Aldrich Mountain: Driving the NF-2150 Road to the 6,978ft Lookout in Oregon
Located in Grant County, Oregon, Aldrich Mountain is a high peak reaching 2,127m (6,978ft) above sea level. Situated within the Malheur National Forest, the summit features an active fire lookout that provides a clear vantage point over the Aldrich Mountains and surrounding central Oregon wilderness.
| Road facts: Aldrich Mountain | |
|---|---|
| Location | Grant County, Oregon, USA |
| Elevation | 2,127 m (6,978 ft) |
| Road Number | Forest Service Road 2150 |
| Length | 14.5 miles (23.3 km) |
| Status | Unpaved / Gravel |
Where is Aldrich Mountain?
The peak, sometimes referred to as Aldrich Butte, is located south of Dayville in central Oregon. It is part of the Malheur National Forest system. The road climbs through a mix of open rangeland and timbered slopes, typical of the Blue Mountains region. Access is primarily used by the Forest Service, BLM, and local ranchers.
What’s at the summit of Aldrich Mountain?
The summit has a three-story fire lookout tower. The original 1934 cabin was replaced in 1959, but that structure was burned shortly after by vandals. The current lookout was built in 1960 to the same ODF (Oregon Department of Forestry) live-in standard. It is still in active service and is staffed every summer to monitor state, federal, and private lands for fire activity. From the top, you can see across the entire Aldrich Mountain range.
Is the road to Aldrich Mountain unpaved?
The road to the summit, Forest Service Road 2150, is entirely unpaved. The surface is generally smooth gravel and dirt. In dry weather, it is passable for most passenger vehicles, though cars with very low clearance should be careful of occasional washboarding or loose rocks. The track is wide enough for two vehicles in most spots, but it becomes narrower and steeper as you approach the final summit ridge.
How long is the road to Aldrich Mountain?
Starting from the junction with NF-21, the drive to the summit is 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long. The climb is steady but not extremely technical. Because of the distance and the remote location, you should ensure you have enough fuel before leaving Dayville, as there are no services or reliable mobile phone signals once you enter the Forest Service road system.
Is the road to Aldrich Mountain open in winter?
No, the road is impassable during the winter months due to heavy snow. At nearly 7,000 feet, snow blocks the NF-2150 road from late fall until at least June. Even during late spring, the dirt can be soft and muddy, which can lead to vehicles getting stuck. The best time to drive to the lookout is from July through September when the road is dry and the tower is staffed.
What are the main hazards on the drive to the summit?
The main hazards on Road 2150 include wildlife and changing weather. Deer and elk are common in this part of the Malheur National Forest and often cross the road unexpectedly. High-altitude thunderstorms can also move in quickly, making the smooth dirt surface slippery. Additionally, keep an eye out for downed trees after high winds, as this remote road may not be cleared immediately by maintenance crews. Always carry a spare tire and a basic emergency kit.
Pic: Toby Harrison