The Steens Mountain Wilderness Area is home to some of Oregon's most pristine natural beauty. Hidden away in the southeastern corner of the state, this remote land is some of the wildest and most untamed in all of Oregon. While you could easily spend weeks hiking, camping, and exploring this region, one delight that is not to be missed is watching the wild horses roam.
The Steens Mountain Wilderness Area contains more than 428,000 acres of public land and offers incredible scenic and recreational experiences.
The diversity of wildlife here is incredible. You can find mule deer, elk, coyote, badger, black-tailed jackrabbit, mountain lion, Golden eagle, red-tailed hawk, and great horned owls all within the area.
Several different herds of wild horses also make their home here in Oregon's high desert.
The horses roam throughout the Steens Wilderness Area.
The Kiger Mustang herd is one of the most magnificent. These horses are believed to be the descendants of Spanish Mustangs brought to the New World by conquistadors in the sixteenth century.
The Kiger Herd Management Area (HMA) spans more than 37,000 acres.To see the wild horses up close, watch this video from YouTube user Maggie J Rothauge:
The South Steens Campground is a great place to spend the night if you are hoping to catch a glimpse of a wild horse.
This centrally located campground has direct access to two hiking trails, along with restrooms and water. The best times to go are between mid-May through mid-November.
For more information and directions to Steens Mountain and the Kiger Wild Horse Viewing Area, click here.
Have you visited the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area before? Were you able to catch a glimpse of the wild horses? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments!
For more amazing Oregon nature, check out our list of 11 Secret Spots In Oregon Where Nature Will Completely Relax You.
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