Welcome to Baker County
Whether you’re native to Baker County, just moved here, or plan to make this wonderful place your home, this guide is a rich resource for the services, businesses and amenities of our diverse communities.
Northeastern Oregon is a special place — yes, we’re a bit biased — and this guide will help you make the most of living here. Inside these pages you’ll find useful contacts for city government and utilities, as well as insider tips on scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and the unique towns in our county.
Baker County
Population: 16,668
Housing units: 8,687
Occupied households: 7,263
Established: Sept. 22, 1862
Elevation at Baker City: 3,451 feet
County Seat: Baker City Area
County size: 3,068 square miles
Northeastern
Oregon
Baker County History
Baker County was carved out of Wasco County on Sept. 22, 1862. The new county was named for Edward Baker, one of Oregon’s first senators and a colonel in the Union Army. Baker was killed at the Battle of Ball’s Bluff, Virginia, in 1861. In 1864, Union County was created from the northern part of Baker County and in 1887 Malheur County was created from the southern portion. The boundaries were adjusted for the last time in 1901 when the area between Powder River and the Wallowa Mountains was returned to Baker County.
The original county seat was established at Auburn, near where Henry Griffin discovered gold on Oct. 23, 1861. Originally a booming mining town of 5,000 residents, the population of Auburn dwindled. In 1868 an election confirmed Baker City as the new county seat. Today, nothing remains to indicate Auburn ever existed — save for a small cemetery on private property.
The county has had three courthouses, all on the same site between Third and Fourth streets, and Court and Washington avenues. The first, a two-story wooden structure, was built in 1869. It was replaced by a brick building in 1885. The current three-story courthouse
was completed in 1909. It is constructed of gray volcanic tuffstone quarried near Pleasant Valley, about 15 miles southeast of town.
Gold mining was the original drive for settlement in the area. At one time the county was the largest gold producer in the Northwest. Today, the primary economic pursuits are agriculture, beef cattle and tourism. Visitors are also drawn to the many museums, Eagle Cap Wilderness, Hells Canyon Recreation Area, Sumpter Dredge, Baker City’s restored historic district, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, and outdoor recreation such as fishing and hunting.
Gold rush
Gold mining was the original drive for settlement in the area. At one time the county was the largest gold producer in the Northwest. Today, the primary economic pursuits are agriculture, beef cattle and tourism. Visitors are also drawn to the many museums, Eagle Cap Wilderness, Hells Canyon Recreation Area, Sumpter Dredge, Baker City’s restored historic district, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, and outdoor recreation such as fishing and hunting.
SOURCE: https://sos.oregon.gov
Geography and Weather
When some people think of Oregon, they immediately think “wet.” That may be true for Western Oregon with the coast and Cascade Mountains, but it’s not so true for Eastern Oregon.
Much of Baker County lies within a double rain shadow — meaning the surrounding mountains block most rain-producing weather. Puddles, suffice it to say, are an uncommon hazard.
The first, and by far the larger, of these two shadows is the one cast by the Cascade Mountains. That line of volcanic peaks intercepts most of the moisture from the soggy storms that sweep inland from the Pacific Ocean frequently between Halloween and Memorial Day. And a good portion of the water that the Cascades don’t get is wrung out by the Elkhorns, the 9,100-foot range that dominates the western horizon from Baker Valley.
Clouds, as a result, tend to contain precious little precipitation by the time they reach Baker City. The average rainfall at the Baker City Municipal Airport is 9.83 inches.
AVERAGE ANNUAL WEATHER
FACT: Based on record lows, the temperature can drop below freezing any month of the year — just ask any farmer or gardener.
MARCH
SEPTEMBER
JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Avg. high: 35.7°
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Festivals & Events
First Friday art walks
January through December
Celebrate art in Baker City during this monthly art walk on the first Friday of every month, 5:30-8 p.m. New exhibits open with a chance to meet the featured artists.
March-November
Baker City Downtown sponsors a wine walk on the third Thursday of each month. The months have a theme and a portion of the profits support nonprofit organizations.
bakercitydowntown.com and Facebook
Sumpter Flea Market
Memorial Day weekend
Sumpter’s population balloons three times a year when flea market vendors set up along the main streets and fairgrounds.
sumpteroregon.com
Memorial Day weekend
Compete to catch the biggest catfish in the 40th annual tournament over on Brownlee Reservoir just east of Huntington. Enjoy food, music and other activities in town.
Facebook (search for “Huntington Oregon Lions Catfish Derby”)
June
Celebrate Oregon Trail history with this gathering at Geiser-Pollman Park in Baker City with staff and special performers from the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. oregontrail.blm.gov or NHOTIC.com
Snowmobile events
December through March
Baker County is a winter playground with more than 900 miles of snowmobile trails. Check out the groomed trails near Sumpter, Unity and Halfway. Several local clubs have poker runs and other events. oregonsnow.org
Chautauqua Music Festival
May
This Americana music festival is held in Richland every May. The 2025 headliner is Dave Stamey. For details and tickets.
chautauquamusicfestival.com and Facebook
Sumpter Valley Railroad
May through October
This historic steam train operates weekends on narrow-gauge tracks that run from McEwen Station to Sumpter. Special events include staged robberies, night trains and fall foliage events.
sumptervalleyrailroad.org
June through September
Named Oregon Best Music Festival in 2014. Featuring concerts at 4 p.m. every Sunday. in Baker City’s GeiserPollman Park. Musical performers come from across Oregon and PNW. powderrivermusicrevue.org and Facebook
June
This three-day, four-stage bicycle race started in 2001. Racers are challenged with two road races, a time trial and a fast criterium raced on the streets in downtown Baker City. bakercitycyclingclassic.com
Wine walks
Catfish Derby
Powder River Music Revue
Oregon Trail Days
Baker City Cycling Classic
Pine Valley Fairgrounds in Halfway. hellscanyonjrrodeo.com
Haines Stampede Rodeo and Fourth of July
July
Rodeo action on July 3-4 in Haines with quality stock and cowboys, traditional rodeo events. The city’s Fourth of July celebration includes a parade, vendors in the park, and fireworks at dusk. hainesstampede.com
Fourth of July weekend
Renaissance Faire activities (costumes encouraged!) on the town’s main street and flea market vendors.
July
Rodeo events for age 18 and younger. hainesstampede.com
Jubilee and Baker Broncs and Bulls
July
Founded as the Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally more than 25 years ago. Motorcyclists come for three days of exploring the highways and byways, and to visit local shops and restaurants.
