Oregon Desert Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide

Distance: 750 miles (mileage varies depending on route alternatives)

Time to hike the entire trail: 5 - 7 weeks

Elevation gain:  72,000’

Elevation loss: 73,500’

High Point: 9,570’ (Steens Mountain)

Low Point: 2,664’ (Owyhee Reservoir)

Best season: Spring or Fall

Permits: A backcountry camping permit for the Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge is required if you camp outside an established camping area.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Continue reading to learn more, written by Mike Unger & Naomi Hudetz.

DÈNYE MIZAJOU

November 1, 2024

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Mike Unger & Naomi Hudetz

Contributing Writers

Mike Unger & Naomi Hudetz are contributing writers.

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Medya Mansyone

A favorite of ultralight hikers, backpackers, bikers, and travelers, the Sawyer Squeeze filter is the gold standard in water filters for anyone concerned about weight and universal compatibility.

Scott Gilbertson
Senior Writer and Reviewer

Medya Mansyone

In the morning before getting to the park, I applied insect repellent (Picaridin lotion by Sawyer).

Julie, Earth Trekkers
Author and Photographer

Medya Mansyone

A Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system that blows any other system out of the — say it with me — water.

Rachel Dunkel
Freeland Writer