Fred Riddle's Barn

The Riddle Brothers Ranch Road offers a delightful journey through Oregon's high desert, winding past grassy meadows, juniper trees, and sagebrush. You'll enjoy picturesque views of Steens Mountain in the distance and can explore the historic Riddle Brothers Ranch, an open-air museum with well-preserved structures like Fred Riddle's Barn. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hiking route, with only 180 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect, relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes.

When planning your visit, note that the trail is typically accessible from mid-June through October. Driving access to the Riddle Brothers Ranch Road hiking routes is often restricted to Wednesday through Sunday, though you can access it on foot, bicycle, or horseback any day. Parking is available at the Riddle Ranch Upper Trailhead, but remember there's no drinking water or cell service, so come prepared.

This trail is part of a National Historic District, offering a unique glimpse into early 20th-century ranching life. The ranch sits along the Little Blitzen River, part of the Wild and Scenic River system, where you might spot wild horses and antelope. It's also an alternate route for the Oregon Desert Trail, adding to its significance in the region.

The Levi Brinkley Trail offers an easy and scenic journey through the Steens Mountain Wilderness, following the Little Blitzen River. You'll start among fragrant juniper and sagebrush, then move into expansive grassy meadows, all while enjoying views of dramatic rocky walls from Big and Little Indian Gorges. The path is well-maintained, leading you past significant boulders and cascades to the peaceful confluence of the Little Blitzen and Donner und Blitzen Rivers.

This 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike, with a gentle 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the Riddle Ranch Lower Trailhead. The trail is typically open from mid-June through October, so plan your visit during these months for the best conditions.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in history, connecting to the Riddle Brothers Ranch. You can explore well-preserved structures like Fred Riddle's Barn and a distinctive willow corral, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century ranching life. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as wild horses and antelope are often spotted in the surrounding landscape.