Last Saturday in July
The East-West All-Star Shrine Game raises money for the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Prior to the big game, check out the Gridiron Tailgate in Geiser-Pollman Park and the parade on Main Street. www.eastwestshrinefootball.com
Late August
Restored cars line up at GeiserPollman Park during the day. In late afternoon, head to Quail Ridge Golf Course for the annual Durkee Steak Feed. Then, head downtown where classic cars will cruise Main Street.
Third weekend in July
Baker City’s signature summer event, Miners Jubilee is a three-day celebration with a parade, vendors in the park, mining demonstrations, kids’ activities and bronc and bull riding. minersjubilee.com and bakerbroncsandbulls.com
August
The first full week of August brings the Baker County Fair with livestock exhibits, music, games and more. bakerfair.com
Labor Day weekend
The Baker County Fair in Halfway celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with a livestock show, PRCA rodeo, parade, music and craft exhibits.
halfwayfairandrodeo.com
Miners
Baker County Fair
Festivals & Events
Sumpter Flea Market
Labor Day weekend
The last flea market of the season. sumpteroregon.com
Taste of Baker
September
A music festival that brings music to Quail Ridge Golf Course, along with local vendors for a maker’s market. quailridgebakercity.com
Pine Fest
Day of Dance
October
Celebrate the flavors of Baker County in downtown Baker City. Participating restaurants offer tastes of their popular fare for diners to enjoy at tables set up along Main Street.
bakercitydowntown.com/ taste-of-baker
October
Costumed youngsters head to Main Street for this annual trick-ortreat event held on Halloween and organized by the Baker City Kiwanis Club. Downtown businesses pass out candy and treats to hundreds of participants.
First weekend in December
Baker City kicks off the holiday season with a Festival of Trees (Thur-Sat.), a Cookie Crawl (Sat.) and Twilight Parade and tree lighting (Sat.). 4-H Christmas Bazaar (Fri.- Sat.).
bakercitydowntown.com, visitbaker.com, bakerfair.com
September
This annual music festival features an eclectic mix of musical styles with bands and musicians from throughout the Northwest at the Pine Valley Fairgrounds in Halfway. pinefest.org and Facebook
September
Crossroads Carnegie Art Center celebrates World Dance Day by bringing local and regional dance groups to Baker City. crossroads-arts.org
Haunting on the Hill
October
A slightly spooky event to get you in the Halloween spirit is held in October at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. www.nhotic.com
November
Start Thanksgiving morning with a brisk walk or run at the annual Turkey Trot, which benefits the Northeast Oregon Compassion Center.
December
Tree lighting ceremonies and parades are also held in Sumpter, Halfway and Richland.
Quail Fest
Baker County Economy
Although established by gold mining, Baker County’s chief economic bases now are farming, ranching, tourism and recreation.
Major employers
Healthcare: 15.4%
Retail: 12.5%
Agriculture: 10.7%
Manufacturing: 9.6%
Education: 8.8%
Construction: 7.6%
Hospitality: 5.3%
Government: 5.1%
Top 10 taxpayers
Idaho Power Company: $2,200,699
Ash Grove Cement: $989,233
Union Pacific Railroad: $928,672
De Shaw Renewable Inv.: $696,737
Marvin Wood Products: 432,770
Northwest Pipeline Corp.: $295,202
Oregon Telephone Corp.: $289,542
Pacific Corp.: $236,183
Cascade Natural Gas: $188, 350
Lumen Technologies: $147,084
SOURCES:
https://datausa.io/profile/geo/baker-county-or#economy
https://statisticalatlas.com/county/Oregon/Baker-County/Industries
http://www7.bakercounty.org/Documents_Summary.php/
Media
Baker City Herald bakercityherald.com
541-518-2088
541-518-2087
news@bakercityherald.com Also on Facebook
Hells Canyon Journal
145 N. Main St. PO Box 646
Halfway, OR 97834
541-742-7900
hcj@pinetel.com
Business Resources
Baker County Chamber of Commerce
490 Campbell St., Baker City, OR 97814 www.visitbaker.com
Also on Facebook
Hells Canyon Chamber of Commerce 114 E. Record St., Halfway, OR 97814 www.hellscanyonchamber.com
Launch Pad Baker 2019 Main St. Ste. A, Baker City, OR 97814 541-519-5377 https://launchpadbaker.com Also on Facebook
Small Business Development Center 3370 10th St. Suite H Baker City, OR 97814 541-278-5833 oregonsbdc.org
Baker City Downtown www.bakercitydowntown.com Also on Facebook
Economic Development
Baker County Economic Development 1995 Third St., Baker City, OR 97814 541-523-5460 www.bakercountyeconomicdevelopment.org bakercountyedc@gmail.com Also on Facebook
Elkhorn Media Group 541-523-3400
elkhornmediagroup.com Also on Facebook
Utilities
Natural Gas
Cascade Natural Gas
888-522-1130 • www.cngc.com
Electric
Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative
4005 23rd St., Baker City, OR 97814 541-523-3616 • otec.coop
Idaho Power Co.
PO Box 70, Boise, ID 83707
800-488-6151 • www.idahopower.com
Waste Services
Baker Sanitary Service
3048 Campbell St., Baker City 541-523-2626 • www.bakersanitary.com
Landfill hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
LaRue Sanitary Service
Serves Halfway, Richland and Oxbow Gabriel Schmoe
541-742-6857
Transfer station on Sag Road is open Tuesdays, noon-4 p.m.
Telephone/Internet
The Greater Eastern Oregon Network
1809 Main St., Baker City 541-523-0270 • www.thegeo.net
Century Link
877-862-9343 • www.centurylink.com
Verizon
1080 Campbell St., Baker City 541-524-9623 • victra.com
U.S. Cellular
1084 Campbell St., Baker City 541-523-3334 • www.uscellular.com
Snake River PCS
349 First St., Richland, OR 97870 541-893-6115 • www.eagletelephone.com
Eastern Oregon Net Inc.
216 Chestnut St., La Grande, OR 97850 541-962-7873 • www.eoni.com
Spectrum
855-860-9068 • www.spectrum.com
Ziply
866-699-4759 • ziplyfiber.com
Water/Sewer See City page
Call before you dig: Dial 811
County Departments
Baker County Oregon
www.bakercounty.org • 1995 Third St., Baker City Offices are located at the courthouse, unless otherwise noted.
