Lower Deschutes River Access Road

Trail Overview

Take your time and enjoy the rugged beauty as you travel down this deep rimrock-lined canyon section of the Deschutes River, a designated Federal Wild and Scenic River. This road ends 17 miles down the canyon, but this trip is more about the journey than the destination. The road is mostly gravel that is wide and smooth but has sections of washboard and potholes that you'll want to take slow and easy, especially if driving a car. Be sure to stop at any of the many primitive campgrounds that provide day-use river access and some with boat launches. Just remember a permit is required to boat the lower Deschutes River. The campgrounds are primitive and first-come, first-served, and provide fire rings, picnic tables, and group pit toilets. If camping, be aware of the seasonal open fire restriction from June 1 through October 15 and plan to use propane stoves and shielded lanterns. If you are an experienced multi-day hiker, you can hike the Deschutes Railbed trail that begins at Mack's Canyon Campground (end of the road) and ends at the Columbia River. Remember to Tread Lightly and treat other users as you would like to be treated.

Photos of Lower Deschutes River Access Road

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Difficulty

This is a maintained wide gravel road with potholes and washboard sections. It's easily traveled with any street-legal vehicle.

History

This gravel road travels along the Deschutes River which is designated as an Oregon Scenic Waterway and a Federal Wild and Scenic River.

Technical Rating