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gorgeous basalt gorge by Steph_and_Blake  Overview
A short, easy walk provides impressive views into a deep, glacially-carved gorge. Warning There are a few areas of sheer drops where a fall could be fatal.
The gorge is named for pioneer Reuben C. Kiger and his family. In 1874 they moved to the Steens Mountain vicinity but, fearing Native Americans, returned to western Oregon around 1878. Basque and Irish sheep herders used to roam the area with their flocks. Geology The U-shaped gorge was carved by Ice Age glaciers, leaving behind a deep valley of basalt. The gorge is about a half-mile deep and 6500 feet wide. The Walk From the parking area, follow the trail-of-use eastward to the rim. A sign offers information on the formation of the gorge and the fauna you might see. Take the time to walk past the sign so as to get a view of the “beginning” of the gorge. If you’re lucky you might happen to be there when fighter jets come from the south and drop down into the gorge. That ride must be a hoot! Check out the Official Route. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your walk/tour to support this local community. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
