Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
5,033.00 ft (1,534.06 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
39.20 mi (63.09 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.

The Trout Creek Mountain Road and Little Whitehorse Road trek spans a rugged 39.2 miles, there and back, nestled within the confines of the Mahogany Ridge Wilderness Study Area. This hidden gem, part of the Trout Creek Mountain Range in southeastern Oregon, epitomizes remote wilderness. Its isolation means that few venture here, allowing for a pristine, untouched outdoor experience.

Adventure seekers can indulge in camping, hunting, fishing, and hiking—the primary draws to this vast expanse. A notable nearby retreat is the Willow Creek Hot Springs, located just south of the Whitehorse Ranch, offering a developed spot for relaxation amidst the wild. 

Adding to the allure of the Trout Creek Mountain Range is its rich history, with over 100 archaeological sites that reveal the Northern Paiute people's presence dating back as far as 7,000 years. This area is not just a path through nature but a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the past amidst the backdrop of Oregon's rugged beauty.

The Mahogany Wilderness Study Area features diverse ecosystems ranging from high desert to mountainous terrain. Here you will find  a variety of plant and animal species adapted to its unique environmental conditions. 

TROUT CREEK MOUNTAINS
The Trout Creek Mountains are a high elevation plateau located behind the foothills on the east side of Pueblo Valley. The area features deep canyons, flowing streams, and willows. Streams such as Big Trout Creek, Little Trout Creek, and the East Fork of Trout Creek meander from southern high ridges down to the northern valleys, abundant with fish and beavers, painting a scene of untamed wilderness.

WEATHER AND LOGISTICS
The Trout Creek Mountains offer year-round hiking adventures. However, accessing the inner peaks might pose a challenge due to poor road conditions. Some high points in the area may not be easily accessible (or enjoyable) until early summer. 

DIRECTIONS
Situated directly east of Denio, Oregon, and stretching into Northern Nevada, the Trout Creek Mountains are accessible via various roads branching off Whitehorse Ranch Road located 13 miles north of the Nevada/Oregon state line, or 8 miles south of Fields, Oregon.
 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

3

Pros

Solitude. Canyons. Peak bagging.

Cons

Very remote and can be difficult to access some areas.

Trailhead Elevation

4,792.00 ft (1,460.60 m)

Highest point

7,963.00 ft (2,427.12 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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