The Alvord Desert in southeastern Oregon is a vast and remote destination known for its stunning dry lake bed, expansive desert landscape, and dramatic mountain views. For those seeking solitude and the thrill of off-roading, the Alvord Desert offers an unforgettable experience. With a range of trails that cut through sagebrush-covered hills and wide open desert, the Alvord is a perfect playground for adventure-seekers. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to explore the Alvord Desert, including trail details, recommended gear, and tips for a safe and memorable trip.
Table of contents
Alvord Desert Overview
Location: Southeastern Oregon, near Fields, Oregon
Coordinates: 42.5395° N, 118.5143° W
Trail Length: Varies, with a dry lakebed area spanning over 12 miles long and 7 miles wide
Elevation: Approximately 4,000 feet above sea level
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, depending on the route and weather conditions.Overview: The Alvord Desert sits at the base of the Steens Mountain, creating a striking contrast between the rugged mountain range and the flat, shimmering expanse of the desert floor. The most popular routes in the area include driving across the dry lakebed and exploring trails that run along the edge of the desert and up towards Steens Mountain. Due to its remote location, proper planning and preparation are essential. The best time to visit is from late spring through early fall, when temperatures are moderate and the lakebed is typically dry.
Trail Sections and Difficulty Ratings
1. Alvord Playa (Dry Lakebed) Route:
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: Approximately 12 miles across the plains
Terrain: Flat, dry lakebed, soft mud during wet conditions
Overview: The Alvord Playa is a dry lakebed that provides a unique opportunity for high-speed runs across its flat, hard-packed surface. When dry, the playa offers an easy route that is accessible to most vehicles, but it can become treacherous and impassable after rains.
Recommended Gear:
- All-Terrain Tires: 31-inch or larger for traction on the lakebed.
- GPS Device: Essential for navigation, as the flat terrain offers few natural landmarks.
- Tire Pressure Gauge: To air down tires for better grip if needed on softer surfaces.
Safety Tip: Avoid the lakebed if there has been recent rain—vehicles can get stuck in the soft mud beneath the surface.
Learn more about visiting the Alvord Desert and its surroundings: Alvord Desert Guide
2. Steens Mountain Loop:
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: Approximately 52 miles (loop)
Terrain: Rocky mountain roads, steep inclines, and narrow passes
Overview: The Steens Mountain Loop Road provides a challenging and scenic drive that ascends to over 9,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of the Alvord Desert below. The trail features narrow, rocky paths that require careful navigation, especially near the summit.
Recommended Gear:
- Winch: A reliable winch like the Warn 97720 12,000 lb winch for self-recovery on steep or rocky sections.
- Skid Plates: To protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from rocks.
- Cold Weather Gear: Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, even in summer.
For information on Steens Mountain, check out: Steens Mountain Guide
3. East Rim Overlook Trail:
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: Approximately 10 miles round trip
Terrain: Rocky trails, narrow paths, steep drops
Overview: This trail offers stunning views of the Alvord Desert and surrounding areas from the East Rim Overlook on Steens Mountain. It is a moderate trail with rocky sections that require a high-clearance vehicle. The views of the dried-up land below are unmatched, making it a wonderful spot for photography.
Recommended Gear:
- High-Lift Jack: Useful for changing tires or helping with minor recoveries.
- Two-Way Radios: For communication with other vehicles in remote areas without cell service.
Extra Water: Essential for hydration in this arid environment.
For detailed hiking and driving routes, visit: Steens Mountain Recreation
Essential Tips for the Alvord Desert
- Check Weather Conditions: Rain can turn parts of the desert, especially the playa, into a muddy trap.
- Bring Extra Fuel: The nearest gas stations are in Fields and Burns, Oregon, both of which are far from the desert.
Pack Plenty of Water and Food: The remote location means that you must be self-sufficient during your visit.
For more tips on desert travel and preparation, visit: Desert Travel Tips
Alvord Desert, Oregon—Summary
In summary, the Alvord Desert offers a unique off-road experience, blending wide-open spaces with dramatic mountain views. Whether you’re speeding across the dry lakebed or navigating the rocky trails of Steens Mountain, the desert demands preparation and proper gear. Remember to check weather conditions, carry extra fuel and water, and ensure your vehicle is equipped with all-terrain tires and recovery gear. With the right planning, the Alvord Desert promises an unforgettable adventure in Oregon’s remote wilderness.