Assessor ksavage@bakercountyor.gov 541-523-8203
Commissioners
Shane Alderson, Christina Witham, Michelle Kaseberg 541-523-8200
Clerk and Elections 541-523-8207
District Attorney Greg Baxter 541-523-8205
Emergency Management jyencopal@bakercountyor.gov 541-523-9669
Fair
Baker County Fair/ Fairgrounds
2600 East St., Baker City 541-523-7881 bakerfair.com
Health Department
2200 Fourth St. 541-523-8211
Juvenile 541-523-8215
Museums
Baker Heritage Museum 2480 Grove St.
Adler House Museum 2305 Main St.
Parks
Hewitt and Holcomb parks, Richland bakercounty.org/parks/parks
Parole and Probation
3410 K St., Baker City 541-523-6415
Planning
Property services, technical assistance, zoning ordinances.. 541-523-8219
Road
Maintains county roads and bridges. bcroad@bakercountyor.gov 541-523-6417
Sheriff’s Office
Search and rescue, county jail 3410 K St., Baker City bakersheriff.org
Surveyor 541-523-3803
Treasurer Collection/disbursement of property taxes. 541-523-8221
Veterans
2200 Fourth St. 541-523-8223
Noxious Weed Control gcook@bakercountyor.gov 541-523-0618
Emergency Services
Emergency: Dial 9-1-1
Baker City Police Department
1768 Auburn Ave., Baker City
541-524-2014
www.bakercity.com
Baker County Sheriff’s Office
3410 K St., Baker City, 541-523-6415 www.bakersheriff.org
Oregon State Police
2445 Windmill Lane, Baker City 541-523-5867
www.oregon.gov/osp
Baker City Fire Department
1616 Second St., Baker City 541-523-3711
www.bakercity.com
Poison Control
800-222-1222
Medical Transport programs
Several air medical transports cover Eastern Oregon, and the programs offer reciprocating coverage — for instance, someone with a LifeFlight membership will be covered for a flight with Air St. Luke’s and vice versa. The website for the Association of Air Medical Membership Programs provides information about both LifeFlight and Air St. Luke’s. Visit http://aammp.us/ for details.
In Baker City, Pioneer Ambulance serves the area for medical emergencies. The company offers a membership called LifeGuard for $59 per year that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and transport. Register online at ambulancemembership.com/pioneer Crisis Resources
MayDay Inc.
Advocacy center for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder abuse; 2745 Broadway St., Baker City, 541523-9472; 24-hour crisis line, 541-523-4134
Rachel Pregnancy Center 2192 Court Ave., Baker City 541-523-5357
Emergency Assistance
Community Connection 2810 Cedar St., Baker City 541-523-6591
American Red Cross 1-800-272-6668
Emergency Alerts
Baker County ALERT
Sign up to receive emergency alerts. a free service to receive notifications about emergencies that may affect you. To sign up, go to bakersheriff.org and click on “Emergency Alerts.”
Rural Volunteer Fire Departments
Baker Rural Fire Protection District
Keating Rural Fire Protection District
Greater Bowen Valley Rural Fire Protection District
Haines Fire Protection District
Eagle Valley Rural Fire Protection District
Surprise Springs Rural Fire Department
Pine Valley Rural Fire Protection District
Huntington Volunteer Fire Department
Powder River Rural Fire Protection District
Sumpter Volunteer Fire Department
Unity Burnt River Fire District
Medical Springs Rural Fire Protection District
Burnt River Rangeland Fire Protection Association
Lookout Glasgow Rangeland Fire Protection Association
Nick Conklin Insurance Agency Inc.
Resources
Local Government
Baker County Courthouse
1995 Fourth St., Baker City 541-523-8200 www.bakercounty.org
Baker City Hall
1655 First St., Baker City, 541-523-6541 www.bakercity.com
Sumpter City Hall
240 N. Mill St., Sumpter 541-894-2314
Richland City Hall
89 Main St., Richland 541-893-6141
Huntington City Hall 50 Adams St. E, Huntington 541-869-2202
Haines City Hall
819 Front St., Haines 541-856-3366
Halfway City Hall
155 E. Record St. 541-742-4741
Food Banks
https://ccno.org/food-bank/baker-county-food-resources
Northeast Oregon Compassion Center Food and clothing bank 1250 Hughes Lane, Baker City 541-523-9845
The Salvation Army
2502 Broadway St., Baker City, 541-523-5853
St. Francis de Sales
Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon. 2235 First St., Baker City, 541-523-4521
Halfway Lions Club Food Bank 235 Lion St., Halfway, 541-742-7892. Third Monday from noon to 1 p.m. halfwaylions.org
Huntington Food Bank
Third Saturday from 9-11 a.m. 25 W. Washington St., Huntington 208-475-4761.
Emergency Assistance
Community Connection
2810 Cedar St., Baker City 541-523-6591
American Red Cross
800-272-6668
Sharing Pantries
These open-access cupboards are placed in neighborhoods for anyone to use — take what you need, leave what you can.
Halfway: Halfway City Hall, 155 B E. Record St. Sumpter: Sumpter City Hall, 240 Mill St.
Unity: coming soon
Baker City:
• Fraternal Order of Eagles #3456, 2935 H St.
• Baker County YMCA, 3715 Pocahontas Road
• Blue Mountain Baptist Church, 2998 Eighth St.
• Baker City Christian Church, 675 Highway 7 Calvary Chapel, 1668 Resort St.
• Churchill School, 3451 Broadway St.
• North Baker School, D and Ninth streets
• Baker County Health Department, 2200 Fourth St.
• Baker County Sheriff’s Office, 3410 K St.
Services
Baker County Veterans Office
2200 Fourth St., Baker City 541-523-8223
Baker County Health Department
2200 Fourth St., Baker City, 541-523-8211 www.bakercounty.org/health/health.html
Social Security Administration
2205 Cove Ave., La Grande 541-963-0105
Department of Human Services
3615 10th St., Baker City 541-523-6423
Community Connection of Baker County Assistance for seniors and low income households. Also weekly offerings of bingo, dominoes, card games and exercise classes. The dining center serves meals Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and offers Meals on Wheels. Suggested donation of $5 for those 60 and older or under 12, and $7.50 for younger people. 2810 Cedar St., Baker City 541-523-6591 https://ccno.org/baker-county
Community Dinner at Calvary Baptist Church
Thursdays, 5-6 p.m.
2107 Third St., Baker City 541-523-3891
Baker County Vector Control
If you have a bad case of mosquitoes around your house, this is the number to call. Vector Control keeps a handle on the insect pests, as well as tests mosquito samples for West Nile virus, in a 200,000-acre area that includes most of Baker, Bowen and Keating valleys. 541-523-1151
Pets
Best Friends of Baker Inc.
