Lakeview to Steens Mountain Back Country Byway

The Lakeview to Steens Back Country Byway traverses the Warner Mountains, Warner Valley, Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge and a broad expanse of high desert country typical of southeastern Oregon. The Warner Valley, including the Warner Wetlands, provide the opportunity to view a variety of waterfowl and wildlife. This area has been designated as an Area of Environmental Concern. The primary emphasis is on the protection of waterfowl habitat, but the area supports multiple-use management—grazing in upland areas, archaeological values and recreational opportunities for hunting, fishing, birdwatching and sightseeing. Planned developments will provide access without impacting valuable resources and facilitate use by disabled visitors.

The lakes in the wetlands are truly unique. The lunate sand dunes which have formed along the northern boundaries of these lakes result from dramatic fluctuations of wet and dry cycles. The only other example of a lake complex with this combination of geologic and climatic features is in South Africa. Hart Mountain, a spectacular geologic escarpment and National Antelope Refuge, provides opportunities to view pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mule deer, golden eagles, prairie falcons, and a variety of other wildlife. East of Hart Mountain, the traveler is afforded spectacular views of the high desert and the distant Steens Mountain. A wide variety of primitive recreational opportunities are found on the refuge. Camping and hiking are permitted as well as hunting and fishing with permits.

A winding dirt road leads from the refuge headquarters heads south about 18 miles. Most roads on the refuge are primitive and caution is advised. Although the byway consists of all-weather roads, severe storms in the winter months often result in brief periods of closure or adverse driving conditions.