Things to Do in Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area

The Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is a 31,902-acre (129.1 km²) high desert plateau located in Harney County, Oregon. It features diverse topography, including dramatic canyons and rolling grasslands. Elevations range from 5,100 feet (1,554 m) to 6,500 feet (1,981 m).

The primary outdoor activity in the Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area is hiking. The area offers various routes that allow exploration of its rugged high desert landscapes and unique geological formations. Hikers can experience diverse wildlife and serene viewsheds.

Popular hiking options include the Blitzen River Trail and the Little Blitzen River Trail. The Blitzen River Trail is a 10.8-mile (17.4 km) path accessible from Page Springs Campground, leading into the Donner und Blitzen River canyon. The Little Blitzen River Trail explores glacier-carved gorges, with options ranging from 8 to 20.4 miles (12.9 to 32.8 km).

Yes, a komoot guide is available for exploring the area. The guide Hiking in Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area provides detailed information on routes and experiences.

Key natural features include the Donner und Blitzen River Canyon, which is 100 to 200 feet deep, and glaciated canyons like the Little Blitzen River Gorge. The area also showcases the Steens Mountain Fault Block and diverse vegetation, from riparian zones to high desert uplands.

The Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area is home to more than 250 species of wildlife. Visitors may observe big game, mule deer, and various raptors. The Blitzen River also supports a wild, native redband trout population.

The WSA lies on the northwest side of the Steens Mountain-Pueblo Mountains fault block, featuring a gently west-tilted plateau. It is underlain by middle Miocene Steens Basalt, with thick basalt flows. Glaciated canyons, particularly in the Little Blitzen River Gorge, show U-shaped formations carved by ice age glaciers.

The Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area is a high desert plateau with elevations averaging 5,800 feet (1,768 m). Extreme elevations range from 5,100 feet (1,554 m) in the river bottom to 6,500 feet (1,981 m) in its southeastern corner.

The Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area has received an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars from komoot users. Approximately 4 visitors have shared their experiences, indicating a positive reception for the routes in this wilderness study area.

Official information about the Blitzen River Wilderness Study Area is available from the Bureau of Land Management. Their website is https://www.blm.gov/oregon-washington/wilderness-study-area/blitzen-river-wilderness-study-area. For general inquiries, the BLM's Oregon/Washington office can be contacted at +1-541-573-4400.