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Steelhead Falls Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Steelhead Falls Trail

Steelhead Falls Trail is a beautiful trail system leading guests to Steelhead Falls, a breathtaking waterfall. Located in Central Oregon, Steelhead Falls Trail is a great stop for visitors to spend time outdoors. This site is known for its hiking, boating and fishing opportunities. Steelhead Falls Trail is public land managed by the Bureau of Land management (BLM). The BLM oversees almost 250 million acres of land across the country. Many visitors choose to travel to BLM-managed land because of the countless camping options available. The Bureau of Land Management campgrounds can be found by searching for “BLM camping near me.” Camping options span across the country as a whole.

Aside from great options for outdoor activities, Steelhead Falls Trail is surrounded by additional spots for picnicking and sightseeing. Steelhead Falls Trail is located near many state parks and national forests. This site is located just north of Crater Lake National Park, often seen as a great day trip from this area. Crater Lake National Park is known for being home to the deepest lake in the United States.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Steelhead Falls Trail

This trail, located at the direct site, is an out-and-back style trail. This route takes visitors through beautiful scenery and to the stunning waterfall (Steelhead Falls).

Length: 2.0 miles

Intensity: Beginner

Otter Bench Loop

This desert route takes hikers around a moderately steep loop. While it is open year round, this trail has limited shade, making it very hot in the summer months. Otter Bench Loop is not typically crowded and is therefore a great place to experience peace and quiet.

Length: 9.3 miles

Intensity: Intermediate

Alder Springs Trail

Alder Springs Trail takes hikers through geological formations and scenic views of desert areas and creeks. The trail ends with Adler Springs, showcasing beautiful wildflowers and wildlife.

Length: 5.7 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Fishing and Boating

The area surrounding Steelhead Falls Trail is great for those looking for fishing and boating opportunities. The Deschutes River is located nearby, offering a great spot for trout fishing, especially steelhead. Haystack Reservoir is also located close to Steelhead Falls Trail and is a great spot for serene fishing. There are several boat ramps surrounding Steelhead Falls to aid in motorized and non-motorized boating in the local rivers and lakes.

Wildlife Viewing

There is an abundance of wildlife scattered throughout the breathtaking scenery of Steelhead Falls. Many visitors can spot golden eagles flying overhead, alongside other beautiful birds. When viewing wildlife, keep a safe distance. Steelhead Falls Trail has rattlesnakes often hiding within the trail. Be sure to check your surroundings and your feet and hand placement when visiting. Rattlesnakes like to hide under rocks and in brushy areas.

Picnicking

Picnicking is a great way to spend time outdoors. This can be achieved on both the trails and formal picnic areas at Steelhead Falls Trail. The campsite located at Steelhead Falls Trail has several picnic tables. Travelers can also bring a picnic blanket and a selection of food if rustic picnicking is preferred. When picnicking on public land, be sure to clean up your area of any leftover food, garbage and belongings.

Swimming

Steelhead Falls Trail ends with a stunning rushing waterfall. On hot days, many visitors bring a bathing suit and take a dip in the refreshing water of the falls. Downstream of the falls, swimming is available in calmer water. Pets are allowed at Steelhead Falls Trail, making it a popular spot for swimming for dogs, as well!

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV Camping is possible at River Rim RV Park. River Rim has full hookup options, on-site laundry and offers affordable rates. This RV park is open year round. RV owners can also camp on BLM-managed land, such as Steelhead Falls Trail, however there is limited trailer parking.

Free Camping

Unless otherwise noted, the BLM allows visitors to camp on their public lands for free. There is an official campsite at Steelhead Falls with limited amenities. Overnight camping sites are free and available on a first come first served basis. There is one outhouse available at this site. Bureau of Land Management free camping is also available through dispersed camping at Steelhead Falls Trail.

RV Rentals Near Steelhead Falls Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Steelhead Falls Trail BLM trip

At Steelhead Falls Trail, there is no potable water available. When planning your trip to the trail, it is important to pack extra water. The Steelhead Falls campsite is not far from the falls, however, this is not appropriate drinking water.

Additionally, you will want to check restrictions at the campsite prior to travel. During summer months, there are often campfire restrictions set to reduce the risk of wildfires. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

During your time at Steelhead Falls Trail, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the entirety of your stay. These guidelines are recommended by the BLM in order to properly preserve public lands. To Leave No Trace, throw away your trash promptly, dispose of all waste and leave your areas in the way you found them when you arrived. Additionally, it is important to respect all wildlife during your visit. Overall, maintaining Leave No Trace principles allows visitors to spend time on public lands for years to come.

Steelhead Falls Trail Location

Steelhead Falls Trail is best accessed from Redmond. Take Hwy 97 north and turn west onto NE Lower Bridge Way. After two miles, turn right onto 43rd Street/Chinook Drive. After approximately one mile, take a left onto Badger Road, then a right onto Quail Road. Take one final left onto River Road and follow the hill to the trail entrance and campsite.

Ready to visit Burn Canyon Trail System? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.

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Steelhead Falls Trail

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Steelhead Falls Trail

Otter Bench Loop

Alder Springs Trail

Fishing and Boating

Wildlife Viewing

Picnicking

Swimming

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Free Camping

RV Rentals Near Steelhead Falls Trail Plan your next adventure

Planning your Steelhead Falls Trail BLM trip

Leave No Trace

Steelhead Falls Trail Location

Nearby BLM Locations

See All BLM Campsites by State

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