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Spectacular Steens Mountain rises one mile above the Alvord Desert and stretches more than 30 miles long. It was created when a massive fault in the earth shifted. Later glaciers gouged U-shaped gorges into the earth's surface.
This spectacular region offers scenic gorges, a variety of weather patterns, wildflowers, wildlife and alpine lakes.
The byway creates a loop that takes in part of Hwy. 205. The rugged, rocky road is best-suited for high-clearance vehicles; passenger cars, RVs and vehicles pulling trailers should not attempt the Rooster Comb area between the East Rim and South Steens Campground on the southern byway section.
Four developed campgrounds are adjacent to the byway, Page Springs, Fish Lake, South Steens and Jackman Park.
Wildlife abounds in the area. Falcons, hawks and eagles ride the thermal updrafts on the east face of Steens and pronghorn antelope, capable of 50 mph, roam the plains.
Wild horses are often seen from the southern reaches of the byway.
Outdoor Activities |
Small glaciers created Wildhorse Lake and other small valleys on Steens Mountain.
Kiger Gorge is one of the half-mile-deep gorges on Steens Mountain.
Visit desolate homesteads, such as the P-Ranch in Blitzen Valley, on the adjacent Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
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