The Diablo Mountain Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is one of the largest WSAs in the United States. Located an hour southeast of Bend, Oregon, the Diablo Mountain WSA abuts the 20,000 acre Summer Lake Wildlife Area. The landscape ranges from salt flats to steep escarpments and offers impressive views of Summer Lake.
Oregon Desert Land Trust is acquiring two private inholdings, totaling 880 acres, in this critical area. These parcels provide public access to the Diablo Mountain WSA and surrounding public lands. These lands are adjacent to a particularly scenic portion of the 750-mile-long Oregon Desert Trail.
The area is home to mule deer, bighorn sheep, snowy plover and one of the largest flocks of snow geese in the United States.
The area is culturally and historically significant. Nearby Paisley Cave is one of the oldest studied prehistoric sites in North America.
HOW TO GET HERE
Directions for Diablo Mountain South as follows: The property can be reached from Bend by driving 25 miles south on Highway 97 and turning east onto the Highway 31 (Fremont Highway). Continue 98 miles south past the town of Summer Lake to a turnoff just beyond the Paisley airport. Turn north on BLM Road 6134-00 (Tenmile Butte Road) and continue north for 6.6 miles to a slight left turn which after ~0.5 miles will arrive at the edge of the Diablo South parcel.
The Land Trust has partnered with Conserve.org to support grassroots conservation efforts of Diablo Mountain. Individuals can purchase available acreage for conservation. Visit conserve.org for details.