Abert Rim

Abert Rim is the largest exposed fault scarp in North America and, from the top, you will have a view of Lake Abert, Oregon’s most saline lake. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along this hike. A herd was introduced in 1974 to help perpetuate the species. Other wildlife you might see includes prairie falcons, golden eagles, great-horned owls, red-tailed hawks, deer, antelope, cougar, bobcat, coyotes, badger, lizards, snakes and songbirds.

Abert Rim can be difficult to access, but, for the determined and hardy, there is a cross-country option up the Juniper Creek drainage off of Highway 395. From the pullout, hike up the drainage, but be aware the last 300 feet involve some intense bushwacking through trees and climbing over boulders. This hike is not for the faint of heart. Once at the top, you are a short distance from the intersection with the Oregon Desert Trail route and the start of Section 9.

Notes and Advice:

• No restrooms or water access on site.
• Abert Rim and Lake Abert host great wildlife viewing, specifically diverse populations of migratory waterfowl.
• Wildflowers are abundant during early season.

From Lakeview, continue north on Highway 395 approximately 27 miles. Park on the side of Lake Abert near a wildlife viewing area sign along the west side of the highway.