Olive Lake

Olive Lake Drive, also known as Forest Road 10, is a picturesque route in the heart of Oregon. This road meanders through the Umatilla National Forest, offering travelers a scenic drive through lush forests, diverse wildlife, and tranquil landscapes. Olive Lake, a key highlight of the route, provides fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The road is primarily gravel, so visitors should be prepared for a rustic driving experience.

There are three separate campgrounds along the route: Olive Lake Campground, Welch Creek Campground, and Tollbridge Campground. Each offers designated camping areas for RVs and tents for a fee. Additionally, dispersed primitive camping can be found on various spurs, turnoffs, and trailheads along the trail.

The area around Olive Lake is rich in history. The dam and gates on the north side of the lake were constructed as part of a hydroelectric system to support gold mining activities in the northern Blue Mountain Region. Historically, water from the lake flowed through a wooden pipeline to the historic Fremont Powerhouse, which produced electricity for mines and towns in the area. The Fremont Powerhouse is located approximately 7 miles east of Olive Lake, and the historic mining town of Granite is 12 miles east of Olive Lake along Forest Road 73.