Crook County

The mining history of Crook County is hidden in the hills of the Ochoco National Forest. Once over 1,000 mines bore gold, thundereggs, and cinnabar throughout the Ochocos, but only a few are left in operation today. However, you can still explore many of the abandoned mines today on trails throughout the Lookout Mountain area, including Blue Ridge Mine, the Mother Lode Mine, and the Independent Mine. And to immerse yourself in the history of the mining operations in this area known as the "Cowboy Capital of Oregon," trek the shorter interpretive Baneberry Trail for a fun side adventure.