Horse Ridge is a popular mountain biking area about 20 minutes to the east of Bend. It is also next to the Millican Valley OHV system. If this does not sound like an appealing place to hike, I understand, especially considering that the foot-traffic-only Oregon Badlands Wilderness is right across the highway. But the right route, at the right time of year, can be an enjoyable and peaceful experience with a lot of solitude.
I hiked to the summit of Horse Ridge in early March of a heavy snow year. At this time of year the OHV area is closed so there is no buzzing of dirt bikes to drown out the wildlife. The route I followed to the ridge was an easy off-trail route that avoided mountain bikes. It is a short round trip hike where you are unlikely to see a soul if done at the right time!
Style:
In and Out dayhike off-trail
Distance:
3.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:
+/- 980 ft
Trailhead and Permit Notes:
There are no permits required for being in this area. Turn off of highway 20 at Fort Rock road and follow dirt road and track to the trailhead on the map. I was able to do it in my Subaru Outback. It helps to review a solid map ahead of time. While you will see many roads that look like useful trails, the area is pocketed with private land and several spots have No Trespassing signs. The route provided here does not cross private lands to the best of my knowledge, but you will find some old fencing and barbed wire along the ridge. I had no problem finding a place to cross it. Even if this fence is no longer a valid property line, do not destroy it unless you are part of a sanctioned cleanup group.
Useful Guides and Gear:
Topo map and GPX track:
Links
Millican Valley OHV map – shows private areas.
Horse Ridge Recreation Map
