25. Nothing But Sand

Suggested Citation: Kerr, Andy. 2000. Oregon Desert Guide: 70 Hikes. Seattle: The Mountaineers Books. p. 145.

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What to Expect: Sand dunes  

Distance: 3-mile loop

Elevation Range: 4,303-4,360 feet

Drinking Water: No

Best Times: Winter, spring, summer, fall (but not on a weekend, especially the 3-day variety)

USGS 7.5' Map: Fossil Lake

Oregon Map Starting Point: Christmas Valley

Drive 2 miles due east, turn north on Lake County Road 5-14C, and follow the signs to the Lost Forest and/or Sand Dunes. In about 16 miles you'll be headed due east and cross under a high-tension powerline. Further east 5.1 miles is an unimproved way to the south (right). Park here.

Hike (Fossil Lake quad) southward through a little island of western juniper, into the open and soon onto the sand. Hike south and range east or west as far as you like.

If you catch the often-high afternoon winds, you'll really feel alone.

When it is time to leave, walk northerly in the direction you think your vehicle is. If you miss, you'll soon hit the east-west road you came in on.