Experience Oregon’s exhilarating Little Dragon—Dooley Mountain Highway

The 14-mile stretch of OR-245 between Unity and Baker City features 188 corners, earning comparisons to North Carolina’s “Tail of the Dragon” motorcycle route—minus the crowds.

Start in Unity and ride north on US-26. Turn onto OR-245 to reach the heart of the route. You’ll climb steadily to a 5,420-foot summit before descending into Baker City. Along the way, you’ll experience tight switchbacks, scenic forest views, and the kind of terrain that keeps you alert and engaged.

Though the full trip from Unity to Baker City is about 40 miles, the main attraction is that action-packed 14-mile segment. With gas stations at both ends, there’s no need to worry about fuel stops—just enjoy the ride.

Check out our interactive map of the Dooley Mountain Highway motorcycle route. Along with directions, you can study the variety of turns and elevation changes along OR-245 before you ride with Google’s Street View feature.

The mountains in Oregon are snowy in the winter, so most motorcycle riders visit Dooley Mountain Highway between April and October. Below are the monthly temperatures for the motorcycle season in Baker City, OR.

For those just starting out on two wheels, the Dooley Mountain Highway can be a real challenge. Even if you're an experienced rider who's comfortable with curves, staying extra focused is key to a safe and enjoyable ride on this route.

Keep these safety tips in mind as you prepare for this ride:

• Obey all traffic signs, taking special note of corner speed advisories

• Be prepared for gravel on the pavement, especially on curves

• Watch for oncoming traffic. Narrow lanes and hairpin turns can potentially cause vehicles to cross the center line

• Look for animals crossing the road. Wildlife can appear suddenly from the forest and steep road drop-offs

• Always wear protective gear

• Prepare your bike for summer riding. Climbing a mountain can be strenuous for your engine

If you want to make a little trip out of your Dooley Mountain Highway adventure, many riders choose to stay in Baker City, though you can find campgrounds and limited motel rooms in Unity. While in the area, here's where to experience some local flavor.

Unity offers a small-town vibe because its population is under 100 people. It’s a hub for many outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, fishing, and more along the Santiam River. Stop at the Water Hole for a sit-down meal or grab snacks while you’re fueling up at the Burnt River Market.

Baker City is larger than Unity, and offers a variety of things to see and do. Here are some suggestions:

• National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

• Baker Heritage Museum

• Copper Belt Wines

• Downtown shopping

• Award-winning Barley Brown's Brew Pub

Whether you're an Oregon local or traveling to Dooley Mountain Highway from out of state, it’s important to understand the state’s motorcycle insurance requirements. In Oregon, riders are required to carry bodily injury liability, property damage liability, and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverages.

Want to explore coverage options or check for a policy that fits your budget? The Dairyland® team can help. Start your free motorcycle insurance quote today—and ride with confidence, knowing you're covered for the road ahead.