Author: Renee Patrick | Published: August, 2024 | Category: Deep Dive
Finding conservation inspiration over 750 miles of high desert trail
Hiking the 750-mile Oregon Desert Trail is not just an adventure; it’s a journey through some of the most unique and diverse landscapes in the United States. We checked in with several hikers who have spent considerable time in the high desert to get their perspectives on what they learned while hiking this unique and rewarding route.
The Importance of Public Lands: Leave It Better
Public lands are a shared treasure, available to be enjoyed by all. The multiple-use mandate that guides public land management becomes clear as hikers spend weeks hiking through landscapes that are loved and used by many. This year, thru-hiker Sarah Haggerty commented, “It is crucial that all users of public lands—whether hikers, bikers or ranchers—practice responsible stewardship. The principle of Leave No Trace should be universally applied to ensure that these lands remain pristine for future generations.”
The trail also serves as a platform for dialogue between diverse groups. The interactions that hikers have with others along the route often lead to meaningful discussions about how best to care for the land, highlighting the shared role we all have in the stewardship of these places. Ryan Sylva, a 2017 ODT thru-hiker, reflected: “To me, it’s a thru-hike in an isolated place that promotes a conversation in land management, ethics, and usage. Hiking across a vast and remote landscape and having a random and chance encounter with cowboys and hunters to discuss how ‘all of us’ should treat the land, how we all have a responsibility, no matter our political leanings, really showed me the pulse of the people in rural areas, especially here out west.”
Understanding Land Management and Conservation
The Oregon Desert Trail provides a chance to learn about the importance of sagebrush ecosystems and they’re stewardship. Lindsay Malone, a 2019 ODT hiker, captured this sentiment: “I love how ONDA has taken the time to succinctly explain the regional land management players and conservation options for the places the route travels.”
A 2018 ODT thru-hiker, Danny Archibald, also shared: “I am certainly inspired by the conversations, observations, and thoughts I had on this walk to pursue land management negotiations in hopes of protecting this amazing desert as best can be. The creation of a trail by a conservation organization is a brilliant way to inspire individuals, and create opportunities for extremely positive conversations across the route.”
Flora and Fauna of the Oregon Desert
Oregon’s high desert is home to a rich array of wildlife and plant species. Sarah and fellow 2024 thru-hiker Carola Keßler shared some of their numerous wildlife experiences: “Our encounters ranged from the mundane to the extraordinary: we saw a bear and spotted marmots, were buzzed by nighthawks, and even had a memorable run-in with a feisty badger. The diversity of flora was equally impressive, with sagebrush and juniper dominating the landscape, providing much-needed shade and shelter. The resilience of these species in such a harsh environment is a testament to the adaptability of nature.”
The Role of Conservation in Outdoor Recreation
Thru-hiking the ODT fosters a deep connection with the land. This connection is crucial in cultivating a sense of responsibility toward its preservation. As Lindsay eloquently stated: “I know in my heart when you’ve spent time walking across a landscape that you are more likely to make the time to show up for and advocate for the conservation of a place you love.” The ODT not only challenges hikers physically but also inspires them to take action.
And it works! Whitney LaRuffa, a 2018 ODT thru-hiker, commented: “The time I spent in the Owyhee was some of my favorite on the trip, and as a result, I would like to get involved in some way to help protect this area for future generations.” For a glimpse into how Whitney has turned his hike into action, read more in this blog post.
The Challenges and Rewards of the ODT
“The Oregon Desert Trail is one of my most impressive and hardest-earned adventures,” Carola explained. “Although [Sarah and I] are both experienced long-distance hikers with different trails and countries under our feet, we have learned a lot. Our appreciation for the small and—often taken for granted—things grew considerably. And so did our self-confidence regarding hiking cross country.”
Hiking the ODT is no easy feat. The trail demands respect, patience, and resilience. Every day presents new challenges, whether it’s navigating through dense sagebrush, finding a suitable campsite, or dealing with the extreme heat. One key lesson is the importance of good decision-making in such a remote environment, as Carola explained: “The margin for error is minimal!” Hikers must be prepared for the unexpected. Reliable water sources can be scarce, and the rugged terrain requires careful navigation. However, the beauty of the landscape and the sense of adventure make it all worthwhile.
What will you learn on your hike on the Oregon Desert Trail? You might explore the birdlife in the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, an important stopover on the Pacific Flyway. Or you might want to dive into understanding the unique geology of this basin and range landscape that everywhere exibits evidence of glaciers and volcanoes. Or maybe the trail is a great place to study public land management and desert ecosystems. Regardless of your interests, there is plenty to learn and appreciate in Oregon’s high desert. The Oregon Desert Trail is an immersive way to explore and understand this incredible landscape.
