28. Bridge Creek (High Steens Unit)

Suggested Citation: Kerr, Andy. 2000. Oregon Desert Guide: 70 Hikes. Seattle: The Mountaineers Books. p. 152.

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What to Expect: Deep and colorful canyons dissecting a broad plateau

Distance: 8- or 10.1- mile loop

Elevation Range: 4,200-5,040 feet

Drinking Water: Yes

Best Times: Spring, fall

USGS 7.5' Map: Page Springs

Oregon Map Starting Point: Frenchglen

Drive easterly 3 miles from OR 205 toward Page Springs Campground. After crossing the Donner and Blitzen turn north onto the East Canal Road (west of East Canal). If this refuge road is open, drive 2.2 miles and park. (If not, park and walk 2.2 miles to a point near the mouth of Bridge Creek.) Cross the canal (head gates provide dry-footed crossings) and hike into Bridge Creek Canyon. Fisherpeople and game trails exist for a while. At 3.4 miles into the canyon, a break in the south rim with a usually dry stream channel is your escape route to the rim. Other earlier escapes are possible if you get tired of hiking in the canyon (or over those very large fields of very large boulders). Set a course back to your vehicle.