Tonight at the Corvallis Public Library Borden Beck presented a slide show of his backpacking trip to the Owyhee Canyonlands in Southeastern Oregon in Malheur County, nearby the Oregon border with Nevada. This area in far southeastern Oregon encompasses the largest undeveloped landscape in the lower 48 states, with vast wide-open sagebrush uplands cut by the visually stunning rock formations of numerous canyons. Home to sage grouse and bighorn sheep, it remains a relatively healthy ecosystem that is in need of permanent protection. He described his journey as being filled with adventure, challenges and lots of wonderful scenery. Borden Beck told the group, of 50 or so people assembled in the Corvallis Library meeting room, that this area of Oregon remains authentic with few visitors. If planning a hike the best month to visit would be mid-June to mid-July. The terrain is difficult and about one week is necessary to traverse this area. Owyhee Canyonlands will challenge even experienced hikers. One should expect to travel 8-10 miles per day. Beck advised to be prepared to meet all challenges and have a good working vehicle. The slide show was outstanding. The simple beauty of this part of Oregon is a must to see and may need to be added to my "bucket list."
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