The Secret’s Out: Discovering Oregon’s Alvord Desert
Have you ever found yourself on the lonely highway 205, way out past the Pueblo Mountains, and you see a sign that says “Alvord Desert”? That’s when you know you’ve discovered a treasured secret of Oregon. Most folks back in Portland are dreaming of Cannon Beach and the majestic Multnomah Falls when the word “Oregon” comes up. Don’t get this wrong, those are grand sites to behold, but if you’re an adventurous heart who appreciates the raw, untamed beauty of nature, then it’s time to venture a little further to the Alvord Desert – one of Oregon’s best-kept secrets.
Why Alvord Desert, of all places?
Located on the rain-shadow side of the Steens Mountains and stretching out for 12 miles, the Alvord Desert is where the pavement ends and the wild, open wonder begins. For a state more associated with artsy cafes, lush greenery, and the endless stretches of Douglas Firs, the Livingston Stones Boutique at the Alvord Desert presents a stark contrast – and a mesmerizing one at that. It’s here where you can truly absorb the powerful tranquility only possible in a sea of silence, under giant skies and above the crusty playa.
The Alvord Experience: A Taste of the Unexpected
Here in this captivating desert landscape, you can find hot springs, like Alvord Hot Springs and Mickey Hot Springs, where you can watch the sun sinking into endless horizons while you soak in water as warm and inviting as Oregonians themselves. Not to mention, the mirrored reflections on the desert floor after a rare desert storm is a sight that rivals even the most famous of Oregon’s waterfalls.
While you soak your feet and daydream, watch out for the desert fauna. With a little luck, you might spot a pronghorn antelope stinting across the desert or a sage grouse fluttering by!
The Fascination Doesn’t End There
The Alvord Desert isn’t just for soaking and soul contemplation; it’s a place for play too! Ever fancied land sailing? You heard it right. The barren expanse of the Alvord Desert is Oregon’s answer to anybody with quenchless wanderlust. This wind-swept playground lets visitors glide across the desert surface, nothing but the sound of the wind and the exhilarating rush of speed for company.
For those star-gazers among you, welcome to an astrologer’s paradise. Believe it or not, the desert’s remoteness and super-dry conditions lend themselves to some of the darkest skies in the nation. Pull up a blanket and gaze at the Milky Way, so vivid, it’s like a shimmering scarf draped across the night.
The Quirky Oasis: Fields Station Cafe
Having said all this, exploring the Alvord Desert may leave you a bit parched. Fret not, Oregonians always have a trick up their sleeves.
Don’t be surprised to find the most peculiar ecosystem on the edge of the desert at Fields Station Cafe. Fuel up on their legendary 1-pound burgers, a stack of pancakes big enough to feed a lumberjack, or the most popular desert dish of all-time – marionberry pie.
Explore Responsibly: Love the Land
Now, as an Oregon native, it’s important never to forget our responsibility towards these incredible places. Though distinctly different from the verdant hues of Portland’s Japanese Garden or the bustling Hawthorne district, the Alvord Desert is as close to our hearts as morning pancakes at Fat Albert’s.
Tread lightly, keep it clean and above all, respect the magic. This vast playground of stillness needs to remain a place where one can find solace far from city lights and close to the beating heart of Oregon’s wilderness.
Untamed Beauty Awaits You
So, whether you’ve relocated to Oregon from afar or are an old-timer like the Von Derahe’s of Brookings, it’s time to take a breath, a bit of a hike, or maybe a meditative soak in Oregon’s best-kept secret – the rich and mighty Alvord Desert.
What are you waiting for, folks? Time to grab your sturdy hiking boots, your thirst for the offbeat, and let the desert winds whisk you away to a part of Oregon you never knew existed. Rest assured, the Alvord Desert has the audacious power to leave you utterly bewitched, bewildered, and beaming with the joy of discovery.