541-519-7387
www.bestfriendsofbaker.org
Best Friends of Baker has been rescuing cats and dogs in Baker County for more than 30 years — saving strays off the street as well as those who go unclaimed at the impound facility. They also accept animals from deceased owners, those going into assisted living and who have lost their homes or are moving. Best Friends provides food for dog and cat owners who need help feeding their pets, especially in the winter. Donations of food for adult dogs and cats, puppies and kittens is critical as winter approaches. Best Friends’ animals are available for adoption and can be found on www.petfinder.com. You can search by zip code to find animals up for adoption, call 541-5197387 for more information, and visit www.bestfriendsofbaker.org for an adoption application. Also, Best Friends is always in need of foster homes and volunteers for other tasks.
SHOP TO SUPPORT: Best Friends operates a thrift shop called Rescued Treasures to help fund their mission. It is located at 2950 Church St. The market is open Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mollie Atwater and Friends
Provides spay/neuter vouchers. Request forms are available at the two veterinarian clinics in Baker City, at Rescued Treasures, 2950 Church St., and online at bestfriendsofbaker.org/new-page-78. Donations are welcome — designate Mollie Atwater in the memo line, and mail to P.O. Box 183, Baker City, OR 97814, or take donations to Best Friends’ Rescued Treasures shop (see above for details).
Trap-Neuter-Release Program raises funds to help reduce the population of feral cats. To donate, call Baker City Police Department at 541-524-2014 or, send a check to New Hope, PO Box 146, Baker City, OR 97814 (specify TNR in the memo line).
New Hope for Eastern Oregon Animals
541-403-2710
www.newhopeforanimals.org Also on Facebook
This group rescues and rehabilitates dogs with the Powder Pals program. After training, the animals are put up for adoption. The group also has cats available for adoption.
Veterinarian Clinics
Baker Animal Clinic
2490 10th St., Baker City, 541-523-3611
Baker Veterinary Hospital
3425 10th St., Baker City, 541-523-7772
Dog licenses
Baker City Hall
1655 First St., Baker City 541-523-6541
Lost pets?
Baker Veterinary Hospital
3425 10th St., Baker City, 541-523-7772
Baker Veterinary Hospital is the city’s animal impound.
Dog Park
580 Baker St. (near Sam-o Swim Center)
Features separate spaces for large and small dogs. bakercity.com/2283/Dog-Park
Health Care
Hospital
Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Baker City 3325 Pocahontas Road, Baker City 541-524-7744
www.saintalphonsus.org
Services
Breast care
• Cardiac Stress Test
• Clinics
• Cardiology
• Dermatology
Gynecologic Oncology
• Orthotics
• Dietary services
• EKG
• Echocardiograms
Emergency services
• Infusion Therapy, including Chemotherapy infusions
• Laboratory
• Medical/Surgical services
• Orthopedics
Physical, Occupational and Speech therapy
• Pulmonary Function Test
• Radiology
• Cat Scan Diagnostic X-rays
Mammography
• MRI
• Ultrasound
• Respiratory therapy
Sleep studies
Surgical services
• Telehealth
Cardiology
Saint Alphonsus Heart Care 3175 Pocahontas Road 208-302-0000
Alex Johnson, MD
• Michael Rich, MD
• William Kogler, DO
Saint Alphonsus Heart Care 3325 Pocahontas Road 208-302-0000
• Karmin Maher, FNP
Colonoscopy and Endoscopy
Saint Alphonsus Family Medicine 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-8000
• James Gardner, MD
Dermatology
Mountain Pine Dermatology 3175 Pocahontas Road 208-898-7467
R. Scott Thomas, DO
• Jen Wicklund, NP
• Ben Perry, DO
Family Medicine
Elkhorn Family Medicine
3705 Midway Dr. 541-519-4250
• Logan Fredrickson, DO
Saint Alphonsus Medical Group
3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-8000
• Lisa Lanning, MD Zach Allen, PA-C
• Jacquelyn Adams, DNP, FNP-C
• Jennifer Hoffman, FNP-C
St. Luke’s Eastern Oregon Medical Associates
3950 17th St. 541-523-1001
• Trisha K. Adams Eckman, MD
• Neil J. Carroll, MD
• Dean N. Defrees, MD J. Daniel Smithson, MD
• Lily J. Wittich, MD
• Monte W. Anderson, PA-C
• Kerma L. Cook, NP Korey V. Ham, NP Micah J. Thayn, PA-C
• Mariana Flores, PA-C
• Elizabeth Kippes, PA-C
• Justin J. Hacking, LCPC
Lauren K. Zink, RD
Gynecology & Gynecologic Oncology
Saint Alphonsus Cancer Care 3175 Pocahontas Road 208-302-2200
• Patrick Connor, MD
Lactation Consultation Services
Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Baker City 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-7747
• Kcia Fletcher, RN, IBCLC
Nutrition Education & Counseling
Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Baker City 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-881-7470
Occupational Medicine
Saint Alphonsus Medical Group 3325 Pocahontas Road 208-302-7600
• Katherine Hughes, MD
Oncology
Saint Alphonsus Cancer Care
3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-7870
Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine
Saint Alphonsus Medical Group 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-8000
• Samuel Capra, MD
Physical Therapy
Saint Alphonsus Rehabilitation Services (STARS) 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-7720
Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Hand Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, Sports Therapy
Baker Valley Physical Therapy
3950 17th St. 541-523-8888 bakervalleypt.com
Integrative Physical Therapy
1928 Court St. 541-523-9664 www.iptbc.com
Podiatry
Sanders Podiatry
2830 10th St. 541-524-0122
Brian Sanders, DPM
Surgical Ophthalmology
Saint Alphonsus Medical Group 3175 Pocahontas Road 541-524-8000
• Daniel Hanson, MD
Prosthetics & Orthotics
Hanger Clinic
3175 Pocahontas Road 208-344-9981
• Desh Anderson, CO
• Timothy Cleveland, CPO
Wound Care
Saint Alphonsus Wound Care 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-7870
Anesthesia
• Jesse Jarnes, CRNA
• Ben Bruestle, CRNA
Emergency Medicine
• Ian Buchanan, MD
• Mark Burriesci, MD
David Ingram, MD
• Michael McQueen, MD
• David Richards, MD
• Kaare Tingelstad, DO
Derek Guy Zickgraf, DO Kennan Richards, MD
Radiology & Imaging
Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Baker City 3325 Pocahontas Road 541-524-7812
St. Luke’s Eastern Oregon Medical Associates
3950 17th St. 541-523-1001
Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Walk-in Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon
Provider services
Adult, pediatric and obstetrical care; surgical care; nurse care management with a Community Health Worker; nurse appointments with RN/LPN (wound care, medication administrations, etc.), on-site Mental Health Therapist; collaborative programs for vaccinations (Baker County Health Department) and mental health counseling services (New Directions Behavioral Health and Wellness).
