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Back in the late 1800s, the O&C Railroad decided they would construct a railway from California into Southern Oregon, and construction began. Unfortunately for the route planners, 4,193 foot high Buck Rock was in the way so work started on a tunnel right through Buck Rock. But it always comes down to money, doesn't it? Before the tunnel was completed, the whole project was abandoned due to a lack of funds and nowadays, the two unconnected tunnels remain for enterprising hikers to visit and ruminate upon.Driving time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Driving directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3pLM2avsf1ZnLBJA6
Entry or parking fee: none
Route: There are a couple of loop hikes available from the Buck Rock Trailhead. The short loop visits the west tunnel and circles back on the slope of Buck Rock. The longer route will depart from the shorter route with a trailless scramble to Buck Rock's summit.
Map: https://www.mapmywalk.com/routes/view/4324064551
Difficulty level: Moderate (just the tunnel) to moderately strenuous (with Buck Rock Summit)
Distance: 5 miles to just the tunnel, 7 miles to Buck Rock summit
Elevation gain: 900 feet to 1,000 feet
Pluses: A visit to a little piece of Oregon's railroad history. The Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument (where the tunnels are located) will be cloaked in spring greenery, and wildflowers will abound. Great views of the valleys and mountains of the monument.
Minuses: Plenty of poison oak ready, willing, and able to spread its itchy madness to oblivious hikers. Ticks can also make their presence known. Reaching and descending the summit is by way of trailless scrambling, some mild use of hands might be necessary on the scramble. Maps are essential as the trails are not well signed, and there are various intersections with old jeep roads.
For more information call or text Lane at 541-643-9278.
On the day of the hike: Meet at 8 am in the Douglas County Courthouse parking lot off of Fowler St., right behind the library building.
Bring water, lunch, and appropriate clothing for hiking.
If you are riding with somebody, be prepared to share gas expenses with your driver.
Please do not attend if you feel sick, are coughing, or have a fever.
The club hikes every other Saturday, rain or shine. Hiking is free, everybody is welcome.
For a list of our upcoming hikes:
https://www.friendsoftheumpqua.org/schedule/
"Hiking: “The hike to Buck Rock's summit is an elevating experience!”
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Douglas County Courthouse, North Parking Lot, SE Fowler St, Roseburg, OR 97470, United States
