Plan A Trip: Oregon Desert Trail

Oregon Desert Trail

Are you ready to experience the most remarkable natural areas in Oregon’s high desert? Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full 750-mile thru-hike, the resources you’ll find here can help you navigate the Oregon Desert Trail route and safely travel through the high desert.

Oregon Natural Desert Association created the Oregon Desert Trail guidebook to prepare desert recreationalists for their time on the ODT. We recommend downloading the guidebook as the first step in planning a trip. The guidebook is extensive because the rigors of some parts of this route require individuals considering a trip to be exceptionally well prepared.

Remember, conditions on the ground in Oregon’s high desert can change rapidly. This guidebook is an overview, and it does not represent current conditions. It is always important to view weather forecasts, contact public land managers and check agency websites for updates and essential information before you head out.

listen

Western Meadowlark Dawn Chorus

Western Meadowlark Dawn Chorus

voices

Ryan “Dirtmonger” Sylva, ODT thru-hiker 2017

Ryan “Dirtmonger” Sylva, ODT thru-hiker 2017

“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.”

watch

Sage Steppes

Sage Steppes

The Oregon Desert Trail Guidebook

This free guidebook provides a comprehensive introduction to the ODT and contains helpful “know before you go” information about the route. Our guide includes detailed region and section-by-section information, overview maps, water caching resources, and links to more detailed maps and GPS data.

This guidebook also includes information about the public lands the route traverses and how you can get involved in efforts to conserve these exceptional landscapes.

Download

Oregon Desert Trail Map

More Trip Planning Resources

Whether you are looking to go out for a day hike, enjoy a multi-day trip or attempt a complete thru-hike, we’ve gotten you started with initial resources. All sections of the trail can be explored on foot, and some sections can be traveled on horseback, by boat, by bike, or on skis.

Route Ideas

Stories from the Trail

Read stories about the ODT from individuals who have already experienced the route.

More Information

Safety Tips

Following these suggestions will help you travel safely through the high desert of eastern Oregon and enjoy fragile places responsibly. Desert Safety Tips: Drink plenty of water. Eastern Oregon is […]

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Oregon Desert Trail

The ODT showcases the most spectacular natural areas of the less-traveled, eastern side of the state. Learn more about the trail, route development and how it relates to conservation.

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