East Steens Tour Route

This 143-Mile-Tour skirts along the escarpment of Steens Mountain, a topographic wonder. After passing the sagebrush covered Sheepshed Mountains to the east, you come to a series of small lakes that attract a variety of animal life. Sore travelers will find sweet solace at Alvord Hot Springs. The Tour Route ends in the small community of Fields, where the café is rumored to serve some of the best hamburgers and milkshakes in Southeast Oregon.

• Distance:  143 miles.
• Starting Point:  Burns

• Minimum Driving Time:  5-7 hours (There are no services available along the way so be sure to gas up in Burns or Fields).
• Best Time to Drive:  Spring through fall- but enjoyable year round.

1. Setting the Stage

There is a number of hot springs near the town of Crane, and the Diamond Loop Tour Route can be reached by taking a detour onto Lava Beds Road.

2. In the Shadow of Steens Mountains

Just off of East Steens Road, you will come to a series of small lakes that attract a variety of animal life. The Majestic Steens Mountain is the largest fault-block mountain in the northern Great Basin. Bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope can be spotted with binoculars, and Mann Lake can be enjoyed by fly fishermen everywhere.

3. Desert Hot Springs

The Alvord Desert playa is one of the largest playas in Oregon, and a popular venue for motorcycle and ATV riding, land sailing, glider flying and camping. The Alvord Hot Springs bubble up to 174 degrees, and can be enjoyed without a fee.