Metolius-Windigo

Metolius-Windigo is a 120 mile route paralleling the Pacific Crest Trail but farther east.  It’s a combination of sections constructed specifically to form Metolius-Windigo and other trails which are integrated into the route.  Maps and general information are available from the Forest Service.  The route is predominantly classic singletrack through forest with features ranging from gorgeous alpine meadows to austere lava depending on location.  Trail maintenance is shared among the Back Country Horsemen, COTA, the Forest Service, Oregon Equestrian Trails, and other groups.

Metolius-Windigo is perhaps best known for its part in the classic late summer Bend mountain bike loop of North Fork-Metolius-Windigo-Flagline-South Fork (see the Flagline trail for wildlife closure details).  As such, the trail condition indicated is for the Metolius-Windigo segment between North Fork and Flagline.  At 6900 feet, this seven mile segment is the highest part of Metolius-Windigo and has the shortest snow free season.  Conditions elsewhere in the route vary widely with elevation and use levels but tend to be comparable to nearby trails such as Charlton-Lemish or Edison-Lava.  For example, the popular North Fork-Mrazek-Farewell loop includes a mile of Metolius-Windigo which is quite similar to the upper couple miles of Mrazek.

There are 110 miles of Metolius-Windigo beyond the Mrazek to Flagline area.  Don’t forget to check them out too!