Refered to as the crown jewel of Oregon, Steens Mountain rises dramatically above the Alvord desert, a 12 mile long ancient lake bed.  The mountain itself, 20 miles long and over 9,000 feet high, is the most prominent feature in Southeast Oregon.  The winters cover it with snow, and wildflowers fill its valleys in the spring and summer.

Directions to the Steens

From Bend, take Hwy 20 east through the town of Burns.  At the major stop light in Burns turn onto 78 going east.  From 78 take Highway 205 towards Frenchglen (60 miles).  In Frenchglen, you can turn left onto the North Loop Road.  You can also go through Frenchglen staying on 205, and head towards Fields.  About 10 miles south of Frenchglen, there will be another turn off on the left for the South Steens Loop Road –however the sign says “Upper Blitzen River,” this is the turn.  There is also a big wooden sign on your right once you turn onto the gravel road.  It is a little over 20 miles to the South Steens Campground. 

The gravel roads are well maintained, but watch out for cows, deer and wild horses in the road!

Maps
BLM trail maps are available at the Burns, BLM office off HWY 20 just before the town of Burns. Topographic maps and BLM recreation maps can be purchased at Bend Mapping and Blueprint at 922 NW Bond Street in Bend. 

Restrictions and seasonal closure
The 60 mile Steens Mountain Loop Road is closed during the winter due to snow.  The closing and opening dates depend on the weather.  In 2006, the road opened after July 4th.  Also take note, that hunting on the mountain begins in late August.

The Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area is made up of private lands, wilderness study areas, wilderness and cow-free wilderness.  Management is varies in each of these areas.  Feel free to call ONDA at 541-330-2638 or BLM 541-573-4400 if you have any questions.

What activities are allowed in the Steens?
Hiking, horseback riding, and hunting are allowed in the Steens Mountain Wilderness under current BLM guidelines.  Motorized vehicles are not allowed off the loop road.  Mountain bike use is limited to designated routes.

Private Land
Please respect all private land bordering the Wilderness and Wilderness Study Areas and do not cross unless you have explicit permission from the landowner.  If you have a question about which lands are private, contact BLM at 541-573-4400.

Wilderness ethics
Steens Mountain  is a very special and fragile place. As its popularity as a hiking destination increases, the need for careful and responsible use becomes even more important. Be a leader in preserving your public lands!  Please observe the National Outdoor Leadership School’s guidelines and practices called Leave No Trace.