Otter Bench

This easy and enjoyable hike along the Crooked River is a great option for cool weather hiking in low snow years in Central Oregon. Otter Bench is a narrow plateau about half way between the rim and the Crooked River. The trail is in a figure eight shape that winds around this plateau, with views overlooking the river and the basalt rock formations along the ridge.

Parts of this loop are closed during part of the year for raptor nesting, but you can still cover the majority of these trails year round. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – beyond the raptors, you may see some bighorn Sheep among the rocks.

Style:

Figure Eight Loop hike from a small trailhead in Crooked River ranch

Distance:

7 miles

Elevation Gain:

+/-550 ft

Trailhead and Permit Notes:

As a BLM managed area there are no permits required to park or hike at Otter Bench. There are no facilities at the trailhead and room for 8-10 cars.

The hike described here is a figure eight that remains mainly on the bench plateau. There are two trails that fork off from the main loop that go steeply down to the river.