Silver Peak-Hobson Horn Trail

This trail remains one of the Forest’s most rugged and isolated, non-wilderness trails. This trail is a challenge for hikers and mountain bikers alike, due to the very tight switchbacks and loose rock along the ridge. Physically challenging and with excellent views, the trail descends gradually for the first 3.0 miles to a jagged, brush covered ridgeline, where it remains for the next few miles.

This historic trail travels through some of the most spectacularly rugged landscapes in southern Oregon, connecting the site of an old Forest Service fire lookout to the Illinois River Trail. The trail once provided access to the rich gold producing areas along Silver Creek. Being a non-wilderness trail, this trail offers an exceptional trail ride for experienced mountain bikers seeking a near wilderness experience. 

This is a very isolated and rugged trail, and has not been maintained regularly in a very long time. Trail conditions are likely to be poor and/or difficult. Be sure to carry plenty of water and always be prepared for an emergency stay in the forest by carrying extra clothes and food. The only water is found in the first 3.0 miles. Two springs, dotted with cobra-lilies (rare
insect eating plants) make for an interesting sight!  

Under Illinois River trail (area is unavailable) to Silver Peak September 15 – May 15. From Silver Peak to Hobson Horn, the #1166 trail is closed to motorcycles. 

This trail is located in the Biscuit Fire area that burned in the year 2002, as well as the Chetco Bar Fire of 2017. Although trail crews have been repairing and maintaining many of the affected trails following fires, visitors should take into consideration (because of the substantially increased risk of fire-killed snags falling) that travel and camping may be more difficult and require greater concern for safety.