6.3 hr
Overview
The BLM’s Criterion Tract, acquired in 1995 for 1.3 million dollars, sits along Highway 197 at the highest point between the Columbia River and Redmond. Thus, there are expansive views in all directions, including of snowy Cascade peaks. This is wide-open country, but there are no hiking trails. You can follow old ranch roads, some of which are now mere scratches that are difficult to follow, but cross-country travel is not difficult. From the open crest of sagebrush and the occasional juniper, you can descend to grassy benches blooming with wildflowers in the spring. A rugged band of rimrock, with deeply incised ravines, offers views down to the Deschutes River and across to the Mutton Mountains. Keep oriented while you’re here, and also keep an eye on the time as it’s easy to get caught up in exploring this gloriously open expanse. Spring is the best season to visit: Winters are cold and windy, summers are hot and dry, and the fall sees an influx of hunters. Note that there is another trailhead just to the south of the Criterion North Trailhead .
Trail Stats
20.3 km
479 m
968 m
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Photos
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