Paulina Creek Road
Volcanic landscape with hidden hot springs
Paulina Creek Road (Forest Road 21) winds 18 miles through the heart of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, following an ancient creek bed carved by volcanic activity and glacial melt. The route starts innocuously near La Pine but quickly transforms into a technical challenge as it climbs toward Paulina Lake, navigating loose pumice, deep ruts, and creek crossings that can turn treacherous during spring snowmelt. The real gem lies at mile 14: a hidden cluster of natural hot springs accessible only by a rough spur trail that requires careful navigation through dense lodgepole pine.
High-clearance 4WD is mandatory, with aggressive tires recommended for the loose volcanic soil. Summer through early fall provides the best access, though mosquitoes can be brutal in July. No permits needed, but pack plenty of water and fuel — the nearest services are 40 miles away in Bend. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the corridor, making this an ideal basecamp for exploring the broader Newberry Crater complex. The combination of geological wonder and technical driving makes this a must-do for Pacific Northwest overlanders.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Sand |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6400 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | La Pine, OR |
| Land manager | Deschutes National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler handle Paulina Creek Road without modifications?
Yes, a stock 4WD with decent ground clearance (8+ inches) can handle this trail in dry conditions. The dirt and sand surface stays manageable, but soft sandy sections and creek crossings mean you'll want to air down and have 4WD engaged — don't attempt it in 2WD or a stock crossover.
When does Paulina Creek Road open for the season and is it accessible in early June?
The best window is June through October, but early June can be dicey depending on snowpack at elevation — the trail tops out around 6,400 feet. Check current road conditions with Deschutes National Forest before heading out, especially if it's been a heavy snow year.
Do I need a permit to drive Paulina Creek Road or camp along it?
No permit is required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping on Deschutes National Forest land is free, but you're subject to standard forest rules — 14-day stay limit, no campfires during fire restrictions, and pack out everything you pack in.
How serious are the water crossings on this trail and what's the worst one like?
The crossings on Paulina Creek Road are typically shallow — knee-deep or less in normal conditions — but early season runoff can push depths higher and current can be stronger than it looks. Slow and steady wins here; scout on foot before committing if the water looks off.
Is there anywhere to refuel near the trailhead, and how far is it back to a gas station?
La Pine is your closest fuel stop, sitting about 15-20 miles from the Newberry Crater area. Fill up there before you head in — there's nothing on the trail, cell service is spotty at best, and the nearest alternate option is Bend, which is farther north.
Trail track
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