Discover Tranquility at Priest Hole Recreation Site

Getting There

• Car

  If you are driving to Priest Hole Recreation Site from anywhere in Jefferson County, start by heading towards US-97 N. Depending on your starting point, you may take local roads to reach US-97. Once on US-97 N, continue driving until you reach the town of Madras. From Madras, take the exit onto OR-26 E towards Prineville. Stay on OR-26 E for about 35 miles. After that, turn left onto County Road 635, which will lead you to the site. Follow the signs to Priest Hole Recreation Site, located at Priest Hole Recreation Site, Mitchell, OR 97750. The total driving time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on your exact starting location.

• Public Transportation

  For those relying on public transportation, the options are limited in this rural area. You can take a bus from Jefferson County to Madras, which is serviced by the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) transit services. From Madras, you would need to arrange a taxi or rideshare service to reach Priest Hole Recreation Site, as there are no direct public transport links to the site itself. Ensure to check the COIC schedule and plan your journey accordingly, as bus services may not run frequently. The taxi fare from Madras to Priest Hole Recreation Site may vary, so it’s advisable to confirm the cost beforehand.

• Bicycle

  If you are an adventurous cyclist, you can bike to Priest Hole Recreation Site. Start on US-97 N, then follow the same route through Madras to OR-26 E. The ride offers scenic views but be prepared for some stretches of highway without bike lanes. Make sure to wear a helmet, have plenty of water, and check your bike’s condition before heading out. The distance is approximately 40 miles from Madras, and it may take several hours depending on your cycling speed and rest stops.