Specialty clinic services
Urology, on-site laboratory and x-ray services, mobile mammography, daily transportation to St. Luke’s Cancer Institute in Fruitland, Idaho.
Pine Eagle Clinic
218 N. Pine St., Halfway 541-742-5023
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
J. Daniel Smithson, MD
• Dean N. Defrees, MD
• Kathryn L. Grace, PA-C
• Robert Bachman, PT
Services
Wellness and preventive care; annual exams; immunizations; childhood diseases; women’s health services; sports physicals; diabetes management; specialist referrals; medication refills; lab tests; treatment of acute illnesses; skin exams; sutures; occupational health services; physical therapy
Social Services
Department of Human Services (DHS)
3165 10th St., Baker City
541-523-3648
www.oregon.gov/dhs/Offices/Pages/index.aspx
Self-sufficiency office services
541-523-3648
ODHS Self-Sufficiency offices offer help with food benefits (SNAP), cash for families (TANF), child care assistance, refugee services and domestic violence assistance.
Child welfare
541-523-6423
Aging and People with Disabilities
Medicaid programs, food and nutrition services, report abuse and neglect
541-523-5846
Vocational Rehabilitation
541-523-8444
New Directions Northwest 3425 13th St., Baker City 541-523-7400
https://newdirectionsnw.org/
New Directions Northwest specializes in helping people with alcohol, drug and gaming addictions, mental health, developmental disabilities and prevention services to individuals from Baker County, and throughout the state of Oregon. Serving Baker County since 1967.
Services: Tele-health, mental health, addiction, crisis intervention, pain management, intellectual and developmental disabilities
Programs: Outpatient. In-patient programs are Baker House and Recovery Village.
Baker County Health Department
2200 Fourth St., Baker City 541-523-8211
Clinic Hours
8 a.m.- 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 541-523-8211 for appointments. For hearing impaired please call 1-800-735-2900.
Extended and travel clinics are available at various times throughout the year.
Services
Home visiting programs for first time parents, for children under 5 years old or with special needs.
• Birth and death certificates
• WIC
• Communicable disease investigation/reporting OHP Assistance for pregnant women
• Water testing
• Immunizations
• Temporary Food Permits
• Tobacco Cessation Referrals
Current Events
Wildfire Smoke Fact sheet http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/wildfires/smoke.asp Traveling abroad? (health related travel advisories) http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel West Nile Virus Information & Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html
Community education
Eastern Oregon Head Start
Baker Early Learning Center 2725 Seventh St., Baker City 541-524-2310
https://eouheadstart.org/
Eastern Oregon Head Start - Baker Center 1927 16th St., Baker City 541-523-2696
https://eouheadstart.org/
Preschool Promise
Preschool Promise is a model for a publicly-funded, highquality preschool system. Preschool Promise leverages high-quality, local and culturally-relevant early child care and education programs and makes them available to children living at 200% of the poverty level.
https://eouheadstart.org/
Blue Mountain Community College - Baker County 3370 10th St., Suite H 541-523-9127
BMCCBaker@bluecc.edu www.bluecc.edu/about/locations/bmcc-baker-county
BMCC Baker County has a variety of offerings:
• College credit classes/A.A.O.T. transfer
• Job skills workshops
• College preparatory classes including ABE, GED preparation and testing, and ESL
• Customized training for business and industry
• Emergency medical training, pharmacy technician, phlebotomy, first aid, and certain occupational certifications
• Personal enrichment courses
Preschools www.211info.org/search-resources
Childcare resources
Theresa Martinez, coordinator: theresa.martinez@malesd.org
• Chalene Harshman, infant toddler specialist: chalene.harshman@malesd.org
• Kyla Emerson, quality improvement specialist: kyla.emerson@malesd.org
https://findchildcareoregon.org/ https://eokidsandcare.org/ https://www.childcareworksfororegon.org/
Baker Relief Nursery
1925 16th St., Baker City 541-239-5054
https://bakerreliefnursery.org/ Relief Nurseries offer several services, including an infant/ toddler therapeutic classroom, home visits, parent education, a clothing and diaper closet, and food bank. Updates and information are posted on Facebook.
Volunteer
Arts
Crossroads Carnegie Art Center
2020 Auburn Ave., Baker City, 541-523-5369
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday www.crossroads-arts.org
Eastern Oregon Regional Theatre
2021 Main St. Suite 221, Baker City, 541-523-9652 www.easternoregonregionaltheatre.com
Culture
Baker Heritage Museum
2480 Grove St., Baker City 541-523-9308 March-October www.bakerheritagemuseum.com
National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
22267 Highway 86, Baker City, 541-523-1843 nhotic.com
This museum features exhibits that share the history of the Oregon Trail, as well as living history performances and special events that portray life on the trail.
Baker City Downtown
Baker City Downtown is a local, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve and enhance the vitality and character of the community through the beautification, promotion, and development of downtown Baker City. Volunteers are needed for committees as well as annual events — spring cleanup, watering flower baskets, Taste of Baker, Festival of Trees, Cookie Crawl and more. bakercitydowntown.com (click on “Get Involved”) bakercitydowntown@gmail.com
Eastern Oregon Museum
610 Third St., Haines
Memorial Day-Labor Day easternoregonmuseum.com
KBZR 89.9
This nonprofit, community radio station started streaming online in March 2024, and hit the airwaves at 89.9 FM in June 2025. Volunteer DJs have regular weekly shows, and additional volunteers are needed for other tasks. To learn more about hosting a show or how else you can help, visit the website.
kbzr.org. info@kbzr.org
Pine Valley Community Museum
155 E. Record St., Halfway
Sumpter Municipal Museum
245 S. Mill St., Sumpter 541-894-2314
Huntington Museum
395 First St., Huntington
Facebook: Huntington Oregon Historical Society & Museum
Chinese Cemetery
Windmill Lane, east of Interstate 84
Social Services
Baker County CASA
541-403-1375
https://casaeo.org/ Court-Appointed Special Advocates. Volunteers are needed to help make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children in Baker County.
