The East Fort Rock OHV trail system is heaven on earth for anyone who’s ever thrown a leg over an ATV. While it may be considered a bit rustic for some folks, the high desert landscape and varying terrain make it a paradise for ATV enthusiasts of all types. With over three hundred miles of sanctioned, mapped trails this is by far Oregon’s largest most developed trail system open to offroad vehicles.

Originally developed in the mid 1990’s the trail system began as an extensive network of old, overgrown logging roads. Today you’ll find banked corners, groomed and marked trails ranging in difficulty from easiest to most difficult. The terrain varies from tight woods to wide-open desert and offers spectacular views from various vantage points. East Butte lookout is a fully functional US Forest Service lookout on the highest peak in the area. The trail zigzags right up the mountain and is a favorite among many visitors. The switchbacks and deep whoops can make it a challenging climb but the view is more than worth it.

All of central Oregon is volcanic so the massive rock formations create some scenic and unique obstacles. While the actual “Fort Rock” is several miles away, you can see its towering walls rising from the desert floor from one of the areas view points. Many of the actual trails are comprised of a pumice rock which are fun on a quad but can be a little slippery on a motorcycle. The pumice trails can develop deep almost rhythm like whoops and big sweeping banked corners.

Many of the southernmost trails are rocky and are more comfortable on a utility quad. Should you brave the rocks you can be rewarded with a refreshing trip to the areas ice caves. With summer temperatures reaching triple digits, you have but to walk inside these enormous caves and you can cool off next to a wall of ice.

The area also boasts four gravel quarry-like play areas featuring jumps, berms and challenging hill climbs. South Cinder Cone play area has a hill that will make a man out of anyone. Again, the volcanic rock makes things slippery and while the hill is not terribly steep, the loose terraferma means you need momentum. Unfortunately there are a series of speed sapping whoops at the base of the hill ready to rob your horsepower. There are a few less challenging routes to the top so if you’ve got some time, meander on up and watch your buddies play king of the hill.

Ground hog play area is usually the busiest as it is the most centrally located. A few large gravel piles make for good hill climbs for the kids and someone has usually built up some sort of a jump over the center tabletop.

While the area may be rustic its not completely without amenity’s. Camp 2 Trailhead, road 2510 staging area and Sand Springs campground all have in ground toilets. In addition to bathroom amenities, the China Hat Guard station also features a water faucet for you to replenish your RV should you find yourself running dry on your vacation. Be sure and call ahead though. Its not turned on year round.

East Fort Rock is located about 45 minutes south of Bend and about 20 minutes east of La Pine. La Pine is good for stalking up on supplies but if you’re in need of repairs Bend is your best bet. One of their motorcycle dealerships will likely be able to help you get back on the trail. Currently there are no usage fees charged however all vehicles must have a US Forest Service Approved Spark Arrestor and current State OHV sticker.

I strongly recommend you put in a trip to this ATV paradise sometime in the near future. If you’re a fan of trail riding, it’s hard to beat and you’ll have a tough time covering the whole area in just one visit.