Discover the Majestic Beauty of Steens Mountain

Getting There

• Car

  To reach Steens Mountain from the nearest major city, Bend, Oregon, start by getting onto US-20 E from Bend. Follow US-20 E for approximately 100 miles until you reach the junction with US-395 S. Take US-395 S towards Burns. Continue on US-395 S for about 50 miles, then take a left onto OR-78 E. After about 30 miles, turn right onto Steens Mountain Road. Follow Steens Mountain Road for approximately 25 miles, keeping in mind that this road can be unpaved and winding. You will end up at the Steens Mountain summit area. Note that a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the final stretch.

• Public Transportation

  Public transportation options to Steens Mountain are limited. The nearest bus service is from Burns, Oregon, which is served by the Eastern Oregon Transit. From Burns, your best option is to rent a car or arrange a taxi service to take you to Steens Mountain. The distance is about 60 miles from Burns to the base of the mountain. As of now, public transit does not directly reach Steens Mountain, so planning for a car rental is advisable.

• Hiking/Camping

  If you are already within the area and prefer an adventure, consider hiking or camping at one of the nearby sites. From the base of Steens Mountain, there are several trails that lead to the summit. Ensure you have appropriate gear, as the elevation can lead to sudden weather changes. If camping, check for any required permits or fees at the Bureau of Land Management site before heading out.

• Costs

  While there are no entry fees for Steens Mountain itself, if you choose to rent a vehicle, costs will vary based on the rental company and duration. Expect to pay around $50 to $100 per day for a standard rental car. Additionally, if using public transport, fares can range from $10 to $30 depending on the route and service.