timothy dispersed campsites are abound, Lake, marvel at Little Crater Lake, and the Olallie Lake Resort is cross the White River at the historic well-stocked for PCT thru-hikers so Barlow Crossing, and begin your

Overview 71 HOOD TIER

Views of Mount Hood from Olallie Lakes © Gabriel 30% Paved long climb to Gunsight Ridge. Gunsight connects to the famous 30% Dirt road Surveyor’s Ridge, before dropping you into the Hood River valley 40% Singletrack where a plethora of fresh fruit, wine, beer, and BBQ await in Parkdale. Percent rideable: Don’t celebrate too early as you’ve 90% got another stiff climb ahead to the top of the Post Canyon trail Physical diffi culty: system and a fast, rowdy trail down 8/10 into the Columbia River Gorge and the bustling northern terminus of Technical diffi culty: Hood River. Dip your tires and toes 8/10 in the Columbia River: it’s time to celebrate—you just rode your Bikepacking challenge: mountain bike across the whole Advanced state!

Longest stretch between HIGHLIGHTS resupply: Fish Lake Work Center 90 miles. 2-3 days Crescent, Coffi n, and Bachelor Longest stretch between Mountains water sources: 22 miles, 1 day McCoy Shelter Breitenbush Hot Spring Retreat

72 Olallie Lakes Once entering the 44 Trails area after Gunsight Ridge there is a Timothy Lake plethora of spur loop options for riders to embark on if desired. Barlow Crossing Fifteenmile, Knebal, Bottle Prairie, and Dog River are all excellent 44 Trails System variations of this leg.

Surveyor’s Ridge The final 20 miles travel Parkdale through county lands that are Post Canyon managed for timber harvest, LOGISTICS be cautious of Although you’re somewhat closer to logging traffic civilization now, the resupply points on narrow roads Views of Mount Hood from Olallie Lakes © Gabriel and respect are even more limited. There’s Olallie Lakes area © Leslie Kehmeier no real resupply between Sisters temporary trail and Idanha (80 hard miles) and closures. no resupply between Olallie Lakes Resort and Parkdale (90 hard miles). RECOMMENDED MAPS Pack smartly and make sure you have enough food if it takes a day or USGS Topographical Quadrants two longer than expected. available at USGS.gov

Vegetation and trails are particularly Mount Hood Area Adventure Map sensitive in the Old Cascade Crest segment, tread lightly and practice Hood River Mountain Biking leave no trace wherever you ride Adventure Map and camp. National Geographic Mount Breitenbush Hot Springs is an Jefferson / Mount Washington Trail excellent and relaxing rustic hot Map springs retreat but note that reservations are required for staying National Geographic Mount Hood overnight as well as day-use. Trail Map

At the north end of Timothy Lake at mile 579 the Oregon Timber Skyline Trail By Kate Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail Springwater Environmental Sciences School share the same foot bridge. Bikes The skyline trail was from Mt. Hood to Crater are not allowed on the PCT, but lake. It was later referred to as the sheep walking your bike across this bridge way. Logging damaged the trail. The original is permitted. Please respect the skyline trail was made in 1909. A part of the no-bikes exclusion here and at other old skyline trail runs along the timber trail intersection points along the route. today.

Overview 73 TRAIL & FOREST INFO LAW ENFORCEMENT Linn County Sheriff: Willamette National Forest (541) 967-3950 Detroit, OR | 503-854-3366 Marion County Sheriff: Mount Hood National Forest (503) 588-5094 Sandy, OR | (503) 669-1700 Clackamas County Sheriff: BIKE SHOPS (503) 655-8211

Dirty Fingers Bicycles Repair - 1235 Hood River County Sheriff: State St. | Hood River, OR 97031 (541) 386-2098 | (541) 308-0420

