スティーンズ山の天然記念物・トップ10

Borax Hot Springs is a unique geological phenomenon, featuring geothermal springs that range in temperature from 104 to 300°F and are part of an active fault line. Due to its boiling temperature, Borax Hot Springs is NOT suitable for soaking! The nearby 10-acre Borax Lake, created by these powerful hot springs, is owned by The Nature Conservancy and contains high concentrations of sodium borate, arsenic, and lead, making it an ecologically sensitive area that supports unique microbes and the endangered Borax Lake chub.

Follow a short side trail to an information board and further along the ridge for a fantastic view of the valley and the Little Blitzen River rushing at the bottom.

This little reservoir had some nice water in June 2024. If you need some, better get it from here than from Riddle Reservoir which is very shallow and muddy to get to.

Big Springs is a reliable water source in this area. It is a small, but cool and clear stream that you can scoop. If you are hiking the Oregon Desert Trail (which is very likely if you made it here), continue east to find a faint backcountry road that you can follow.

Hiking down from the high plateau into the valley treats you with spectacular views of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and the tiny town of Frenchglen nestled at the base of the majestic Steens Mountain.

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.

Located at an elevation of 4,340 feet, Red Bomb Crater ist a pyroclastic cone that is part of the Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area.

The bursts of colors are coming from monkeyflower, buckwheat, and lupine, especially in spring and early summer!