The Alvord Desert: Hidden Gem of The Beaver State
Undoubtedly, Oregon is a place of scenic grandeur, boasting everything from wild coastlines and verdant vineyards to towering mountains and crystalline waterfalls. However, there’s one mesmerizing gem that often escapes the traveler’s eye – The Alvord Desert. This glittering jewel in Oregon’s crown offers a stark contrast to the well-loved, rain-soaked trails of the Columbia Gorge, and the ever-popular Crater Lake, it’s Oregon’s very own outback, dry, desolate, but undeniably dreamy.
Where the Pavement Ends, Adventure Begins
Nestled in the rain shadow of the Steens Mountain range, the Alvord Desert is one of those places that makes Oregon stand apart. It’s a wide-open expanse, roughly 12 by 7 miles of shimmering playa that was once the lakebed of ancient Lake Alvord. It’s not an easy trek to go east of Burns off Highway 78, drive south past Fields, and hang a right at the big, unassuming sign that reads “Alvord Desert,” but trust me, it’s worth every mile.
While part of the allure is undoubtedly the Alvord Desert’s natural beauty, the journey to it is also part of the charm. As you pass through Burns, you may want to stop off at the local Lee’s and grab some groceries or better yet, enjoy a hearty meal at the Rhojo Roadhouse, a local favorite for road trippers.
Alvord’s Allure: More Than Meets the Eye
Uniquely devoid of any vegetation or signs of Oregon’s notoriously unpredictable weather, the vast salt flat is a sight to behold. During the dry months, it transforms into a dry, cracked piece of art; so pristine, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve landed on another planet.
Beyond its surreal beauty, the desert offers some fantastic recreational opportunities. You might see someone kite-boarding across the playa, powered by the desert’s infamously gusty winds, or perhaps, catch the sight of a land yacht zooming along at top speed. It’s a spot relished by plenty of other adventurous souls, from ATV enthusiasts to amateur astronomers who come to enjoy Oregon’s clearest night skies.
Take a Detour, It’s Worth It
Just five miles east of the Alvord Desert, you’ll find the Alvord Hot Springs. Yes, right here in the high desert you’ll find temperatures steamy enough to soothe highway-weary muscles. The hot springs are a privately owned oasis, a must-visit for anyone traversing through this barren, alien landscape. Remember to pay the small fee at the rustic yet inviting office, a token sum asking for appreciation of this unique and well-maintained stop.
Should you wish to explore further, the Steens Mountain Loop Road – one of the highest roads in Oregon –offers breathtaking views of the desert below. Be warned though, it’s not a trip for the faint-hearted – going from sea level to nearly a mile up in the sky puts a whole new spin on “taking the high road.”
Discover Treasures of the Alvord: Pronghorn Antelopes and More
Not a sight you come across every day, the elusive and beautiful pronghorn antelope call this unforgiving landscape home. Quite akin to people from Oregon – tenacious, resilient, and no stranger to the harsh realities of Alvord winters. If you’re stealthy and lucky, you might even spot a herd from afar while exploring the sagebrush country surrounding the desert.
Embrace the Extravagance of the Alvord
It’s true what they say, “You don’t know Oregon until you’ve seen the Alvord.” Far from the bustling cafés of Portland or kayaking chatter of the Willamette River, the Alvord Desert presents an experience like no other. It’s the eerie silence during a desert windstorm, campfires against a canvas of stars, and the endless horizon that take you back to Oregon’s raw, wild roots.
Experiencing the Alvord Desert is like peeling back the many layers of an onion, each offering more depth and flavor than the last. It’s not every day that you’re able to step into a scene usually reserved for sci-fi films and surreal artwork. It’s a landscape that floods your senses, making you feel every inch the explorer of this vast and beautiful state.
Of course, Alvord is a testament to Oregon’s opposing extremes; a place that reminds us how incredibly diverse our beautiful Beaver State is. From the glorious, verdant valleys of Willamette to the snowy peaks of Mount Hood and the isolated splendor of the Alvord Desert – it truly is an embodiment of our beloved motto, “She flies with her own wings.”
So, if the open road is calling, why not dust off your boots, pack up your rig, and head off on an unforgettable adventure to Oregon’s best-kept secret? You won’t just leave with a camera roll filled with awe-inspiring photos but a heart full of great stories, memories, and a broader perspective of what makes our state not only breathtaking but deeply captivating. Happy exploring, folks!