The Hood River by Sam NEAREST MEDICAL Springwater Environmental Sciences FACILITIES School St. Charles Medical Center - 2500 The Hood River is a very NE Neff Road | Bend, OR 97701 interesting body of water. | (541) 382-4321 Originally Louis and Clark called the river Labeasche Salem Health - 890 Oak St. SE | River, but it was eventually Salem, OR 97301 | (503) 561- renamed Hood River because 5200 the river was got its water from Mount Hood. The Mouth Providence Portland Medical Center of the River on Mount Hood - 4805 NE Glisan St. | Portland, measures at 40 yards, which OR 97213 | (503) 215-1111 isn’t even half of a football field. Hood River contains rocks Providence Hood River Memorial such as Saddle Mountain Basalt Hospital - 810 12th St. | Hood and Grande Ronde basalt, River, OR 97031 | (541) 386- which can be dated back to 3911 the Miocene. Hood River was created 12-15 million years ago by the Missoula floods, the Hood River Valley was inundated by the backwater from the river. The Gorge Area of Hood River was created by large glaciers carving deep into the lands until it became a gorge. Hood River at River Mile (RM) 12, and the Middle and East Fork Hood Rivers converge near RM 15, giving the Hood River watershed an estimated 695 miles of streams. Wildflower season© Leslie Kehmeier

SEGMENT 8 OF 10 Segment length: 78 miles OLD CASCADE CREST Total climbing: Fish Lake to Olallie Lake +14,075 feet

Number of days: 2-4 RESUPPLIES Mile 469: Clear Lake Resort: Very 15% Paved minimal snacks at store

45% Dirt road Mile 515: Idanha Store: Standard convenience store fare 40% Singletrack Mile 533: Breitenbush: Small gift 85% Rideable shop

Physical diffi culty: 9/10 Mile 548: Olallie Lake Resort: Well stocked resort store familiar with Technical diffi culty: 8/10 the needs of PCT thru-hikers

Bikepacking challenge: COMMERCIAL LODGING Advanced Mile 469: Clear Lake Resort: Very minimal snacks at store Longest stretch between resupply: Mile 533: Breitenbush Cabins 45 miles, 1-2 days Mile 548: Olallie Lake Resort: Longest stretch between Cabins and yurts available water sources: Many water sources

A little-known zone, Old Cascade meadow vegetation is extremely Crest holds secret some of the best sensitive in this area so please views of Mount Jefferson in the refrain from straying off trail or range. The Oregon Timber Trail camping in this zone. A steep climb only scales a few of the several steep and descent leave you skirting the peaks in this area, but these few will Three Pyramids and on northward leave you exhausted and wanting to towards Scar Mountain. come back for more. You’ll slowly work your way towards Olallie Lake in the shadow of Mt Jefferson Fish Lake Historic Site By through deep valleys and over Makenna ridge lines, passing fire lookouts, Springwater Environmental Sciences wildflower meadows, rushing School streams, mountain lakes, and hot Mid 1800’s thousands of springs. travelers including tribes and wagon trains, along with their Leaving Clear Lake and the livestock, pack animals, and headwaters of the McKenzie you’ll freight have passed through pass the Fish Lake Remount Depot this site. Tribes visited the area which was a popular last stop to during the spring and summer graze horses and cattle before the months. They did this to hunt, final push over Santiam Pass along fish, and collect huckleberries. the Santiam Wagon Road. The remount depot originally served as an office. This is Soon after crossing highway where forest service personnel 20 you’ll come to the Crescent including firefighters and Mountain Trailhead and begin wilderness guards could rest climbing this appropriately-named with their pack animals and crest. Invasive species have been stock up on supplies. found at the trailhead and the

76 Once leaving the quarry at Scar teeming with life. Travel quietly and Mountain you’ll come to Tule Lake see what wildlife you’ll encounter (a great campsite) before a ripping along the way. Before too long dirt road descent to the North you’ll come to Lower Lake where Santiam River, Hwy 22, and a small you’ll probably detour right to the store in Idanha. Olallie Lake Resort for supplies, or keep pushing on to Timothy Lake From Idanha there is a hefty road and Mount Hood. climb to the Boulder Ridge and the McCoy shelter (free and open on a first-come first-serve basis) and then an equally steep descent on dirt roads to Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat. Breitenbush asks that you make reservations even for day use soaking, but it’s worth the extra step—and even more worth it if you book a cabin and eat the communal meals.

