Oregon Desert Trail Permit: Route
Oregon Desert Trail permits are walk-up only in Oregon Desert Trail. The route covers 750 miles.
This guide covers the Oregon Desert Trail permit.
Free
Permit Cost
750 miles
Distance
strenuous
Difficulty
About Oregon Desert Trail
A 750-mile route across the Oregon high desert, from the Badlands Wilderness east of Bend to Lake Owyhee State Park on the Idaho border, developed and mapped by the Oregon Natural Desert Association. No permit is required to hike it.
The Oregon Desert Trail
- Distance
- 750 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Difficulty
- strenuous
Oregon High Desert. Nearest town: Bend, OR
Points along the route
- Badlands Wilderness (western terminus area)3,558 ft
- Fort Rock4,587 ft
- Hart Mountain7,461 ft
- Abert Rim
- Steens Mountain9,733 ft
- Frenchglen4,192 ft
- Alvord Desert4,005 ft
- Fields4,244 ft
- Pueblo Mountains7,808 ft
- Rome3,384 ft
- Owyhee Canyonlands
- Lake Owyhee State Park (eastern terminus)
Oregon Desert Trail permit detailsandAll Oregon Desert Trail permits
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100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Oregon Desert Trail?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
When is the best time to visit Oregon Desert Trail?
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Spring (April-June) or fall (September-October); summer heat and water scarcity make mid-summer the hardest window.
How long is the Oregon Desert Trail route?
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The route is 750 miles, as a point-to-point.
How difficult is the Oregon Desert Trail route?
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This is a strenuous route, demanding and requires excellent fitness.
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