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Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Trip

Backpack - Deschutes River Trail

An out and back early spring trip up the old railroad grade along the Deschutes River about 11 miles to the Harris Homestead and Falls Canyon Camp.

Contacts

Melody George
Melody George
Primary Leader
Qualified Youth Leader
  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 22.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 400 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 365 ft
  • Pace: 2 mph

Since this is a long drive for most people we will meet at the Deschutes River Trailhead at 10am and aim to arrive at camp by around 4pm. 

Drive east on I-84 to Exit 97 for Highway 206, Celilo Park and Deschutes State Park. Turn right after exiting and then left on Highway 206E for Deschutes Park and Fulton Canyon.

Drive 0.7 miles and, after crossing the bridge over the Deschutes River, turn right into the Deschutes State Park.

Drive all the way to the end of the paved park road and park at the trailhead near the group camping area.

Each car will need a $7 permit.

** LEADERS PERMISSION REQUIRED **

** NOTE ** Sign up will be first-come-first-serve, you're welcome to request permission in advance but you will have to register when registration opens.  There won't be any advance registration.

We will hike at a moderate 2 mph pace, taking frequent breaks. We will stop for an extended lunch (~20 minutes). We will break camp and head back to our cars Sunday morning starting around 8am.

There may not be an option for hanging food. I plan to bring my Ursack.

Route/Place

Deschutes River State Recreation Area


  • Green Trails Columbia River Gorge East No. 432S
    BLM Prineville District: Lower Deschutes and John Day Rivers
    see Land Manager
  • See full route/place details.
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

The Ten Essentials plus overnight gear which may include:

  • Tent with footprint/ground tarp
  • Stove and fuel
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Water treatment and some means of carrying a gallon of water
  • Bear canister or extra stuff sack and cord designated for hanging food
  • Cooking pot/pan with plate and utensils and sufficient fuel
  • Toilet paper and shovel or blue bag to deal with waste
  • Raincoat 
  • Clothing that will keep you warm and dry in 30 degree rain. No cotton clothes!
  • Food for 1 dinners, 1 breakfasts, and 2 lunches/snacks
  • Bugs, especially ticks are certainly possible; bring bug repellent.
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