From late spring through early fall. Spring has spectacular green color and the creeks are running full. Fall, when the colors change is also special.
But not so fast. This route heads up into the Maury Mountains, which were named after Reuben F Maury. He was a badass army colonel from the Civil War who started his career fighting in the Snake War.
While the Maury mountains aren’t snow capped in the summer, they are rugged and tough like Reuben. And who doesn’t love a good climb: 2500 feet in 11.5 miles. After, you roll along through the Maury Mountains for 22 miles [gaining 1800 feet, losing 2400 feet} until you bomb back to Post. We can’t guarantee the Post General Store will have a Reuben waiting for you, but we are sure you’ll find something tasty.
The Post General store, Highway 380, 25 miles south east of Prineville. Park at the far east end of the parking lot. This is a private parking lot, so it is imperative that you get permission from the store management to park there (see Stefanie). Also, for the courtesy or parking there, we recommend dropping some coin in the store. Maybe getting one of their shakes, or a meatloaf sandwich, or a ballcap!
This is an active hunting area in the fall. We recommend wearing a high viz kit (like orange) and carrying a whistle to alert others, if need be.
There are a two bail out points along the route, that will shorten the endeavor.
Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!