South Junction LbNA #19388

In 1908, two competing railroad companies began constructing lines on either side of the Deschutes River beginning at the Columbia River, headed upstream. The competition led to legal disputes, sabotage and gun battles. At one point, twelve hundred men were building two tunnels, side by side in the canyon and a graveyard can be found nearby. It is thought that this cemetery was created for those killed in the conflict. By 1910, trains were running on both lines but the section btween North and South Junction remained a single line, used by both companies. This line is still in use today.

To the trailhead: At the junction of 197 and 97 between Maupin and Madras, go west on a very well maintained gravel road marked by a sign for South Junction. It’s about a twenty minute drive down to the river. Near the river take the first right on to a bumpy dirt road toward the BLM campground. Park 3/10 of a mile beyond the pay station, across from the “waste water sump” sign near campsite #6.

To the letterbox: Step a stile. Traverse tracks. Find the flow. Trek the trail counter the current, looking left. Behold a big boulder. Consult compass. Stride seven steps at six score to baby brother.