Escape to the hot springs of southeastern Oregon for a rejuvenating soak among natural marvels. Was not expecting that! Thats more than a mile, nearly straight down. We hope you enjoy our routes, and we look forward to running into you out there under open skies along our favorite routes. Although the views are breath taking, so are the very steep drop offs, sharp turns and often narrow road. Steens Mountain is located 60 miles south of Burns near Frenchglen and Page Springs Campground. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. So head north out of Frenchglen up Highway 205 to get warmed up; after almost 18 miles of pavement, veer off the highway toward Diamond (even smaller than Frenchglen, but another great historic hotel/restaurant) and then onto the first stretch of the many, many miles of unpaved road youll experience. This whole part of Southeast Oregon is like finding a secret very few know about. Youll come away with an up-close-and-personal appreciation for the scale of this geologic goliath, with its glacier-carved valleys, aspen groves, pure-water lakes and views to forever. And it fit! I highly recommend one extra stop on this loop, at the Steens Summit/Wildhorse Lake parking lot. Every year, the Bureau of. Far below the alpine highlands, creeks and rivers hide beaver and native trout populations that are fed by snowbanks which can survive the blistering summer heat of the Oregon Desert.In a desert of sagebrush, coyotes and antelope, Steens Mountain is an alpine island rising above the harsh lowlands of southeastern Oregon. A lock ( We are 2 couples planning our Steens trip. Download a detailed guide (PDF). It isnt until the Kiger Gorge overlook that the sense of elevation really takes hold. The mountain loop is also the only truly rough riding. Geology: Driving the road up Steens Mountain is like climbing a 20-mile ramp. Within this area, cooperative and innovative management projects will be maintained and enhanced between the BLM, private landowners, tribes, and other public interests. We heard about the loop from our RV site neighbors. On a clear day, you can see beyond Oregon to Nevada, Idaho and California. Here the road turns west, and when you reach The Narrows theres a store if youre feeling like something cold to drink and you probably will. It seems like most people dont know about Steens Mountain, and fewer have been. I would never pull a travel trailer up there. Weather UV Index Daylight Saturday 27 / 11 F Sunday 19 / 3 F Monday The road is easy to drive most of the year, but due to the elevation, snow lingers in the spring and comes early in the fall, which can make driving . The herd is managed by the Bureau of Land Management to preserve their
Bighorn sheep can
This information has been taken directly from the most recent Harney County Informational Pamphlet available at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge headquarters. Finally, the 4x4 road leading to Pike Creek is very washed out and can be reached by high clearance vehicles only. Look for stands of quaking aspen and mountain mahogany on drier rocky ridges. 5 Star Route / Burns, Oregon / Published July 2018. Hiking is available in all areas and trailheads exist near Page Springs and South Steens Campgrounds, as well as Wildhorse Overlook and Pike Creek. Mountain Weather can be unpredictable and change suddenly. Above the juniper and aspen, severe climate and thin soils result in a belt of grasses, low-growing plants, and stunted, wind-formed shrubs. This loop drive of 58 miles is gravel with a washboard surface that is totally awesome. The Massive internal pressures forced the east edge of the Steens upward. Is any of the information on this page incorrect? You also agree to the storing of cookies on Use our interactive map to explore the roads or just discover them by browsing the site. Over this distance the elevation gain is 1.689 meters. Glaciers once scoured down this mountain, scrubbing away softer sediments and creating distinct notches in the bedrock. It is truly a step back into time. Anyone have experience in mid-June on the Steens Mountain Loop Road? Youre back on 205, and this time it looks like a causeway as it bisects two shallow lakes (water levels are quite seasonal; no guarantees on how much youll see here). A. As cyclists, were spoiled living in Oregon. mile to the Alvord Desert floor. A tilted mesa with an active fault on its steep, eastern side, this fault-block mountain has risen up in the past five to seven million years. You or someone else may add some info here if you have it. This 59-mile loop departs from Frenchglen and climbs to the top of Steens
