Crack-in-the-Ground is an ancient volcanic fissure over 2 miles long and up to 70 feet deep. Normally, fissures like this one are filled with soil and rock by the processes of erosion and sedimentation. However, because it is located in such an arid region, very little filling has occurred and Crack-in-the-Ground exists today nearly as it did shortly after its formation thousands of years ago. An established 2 mile trail along the fissure’s bottom offers a unique hike, where the temperature can be as much as twenty degrees cooler than at the surface.

Crack in the Ground is open year round, but must be traveled to by a gravel road for approximately 20 minutes.  The trail to Crack in the Ground is moderately difficult with a 70’ elevation gain and sand and rock surface.

There is a Universal Access Restroom available, in the parking area..Motor Vehicles, Mountain Bikes, and Equestrians are PROHIBITED

Access is via rugged dirt roads that may be impassable at times. Four-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended. The nearest services are in Christmas Valley, Oregon.  Accommodation is available in La Pine.

 

The Steens Mountain Ranges are located in Eastern Oregon, along the Alvord Desert.  This gives the mountains a supernatural, yet majestic feel.  This area would be wonderfully suited to a car commercial, or sci-fi production.

Images were taken early November.  A few weeks later there was a greater snow accumulation for an even more striking backdrop.

The Deschutes River Trail  is connected by a footbridge 1.5 miles upstream from Farewell Bend Park bridge. The West side is known as the Mt. Bachelor Village Trail. It is open to pedestrians, but cyclists are not allowed. An alternative cycling route connects from the Bill Healy Bridge to the Haul Road Trail along Century Drive.

Images taken incorporate the west side down towards the Bill Healy Bridge, and along the trail.  There is parking on the opposite side of the bridge (Old Mill side), and two restrooms.

Large productions/ trucks may be a challenge, however there is parking up the road from the bridge.

Images taken April 20, 2017. 

Permits required by Bend Park and Recreation, and must be applied for at least 21 days in advance of the shoot.

 

Big Eddy Kayaking (video footage)

Big Eddy  is located close to Bend off the Cascade Lakes Highway, on NF 41, on the Deschutes River.  This area is known for its whitewater rafting adventures and stunning scenery. These Class III rapids wind around the beautiful Deschutes River. 

The nearby parking lot has Deschutes National Forest maintained toilet facilities and a picnic table. 

There is a Recreation Fee Site: Parking at this site requires a recreation pass May 1 – September 30. Passes are NOT available at this site, but can be purchased from Forest Service offices or vendors. Please check here for more information about recreation passes and where they can be purchased.

Film Permits must be obtained from the Deschutes National Forest, well in advance of the shoot (please give at least 21-30 days notice for film permits).  COFO can help you with that.

Directions from Bend: Travel approximately 7 miles west on Cascade Lakes Highway (Highway 46), then south on Forest Road 41 for 1 1/2 miles. Follow the directional signs.  The turn off for the Forest Road is opposite the Cascade Lakes Highway visitor center.

Images taken July.

 

 

The Oregon Badlands is a wilderness area of approximately 29,000 acres located east of Bend.  There are ancient juniper trees, sagebrush and arid areas in addition to rocks formations and caves.  Because there are century old trees, this wilderness area should be treated with respect and would not be appropriate for bushwhackers or any reality show wanting to live off the land.

The Badlands are located close to Bend, for easy access to accomodation and services. Should you be filming in the Badlands, please remember to carry in plenty of water and to leave as little trace as possible.

Permits will be issued by the Bureau of Land Management (please allow at least TWO MONTHS prior to applying for a permit).

For additional images of the Badlands, please click here.