Leslie Gulch Backcountry Road
Volcanic spires in Oregon's forgotten desert
The road into Leslie Gulch drops you into a geological wonderland where 15-million-year-old volcanic ash welded into towering spires and honeycombed cliffs that look more Mars than Oregon. This 15-mile round trip into the Owyhee River canyon starts easy but gets progressively rougher as you wind past Juniper Gulch and the massive Honeycomb formation, ending at the boat launch where the Owyhee cuts through red rock walls.
Stock high-clearance is fine for the first half, but the final miles to the river demand 4WD with good ground clearance for loose rock and steep grades. No permits needed, but bring everything – no services, cell coverage, or water sources. Spring and fall offer the best weather; summer bakes you at over 100°F. Camp anywhere along the route and wake up to some of the most dramatic desert scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 15 mi / 24.1 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3200 ft |
| Best season | April-June, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Jordan Valley, Oregon |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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