Whitehorse to Trout Creek Loop

This 48.5-mile loop begins and ends along Whitehorse Ranch Road, traveling through wide-open high desert country in southeastern Oregon. The route passes Willow Creek Hot Springs Campground, loops around the Trout Creek Mountains, and follows a series of remote two-track roads through sagebrush plains, volcanic mesas, and canyon terrain.

This is a long, exposed, and rugged route best suited for experienced hikers, bikepackers, or fastpackers who are comfortable with remote travel and full self-sufficiency. The reward is solitude, wide horizons, and a night under desert skies with a natural hot spring soak.

The route starts on Whitehorse Ranch Road and takes it to Whitehorse–Fifteen Mile Road, heading toward Willow Creek Hot Springs Campground, a small but popular desert oasis. This makes a great spot for a rest or overnight stay, with primitive sites and a natural soaking pool.

Continue on Whitehorse–Fifteen Mile Road as it traverses the landscape between Fifteen Mile Creek Wilderness Study Area and Willow Creek Wilderness Study Area. The road eventually connects to Little Whitehorse Road, narrowing to a more remote two-track that rolls through the high desert with striking views of mesas and open sky. This section feels far removed from civilization, with minimal traffic and wide horizons.

Little Whitehorse Road eventually meets Trout Creek Mountain Road, which climbs gently through more rugged terrain before descending back to the valley floor. Turn onto Whitehorse Ranch Road to close the loop and return to the starting point.

Flora & Fauna

• Flora: Sagebrush, rabbitbrush, bunchgrasses, juniper, and seasonal wildflowers in spring.

• Fauna: Pronghorn, coyotes, bighorn sheep, golden eagles, hawks, and various reptiles.

Permits

• No permits are required for day or overnight travel.

• Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Follow Leave No Trace guidelines.

Camping

• Willow Creek Hot Springs Campground: Primitive campground with vault toilets and a soaking pool. No potable water.

• Dispersed camping is allowed along BLM roads, but be mindful of private land boundaries.

• Water sources are limited, carry everything you need.

Best Season

• Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild temperatures and the most comfortable travel conditions.

• Summer brings extreme heat with no shade.

• Winter may bring snow, muddy roads, or difficult access.

Need to Know

• Total distance is 48.5 miles with rolling elevation gain across high desert terrain.

• There is no reliable water aside from Willow Creek, bring ample supply.

• Roads are dirt and two-track, with occasional sandy or washboarded sections.

• Weather changes quickly in the desert; bring layers and sun protection.

• Hot springs are rustic; pack in and pack out everything.