A few more miles of pavement along the Cascading Rivers Scenic Bikeway lies ahead, and then you’ll take a sharp upward turn and begin a jumbly, loose, almost unrideable climb into the Olallie Lakes Scenic Area. (Consider taking the longer, more mellow climb to Olallie Lake on NF4220.) You’ll roll past countless small pocket lakes, Mount Hood National Forest night sky © Gabriel Amadeus lined with dispersed campsites and

Hood Tier by Elliott Springwater Environmental Sciences School In this segment of the Timber Trail, the path goes through the Columbia River Gorge. The Gorge was formed by glaciers piercing and trampling its way through the forming gorge. Over thousands of years, the glacier pushed through. The melt from the glacier, the Pacific ocean flow, and the Missoula Floods all combined to supply the gorge with the Columbia River. A lot of these formations, like the gorge, are made of the Cascade Basalts. These Basalts were formed during the Cascade events, a series of volcanic activity and flooding 15 Million years ago.

Segment 7 of 10 - Old Cascade Crest 77 Circling Timothy Lake © Leslie Kehmeier SEGMENT 9 OF 10 Segment length: 92 miles WY’EAST Olallie Lake to Parkdale Total climbing: +8,797 feet RESUPPLIES Mile 548: Olallie Lake Resort: Well Number of days: 2-3 stocked resort store familiar with 24% Paved the needs of PCT thru-hikers Mile 639: Parkdale: Several 27% Dirt road restaurants and full grocery store 49% Singletrack COMMERCIAL LODGING 95% Rideable Mile 548: Olallie Lake Resort: Cabins and yurts available Physical diffi culty: 7/10 Mile 639: Old Parkdale Inn Technical diffi culty: 6/10 This segment is called Wy’east Bikepacking challenge: after the Multnomah Tribe’s name for this imposing and prominent Advanced stratovolcano—the highest peak in Oregon. The history runs deep here: Longest stretch between many river and lakes have attracted resupply: hunters and fi shermen for thousands 92 miles, 2-3 days of years. The terrain is steep and the forests dense, yet somehow Longest stretch between provided a less-formidable path to water sources: the Willamette Valley for emigrants 22 miles, 1 day of the Oregon Trail. The alternative was the raging rapids of the mighty

78 Columbia that would snuff out a Gunsight Ridge and Gumjuwac wagon-laden raft without a thought. Saddle which affords you with your first up close and personal views of Finally Mount Hood creeps larger as Mt Hood. you follow the path of the historic Skyline Trail to Timothy Lake where After peaking out at High Prairie you’re rewarded with picturesque you’ll begin the long, sustained views. Follow the lake trail clockwise drop into the Hood River Valley to the meadows at the north end and the Columbia River Gorge. and take a peek at Little Crater Lake Follow Lookout Mountain Trail, before continuing on. Just before to Knebal Springs trail, to the top you reach Hwy 26 turn right into of Surveyor’s Ridge picking your Skyline Sno-Park and ride through way through meadows, forests the large culvert under the highway. and outcroppings. Your time in the backcountry is about to Before you cross White River, turn end—spending your final night on right and follow the historic Barlow Surveyor’s Ridge is a good idea Road (NF 3530) to the south, before dropping into the Hood crossing the river and passing Forest River valley. The final descent to Creek Campground. The next 8 Parkdale on Oak Ridge trail is steep miles to Bennett Pass will be tough and switchbacky, take it slow and be ones—2,000 feet of elevation in careful once you pop back out on just 8 miles. But it’s worth it for the busy country roads. the camp at Bonney Meadows or Boulder Lake. Keep pushing along Parkdale is a relaxed little agricultural town known for it’s fruit, beer, barbecue, and stunning views Mile 585-600 by Lilly of Mt Hood. Pick up a few supplies Springwater Environmental Sciences at the grocery store—but not too School many—you’re only a short 30 miles Mile marker 585-600 is in the from the northern terminus of the Mount Hood segment in the Oregon Timber Trail. Hood Tier. The Hood Tier is in the Cascades, which was formed 42 million years ago. Basalt and Basaltic Andesite are common rock types in this area. There are four lakes in the area, Frog Lake, Clear Lake, and the Twin Lakes. Clear Lake was formed by lava that destroyed a forest that is now covered with water, which is now called the underwater forest, and the Twin Lakes were formed by magma hitting ground water. Ascending to Bonnie Meadows © Leslie Kehmeier

