Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
4,005.00 ft (1,220.72 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
40.20 mi (64.70 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Fifteen Mile Road Trail is a 40 mile out-and-back into Oregon Canyon. It serves as a gateway to the secluded and unspoiled Oregon Canyon Mountains, appealing to hikers who relish the challenge of navigating its remote and untamed trails. This path is not just a route but an invitation to immerse oneself in an environment where silence and beauty reign supreme, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.

The journey through this wilderness rewards the intrepid with breathtaking panoramas, and wonderful bird watching opportunities. Enthusiasts might catch sightings of Western Bluebirds, Cassin’s Finch, and Northern Goshawk, to name a few, set against a backdrop of vibrant wildflowers—a testament to the area's rich biodiversity.

Access to this rugged terrain is contingent upon the season, with passage requiring a high-clearance vehicle and favorable dry conditions, typically post mid-June when the snow has receded. This limitation underscores the area's untouched character, preserving its trails for those willing to meet nature on its terms.

Camping within the Oregon Canyon Wilderness Study Area adheres to the Bureau of Land Management's Leave No Trace principles, underscoring a commitment to conservation and respect for wildlife. These guidelines encourage campers to minimize their impact, ensuring the wilderness remains pristine for future visitors. Planning, using durable surfaces for camping, proper waste disposal, and fire management are among the advocated practices. As regulations may change, verifying current rules with the local BLM office or their website is advisable, ensuring a responsible and enjoyable wilderness experience.

Embarking on Fifteen Mile Road is more than a hike; it's a pilgrimage into the heart of Oregon's untouched wilderness. Here, the harmony of nature's quiet grandeur and the thrill of discovery coalesce, offering an unparalleled adventure for the soulful explorer.

REGULATIONS AND CAMPING
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife among other principles to protect the area's unique qualities. Specific details on camping duration and other regulations can vary, so checking with the local BLM office or their official website is recommended for the latest information.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

4

Pros

Scenic Vistas. Scenic Ridgelines. Solitude. Bird Watching.

Cons

Minimal shade and water.

Trailhead Elevation

5,106.00 ft (1,556.31 m)

Highest point

7,692.00 ft (2,344.52 m)

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

No

Location

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.