Big Indian Gorge is an easy and spectacular hike. Beginning from south Steens Campground on the Steens Mountain Loop Road, this route follows an old jeep track turned hiking trail into the mouth of Big Indian Gorge. Once into the gorge evidence of the jeep track mostly vanishes and you are left to hike a gentle single-track. For Steens Mountain this is a very popular hike, yet the remoteness of the country means you will share the experience with few others. The flat-bottomed glacial valley provides excellent campsites along Indian Creek. Indian Creek is a reliable water source. Cattle grazing in the gorge ended in October 2000, with the establishment of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act (CMPA). Shade is provided by cottonwoods, aspens and willows.

The route shown above is about eight miles long and climbs some 1900 feet with a resultant average grade of 7%. While we consider this an easy hike, it should be noted that the starting elevation is about 5300 feet and the ending elevation is near 7000 feet. These elevations can be difficult for some people and may require slow travel and acclimatization. The first nice campsite is about five miles from South Steens Campground.

It should be noted that Wilderness restrictions apply in this area. Group size is limited to no more than 12 people and groups should be camped out of sight and sound of each other. At least one quarter to half a mile spacing is recommended. Livestock is to be picketed no closer than 200 feet from a water source. 'Leave no Trace' principles apply.



Unless one climbs the headwall of Big Indian Gorge, this is a 'there and back again' route. Climbing the headwall permits you to extend your exploration to the rest of the mountain, however, this is an extremely steep ascent. There is a user 'trail' that begins near the mouth of a small stream descending the northeast portion of the headwall. This route is brushy in places and steep, with poor footing. It rises at a 35% grade, climbing over 1700 vertical feet in barely a mile.

A recent guidebook describes a route that climbs out of gorge on via the southern headwall. There are many hazards on this climb; it can be perilous. Ascending it successfully would require expertly trained, experienced llamas, very experienced handlers and steady nerves on everyone's part. Recently, a wrong turn on it required helicopter rescue of otherwise intrepid young hikers.

Routes out of the gorge other than the one suggested above are NOT RECOMMENDED.