From John Day, travel east toward Prairie City on Highway 26 about 10 miles. Turn north onto County road 18. Go approximately 10 miles to the junction of Forest Service road 36 and County Road 18. Turn right follow the 36 road along Camp Creek to Forest Service road 3650. Drive the 3650 road to the junction of Forest Service road 3650-428 where the trailhead is located. This is mostly forested hiking/riding on the lower end of the trail. There are some open meadows that are good for camping. Camping is possible all along the trail with good opportunities for solitude.