"Outback" refers to land with a natural ruggedness. Though people come here seeking independence, they know each other's first names. Community is paramount. Jonathan Nicholas, publisher of the Oregonian, said it is "a star-spangled landscape of marsh and mountain, of reflection and rim rock, of seamless vistas and sage-scented dreams."

Getting to the Byway:

Portland, OR
* Take I-5 south to Salem. * Get on OR-22 and go southeast to Bend. * Take US-97 south to OR-31 after La Pine where the byway begins.

Navigating the Byway:
* Start at the border of Oregon and California in New Pine Creek, OR. * Drive north on US 395 through Lakeview to Valley Falls. * From Valley Falls, take SR 31 and head northwest through Paisley, Summer Lake, and Silver Lake. * At the intersection of SR 31 and Co Rd 5-10, turn right to take a short loop to Fort Rock State Park. Turn left on Cabin Lake Road and then left again on Co Rd 5-11A to access the entrance of Fort Rock State Park. Continue on Co Rd 5-11A and then turn left at the end of the road. When you get to Co Rd 5-10, turn right and go back to SR 31. * Continue driving northwest on SR 31 to La Pine, OR where the byway ends.