In the McKenzie Ranger District, the Pacific Crest Trail bisects the North and South Loops as it winds in a north-south direction the length of Santiam Pass. The portion, which is marked for winter travel, begins on the northern edge of North Loop about 1.5 miles northeast of Ray Benson Sno-Park and ends along the southern edge of the South Loop near the old Santiam Wagon Road. The Pacific Crest Trail is not constructed or cleared specifically for winter travel. During the winter months, many Forest roads and trails lend themselves to cross-country skiing. Biking There are plenty of opportunities for mountain biking in this area.
Most hiking trails are available for biking as well.
In the McKenzie Ranger District, Castle Rock Road is a very difficult nine-mile climb that ends with an outstanding view as a reward for reaching the top. The elevation gain is approximately 2100 feet. Castle Rock was probably named because of its large, tall cone shape that resembles a fortress or castle overlooking much of the upper McKenzie Valley. For a difficult but scenic trail that passes through meadows and winds around six lakes, try the Blair Lake Trail, a 16-mile trail in the Oakridge Ranger District. Also in the Oakridge Ranger District is the shorter Diamond Creek Falls Trail, a scenic loop that provides views of Salt Creek Canyon, Too Much Bear Lake, and Diamond Creek Falls, all in less than 3 miles.