Ochoco National Forest Mining District Loop

This network of mining roads explores the high desert country east of Bend, where 1860s prospectors scratched for gold in the shadow of the Ochoco Mountains. The route passes the Mayflower Mine ruins, climbs through stands of massive ponderosa pines, and crosses Lookout Mountain’s volcanic ridges. Deep ruts carved by ore wagons still scar the landscape around the abandoned Bonanza Mine, where stamp mills once thundered through the night processing quartz ore.

Moderate to difficult with rocky technical sections and steep grades around mine sites. Stock 4WD required for most routes, with low-range gearing essential for sustained climbs. Best season runs May through October before snow closes higher elevations. Excellent dispersed camping throughout forest lands, with reliable water at Ochoco Creek and several developed springs. This is classic central Oregon — big sky, volcanic peaks, and the remnants of dreams that died when the gold played out.