Steens Mountain Kiger Gorge Overlook

This breathtaking overlook peers into Kiger Gorge, a textbook glacial valley that drops nearly 1,000 feet from the rim. The U-shaped canyon walls reveal layers of basalt and sedimentary rock, while wild horses often graze on the valley floor below. A short walk from the parking area leads to multiple viewpoints along the rim, each offering a different perspective of this geological masterpiece carved during the last ice age.

Access via the Steens Mountain Loop Road requires high-clearance vehicles and is typically open July through October depending on snow. The road climbs to 9,700 feet with steep grades and loose gravel. Weather can change rapidly at elevation, so pack layers and check conditions in Frenchglen before heading up.

Glacial gorge overlook on Oregon's highest peak.