61. Upton Mountain (Middle River Unit)

Suggested Citation: Kerr, Andy. 2000. Oregon Desert Guide: 70 Hikes. Seattle: The Mountaineers Books. p. 219.

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What to Expect: A cow-free table of pristine grassland

Distance: 2.8-mile loop/round trip

Elevation Range: 3,785-4,829 feet

Drinking Water: No

Best Times: Spring, fall

USGS 7.5' Map: Upton Mountain

Oregon Map Starting Point: Drewsey Junction (2 miles south of Drewsey on US 20)

Go east 1 mile and turn south on a good road. Go southerly 9.1 miles and park at an unimproved way heading east. You've just crossed two wide stream drainages, are pointed east, and are just about to turn southeast.

Hike easterly 0.9 mile to the intersection with a four-wheel-drive trail. Take the trail southerly about 1.1 miles until you decide to head east and up 0.3 mile onto the very distinct saddle of Upton Mountain. In the saddle, you have to find your route through the rock rims to either the south or north benches. The north bench is smaller, but a little higher, and overlooks the south table. Return the same way you came, or head cross-country. This is an easy day hike, or you can backpack to the base of the notch to camp.