PROJECT DETAILS:  We will backpack in on an old jeep trail to our primitive camp near the Cold springs and Dry creek drainages.  Drinking water will be available at camp (from a spring, or packed in by BLM), but there are no other amenities.  There will be a 1-2 mile hike to the fence line each day.  The work is strenuous and it is often hot, but the trips are extremely rewarding.  There will be downtime to rest and explore. 

WHEN: Plan to arrive at the south Steens campground the night of July 5th.  We will hike in on the 6th and hike out on the 10th. 

BACKGROUND:  Steens Mountain Wilderness contains the nation's first cow-free wilderness.  Removing cows and ending grazing on this 100,000 acres of Steens Mountains has been key to the restoration of many of the headwaters and fragile desert meadows.  Equally important, the removal of fences allows for wildlife such as sage grouse and antelope to migrate safely without getting caught in the wire.  It also erases the remaining trace of humans, giving the wild back to wilderness.

COST: Free to members, $45 for non-members.

A FULL ITINERARY, INCLUDING WHAT TO BRING, WILL BE PROVIDED UPON REGISTRATION.