Leslie Gulch Loop

This 37.3-mile loop explores one of Oregon’s most striking high desert landscapes. Leslie Gulch is known for its dramatic tuff spires, colorful volcanic formations, and remote, rugged terrain. The route combines the canyon floor with a network of surrounding fire roads, creating a full-day or overnight loop that blends scenic hiking through otherworldly rock formations with wide-open high desert vistas.This is a committing backcountry route with little shade, no reliable water, and minimal services. Ideal for strong hikers or backpackers, the loop showcases the best of Leslie Gulch’s surreal desert beauty.

The route begins at the Upper Leslie Gulch Trailhead. Briefly walk along Leslie Gulch Road to the Juniper Gulch Trailhead and hike along the Juniper Gulch Trail. Early miles offer views of towering rock spires and sculpted cliffs.

Follow the Oregon Desert Trail (ODT) passing through Honeycomb Wilderness Study Area, Carlton Canyon and Painted Canyon. Sections of the ODT may be unmaintained and/or not well marked, a map is highly recommended. 

Just south of Shepherd Head Ridge you will connect with a dirt road path. Head onto Board Corral Loop Road and continue to make your way back to Leslie Gulch Road. 

Flora & Fauna

• Flora: Sagebrush, rabbitbrush, bunchgrasses, wildflowers in spring.

• Fauna: Pronghorn, bighorn sheep, coyotes, eagles, hawks, and lizards. Rattlesnakes are common in warmer months.

Permits

• No permits are required for day or overnight travel.

• Camping is allowed in designated and dispersed areas; check Bureau of Land Management (BLM) regulations.

Camping

• Dispersed camping: Allowed along fire roads and upland areas with Leave No Trace practices.

• Bring all your water; there are no reliable sources along the loop.

Best Season

• Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the best weather, with mild temperatures and clear skies.

• Summer can bring extreme heat and no shade.

• Winter may bring muddy roads and limited access.

Need to Know

• This is a long route through a rugged landscape, with rolling climbs and descents through desert terrain.

• No reliable water along the route, carry what you need for the entire trip.

• Weather can shift quickly in the desert; pack accordingly.

• Fire roads are lightly trafficked but occasionally used by ranch or BLM vehicles.

• Cell service is unreliable,bring a map, GPS, or downloaded route.

• This is remote country; self-sufficiency is essential. Make sure to orient yourself the route in advance as sections may not be marked and portions are unmaintained.