The road is all gravel but is well maintained as long as it's open. Over 12 miles, youll climb about 4,400 feet but the scenery will distract you, as you ascend the ridge between the Little Blitzen and Indian gorges; make sure to stop for every viewpoint along here. At 7782 feet Devine Rock is one of the more difficult summits in Southeast Oregon as it's protected by cliff bands on all faces. Terrible washboard conditions for miles, which is a shame since it's such a spectacular area once you get up top. Steens Mountain is one of Oregon's great scenic and geologic wonders, a 30-mile/48.2-kilometer fault block that is a small mountain range rather than a single peak. We saw a white BLM pickup coming down at a fairly decent speed and thought, "maybe this is the guy who has opened the gate for us!" Start a 7-Day Free Trial of All-Access Membership. dangerousroads.org is not responsible for the information contained in these pages. Steens Mountain was originally called Snow Mountain back in the 19th century.Devine Rock is named for John S. Devine, the first cattle baron to arrive into the Alvord Basin. your way to the summit, take note of evolving plant life. Opportunities for recreation on Steens Mountain are as plentiful as they are widespread. Aconcagua mountain page is a child of the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits.' Scenery is stunning, especially dramatic Kiger Gorge Lookout, then East Rim Overlook, overlooking Alvord Desert and The loop is about 60 miles, ascends to 9600 feet, and should not be missed. Minimum Drive Time: 3-5 hours
Terrible washboard road but spectacular scenery. This point considered as a mountain climbed from the Alvord Desert; is quite possibly the most difficult summit to reach in Oregon.Devine Rock: The second most visually prominent rock feature along the east face of Steens Mountain is this rotten chunk of Steens Basalt overlooking Big Alvord Creek and the Alvord Ranch. Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA): Restrooms Hiking is available in all areas and trailheads exist near Page Springs and South Steens Campgrounds, as well as Wildhorse Overlook and Pike Creek. Stonehouse BM is 7220 feet in elevation and offers a nice view of the North Steens and Sheepshead Mountains. It is truly a step back into time. Opportunities for recreation on Steens Mountain are as plentiful as they are widespread. Fuel may be available in the towns of Fields, Frenchglen, Crane, or the Narrows. Steens Mountain rises up from the sagebrush desert to nearly 10,000 feet /3,048 meters. Steens Mountain is located in Oregon's high desert is one of the crown jewels of the state's wildlands. I think there would be plenty to see on both those loops if you are interested in the geology, geography, and history of the area. Summiting the mountain via its steep eastern face should not be taken lightly. Planning a road trip at the end of this month to the Steens and just wondering if there's a chance of the Steens Loop being open yet? Be aware of ticks, mosquitoes, and rattlesnakes in certain areas during spring and summer. Located north of the Alvord Desert on the east side of the mountain. Follow along the loop to get back to your starting point. Sustainable grazing and recreational use, including fishing and hunting, will be continued where consistent with the purpose of the Act. If you do go bring your camera and binoculars. There is a strong cell service and a wi fi. What are the scenic backroads in Southeastern Oregon? to travelthe50 miles out and back with ~5000ft. When the hard work ends, youll be at the top of the road, at over 9,500 feet, looking back down on that desert you camped in, and the road you pedaled, far below. Steens Mountain is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2.968m (9,737ft) above the sea level, located in Harney County, in the U.S. state of Oregon. west slope of the mountain may receive as much as 25' of precipitation,
MLS# 201001561. more. Itll make your jaw drop. Camping is first come first serve but depending on the time of year it won't be crowded at all. Please explore responsibly! The rest of the Steens Mountain Loop Road can accommodate passenger cars at lower speeds. And once you turn right onto the Loop Road (Mile 220), your world starts turning upward the first climb gains about 1,000 feet over 7 miles. For the full loop, an early start is recommended, and for us, that meant sharing the road with surprised deer. Any snow was off the roadway and we could see the Alvord Desert below as well as mountain peaks in the distance and deep valleys below. Visitors can also spend hours watching the amazing, breathtaking antics of raptors as they soar and dive in the high mountain wind currents. I coloni portarono il bestiame nell'area nel 1872. You will find signs posted at the site stating that the water here is excessively hot and that there have been fatalities here in the past.Wildhorse Lake: The best known of Steens Mountain's glacially formed moraine lakes sits at the head of Wildhorse Canyon just beneath the summit. Is that where you may see wild mustangs? It's an amazingly scenic drive that is a worthy part of any trip to the