What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Blitzen River Trail
The Blitzen River Trail winds up the Blitzen River, providing visitors with the best access to fishing waters.
Length: 3.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
Wilderness Nature Trail
The Wilderness Nature Trail allows visitors to reach the top of the bluff that overlooks the valley floor. Enjoy aerial views of the desert and river landscapes.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
Many fishers recognize the Blitzen River as one of Oregon's finest wild trout streams. The mottled sculpin, mountain whitefish, longnose dace, and redband trout are present in the river. The Blitzen offers anglers ample fly fishing opportunities. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, fishing in the Little Blitzen is limited to catch-and-release year-round.
Climbing
Steens Mountain is near the Page Springs Campground site and is a great spot for climbing activities. You can summit this mountain through its eastern face, accessing it via the Kigermann region. If you find couloir climbing suitable, you can engage in it at Steens, just be ready for a multi-day trek and be wary of avalanches that could come from the cornices amassing along the summit crest.
Wildlife Viewing
Plenty of wildlife viewing options are available at the Blitzen River. The river's drainage is known for its diverse wildlife. Approximately 250 wildlife species occupy the river and nearby uplands. You will see mule deer, pronghorn antelope, Rocky Mountain elk, chukars, and valley quails around the Blitzen River. Within the canyon rims and tributaries near the river, spot great horned owls, raptors, and American kestrels. Also, these cliffs house ravens and turkey vultures. The flat upper regions around the river are home to sage grouse. The base of Steens Mountain is also ideal for wildlife viewing. You will find plants, including sagebrush, juniper, mountain mahogany, and quaking aspen. In addition, you may stumble upon animals such as mountain lions, big horn sheep, and wild horses.
Picnicking
There's a group picnic location at Page Springs, across from the campground's thirty-third campsite. This large, covered picnic area has concrete picnic tables. It is a no-fee, day-use site. Just north of it is an accessible bathroom. In addition, you will find potable water stations to the north and south of this spot.