Route: Heart of Darkness Loop (OR)

The Heart of Darkness Loop (aka Ochoco Mountains Loop) is a 38 mile route off the beaten path in Central Oregon's Ochoco Mountains National Forest. The route links the Ochoco Mountain Trail #823, the Payten Trail #820D, the Black Canyon Trail #820, and the Owl Creek Trail #820A. Spanish Peak (6,871ft), one of the 8 highest peaks in the Ochoco mountains, is just a short distance off the route. A significant section goes through the Black Canyon Wilderness.

The route is rugged and remote, yet, breathtaking. If you're in for the solitude and a good challenge, this may be for you. Navigation is not always obvious, some sections are heavily overgrown, and there is a long section without access to water.

Trip reports:

• https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/oregon/ochoco-mountains-loop-rock-creek-black-canyon-wilderness

• https://www.oregonhikers.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=28347

Maps:

• https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3829464.pdf

• https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3829228.pdf