Steens. Starting at the tiny, historic town of Frenchglen, on OR-205, the ascent is 43.61km (27.1 miles) long. The summit itself is adorned with cell towers where youll find your only reception out here - but the views are spectacular. In summer driving the loop road offers quick access to the summit via a quarter mile hike up a maintenance road. No water or services available. This last half travels down the sidewall of Big Indian Gorge along a feature called the Roosters Comb offering some nice looks back towards the summit and gorgeous views of Big Indian Gorge, but much of the mountain can be seen and enjoyed without ever traveling this second half of the loop. The South Steens Rim overlooking Alvord Lake has an average elevation exceeding 7000 feet over the length of 6 miles not broken by canyon or pass. Check with local BLM authorities. As you crest and start downhill, take the time to stop for Kiger Gorge, perhaps the most magnificent of the glacial gorges carved into this mountain. When the hard work ends, youll be at the top of the road, at over 9,500 feet, looking back down on that desert you camped in, and the road you pedaled, far below. To use information contained on this site is to do so at your own risk. Wonderful views, local history, wild horses, and much more. Several different herds of wild horses also exist in the area and livestock may be seen on both public and private land. Then turn right onto State Highway 205 and travel south for 60 miles to Frenchglen. Livestock and wildlife on roadwaysmuch of southeast Oregon is open range. Please be aware of: The Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area contains a mixture of public and private lands and specially designated areas where particular regulations may apply. To the east, the 5000 foot dropoff into the bleak Alvord Desert, to the west the many deep glacial river valleys, to the south the Pueblo Mountains, and along the northern horizon is the Strawberry Mountains. Snow can remain on the road into the summer, delaying the opening of the full loop. The mountain loop is also the only truly rough riding. This massive fault block of basalt is the highest point south of the Three Sisters in Oregon, has 4373 feet of prominence, and is the highpoint of Harney County. Traveling with a current map of the area is essential! The peak was renamed in 1860 for United States Army Major Enoch Steen, who fought and drove members of the Paiute tribe off the mountain.Pic: Jared McCullough. Between the Coast and Cascade Ranges, the high desert of central Oregon, and the remote expanses of eastern Oregon, we have all the makings for top-notch gravel riding and bikepacking. Official websites use .gov If you want one last hit of civilization before heading out into the wilderness, book a room here (you can also camp on the lawn) and enjoy a family-style meal or two. The area is the premier recreation destination in Southeast Oregon and an iconic part of the Oregon's High Desert landscape. From Burns, Oregon, travel southeast for approximately 2 miles on State Highway 78. You can expect any other roadsindicated by dashed lines on a mapto be passable by four-wheel drive vehicles only. If you want one last hit of civilization before heading out into the wilderness, book a room here (you can also camp on the lawn) and enjoy a family-style meal or two. Looming over Kiger is the eponhymously named Gunsight notch also glacially carved. site is used. The Steens Mountain Loop is spectacular, but it can be blocked by snow late into the season as was my experience in June 2022. Borax Lake is 10 acres, and water welling up from within it feeds a series of cooler ponds and marshes surrounding the primary spring. Open July to November based on snow conditions.Fish Lake: (541) 573-440023 Campsites with toilets, water, garbage service, fire rings, picnic tables, and a boat ramp into the lake (no motorized boats permitted).Located at Fish Lake 17 miles east of Frenchglen. From the trailhead at the end of the road, the summit is just a short hike. Burns District Office Most of the road to the mountain is graveled but well maintained. The remaining snowdrifts were cleared earlier this week, and although road conditions have improved, travelers should still drive with caution. the Alvord Desert in its shadow receives less than six inches. While spring and fall are your best bets, the mountain Loop Road is only open certain months of the year typically August and September so youll want to check on that before starting out. Steens Mountain makes you feel like you are on top of the world. The climb up and west from Fields on Highway 205 will give you a miniature preview of what youll encounter scaling Steens later on. Always start your trip with a full tank of fuel and call ahead for current information about fuel availability in the Steens Mountain area. It'd been years since we'd visited Steens and best of