Baker City Cycling Classic
Bicyclists ride a course around downtown during a stage of the Baker City Cycling Classic, a four-stage bicycle race held in late June every year. bakercitycyclingclassic.com
Community Connection
2810 Cedar St., Baker City, 541-523-6591
Looking for dining hostesses, delivery drivers for Meals on Wheels, musicians, bingo callers, craft class instructor and fundraising.
MayDay Inc.
2745 Broadway St., Baker City, 541-523-9472
MayDay provides services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, including care homes.
Lifespan of Baker City
541-523-6591
Accepting applications for prospective volunteer respite providers.
The Salvation Army
2505 Broadway St., Baker City, 541-523-5853
During the holidays, volunteers are needed to ring bells for the red kettle fundraisers.
Service Clubs
Service clubs are the backbone of the community — these priceless volunteers sustain events such as the Easter egg hunt, Trick-or-Treat Downtown, Community Night Out, buffalo burgers at Miners Jubilee and placing flags on holidays. The clubs also support the community through donations and scholarships. Membership has been waning in recent years — if you’ve always wanted to make a difference in your community, now is a great time to join a service club.
Baker City Kiwanis
David Cowan, 541-523-6027; also on Facebook.
Baker City Lions Club
Meets at noon Thursdays at Community Connection, 2810 Cedar St. Also on Facebook. Membership information: Mark Bogart, 541-519-2350
Baker City Rotary Club
Meets at noon Mondays at the Baker Tower, 1705 15th St. Also on Facebook. Membership information: Kent Virtue, bakercityrotaryflags@gmail.com
Soroptimist International
Jo Hinrichsen, 541-523-7778; Michelle Paoletti, 541-519-5199
Baker County Cattlewomen
Meetings are held four times per year. Contact: Michelle Kaseberg, 541-519-4971
Daughters of the American Revolution
Betty Milliman, 541-403-4652. Meets the second Friday of each month, alternating between Baker City and La Grande.
Wildfire
Wildfire is our most imminent natural disaster
Rural living comes with both advantages and disadvantages. We have a slower pace of life — there is no rush hour, and rarely long lines to wait. There’s also the ability to live a bit closer to nature, whether that means within a few minutes’ driving distance of the mountains or right up in the forest.
But a forest means a possibility of fire — August 2015 exemplified that when lightning sparked two wildfires that together scorched more acres than any fire in recent Baker County history. The Cornet/Windy Ridge Complex was fueled by a combination of hot temperatures, high winds, and low humidity. It grew fast, forcing homeowners to evacuate and wait to hear if they had a home left.
That complex alone burned more than 104,000 acres. On July 31, 2016, the Rail Fire ignited and ultimately charred 42,000 acres in southern Baker County near Unity. In July 2024, a lightning-sparked fire, the Durkee Fire, burned 293,000 acres, primarily rangeland but with some forest, in southern Baker and northern Malheur counties.
That’s a lot of land, and a mixture of public and private ownership.
Defense tactics
Those who choose to live among the trees aren’t without defenses when it comes to wildfire.
There is something called a “defensible space zone” — removing all dead vegetation, thinning out thick shrubs and trees, and removing “ladder fuels” by cutting low tree branches and pruning or removing shrubs that grow under the trees.
Six steps to creating a defensible space
1. Determine the size of an effective defensible space
This varies by home, but a general guideline is 30 feet for dry grass and 100 feet for shrubs and woodland (on a flat slope). For a steep slope, those numbers increase to 100 feet for grasses and 200 feet for shrubs/woodland.
2. Remove dead vegetation
Remove:
• dead and dying trees
• dead native and ornamental shrubs
• dead branches
• dead leaves, needles and twigs
• dried grass, weeds and flowers
• dried cheatgrass
3. Separate trees and shrubs
With the defensible space zone, native trees and shrubs should not occur in a dense stand. Sagebrush, shrubs, pine and juniper should be separated by a space that is at least twice the plant’s height.
4. Make space between tree branches and plants
Ensure there is a space between low-growing vegetation and the lowest tree branches. If not trimmed, the vegetation is considered “ladder fuel,” allowing a fire to climb up into a tree’s branches. The recommended separation is a space that is three times the height of the lower vegetation. If no vegetation grows beneath the tree, remove tree branches at least two feet above the ground so burning needles and twigs can’t ignite the tree.
5. Create “lean, clean, and green” areas
The first goal is to eliminate easily ignitable fuels near the house. The second goal is to keep fire intensity low if it does burn near the house. The “lean, clean and green” area is often the residential landscape with irrigation, ornamental plants and regular maintenance.
6. Maintain the defensible space zone
Maintaining the defensible space is an ongoing activity. Plants grow back and flammable vegetation needs to be routinely removed. Before each fire season, re-evaluate property using these steps.
— National Fire Protection Association: www.nfpa.org
Firewise Communities
Baker County now has six Firewise Communities, which are designated areas where the property owners follow the steps to create defensible spaces around their homes. In addition to the above six steps, driveaways are maintained to allow good access for fire trucks.
Information
www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/ Wildfire/Firewise-USA
Seniors,Veterans, Employment & Voters
Services in the home
Oregon Home Care Commission
877-867-0077
oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/hcc/pages/index.aspx
Oregon Home Care Commission supports homecare workers, personal support workers and consumer/employers by:
• Defining qualifications of homecare (HCW) and personal support workers (PSW)
• Providing a statewide registry of HCW and PSW
• Providing training opportunities and
• Serving as the “employer of record” for collective bargaining for homecare and personal support workers who receive service payments that are from public funds.
Residential Care
A facility consisting of shared or individual living units in a homelike surrounding. Services available on a 24-hour basis.
Ashley Manor
1040 Lund Lane, Baker City 541-524-9880
Settlers Park
2895 17th St., Baker City 541-523-0200
Memory Lane Homes
3078 Resort St., Baker City • 541-523-1150
Assisted Living
A facility with fully self-contained individual living units. Offers and coordinates a range of services available on a 24-hour basis.
Meadowbrook Place
4000 Cedar St., Baker City, • 541-523-6333
Settlers Park 2895 17th St., Baker City • 541-523-0200
Home Health
Enhabit Home Health & Hospice
3370 10th St. Suite D, Baker City • 541-523-3335
Hospice
Heart ‘n’ Home Hospice
3330 Pocahontas Road, Baker City 541-524-7688 • https://lhcgroup.com/
Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS)
Seniors and People with Disabilities
This department helps determine eligibility for long term care (both in home or in a facility) and Medicaid. This office is also a resource for SNAP, the federal food assistance program. 541-523-5846
Veterans Services
Baker County Veterans Office
2200 Fourth St., Baker City 541-523-8223
Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs
800-633-8801
Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Club
2005 Valley Ave., Baker City 541-523-4988
Employment
Work Source Oregon
1575 Dewey Ave., Baker City 541-523-8207
www.worksourceoregon.org
Voter Registration
County Clerk’s Office
1995 Fourth St. (Baker County Courthouse) 541-523-8207
Register to vote online at sos.oregon.gov
Holcomb Park
Holcomb Park is named for John Noble Holcomb, the only Baker County resident to receive the Medal of Honor, America’s highest military decoration. Holcomb died on Dec. 3, 1968, near Quan Loi in Vietnam. He was 22. Even after he was wounded, Holcomb manned a machine gun after the regular gunner was hurt, and crawled through fire ignited by artillery to move several members of his squad.
