Where is Paulina Peak?
Usa, north-america
6.27 km
2,434 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for an epic trek to Paulina Peak! This gem sits way up high in central Oregon's Deschutes County, inside the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. We're talking about a summit that hits 7,984 feet above sea level!
You'll be cruising along NF-500 (aka Paulina Peak Road) for about 3.9 miles, starting from Forest Service Road 21. Heads up, though: it's all unpaved. Most cars can make it, but it's a bit rough and narrow in spots, so maybe leave the RV at home. Vehicles under 23 feet are best.
It's a climb, too! You'll gain 1,578 feet in elevation, so expect some steep sections, averaging around 7.67% gradient and maxing out at 9%. The road's usually snowed in 'til July and closes again in late October/early November, so summer's your window.
Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! Once home to a Forest Service lookout (removed way back in '68), the views from the top are unreal. You'll get a killer panorama of the Newberry Caldera, the volcano, the Cascades, and a whole lot more of central Oregon. On a clear day, you can spot peaks stretching from California to Washington! Just a heads-up: keep an eye out for bears – they love hanging around the campsites down in the crater.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 6.27 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,434 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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