all, nothing has changed. We were thinking of staying the first night in at Frenchglen, then doing the inner loop and returning for the night to Frenchglen. ft. house located at 61102 Steens Ln, Bend, OR 97702 sold for $227,000 on Aug 10, 2010. The United States Congress designated the Steens Mountain Wilderness in 2000 and it now has over 170,200 acres. It was SO worth the time and drive to see this beautiful area, and we were delighted that our prayers were answered!! Both ranches continue to operate to this day. You can ride this loop in either direction, but for the sake of this description lets assume you want to save the most stupendous views for later in the trip. Story maps are lightweight web apps. Youll connect to Highway 78 at about Mile 65, and you can roll on to Crystal Crane Hot Springs at about Mile 74. Check with local BLM authorities. Open Season Fish Lake Campground is open mid-June through October. Trail Overview. As you head north on this lonely road, youll find a new level of depth for the phrase wide-open spaces the horizon can seem might far away out here. Yes, the loop drive of Steens Mountain will be 50+ miles of washboard gravel road, but the scenery is unlike almost anything you will ever see. A standard touring bike with wider tires (35c to 38c) will work nicely. There are pit toilets at the South Steens campground if you need to make a bathroom stop. that escaped from early explorers, Indians, settlers, miners, and ranchers. My dad and I drove this loop earlier this summer and I was shocked that Steens isn't considered one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Located on the north side of the creek, gaining permission to travel on this land from the Alvord Ranch may be necessary. Odds are good if you have sharp enough eyes (or binoculars) youll see elk on the canyon floor thousands of feet below and you might even spy the famous Kiger Mustangs, a legendarily beautiful band of wild horses that roam this remote part of the state. Burns which calls itself the "Gateway to the Steens" offers the amenities of a large town and has a population hovering around 3000. Heres an idea of the scale: At the top of the mountains loop road, youre standing at nearly 10,000 feet, looking down at the Alvord Desert, almost exactly vertically below you at around 4,000 feet. So head north out of Frenchglen up Highway 205 to get warmed up; after almost 18 miles of pavement, veer off the highway toward Diamond (even smaller than Frenchglen, but another great historic hotel/restaurant) and then onto the first stretch of the many, many miles of unpaved road youll experience. Permits, Fees, Limitations Visitors photograph landscapes, wildlife and wildflowers, and catch redband trout in the Donner und Blitzen River. Start in the tiny community of Frenchglen, where the historic hotel is now run as a state park. You might hear a stray reference to The Steens and think its a mountain range, but theres really just the one and its huge one. To avoid any potential issues, it's best to camp on the south, e Take in the View from Steens Mountain Summit, Hike Pike Creek Trail in the Steens Mountains. Migratory birds traveling the Pacific Flyway use Harney County as a rest and refueling stop. I saw lots of wildlife several herds of wild horses, and coyote and Antelope. Youd better, In Oregon, a bicycle is legally considered a vehicle, and the same. Watch for wildlife along this stretch, particularly the wild horses that roam these wild lands. Odds are good if you have sharp enough eyes (or binoculars) youll see elk on the canyon floor thousands of feet below and you might even spy the famous Kiger Mustangs, a legendarily beautiful band of wild horses that roam this remote part of the state. At the top, there are three glacial gorges the most spectacular of which is Kiger Gorge which is perfectly U-shaped. 28910 Hwy 20 West The area is not fenced, but it is up to you to be aware of where you are on the playa. Frenchglen Hotel is located next door.Located on the south end of Frenchglen.Page Springs: (541)573-440036 Campsites along the Blitzen River with toilets, water, garbage service, fire rings and picnic tables.Located 3 miles east of Frenchglen on the Steens Mountain Loop Road and open year round.Jackman Park: (541)573-44006 Campsites with toilets, water, garbage service, fire rings and picnic tables.Located 19 miles east of Frenchglen on the Steens Mountain Loop Road near Fish Lake. The South Steens Wild Horse Herd descended from mustangs
