Trail Overview
Moon Hill Road is a scenic, four-mile offroad route on Oregon's Steens Mountain that is perfect for overlanders and campers seeking stunning glacier-carved canyon views and abundant dispersed camping spots. Starting at an elevation of 7,133 feet and reaching a high point of 7,467 feet, this trail winds through high-altitude terrain where the initial sections are dotted with campsite pullouts, many of which feature established rock fire rings and decent cellular service. A standout feature of the route is a short finger trail branching off to a remote campsite perched right on the edge of a dramatic overlook, offering a prime vantage point of the massive glacial canyons below. The route is ideal for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs looking for a short but highly scenic backcountry excursion.
Rated a 3 out of 10 for technical difficulty, the trail features narrow, rocky segments and occasional deep puddles or rough transitions that demand basic trail-riding skills. There is no winter maintenance on this road, making it impassable during the winter months and highly challenging or muddy in the early spring. The trail terminates abruptly at a marked private property gate, where travelers must turn around unless they have pre-arranged access via the contact information posted on the gate signage. When planning a trip, visitors should be prepared for rapid weather shifts characteristic of the Steens Mountain wilderness and carry self-recovery gear.
Access Description
No winter maintenance is performed on this road, making it impassable due to snow or mud during winter and early spring. The trail terminates at a private property gate; proceeding past this point requires permission, and contact information is posted on the gate.
