The road to Pine Creek Reservoir in OR isn’t an easy one
Usa, north-america
16 km
2,003 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, let's talk about Pine Creek Reservoir, a hidden gem way up in Oregon's Baker County! We're talking serious altitude here – 6,571 feet above sea level! Nestled in the Wallowa–Whitman National Forest, this place is about 10 miles northeast of Sumpter and feels like a world away.
Now, getting there is part of the adventure. You'll be cruising along Pine Creek Road, an old, rocky path that's entirely unpaved. The last three miles? Buckle up and engage that four-wheel drive – you're gonna need it!
This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking seriously steep inclines, with gradients hitting a crazy 23% in some spots! The road stretches for about 4.66 miles from west of Wingville, climbing a whopping 2,588 feet along the way. That gives you an average gradient of over 10%! Due to the steepness, the road is not recommended for motor vehicle use.
But hey, the views! You're surrounded by the Elkhorn Mountains, with Rock Creek Butte and Elkhorn Peak towering nearby. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's even a minor unpaved trail leading northwest from the reservoir that climbs even higher, topping out at 7,949 feet. Seriously, this is one of the highest drives in Oregon!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 16 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,003 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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