Are you looking for a unique hike to get you out into the fresh air? Oregon has hundreds of hiking trails, but there’s one in particular that’s quite uncommon. For a surreal hiking adventure, head to Christmas Valley and check out Crack-in-the-Ground.
Christmas Valley is a fascinating spot in central Oregon. It’s a peaceful, remote stretch of sagebrush prairie that’s the perfect place to explore if you want to get far away from it all.
Jennifer McDaniel/Alltrails
There are hidden treasures to find here, and one of them has the nickname Crack-in-the-Ground. It’s a two-mile-long volcanic fissure that was created by volcanoes in the area millions of years ago.
Julianna Shetler/Alltrails
To explore Crack-in-the-Ground, drive to the town of Christmas Valley, then take the Crack-in-the-Ground road and follow the signs for seven miles. The trailhead has a small parking lot and a vault toilet.
Merle Lyon/Alltrails
Make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection along. While the crack itself offers plenty of shade, the surrounding environment is typically hot and dry.
Annie Hoffman/Alltrails
Crack-in-the-ground is as much as 15 feet wide, and as deep as 70 feet below the landscape. The temperature is much cooler down here, and it’s an other-worldly place to explore.
Jeff Hernandez/Alltrails
You’ll find some interesting rock formations down here…
Mary Ann Pastene/Alltrails
…and you’ll have fun navigating up and over various rocks along the path. Some of the scrambling can be difficult, but there are spots where you can climb out and then descend into the crack again to avoid them.
Julianna Shetler/Alltrails
It’s a strange feeling to be hiking underground with the blue sky far above!
Scharlee P/Tripadvisor
Crack-in-the-Ground is a fun hike for just about everyone. Kids love to explore along this fascinating trail, and you can bring your dog (just make sure to clean up after him).
Mary Ann Pastene/Alltrails
Jennifer McDaniel/Alltrails
Julianna Shetler/Alltrails
Merle Lyon/Alltrails
Annie Hoffman/Alltrails
Jeff Hernandez/Alltrails
Mary Ann Pastene/Alltrails
Scharlee P/Tripadvisor
Have you hiked through Crack-in-the-Ground? We’d love to read about your adventure and see your photos in the comments!
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Address: Christmas Valley, OR, USA
