5 Oregon Scenic Routes Around the Steens Mountains Worth Exploring for Road Trip
If you’re looking for some beautiful drives in Oregon that offer a mix of nature, wildlife, and unique landscapes, the areas around Steens Mountain have plenty to offer. These scenic routes show off rugged mountain views, open desert spaces, and peaceful spots that feel far from the everyday.
Exploring the routes around Steens Mountain gives you a chance to experience some of Oregon’s best-kept natural treasures without too much fuss. Whether you want a short drive or a longer adventure, these roads offer something for every type of traveler who loves the outdoors.
Table of Contents
- Steens Loop Tour Route – a 59-mile scenic drive starting from Frenchglen that climbs Steens Mountain
- East Rim Overlook Drive – offers stunning views of the Alvord Desert and canyon vistas
- Back Country Byway – a rugged route through diverse landscapes and remote wilderness
- Alvord Desert Access Road – drive to this unique salty playa for surreal desert views
- Hot Springs Detours – include stops at nearby natural hot springs along your loop
Steens Loop Tour Route – a 59-mile scenic drive starting from Frenchglen that climbs Steens Mountain
You’ll start your drive at Frenchglen, a tiny historic town that marks the beginning of the Steens Loop Tour Route. This 59-mile loop climbs nearly 10,000 feet, offering some of Oregon’s best high-elevation views.
The road is mostly gravel but well maintained, winding through vast desert landscapes and steep mountain slopes. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the wildlife and panoramic vistas.
Be ready for a scenic adventure as you drive one of Oregon’s highest roads, reaching stunning viewpoints like the Kiger Gorge Lookout. This route is ideal if you want a mix of rugged beauty and peaceful isolation.
For more details, check out the Steens Loop Tour Route.
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East Rim Overlook Drive – offers stunning views of the Alvord Desert and canyon vistas
When you take the East Rim Overlook Drive, expect some incredible views of the Alvord Desert below. The overlook sits near Steens Mountain’s summit, giving you a chance to see a huge stretch of high desert and deep canyons.
The drive is part of the Steens Mountain Loop Road, a 66-mile route that lets you spot wildlife like bighorn sheep and various birds of prey. Bring warm clothes because the temperature can drop quickly, even if it’s hot down in the valley.
You can easily access the overlook by car and enjoy a short hike to the best viewpoints. It’s a great spot to stop, stretch your legs, and soak in the vast landscape. For more details, check out this East Rim Overlook guide.
Back Country Byway – a rugged route through diverse landscapes and remote wilderness
If you’re up for some adventure, the Back Country Byway near Steens Mountain is a perfect choice. You’ll drive through quiet, rugged terrain that changes from sagebrush plains to rocky hills.
This route is pretty remote, so you’ll want to be ready with supplies and a reliable vehicle. The views here are natural and unspoiled, giving you a real sense of solitude.
Along the way, you might spot wildlife or catch a sunset over vast open spaces. It’s a quiet escape where the landscape tells its own story. Check out more details on the Steens Mountain Back Country Byway.
Alvord Desert Access Road – drive to this unique salty playa for surreal desert views
If you’re looking to explore a truly unique landscape, the Alvord Desert Access Road is your way in. The road is a gravel path that takes you deep into the desert, where a vast, flat, salty playa stretches for miles.
You can start from Fields-Denio Road, driving about 41 miles south from Highway 76. The drive itself offers some quiet, rugged desert vibes. Once there, you’ll get surreal views of the cracked lakebed with Steens Mountain towering nearby.
It’s a perfect spot for camping or just soaking in the calm desert atmosphere. Just be ready for dusty roads and isolated surroundings. For more tips on planning your trip, see this guide to Alvord Desert.
Hot Springs Detours – include stops at nearby natural hot springs along your loop
If you’re cruising around the Steens Mountains, make time for a soak in some nearby natural hot springs. These spots offer a relaxing break after a day of hiking or driving.
East of the Steens, you’ll find a few quiet springs tucked in volcanic landscapes. Soaking here lets you enjoy the region’s unique geology firsthand.
Check out a map of Oregon hot springs to find options close to your route. Whether you want rustic pools or easy-access spots, there are several worth stopping for.
