スティーンズ山周辺のアトラクション＆必見スポット - トップ20

Below the summit of Steens Mountain you can descend over some fairly steep switchbacks to Wildhorse Lake, one of the very few alpine lakes in the Oregon Desert. Keep in mind that the upper section of the trail might be covered under snow way into June. Another option to go down to the lake is by hiking to the radio tower on top of Steens Mountain and find a way down this less sketchy slope. There is a trail register at the top of the Wildhorse Lake Trail.

At this junction on Steens Mountain Loop Road you can decide if you want to go all the way to the top of Steens Mountain (which is a dead end) or continue along the loop. A great short sidetrip leads to East Rim Overlook with spectacular views of the Alvord Desert and the steep rugged East side of Steens Mountain.

Riddle Reservoir is pretty shallow and hard to get to since the ground is very soft and muddy. Not the easiest way to collect water. However, there might be a small stream flowing from the mountain that you can use as a water source. Always treat that water, though! This is also an excellent spot to watch for wildlife. There were four pronghorns when we arrived there and plenty of water fowl.

The Blitzen River Trail follow the meandering Blitzen River through a spectacular gorge. You can walk as far as Fish Creek on a path that is sometimes obvious and sometimes needs a little bit more of your attention to find it. There are some idyllic camp spots along the trail. It can be used as an alternate to the original Oregon Desert Trail that leads along the other side of the river, but needs you to ford it one time. If the water is too high (mostly in springtime), better take this lovely option.

The Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort has cabins and you can pitch your tent. It provides showers and laundry, but there is only a small store with basic items. So better get your supplies in Frenchglen. You can find more information here: www.steensmountainresort.com or call 541-493-2415. Hikers can send resupply packages, no need to call ahead. Label it as follows: Your name, C/O SMWR, 35678 Resort Lane, Frenchglen, OR 97736 - include ETA. MUST send via UPS!

Nowadays, a decendant of the Riddle Brothers is taking care of the old ranch and the buildings. She is super friendly and will answer your questions. The ranch is located along an alternate route of the Oregon Desert Trail that is recommended if the water level is too high to ford Little Blitzen River. And even if it isn't, the ranch is worth a detour! There is also a (trail) register at the main building.

South Steens Campground is located at the foot of Steens Mountain and offers 36 sites for family camping and an area with equestrian sites. You will find picnic tables and grills. Potable water is available at the well house (spigot outside). Fees for overnight camping start at 16 $ per site. You can find more information here: https://www.blm.gov/visit/south-steens-campground. The Oregon Desert Trail passes South Steens Campground and the trailheads for the Little Blitzen Trail and Big Indian Trail are located directly at the campground.

The view at East Rim Overlook is breathtaking. Far down below lies the Alvord Desert while dramatic cliff faces are snowcapped way into summer. Some information board provide facts on the natural landmarks and how the landscape developed. It can be very windy and chilly up here, so bring extra layers.