Red Buttes Wilderness

Red Buttes wilderness is an area of rocky peaks composed of serpentine rock that erodes into a rusty red color for which this wilderness was named. Serpentine rock does not support dense plant growth and this fact is why the craggy peaks of the Red Buttes wilderness have the above-timberline appearance of alpine peaks.

Plan on driving 15-20 miles off of Highway 199 to get to the wilderness boundary. Some driving will be on gravel surfaced roads.

There are two ways to get to the wilderness from Highway 199. Both are listed below with alternative links to maps and additional information.

Red Buttes wilderness access roads from Highway 199,Cave Junction, southwest Oregon.

1) Tannen Lakes and Boundary Trailheads

Follow the Jefferson State Byway for about 18 miles to the top of the pass. Turn on the road to Tannen Lake and Bolan Lake and drive nine miles of gravel road to the trailhead.

2) Bigelow Lakes Trail near Oregon Caves

Follow Highway 46 for 20 miles to Oregon Caves, Turn left on USFS 960 for a four mile drive on gravel roads to Bigelow Lakes loop trail. Hike about four miles through forest and meadows to the wilderness boundary near Craggy Peak.

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Disclaimer: All information in Highway199.org is accurate to the best knowledge of the author. However, conditions in outdoor settings can change dramatically after storms or fires. For this reason, travelers are advised to check current road conditions before traveling through the area, drive responsibly and take measures to understand safety issues in the region. When participating in outdoor activities, always plan and prepare for safe hiking, swimming or any other activities mentioned in the Highway 199 website. More on disclaimer and copyright...