60. Star Mountain (Star Mountain Unit)

Suggested Citation: Kerr, Andy. 2000. Oregon Desert Guide: 70 Hikes. Seattle: The Mountaineers Books. pp. 218-219.

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What to Expect: Great views all around from the summit

Distance: 8.5-mile loop

Elevation Range: 4,503-6,037 feet

Drinking Water: Available

Best Times: Late spring, fall

USGS 7.5' Maps: Crowley, Star Creek Reservoir, Stockade Mountain

Oregon Map Starting Point: New Princeton

Continue southeast on OR 78 for 32 miles. Turn northeast on the gravel county road toward Crowley and drive 26 miles to where the road takes sharp right turn to the east and a lesser (but adequate) quality road takes off to the west (Crowley quad). Go through the gate (not north into private land). Proceed westerly, then northerly, approximately 7.5 miles (now on Stockade Mountain quad) to an even lesser-quality road to the northeast. You are in a very flat and wide ephemeral stream bottom. Drive 0.3 mile northeast to ensure that you park on public land.

Hike the unimproved way up the south slope of Star Mountain. The summit is an easy bag (just on Star Creek Reservoir quad). Proceed southeasterly along the Star Mountain ridge to Twin Springs and then back to your vehicle. Water can be had at several springs or in the creeks at certain times of the year. This can either he a long day hike or an overnight backpack.