Alvord Desert and Alvord Hot Springs

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Seasons

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Location

Alvord Desert is a remote playa a little over 100 miles from Burns, in the rain shadow of Steens Mountain.

To access from Burns, head east and then south on Highway 78 to the turnoff for Fields which is at about 65 miles. Turn right, onto the Fields-Denio Road and travel on gravel for an additional 41 miles. The hot springs parking access will be on your left.

To access from Fields, head north on the Fields/Denio Road for 23 miles. The hot springs parking access will be on your right.

Directions

Habitat and Birds

Check in at the hot springs for local knowledge about access to the salt flats. Snowy Plovers and other shorebirds can be found at times. Look for dry country birds such as Lark Sparrow and Loggerhead Shrike. The surrounding area is good for raptors as well.

Discussion