Transportation
Ride
Trolley
The Baker City Trolley, operated through Community Connection of Northeast Oregon, took to the streets in July 2009 and has been on the road ever since. It follows a single two-way route from the east side of Baker City to the west side. Call at least 24 hours in advance to request a deviation from the route.
Monday through Friday, 9:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (lunch break from noon to 1 p.m.)
Saturday, 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. (lunch break from noon to 1 p.m.)
Fares: Free
Uber
Available for rides and food delivery. Check the app for information.
Intercity Bus
Community Connection also offers an intercity connector between Baker City and La Grande Monday through Thursday. It leaves Baker City at 7 a.m., then stops in Haines and North Powder before arriving at the La Grande transit hub at 8 a.m. It brings riders back by about 5:18 p.m.
A round-trip ride from Baker City to La Grande is $11, or purchase a $110 monthly pass for unlimited rides.
Also, buses run from Halfway and Sumpter to Baker City, and also Baker City to Ontario.
Information
541-523-7433
ccno.org/public-transit/baker-county-public-transit/
Baker City Municipal Airport (BKE) Baker City Municipal Airport is three miles north of Baker City. The National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2011–2015 categorized it as a general aviation facility. 43769 Heilner Dr, Baker City, OR 97814 541- 523-5663 • https://bakeraircraft.com
Baker Aircraft
541-523-5663 www.bakeraircraft.com
State Parks
Baker County boasts three state parks. Two are near water where you can camp, and the third features a historic landmark left from the mining era.
Historic Farewell Bend State Recreation Area
This park is located on the Oregon/Idaho border about 50 miles southeast of Baker City along Interstate 84. It is along the banks of Snake River’s Brownlee Reservoir. Historic markers and interpretive displays provide visitors with information on Farewell Bend’s significance on the Oregon Trail.
Brownlee Reservoir offers fishing, water skiing and boating. For fishing information, check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: https://myodfw.com/articles/warmwaterfishing-northeast-oregon
The park is open for day use year-round. Camping is open from March through November.
Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area
Now silent, the Sumpter Valley Dredge is the centerpiece of this park that pays homage to the gold mining days. Miles of tailings line the banks of Powder River, and the dredge left much of the rocky footprint. Built in 1935, it ran until 1954. It dug up more than $4 million worth of gold.
The park is open May 1 through Oct. 31. Several miles of trails wind through the tailing piles and ponds, and visitors can tour the dredge.
Unity Lake State Recreation Site
This park is described as “an oasis of green in Oregon’s high desert.” Attractions include boating and fishing. Or use the park as a basecamp to explore nearby wilderness areas. This area includes a boat ramp, boat trailer parking, restrooms and water. It’s open year-round, although camping is allowed April 1 through Oct. 31. There are 35 electrical sites with water, two cabins, and hot showers.
Reservations
Reservable sites at both Unity Lake and Farewell Bend can be booked up to 6 months in advance at: oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com
Information: https://stateparks.oregon.gov
County Parks
Hewitt and Holcomb Parks
41132 Robinette Road
Richland, OR 97870
These two parks are located just outside of Richland, and offer water access to Brownlee Reservoir. Camping options include: RV spaces with electricity, water hookups, picnic table and a fire ring; or tent and RV spaces without hookups that have a picnic table and fire ring. There are also day use picnic tables, showers, restrooms, ice, firewood, and three boat ramps. Anglers fish for small and largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, perch and trout.
For reservations, please call: October through March: 541-524-7480 April through September: 541-893-6147
Right: Hewitt Park, along the Powder River arm of the Brownlee Reservoir, is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Outdoor Recreation
Hiking
Baker Valley lies between two major mountain ranges — the Elkhorns close by to the west, the Wallowas a bit farther away to the northeast. Both have a network of Forest Service trails open to hikers and horseback riders. WallowaWhitman National Forest: 1550 Dewey Ave. and 3285 11th St., Baker City; 541-523-6391; www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/
Water sports
Baker County has quite a few waterways, with the most popular for boaters being Phillips Reservoir, 20 miles south of Baker City on Highway 7, and Brownlee Reservoir on the Snake River on the county’s eastern edge.
Ski and snowboard
When winter coats the high country with a blanket of snow, it’s time to pull those skis, snowboards and snowshoes out of storage. Baker County’s main winter attraction is Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, located about 20 miles west of Haines. www.anthonylakes.com, 541-856-3277
The Trailhead
1828 Main St., Baker City 541-523-1668 • www.thetrailheadbakercity.com
The Trailhead is a space for information on area outdoor recreation, including mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and camping. Also a full service bike and ski repair shop with bike demos/rentals, large area trail maps and more.
Anthony Lakes
541-856-3277 • www.anthonylakes.com
Snowmobile
Clubs in the Sumpter, Halfway and Burnt River areas maintain miles and miles of trails all winter.
Hunting
Baker County has populations of pretty much every big game animal and upland bird that can legally be hunted. Deer (both mule and whitetail) and Rocky Mountain elk lure the largest number of hunters, but the county also has herds of pronghorn antelope and mountain goats.
Fishing
Baker County has a wide variety of fisheries, including tiny and frigid alpine lakes, warmwater reservoirs that stretch for dozens of miles, and many rivers and streams that are stocked regularly with trout. Most water bodies are open year-round. Bag limits vary, but in general there are no limits on the number of warmwater species, including catfish and crappie, that anglers can keep.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
2995 Hughes Lane, Baker City 541-523-5832 • www.dfw.state.or.us
Forest Service 541-523-6391 www.fs.usda.gov/r06/wallowa-whitman
Oregon State Parks www.oregonstateparks.org
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Anthony Lakes ski area, located 35 miles from Baker City in the Elkhorn Mountains, offers winter fun for skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers. In the summer and fall, it turns into an outdoor hot spot for hikers and mountain bikers. For details, visit anthonylakes.com
Baker City
Prospectors discovered gold in Eastern Oregon in October 1861 and their find sparked a rush of miners to the area. Auburn was the first county seat, in 1862, but the home of county government moved to Baker City in 1868. Baker City was officially incorporated as a city in 1874, which means it will celebrate 150 years in 2024.