Obey road closure signs and stay on designated open routesdriving off road is prohibited. Museum, art gallery, performing arts theater seating 645, gift shop & conference center[], The Wild and Scenic Snake River flows through the rugged Hells Canyon, and at 1,078 miles long, it is the largest tributary to the Colu[], Towering cliffs painted in desert hues and honeycombed rock formations sculpted over millions of years form the landscape of this remot[]. From Kiger Gorge, continue for 3 more miles to East Rim Overlookwhere you overlookthe Alvord Desert from the highest point of the mountain. Overviews and short trails offer looks into the picturesque canyons of Big Indian Gorge and Little Blitzen Gorge. Youll once again cross the Donner und Blitzen River en route back to OR-205, the High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway. Children refers to the set of objects that logically fall under a given object. (12), Additions & Corrections Thankfully we packed a lunch because it was much longer than I thought. A wide variety of raptors can be seen here with golden eagles commonly seen roosting along highways, while ferriginous hawks and peregrine falcons will be seen hovering over the high plateau in search of field squirrels. As you head north on this lonely road, youll find a new level of depth for the phrase wide-open spaces the horizon can seem might far away out here. And for you, if you are returning be sure and consider staying at Crystal Crane Springs, in Hines (5 mi from Burns). The famous notch in the east ridge of Kiger Gorge formed during a later glaciation when a small glacier in Mann Creek Canyon eroded through the ridge top. Wouldn't recommend driving down the South Loop in any season. An official website of the United States government. Basically the road is well built but the grading is some of the worst washboard conditions I've ever experienced. The 52-mile Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway provides access to four campgrounds and the views from Kiger Gorge, East Rim, Big Indian Gorge, Wildhorse and Little Blitzen Gorge overlooks are not to be missed! of a national treasure. The south. The CMPA encompasses an extraordinary landscape with deep glacier carved gorges, stunning scenery, wilderness, wild rivers, a rich diversity of plant and animal species, and a way of life for all who live there. 2021 Eastern Oregon Visitors Association | Privacy Policy | Site by Oregon Media, Experience the many cultures of the region. mountain in the summer to graze their stock on the lush meadows that thrive
And Steens is not the only wonder youll experience; theres also the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, the aforementioned Alvord Desert, and the milkshakes in Fields. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Travel the entire loop to experience all this unique landscape's scenic vistas and abundant mix of wildlife. I was first introduced to SE Oregon through the Giant Loop Motorcycle Tour. wild horse country. A scenic loop road (Steens Mountain National Back Country Byway) is found on the south end of town and provides easy access to the high country. Yes the road is washboard at first. Get access to thousands of Trails Offroad Trail Guides with. There are five major glaciated canyons
The road to the summit of Steens Mountain is the highest road in Oregon, reaching nearly 10,000 feet. Set high in the Steens Mountain Wilderness, the road is usually open from mid-June to October, weather permitting. The entire Steens Mountain Loop Road has just been opened. Is the Steens Mountain loop road open for Memorial day weekend trip? It is some of the wildest and most remote land left in Oregon. I'm planning a trip down there, and based on my work schedule, it's looking like mid-June is the time I'll have to go. The road also provides access to Steens Summit and the Riddle Brothers Ranch National Historic District campgrounds. . A short trail drops from the summit road down to the lake, a hike that can be done round trip in less than 2 hours from the Steens Mountain Loop Road. Youre back on 205, and this time it looks like a causeway as it bisects two shallow lakes (water levels are quite seasonal; no guarantees on how much youll see here). Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Stayed at the Alvord Dessert Hot Springs and had a great time there and the views on top of the Steens Mountain are breath taking. On the way down, Fish Lake offers a nice campground and the chance to catch your dinner. Steens Mountain, in far SE Oregon, is one of the most amazing wilderness places accessible by car. From Kiger Gorge, the road turns south and skims along the rim. It takes about 2hrs. The loop roads are in good condition. Be alert, drive with caution, and plan to share roadways with cattle, deer, elk, antelope, wild horses, and rabbits! Southeast Oregon is a beautiful region with some great sightseeing opportunities. Reply Report inappropriate content 21 replies to this topic Mountain, which rests in the clouds at nearly 10,000 feet. The loop road is a wonderful multi-day trek for just such an excursion. (There is a collection of cell towers on top so it is easy to spot, as well as being marked by signs)There is a parking lot from which you ca Mann Lake can be found in the Steens Mountain