Crooked River

In addition to supporting a wide variety of botanical resources, the Crooked River possesses a unique stand of mature white alder/red-osier dogwood in an area that is in near-pristine condition and is also suspected to contain of Estes' wormwood.

Fifty million years of geologic history are dramatically displayed on the canyon walls of the Crooked River. Volcanic eruptions which occurred over thousands of years created a large basin dramatized by colorful layers of basalt, ash, and sedimentary formations. The most significant contributor to the outstandingly remarkable geologic resource are the unique intra-canyon basalt formations created by recurring volcanic and hydrologic activities.

Water from springs and stability of flows through the steep basalt canyon section of the Crooked River has created a stream habitat and riparian zone that is extremely stable and diverse, unique in a semi-arid climate environment. Features—such as Odin, Big, and Steelhead Falls; springs and seeps; whitewater rapids; water sculpted rock; and the river canyons—are very prominent and represent excellent examples of hydrologic activity within central Oregon.

The Crooked offers a diversity of year-round recreation opportunities, such as fishing, hiking, backpacking, camping, wildlife and nature observation, whitewater boating, picnicking, swimming, hunting, and photography. The Chimney Rock segment is popular for camping, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and for viewing eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife. The 2.6-mile (round trip) hike to Chimney Rock rewards visitors with expansive views of the Crooked River Canyon and Cascades. The lower section offers a semi-primitive experience due to its remoteness, and a portion of the river is noted for high quality Class IV-V whitewater paddling.

The exceptional scenic quality along the Crooked River is due to the rugged natural character of the canyons, outstanding scenic vistas, limited visual intrusions, and scenic diversity resulting from a variety of geologic formations, vegetation communities, and dynamic river characteristics. State Scenic Highway 27, a designated National Back Country Byway, offers views of western juniper decorating the steep hillsides, spectacular geologic formations, and eroded lava flows throughout the narrow, winding canyon corridor.

The river supports critical mule deer winter range habitat and nesting/hunting habitat for bald eagles, golden eagles, ospreys, and other raptors. Bald eagles are known to winter within the Crooked River segment and along the Deschutes River downriver from the Lower Bridge. Outstanding habitat areas include high vertical cliffs, wide talus slopes, numerous caves, pristine riparian zones, and extensive grass/sage covered slopes and plateaus.