A great introduction to high-desert riding
Chewy Valley
Oregon Timber Trail,
Ride Ambassador
Length 21 Miles
Difficulty
Challenging i
This segment of the Oregon Timber Trail shows off the very best of high-desert riding. It takes you across prairies, through aspen groves and past giant ponderosas, and offers views in every direction, particularly from the top of Morgan Butte.
To reach the start, drive south from Paisley on NF33 for 7.7 miles and park at the Chewaucan Crossing trailhead on the left. The ride begins by crossing the Chewaucan River on the footbridge. No parking fee is required; there are vault toilets, but no potable water.
This route, which is also part of the Fremont National Recreation Trail, is mapped as an out-and-back, meaning you can turn around and enjoy the swooping descent back to the trailhead whenever you please.
The ride starts by climbing through dry, rocky prairie and old growth ponderosas. You’ll cross Cat Canyon and Skunk Hollow, but hopefully not see either. Watch for great horned owls; they’ve been spotted here, gliding silently in the forest.
If you’re feeling strong, persist and ascend all the way to the fire lookout at the summit of Morgan Butte. It’s about 2,800 feet above the trailhead, but it’s worth all the effort for the views in every direction – and the 10-mile descent back to the trailhead.
Note: If you want to make this a longer ride and see new scenery all the way, you can turn it into a loop by starting and ending in Paisley. Head south from town on Highway 31, then climb to Morgan Butte on Clover Patch Rd. and NF Road 3514; from there ride the second half of the route as mapped, and follow NF 33 to Paisley.
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In Oregon, a bicycle is legally considered a vehicle, and the same Oregon road laws apply. Please “be seen” and practice safe riding. Vehicle traffic, farm equipment and narrow shoulders exist on many Oregon roads, and you may find that construction projects, traffic or other events may cause road conditions or signage to differ from the map results, ride descriptions and directions. For travel options plus weather and road conditions, visit tripcheck.com, call 511 (in Oregon only), 800.977.6368 or 503.588.2941. Routes listed on this website are for informational purposes and intended as a reference guide only.
About The
Ambassador
Oregon Timber Trail
The Oregon Timber Trail is a world-class bikepacking destination and North America’s premiere long-distance mountain bike route. It runs south to north and travels through a variety of landscapes, communities, ecosystems, terrain, and, most importantly, mountain bike trails. Divided into four unique tiers, the Oregon Timber Trail is approachable by a wide variety of cyclists. If it sounds familiar, you’re not mistaken: the Oregon Timber Trail is inspired by the Pacific Crest Trail and other trails in the National Scenic Trail system. What sets it apart is that it’s designed for mountain biking in mind and consists of more than 60 percent singletrack.
Start scheming, plan carefully, rope in some friends and have fun exploring the varied wild landscapes that have enthralled generations of Oregonians before you.