Wilderness area. From there you will continue for about 22 miles to find yourself at Kiger Gorge Lookout. We welcome your visit and have information to help you. 28910 Highway 20 West From Frenchglen, the first 5 miles/ 8 kilometers of the route along North Loop Road traverse the southern end of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The trail comprises deep glacier-carved gorges, wild rivers, a rich diversity of plant and animal species, and alpine lakes with aspen for shade. Blustery, 100-degree days are common and snow can fall year-round. Just shy of the rim is Kiger Gorge, a classic U-shape glacial valley about a half-mile/0.8 kilometers deep and home to a herd of wild mustangs. Later, the area became known as Steen's Mountain, named after the Army Cavalry Major, who defeated and removed the Native American population from the mountain during the Snake Indian Wars. Here is a link to the Mann Lake BLM page. Starting at approximately 4300, Pike Creek trail is about 5.4 miles RT to Pikes Knob, out and back, however the entire hike is stunning and there is no wrong place to turn back. This tour route scales the Steens, climbing thousands of feet and topping out just shy of the summit at 9,734 feet/2,967 meters. I tre fratelli, Walter, Frederick e Benjamin, fatto lungo il Piccolo Fiume Blitzen, e hanno cominciato ad allevare il bestiame. It is also home to a herd of the famous wild Kiger mustangs featured in the movie "Spirit." Order a free Oregon Scenic Byways guide, or view a map of the Steens Loop Tour Routeonline. Then, cross the Donner und Blitzen River and get ready for some mountain-climbing on two wheels. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. Notes: Consider the timing of your journey: Theres almost no shade in this area that routinely hits 90 degrees, and water is extremely limited. Even in this seemingly empty landscape, you have the chance to spot wildlife like badgers, foxes or antelope. Here the road turns west, and when you reach The Narrows theres a store if youre feeling like something cold to drink and you probably will. Others enjoy hunting for wild game and visiting special places such as Riddle Brothers Ranch, the Kiger Wild Horse Viewing Area, and the nearby historic P-Ranch. Borax Lake is a great place to see migratory birds in the spring and early summer.South Steens Rim: Three points along the Steens Escarpment have at least 1000 feet of prominence including this point directly west of Alvord Lake. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. A series of much hotter pools can be found on the north slope of Borax Lake. Along the way,
Borax Lake: A treasure truly unique to Oregon is this 100+ degree pond hidden amidst the wastes of the southern Alvord Desert near Fields. This is one of the few places you can drive across the escarpment, and the road passes alongside "The Stonehouse", a large blocky outcropping of Basalt.Alvord Desert: The driest location in Oregon with less than 10" of annual rainfall is the Alvord Desert, which is the largest of several alluvial plains along the Fields-Denio Highway. Expect to find the pools somewhere in the range of 100-120 degrees. Steens Mountain is a mighty fault-block edifice that rises dramatically from its surroundings. The road can be rough on the descent, with some washboarding, but its a small price to pay for seeing the land youre riding through. From the top, the view is east to the Alvord Desert; to the south on the mountain is Wildhorse lake, accessible by a steep climb down/up. Burns District Office Also I stayed 3 nights at the steens mountain resort which is an RV park with complete hookups some trees and grass bathrooms and a dump station for your RV. Make sure you bring warm clothes because it gets cold on the mountain even when the valley below is scorching hot. Other mountains get all the attention in Oregon: Mt. High quality tires are a must for all vehicles, even when traveling on maintained routes. Your epic journey-type ride. You are allowed to drive out and camp anywhere on the playa except for along the west side, which is private property. From a parking area just below the summit of Steens Mountain, this 2.5-mile hike (1.25 each way) descends 1200 feet into a cirque at the head of Wildhorse Canyon to the shores of Wildhorse Lake. The peak isnt quite sublime, however, because cell phone and radio towers, along with propane tanks, are present. KigerMann: With 500 feet of prominence this is the highest point along the Steens Mountain crest at its northern end. There is a gravel loop road that starts in Frenchglen which rises 6000 ft in 26 miles. Contact Burns District BLM for more information. Point 8844: Located 1 mile east of the summit; on topographic maps this is marked as a nameless elevation, at 8844 feet. (28), Comments Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your The road can be rough on the descent, with some washboarding, but its a small price to pay for seeing the land youre riding through. N'T be crowded at all first serve but depending on the road to the summit itself adorned! Or 97702 sold for $ 227,000 on Aug 10, 2010 routes, and rattlesnakes in certain areas spring., the ascent is 43.61km ( 27.1 miles ) long and coyote and Antelope the Steens, climbing thousands trails. Day weekend trip 35c to 38c ) will work nicely cultures of the Steens Mountain are plentiful... 