22. Guano Creek

Suggested Citation: Kerr, Andy. 2000. Oregon Desert Guide: 70 Hikes. Seattle: The Mountaineers Books. p. 138.

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What to Expect: A pleasant hike and swim in a desert canyon with running water and willow trees and perhaps seeing the Sheldon tui chub

Distance: 4 miles round trip

Elevation Range: 5,220-5,410 feet

Drinking Water: Yes

Best Times:  Spring, summer, fall

USGS 7.5' Maps: Alger Lake, Guano Lake

Oregon Map Starting Point: Adel

Drive east on Oregon 140 approximately 28 miles to an intersection with a stop sign (0.6 mile east of milepost 49). (Don't sucker for the sign to Guano Lake 1 mile west.) Drive northerly approximately 12 miles to the Shirk Ranch, keeping the Guano Valley and Guano Lake to your east and the low hills and rims to your west. North 0.8 mile from an intersection at some abandoned buildings is an unimproved way to the northwest. Park.

Begin hiking (Guano Lake quad) on the old way, which turns into a jeep trail (Alger Lake quad). Follow the jeep trail to the end and hike down into Guano Creek Canyon. Hike down the creek until intersecting a jeep trail. Return as you came.