Oregon Outback Scenic Byway

Motorcycle Route Author

By SheepDawg (21 McR Points) on Mar 28, 2018

Rider Reviews

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VStromPDX

3 McR Points

August 10, 2018

Completely concur on Hwy 140. Well worth the…

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Big_Mike

517 McR Points

September 8, 2021

Rode this about 7 or 8 years ago. Fairly quiet,…

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Written Directions

Start your route in Lapine, OR, and take route 31 east (southeast). Take this until it runs into Hwy 395 in Valley Falls, OR. From there head south on Hwy 395 about 20 miles to Lakeview for fuel, lodging and food ... from there the official route ends further south at the Goose Lake State Recreation Area (note: the end portion of this route leave Oregon and enters Idaho).

Scenery

Southeast out of Lapine is pine forests that gradually give way to rocks and the sagebrush of the High Desert. Once out in the open ii is views of valleys and mountains as far as you can see. Fort Rock is a must see with it's namesake formation. While there be sure and order the broasted chicken at the town bar. A long stretch runs next to rock ridges on the south and open fields and meadows to the north. Summer Lake is a National Wildlife refuge. Eventually you'll go through Paisley which is home to the largest cattle ranch in the nation. Antelope, deer, turkey and wild horses abound.

Drive Enjoyment

Roads are well maintained. Since this is the dry side of the State, there is not the constant potholes, cracks and heaves that you find on the West side. VERY lightly travelled. The first 20 miles or so are easy corners in the timber, once out on the desert it is long staright stretches with undulating hills and easy corners.

Tourism Opportunities

This rating depends on what you are looking for. I think it's a five becuase there is no commercialization, very light traffic, constantly changing scenery and SUN. However, be sure that you are topped off before setting out from Lapine with at least 150 miles of range. Other than a couple little places at Fort Rock and Paisley you are in the Wild West.

Motorcycle Road Additional info

Tanks need to be topped off. Fuel on the route may or may not be available. Kepp your eyes out for critters, both for your safety and viewing. Wild horse herds in the country are impressive to say the least, although the alfalfa farmers probably don't agree. This is the type of travel that the boys from "Wild Hogs" were looking for. Not sure that there is a bar to blow-up, but there may be a fair in Paisley to visit sometime. The state has put together some very detailed information guides at the below links: https://traveloregon.com/things-to-do/trip-ideas/scenic-drives/outback-scenic-byway-2/ https://www.journalgraphicsdigitalpublications.com/epubs/MEDIAMERICA/ScenicByWaysGuide2016/viewer/desktop/#page/33