Steins Pillar Trailhead

We went out on a sunny February day when there were a few inches of snow on the ground. The mud a slush in spots where the sun melted the snow made for a bit more of a challenge. Over all, it was a great hike with awesome scenic views along the way. The one lane road in and out can make it challenging if there’s anyone else coming up the road when you are...but I’m sure it would be easier to maneuver when there’s not snow on the ground.

Nice easy hike. 7ish miles round trip. A few long gradual inclines each way. Its icy under the snow this time of year so be careful

Not stroller friendly but luckily had our front carrier great hike awesome views some areas a little slick from ice but still a good trail even with kids we just hiked to the view point so not sure what the trail to the pillar is like

I discovered this hike when trying to find additional hiking options near Painted Hills. The access to this trail is not far east of Prineville and pretty much along the route to the Painted Hills area, though on a few miles of washboarded gravel road north from the highway. A short 4 mile out and back hike, though there is some fair elevation, especially as you drop down to the pillar itself. Overall an enjoyable hike and without a lot of people, at least when I visited. The pillar is reminiscent of Monkey Face within Smith Rock State Park, but surrounded with a more wooded setting. There is evidence that the pillar is used for rock climbing as well.

Accessible, relatively easy hike with territorial views of the Ochocos and a clear destination. Great day hike.