Segment 8 of 10 - Wy’East 79 Waucoma Backcountry © Gabriel Amadeus SEGMENT 10 OF 10 Segment length: 30 miles THE GORGE Parkdale to Hood River Total climbing: +3,139 feet RESUPPLIES Mile 639: Parkdale: Several Number of days: 1-2 restaurants and full grocery store

50% Paved Northern Terminus: Many Hood River options available. Solstice, 17% Dirt road Double Mountain Brewery, Pfriem, and Sixth Street Bistro all provide Singletrack 33% great food and drink to replenish that calorie defi cit. 100% Rideable

Physical diffi culty: 6/10 COMMERCIAL LODGING Mile 639: Old Parkdale Inn Technical diffi culty: 5/10 Mile 668: Many Hood River options Bikepacking challenge: available Beginner Camping is available 8 miles west Longest stretch between of Hood River at Viento State Park resupply: as well. 30 miles, 1-2 days At this point you can almost taste victory, you couldn’t fathom Longest stretch between pointing your haggard body and water sources: bike up another rocky climb. But Many water sources there remains one more grueling ascent and then a glorious rowdy bomb through the famous Post

80 Canyon down to Waterfront Park in Hood River. Native Americans By Lilly Springwater Environmental Sciences Leave Parkdale with full bellies for School a mellow, flat, paved cruise through Native Americans lived in fruit tree orchards, cross the Hood the Mount Hood area for River itself at Dee, and then drop thousands of years before to your granny gear as you hit settlers came. They used the dirt. After a scenic and steep 7 area for camps, hunting and miles you’ll arrive at the Kingsley gathering. They hunted deer Reservoir staging area. Kingsley, and elk. They gathered mainly the last campground available huckleberries. The tribes that on the route, is a small reservoir lived in the area were Molalla, with campground that is popular Wasco, Balapuians, Chinookan, with fisherman, OHV riders, and Northern Paiutes, and Sahaptin mountain bikers. (NOTE: the Speaker. Kingsley area is closed for the 2018 season)

Post Canyon trails have gone through several iterations as mountain biking has evolved, but they’ve been on the radar of mountain bikers nationwide consistently for the past 15 years. Near the top of the system at

Segment 10 of 10 - The Gorge 81 lower trails are optimized for mountain biking. Many options are available through the network, choose freely but be aware of frequent temporary trail closures for active timber harvests.

With names like Dirt Surfer, Whipsnake, and Bladerunner you’re sure to have a blast. These are some of the more fun, flowy, and challenging purpose- built mountain bike trails on the whole route, check out The mighty Columbia River © Leslie Kehmeier the entire trail system on mtbproject.com if you want to pick a different line through the canyon.

The last few miles take you through the bustling town of Hood River. Mt. Hood by Kate Springwater Environmental Sciences People travel from all over the School world to kite surf, kayak, hike, and mountain bike here and it’s Mt Hood is a dormant volcano apparent with the many bike shops, which means that Mt Hood breweries, and cafes catering to this hasn’t erupted in a long time adventurous crowd. Roll over the but it is still capable of erupting freeway and jump in the Columbia again. The Sandy River that River at Waterfront Park. Delicious runs hear Mt Hood was formed beer and hot food are on the other by debris under a glacier which side of the street waiting for you to carved the hillside. Mt Hood is celebrate finishing your rugged and made up of Dacite, Andesite, thrilling trek across the multitude of and Basalt. The lahars on Mt natural and cultural landscapes that Hood were made by landslides, make up Oregon. lahars are destructive mudflows on volcanoes. Mt Hood reportedly blew up in 1869, 1854, and 1781.

