Oregon Hikers

We are planning on heading down to the Steens over an extended labor day weekend. No plans, no reservations, car camping! We have never been to the area before, any tips on things not to miss while we are in that part of the country?

Thanks
Guy.

Alvord desert and hot springs of course.

Wildhorse Lake. Then scramble to summit.

If you're ok to navigate cross-country, you'll find some gems that way

That's a great area to explore! There is the Malheur wildlife refuge, although this may be a quiet time of year. I enjoy the area of the Hart Mtn antelope refuge, which is a bit of a drive. (Everything out in that part of the state is a bit of a drive so be sure to keep a full gas tank.) For a long weekend you'll find lots of options along the Steens loop road. Keep an eye on the weather; there are some really wild thunderstorms that develop on Steens Mountain.