Prineville

Hiking

Pick up maps at the Ochoco/Prineville Ranger Station for trails through the 5,400-acre Bridge Creek Wilderness and the demanding Black Canyon Trail (24 mi round-trip) in the Black Canyon Wilderness. The 1½-mi Ponderosa Loop Trail follows an old logging road through ponderosa pines growing on hills. In early summer wildflowers take over the open meadows. The trailhead begins at Bandit Springs Rest Area, 22 mi east of Prineville on U.S. 26. A 2½-mi, one-way trail winds through old-growth forest and mountain meadows to Steins Pillar, a giant lava column with panoramic views; be prepared for a workout on the trail's poorly maintained second half, and allow at least three hours for the hike. To get to the trailhead, drive east 9 mi from Prineville on U.S. 26, head north (to the left) for 6½ mi on Mill Creek Road (also signed as Forest Service Road 33), and head east (to the right) on Forest Service Road 500.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Fishing
• Golf
• Hiking

• Recreational Areas
• Skiing