Steens Mountains

Steens Mt Alpine Loop Scenic Drive

Steens Mountain is a 30 mile long fault scarp that forms an alpine island above the high desert of southeastern Oregon. Other than high elevation aspen groves and juniper on the lower slopes, the mountain lacks forest cover, and hikers can travel almost anywhere. Most of the summit ridge is BLM land, but there are areas in private ownership, especially in Kiger Gorge. The mountain's spectacular glacial gorges contain beautiful trout streams that are fed by snowbanks which often last through the summer.

During the days there are many fun activities that can keep you busy ranging from fishing on the Blitzen River to watching the magnficent Kiger Mustangs.

• Drive the 66-mile Steens Mountain Loop Road. Experience the 8 major vegetation zones of the Great Basin as you gradually climb to the near 10,000-foot summit.
• Gaze down at the glacial waters of Wild Horse Lake where the endangered Lahonton Cutthroat trout thrive. Glass the rocky crags for the elusive Bighorn.
• View four major glacial gorges carved deeply into the mountain centuries ago.
• Experience the thrill of hooking a native Red Band trout from the pristine waters of the Donner und Blitzen River.
• Hike the challenging High Desert Trail, climb Pike Creek on the East Face, or walk leisurely down the East Canal.
• Frolic in the cool clean water of the Blitzen River on a warm summer's day.
• Surround yourself in winter's solitude. See the Steens as few have, as you cross-country ski, snow mobile, or snow shoe through the aspen and sub alpine life zones of the mountain.
• Photograph the most notable wild horse herd the "Kiger Mustangs" in their natural environment. See Oregon's largest and most colorful wild horse herd the "South Steens Paint and Pintos".