The Oregon Timber Trail Alliance is dedicated to Stewardship, Education, Community, and quality trail Experiences throughout the Oregon Timber Trail corridor.

84 STEWARDSHIP COMMUNITY Fostering respect and a stewardship The communities that the OTT ethos for Oregon’s diverse history, travels through are key to its public lands, and natural and cultural transformational experiences. landscapes is a key component The OTTA strives to engage local of our mission. The OTTA is communities across the state committed to maintaining a quality and invest in their health and trail experience along the OTT future as public land stewards and corridor by collaborating to host recreationalists. trail work events, identifying need areas, and developing action plans to create better trail experiences for all trail users.

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE The OTTA is committed to The OTTA is focused on preserving creating a growing community of and creating backcountry singletrack invested forest users by providing trail experiences along the OTT skills classes, wilderness medical corridor. The backcountry cyclist training, and courses in trail building is not only looking for a well- and maintenance. The OTTA is designed and well-maintained trail, dedicated to educating our user but an un-molested landscape to base around the world as well as travel through while experiencing engaging the local communities the diverse ecosystems and rich cultural OTT corridor passes through. With history. Access, trail connectivity, outreach and education the OTTA conservation, and public land can create responsible trail users for preservation are paramount to the generations to come. sought experience of the OTT rider.

85 The Oregon Timber Trail Alliance (OTTA) is comprised of riders, community

members, advocates, and Jocelyn Gaudi Quarrell is passionate about empowering women to adventure by volunteers throughout the bicycle and has lead dozens of ladies out for their fi rst bikepacking experience. state. The OTTA is operating under a Memorandum Of Understanding with the United States Forest Service and the direction of a diverse member board. Chris Bernhardt’s passion is sharing the outdoors with others. He is working in North America, Europe, and Asia to create sustainable trails that support rural communities.

Ben McCormack is a Northwest native Jim Fagan has been an avid outdoorsman who has been riding bikes on dirt since the and mountain biker since the mid 1980’s. early 2000’s. Ben works with the Oregon Excited to be exploring remote trails and Timber Trail Alliance to support trail loves the idea of being part of such an stewardship efforts throughout the state. ambitious and impactful project.

Dylan VanWeelden is an outdoor Bridget Hildreth works as a qualitative photographer and creative director based researcher, specializing in performance and out of Portland, Oregon. evaluation, as well as a grant writer for federally funded education and community health projects.

86 In Harry Dalgaard’s role as Regional Gabriel Amadeus Tiller’s passion for Cooperative Tourism Program Manager creating and sharing outdoor experiences at Travel Oregon, he helps advance and has lent itself well to his leadership role implement Oregon’s tourism initiatives. in honing the narrative and collaborative process of the OTT.

Dan Sharp is a Portland-based freelance An Olympian and professional MTB photographer, founder/editor of the website ambassador for Giant Bicycles, Adam benedicto.co, everyday cyclist and advocate Craig brings a passion for stewardship and for trails and trail work education. shares the OTTA’s goal of finding trails in the forgotten corners of Oregon.

Anna Vacca is a Bend, OR resident and Nathan Frechen combines being outdoors, has worked as a professional trail builder on working hard, and coordinating others projects like the Sandy Ridge trail system. in our popular stewardship events, using experience gained from helping maintain multiple trails around the PNW.

Born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD James Kim McCormack is an outdoor adventurer Good (Prineville, OR) owns his own bicycle based out of SW Washington. She and a shop, Good Bike Co., in Prineville, Oregon friend, Sam Clark, were Oregon Timber you will find James thrashing around the Trail Pioneers, completing the route in it’s woods in search of singletrack. entirety during the summer of 2016. 87 I am drawn to and moved by lines in the mountains that are aesthetic. This is an aesthetic route which was put together creatively and purposefully. This shows in the way the route rides and I am grateful for this beauty of a line! - 2017 OTT Rider

The Timber Trail was #$%@ing rad. Thanks so much for making it possible. - 2017 OTT Rider

2018 ROUTE GUIDE