Sunstones & Petroglyphs at Hart Mountain: June 13-15, 2024
Join Alison on a weekend exploration of the Warner Basin and Hart Mountain in southeast Oregon. Come explore a part of the world where the Earth is expanding under our feet - causing great rifts and cracks that expose over 25 million years of volcanic history.
On Day 1 we'll explore the Rabbit Basin for feldspar crystals known famously as "Oregon Sunstones." On Day 2 we'll visit the broad dry lakes atop Hart Mountain and learn to identify archaeological material, which is spectacularly abundant. We'll also visit special rock art sites nearby. There will be chances to rockhound, as well.
The group will camp at historic Camp Hart Mountain, at the base of Hart Mountain's striking fault scarp.
Post-fire vibe check: In 2024 a large wildfire burned the length of Hart Mountain. Portions of the refuge are currently closed, including the famous hot springs. Some good news: the hot springs are slated to open on June 16th. If you're dreaming of a dip, consider camping an additional night after our trip is over.
Location: The group will meet here: 42.410772, -119.903408 in Plush, Oregon, around lunchtime on Friday June 13, 2025. Prepare to head home around lunchtime on Sunday June 15th.
Requirements: Trip participants should be adults who enjoy dirt road driving, spending a day on their feet out in the elements and are down to camp through all kinds of weather. All genders and vehicle types welcome. Trip runs rain or shine! No pets.
This is one of my more relaxed trips, and there will be small windows of free time for bird watching or wildflower hunting before dinner each day.
Meals: I've got a great camp chef lined up who will dish up delicious camp dinner each night. All diets accommodated. Participants will need to provide their own breakfasts, lunches, and snacks.
Possible weather forecast: average June daily highs of 65°F and nightly lows of 37°F. The chance that it could rain on this trip is 25%. The chance it could snow is 10%.
Cancellation policy: A full refund will be given if a participant cancels 30 days or more before the start date of the trip. Cancellation made after the 30 day window will be given full credit towards a future trip, but no monetary refunds will be made. *Please consider this before signing up.*
Alison reserves the right to postpone and cancel trips if hazards such as wildfire, smoke, or flooding jeopardizes group safety. In this scenario, all trip members will be given full credit towards a future trip. Alison does her best to schedule trips outside of wildfire season.
Alison is a licensed and bonded Outfitter Guide in the state of Oregon. This trip is permitted by USFWS and the BLM. Rock collection limits set by each agency and federal laws regarding artifacts are strictly adhered to.
