Hedgehog cactus blooms on the panoramic heights of this high desert canyonland above the John Day River, designated as wilderness in 2009.  If you're eager to hike or backpack early in spring, when Oregon's other mountains are under show, this is often the sunniest, greenest place around.  Avoid summer's heat.  Despite the name "Spring Basin", there is essentially no water in this area except during inrequent rainstorms, so day hikers should bring a couple of quarts and backpackers will need a gallon per person per night.  The only trails are faint old Jeep track, but it's easy to hike cross-country, so bring a map.

From Interstate 84, drive . . .

Other Options

This wilderness has two other trailheads.  One is . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes: Eastern Oregon