Hike Cottonwood Canyons Pinnacle Trail

Starting near the entrance to the fee-free Cottonwood Canyon State Park, which is one of Oregon's newest state Parks, find the large sign for the start of the Pinnacles Trail.  This park was formerly a ranch, and this largely flat trail runs along an erstwhile ranch road that follows the John Day River. Undulating 4.3 miles into the canyon, you may catch glimpses of wildlife like elk, big horn sheep, and deer.  The trail gets it's name from the rock formations etched into the basalt cliffs, and the many spots along the route make for excellent photos.  Keep an eye underfoot too, as rattlesnakes make their home in this area.

Be sure to bring adequate water on this hike. There is little shade along this trail which can by very dry and dusty.