Steens Mountain Wilderness, Federal wilderness area in southeastern Oregon, United States.
Steens Mountain Wilderness is a protected area in southeastern Oregon that features dramatic eastern cliffs dropping steeply and gentler slopes descending westward. The terrain includes canyons, ridges, and river valleys that support diverse plant and animal life across changing elevations.
Congress officially designated this area as wilderness in 2000, protecting over 98,000 acres from livestock grazing. The mountain formation itself took shape millions of years ago through geological uplift and was later carved by glaciers.
The mountain holds significance for outdoor enthusiasts who explore its diverse landscapes through hiking, camping, wildlife observation, and seasonal recreational activities.
Visitors can access camping areas and parking at several locations along the scenic drive that loops through the region. The best time to visit is during warmer months when roads and trails are most accessible.
This area contains North America's largest fault-block mountain formation, shaped by a single massive geological fault. This distinctive geology makes it a notable location for those studying mountain formation.
Location: Oregon
GPS coordinates: 42.66660,-118.75100
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42
Oregon offers a notable diversity of geological formations and natural landscapes ranging from the Pacific coastline to the volcanic plateaus of the eastern portion of the state. The Cascade Range dominates western Oregon with dense forests, waterfalls, and thermal springs, while the dry east features desert areas, deep canyons, and extinct volcanic cones. The rugged coastline extends for 363 miles (584 km) and displays rock arches, historic lighthouses, and protected coastal sections. The region's geological history includes volcanic activity, lava flows, and rock layers dating back millions of years. The collection includes natural hot springs such as Bagby Hot Springs, waterfalls like Abiqua Falls and Toketee Falls, and volcanic areas including Newberry National Volcanic Monument and Fort Rock. Coastal sites range from Cape Meares Lighthouse to Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, while the interior presents locations such as the Painted Hills, the Alvord Desert, and the Owyhee Canyonlands. Lost Lake provides views of Mount Hood, Waldo Lake is known for its clarity, and Wizard Island rises from Crater Lake. The Steens Mountain Wilderness reaches elevations exceeding 9,000 feet (2,743 m), and Hells Canyon forms one of the deepest gorges in North America. These sites represent the geological processes and natural systems that have shaped Oregon across geological time.
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