Round Butte ridge access

Embark on the Round Butte Trail for a moderate hiking experience through diverse landscapes. You will cover 6.0 miles (9.7 km) with an elevation gain of 691 feet (211 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. The route offers scenic ridge walking and winds through forested sections before opening up to grassy slopes near the 5904-foot summit of Round Butte, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding ridges and canyons.

When planning your visit, be aware that the forest service roads leading to the trailhead can be rough, unpaved, and rutted. A high-clearance or all-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended to access the starting point. While there is a primitive camp area and Indian Spring for water at the trailhead, some ridge springs may be dry during summer months, so plan accordingly.

The Round Butte Trail is notable for its seasonal beauty; in summer, you will find the slopes alive with wildflowers like buckwheats and penstemons. As autumn arrives, the trail transforms with the vibrant hues of golden larches, offering a different but equally rewarding visual experience. This trail provides a rewarding journey into the Umatilla National Forest, showcasing its varied natural beauty.