OREGON cowboys and the Steens Mountains History
THE OREGON steens mountains
cowboy HISTORY
The acclaimed series Yellowstone, set in Montana, has revived the genuine spirit of cowboys, reminiscent of what City Slickers achieved in the early 1990s. Beyond the show's drama and violence, the essence of true cowboy life encompasses rising before dawn, feeding and saddling horses, enjoying sit-down meals with family, discussing the day’s work, donning your cowboy hat, and moving cattle.
While the Oregon Trail may not have traversed the Steens Mountains, cowboys and cattle were still driven across various regions of Oregon during that era. The prequels, 1883 and 1923, with Harrison Ford, have also gained popularity by depicting the journey from Texas to Montana, showcasing cowboys herding cattle as part of the westward expansion in the 1800s.
The Oregon Trail, also known as the Oregon-California Trail, holds a significant place in U.S. history. This overland route stretched from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon City, located near present-day Portland, Oregon, in the Willamette River valley. It was one of the two primary emigrant paths to the American West during the 19th century. The other major route was the southern Santa Fe Trail, which connected Independence to Santa Fe, now in New Mexico. Additionally, branches from each main trail offered connections to various destinations in California. A spur of the northern Oregon route, part of the Oregon Trail, led to the Great Salt Lake region in what is now northern Utah.
The mountain in southeastern Oregon was once revered as a sacred site by the Native Americans who inhabited its slopes. Subsequently, it was named Steen's Mountain after the Army Cavalry Major who defeated and displaced the Native American population during the Snake Indian Wars. In a gesture of acknowledgment that no individual can truly own such a magnificent place, the name dropped the ownership apostrophe and became Steens Mountain. Reaching an impressive elevation of 9,733 feet, Steens Mountain stands as the highest point in southeastern Oregon.
Steens Mountain was formed through fault-block action, where the Earth's crust stretches until a fissure develops, allowing the mantle to rise and create a block. In extensive fault-block events, the crack may reopen multiple times, producing successive blocks that push the already solidified material higher. At Steens Mountain, several geological events took place around four million years ago, resulting in layers of basalt that can reach thicknesses of over a hundred feet.
When the Earth cooled, glacial activity sculpted deep gashes into the mountains that extended from east to west. However, these glaciers did not penetrate the eastern side, leaving a continuous peak that stretches for 52 miles and remains intact today. The north-south length of this peak influences its own climate. At an elevation of 9,733 feet, the mountain summit effectively blocks weather patterns from moving eastward, resulting in the formation of the Alvord Desert—a region recognized as the driest in Oregon, receiving only four inches of rainfall annually. While the western slopes enjoy sufficient moisture to support lush vegetation, the eastern side remains arid, leading to a contrasting ecosystem where diverse species coexist within a relatively compact area. On a clear day from the summit of Steens, one can catch sight of Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Bachelor, and the Sisters Mountains.
The temperatures around Steens Mountain, while consistently cool due to the elevation, fluctuate significantly throughout the year, as illustrated in the following table. Visitors to this striking natural wonder can expect crisp, refreshing air during the summer months, with daytime temperatures rising to comfortable levels, perfect for outdoor exploration. As autumn approaches, the landscape is painted with vibrant hues of gold and red, and the temperatures begin to dip, inviting cozy evenings by the fire. Winter blankets the mountain in a serene layer of snow, transforming it into a picturesque wonderland, though the temperatures can plummet, requiring warm layers and a hearty spirit. Spring brings a gradual thaw, with wildflowers bursting into bloom, and temperatures steadily climbing, signaling the renewal of life and the perfect time to experience the breathtaking beauty of Steens Mountain in all its seasonal glory.
