Pike Creek Trail — Attraction in Oregon

Hiked pike creek canyon trail 8/11/19. 3.7 miles with 716 elevation gain in 2hrs 23mins total time and 2hrs 9 mins moving time. Started from the main road as I was unsure how the road into the trailhead would be and I'm glad I did. The road in is more suitable for 4x4 vehicles. This area is controlled be alvord, so make sure you pay their fee so you can enjoy their property. There is a couple of tent camping spots here as well. The trail was primitive in places. Loved the views of the canyon and caves as well. I decided to turn around when the trail became more of a game trail. There are also a couple of washouts near what used to be a mine. There is also a creek crossing next to the tent camping areas. Trail information is on the main road that alvord hot springs is off of. There are no bathrooms here. The upper area of the trail is owned by steens mountain. I did not see the abandoned mine eventhough I hiked right next to it, although I did see rail tracks for...

We hiked this trail after staying in the Alvord Hot Springs Campground for the night. It is definitely one of my top 10 hikes! There are so many views to enjoy... the high desert landscape below transitions into the snow covered Steen Mts...there’s beautiful Pike Creek (crossed 2 or 3 times), and the Sand Flats vista. And so many gorgeous wild flowers (1st week of May 2020)....a plethora of multi-colored lupines, mule-eared daisies, larkspur, paint brush and so many more. The trail goes for several miles and is well defined with a gradual but definite incline. So lovely! Take a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of an elder...

Really interesting trail. You do NOT have to pay if you're hiking. There is a wide spot next to the road to park and you can walk right in through the cattle guard, just to the north of the gate.

In late March it was still a bit early for the hike, had to bushwack around to be able to cross the creek back and forth and ran into snow higher up.

I really recommend doing the loop where you go up Pike creek trail and cross over to connect to Dry creek trail to come down. However snow made it difficult in the higher parts, probably better in another...