Christmas Valley, Oregon

Travel to Christmas Valley

Discovering Christmas Valley, Oregon is part of the adventure. From Portland, a journey to this high desert oasis located in Lake County is a scenic drive of around 5 hours heading south, passing through a picturesque tapestry of Oregon’s diverse landscapes. Heading north from Reno, expect to spend approximately 6 hours on the road, traversing the County’s majestic terrain. If you’re flying in, the Medford airport is roughly 3 hours away by car. Each route offers panoramic views and attractions, making the trip to Christmas Valley as memorable as the destination.

The Christmas Valley Sand Dunes: A Sandy Serenade

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Christmas Valley, named after the now dry Christmas Lake, is to witness the sprawling Christmas Valley Sand Dunes. Located in the heart of the high desert, these dunes are a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and provide a unique off-roading experience. Standing as high as 60 feet, the dunes offer an otherworldly landscape perfect for photography, sandboarding, and ATV riding. The dynamic nature of the dunes means that every visit is unique, as the winds continually sculpt and shape the sand dune system.

Hole-in-the-Ground and Crack-in-the-Ground: Geologic Wonders

The awe-inspiring geological formations of Hole-in-the-Ground and Crack-in-the-Ground are the top reasons to visit Christmas Valley. These natural phenomena are a testament to the volcanic activity that shaped the region millions of years ago. Hole-in-the-Ground is a a spectacular bowl-shaped volcanic crater located on the western edge of the Fort Rock Basin caused by an explosive eruption with no raised rim. Crack-in-the-Ground is an ancient volcanic fissure over 2 miles long and up to 70 feet deep. Normally, fissures like this one are filled with soil and rock by the processes of erosion and sedimentation. Both offer spectacular hiking experiences and panoramic views that are truly unparalleled.