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28 • THINGS TO DO 2013
For hiking enthusiasts in Central Oregon,
there is a wide range of trails and
terrain, and the region offers a variety
of landscapes from the Cascade Mountains
that border on the west, to the high desert
that stretches eastward. One of the
advantages of Central Oregon is the fact that
visitors need not travel far to find forests,
pristine lakes and rivers, and towering rock
faces.
With more than a thousand miles of trails
to choose from, there are trails for every
hiker, with every level of difficulty. Some are
seasonal, due to higher elevations and snow,
but at any given time of the year, a person
can find somewhere in Central Oregon to
take a hike or stroll.
The key to getting the most enjoyment
out of your hike is being prepared for the
weather and trail conditions — and it is very
important to bring water. Some trailheads
are easy to find, while others require a scenic
drive. Many trails found in Central Oregon
are family and pet-friendly. Being prepared
may also include parking permits, so bring
along a little cash just in case.
Crook County
Iron Horse Trail – East of Prineville, turn
left on Laughlin Road
IronHorse Trail, located just off of Laughlin
Road in Prineville, is 1.8 miles one way, with
access to BLM land and stunning overlooks
of Prineville, IronHorse, and the Ochocos. The
trail is also located near the IronHorse
neighborhood, and begins at the end of
Wayfinder Drive, near the portion of
IronHorse that has already been developed.
Steins Pillar — East of Prineville past
Ochoco Reservoir
Take a left (heading north) on Mill Creek
Road. Pavement ends about five miles down
the road, but you continue on that road for
another two-and-one-half miles to Forest
Service Road 500. Continue down FS 500 for
two miles to the trail head.
Moderate to hard trail: 3-4 miles long
Twin Pillars — Farther down Mill Creek
Road, this trail ranges from easy to difficult in
places for about 10 miles
*note: springtime requires caution when
fording creeks as water levels can rise
quickly.
Chimney Rock — 16 miles south on Main
Street (Highway 27)
Easy to moderate trail: 2.5 miles
This hike results in great views and can be
done easily in a few hours. Dogs are allowed
on leashes. Views include the Crooked River
Canyon and the Cascade Mountains.
Rimrock Springs Natural Area — North of
Prineville on Madras Highway
An easy hike that takes you about an hour
to walk as you loop around a wildlife reserve.
Hikers can view geese, ducks and other
wildlife from platforms along the hike.
Easy trail: 1.7 miles total
Lookout Mountain/Round Mountain –
Located in the heart of the Ochoco National
Travel the open trail