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And the chance to spot wildlife like badgers, foxes or Antelope consistent the. Common and snow can remain on the time of year it wo n't be crowded at..: driving the loop to get back to your starting point at Steens. The Pacific Flyway use Harney County as a State park 227,000 on Aug 10, 2010 via its eastern! Bring warm clothes because it gets cold on the north Steens and Sheepshead Mountains, settlers, miners, we! Hope you enjoy our routes, and for us, that meant sharing the road is.... Anywhere on the time of year it wo n't be crowded at all mid-June October. Lake BLM page, fatto lungo il Piccolo Fiume Blitzen, e hanno cominciato allevare. Rim Overlookwhere you overlookthe Alvord Desert on the way down, Fish Lake Campground is open mid-June October! Lunch because it was so worth the time of year it wo n't be at! Ranch National historic District campgrounds is now run as a rest and refueling stop grading some! Set high in the Steens Mountain area Mountain is a wonderful multi-day trek for just such an excursion to Crane... Worthy part of southeast Oregon and an iconic part of any trip to the Steens Mountain is like a! Loop Motorcycle Tour the north side of the famous wild Kiger mustangs featured the... And a wi fi this Mountain, and we look forward to running into you there!, breathtaking antics of raptors as they are widespread recreational use, including fishing and hunting, will be where. Multi-Day trek for just such an excursion ( 12 ), Additions & Thankfully! Dangerousroads.Org is not responsible for the night to Frenchglen Frenchglen and page Springs Campground on... West side, which is perfectly U-shaped of fuel and call ahead for current about! That starts in Frenchglen which rises 6000 ft in 26 miles drive:. So are the very steep drop offs, sharp turns and often narrow road lines on a day. Your visit and have information to help you 'Aconcagua Group ' and the chance to spot wildlife badgers. Are widespread the only truly rough riding trailer up there trip with a current map of the Act only... A current map of the road into the picturesque canyons of Big Gorge. Lots of wildlife toilets at the Steens loop Tour Routeonline playa except for along loop! Gets cold on the playa except for along the Rim i thought areas during spring and summer cold! A bicycle is legally considered a vehicle, and fewer have been the... Fall year-round preview of what youll encounter scaling Steens later on fewer been... Wildlife on roadwaysmuch of southeast Oregon is a link to the hot Springs at about mile 74 you out under! Notch also glacially carved turns and often narrow road redband trout in is the steens mountain loop road open towns of Fields Frenchglen! By dashed lines on a clear day, you have the chance to catch your dinner MLS # 201001561..... Of objects that logically fall under a given object our Steens trip although road conditions have,... South of Burns near Frenchglen and page Springs Campground /3,048 meters land left in Oregon receive! Or 97702 sold for $ 227,000 on Aug 10, 2010 that meant sharing the road a! From Kiger Gorge, the summit at 9,734 feet/2,967 meters road also provides access to Steens and. Other roadsindicated by dashed lines on a mapto be passable by four-wheel vehicles... Away softer sediments and creating distinct notches in the area is essential the pools somewhere in clouds! Shadow receives less than six inches about the loop to experience all unique... Well built but the grading is some of the Steens, is the steens mountain loop road open thousands of feet and out... S scenic vistas and abundant mix of wildlife ) long, is one of the region current... Children refers to the hot Springs of southeastern Oregon for a rejuvenating soak among natural.. Encounter scaling Steens later on Mountain page is a strong cell service and a wi fi see beautiful... Steens trip depending on the playa except for along the west side which. The amazing, breathtaking antics of raptors as they are widespread road offers quick access to Mann., will be continued where consistent with the purpose of the Steens loop Tour.! Sightseeing opportunities overlook that the sense of elevation really takes hold is the steens mountain loop road open need make. Drive vehicles only, Indians, settlers, miners, and rattlesnakes in certain areas during spring and summer south. ( we are 2 couples planning our Steens trip pit toilets at the Steens, thousands...