Baker County and Baker City are named in honor of Col. Edward D. Baker, Oregon’s first U.S. Senator, who died in a Civil War battle in 1861. He was the only member of Congress to die in combat in the war. Originally named Baker City, the “City” was dropped in 1910. In 1989, city voters decided to return to the original name.
Baker City is governed by a seven-member city council. The council chooses a mayor from among councilors. City council meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall. http://www.city-data.com/city/Baker-City-Oregon.html https://sos.oregon.gov/blue-book/Pages/local/cities/a-d/baker-city.aspx https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/bakercitycityoregon https://data.census.gov
Population (2024): 10,104
Elevation: 3,451 feet
Incorporated: October 13, 1874
Housing units: 4,798
Median home value: $197,812
City of Baker City 1655 First St., Baker City, OR 97814 541-523-6541 • www.bakercity.com
Baker County Library 2400 Resort St. 541-523-6419 • www.bakerlib.org
Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: Noon-4 p.m.
Water/Sewer Department
City of Baker City 1655 First St. 541-523-6541 • www.bakercity.com
Baker City Post Office 1500 Dewey Ave. Baker City, OR 97814 541-523-8593
Baker Schools
Baker School District 5J
2090 Fourth St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2260 • bakersd.org
Baker High School
2500 E St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2600 • bhs.bakersd.org
Eagle Cap Innovative Jr./Sr. High School
2725 Seventh St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2310 • eaglecap.bakersd.org
Baker Technical Institute
2500 E St.
Baker City, OR 97815
541-524-2651 • bakerti.org
Baker Middle School
2320 Washington Ave.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2500 • bms.bakersd.org
South Baker Intermediate School
1285 Third St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2350 • sbi.bakersd.org
Brooklyn Primary School
1350 Washington Ave.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2450 • brooklyn.bakersd.org
Haines Elementary School
400 School St.
Haines, OR 97833
541-524-2400 • haines.bakersd.org
Keating Elementary School
41964 Miles Bridge Road
Keating, OR 97814
541-523-2377 • keating.bakersd.org
Baker Early Learning Center
2725 Seventh St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2310 • belc.bakersd.org
Baker Virtual Academy
2090 Fourth St.
Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2260 • bva.bakersd.org
Baker Charter Schools
Includes Baker Web Academy and Baker Early College 3000 Broadway St. Baker City, OR 97814
541-524-2300 • bakercharters.org
Opening my very own Grocery Outlet has been one of the most rewarding — and humbling experiences in my life. Grocery Outlet is a reflection of everything I care about: family, community, helping others grow and helping people see their potential and the belief that everybody deserves access to quality food at affordable prices.
What makes Grocery Outlet special to me is that it’s independently owned, which means I get to run it with my own personal touch. I’m here, on the floor, talking with shoppers and getting to know their stories and sharing in the rhythm of the community. That’s the part I love the most. I’m not just some guy who signs off on the paychecks. I’m here through it all for this community and my employees.
Even after ten years, this is just the beginning of my Grocery Outlet journey — I’m so grateful to be walking it with you.
Adam Woodford
Greenhorn
In the 1860s, some of the first Eastern Oregon mines opened in the Blue Mountains near the border of Baker and Grant counties. This period marked the start of Greenhorn, situated on rich placer and lode mining territory. The town’s name is disputed, either named for a pinnacle of green serpentine nearby, or for the inexperienced miners who came to strike it rich.
By the 1900s, the town was incorporated but had few residents. There were enough, however, to boast a post office, two hotels, several stores, a brothel, and a tiny wooden jail. Like many of Oregon’s other gold mining towns, Greenhorn declined to nearly nothing after the 1942 federal gold mining ban prompted by World War II. Many of its wooden structures remained, rotting in the mountains.
One morning in 1963, residents of nearby Canyon City discovered that the old Greenhorn Jail, dating to 1910, was sitting mysteriously in their town. Someone had moved the entire structure, and no one knew who, when, how, or why. A court case ensued for its return. Because the city straddles the Blue Mountain ridge, the district attorneys of Baker County and Grant County could not agree in which court the case should be held. To this day, the jail remains in Canyon City. Greenhorn remains the highest town in Oregon at 6,300 feet, and has the lowest population of any incorporated community.
Haines
Haines is the place to be for the Fourth of July holiday. The Haines Stampede Rodeo tradition dates back to the 1890s. Today the rodeo covers two days — July 3 and 4 — at the rodeo grounds in Haines. On the actual holiday, the town celebrates with a pancake breakfast, parade, vendors in the park, and fireworks at dusk. To learn more, visit hainesstampede.com.
Explore local history at the Eastern Oregon Museum, 610 Third St. The newest exhibit is about Anthony Lakes and Champ Bond, who created a snow “thrower” to keep the road open to the cherished local ski area. Also, be sure to find the refreshed display with memorabilia from local schools (Rock Creek, Muddy Creek, Haines and North Powder).
Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend; by appointment during the off-season (24-hour notice appreciated)
Hours: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; also by appointment
Admission: Free; donations welcome
Information: easternoregonmuseum.com, 541-856-3233, easternoregonmuseum@gmail.com
Population (2024): 395
Elevation: 3 ,341 feet
Incorporated: March 11, 1902
City of Haines
819 Front St., Haines, OR 97833 541-856-3366 • www.cityofhaines.org
Population (2020): 2 (none year round)
Elevation: 6,300 feet
Incorporated: February 20, 1903
Halfway
The story of how Halfway got its name runs the gamut, but this is fairly close. A new post office was being established in 1887. As it was midway between existing post offices located at Cornucopia and Pine Town, the name “Midway” was requested. The postal officials replied that there was already a Midway, Oregon, and suggested Halfway. Two years later, the post office was moved to the current location in the town of Halfway. As it was about halfway between Pine Town and its original location near Jimtown, the name remained. Halfway was located in Union County until 1901, when it became part of Baker County. In 2000, Halfway changed its name to Half.com in exchange for incentives from a Philadelphia-based Internet store of the same name. The company gave the city $75,000 in cash, $20,000 for economic development and a $5,000 four-wheeler for the local Fair Board’s fundraising raffle. Halfway Elementary School received 20 new computers, and more than two dozen businesses in Pine Valley got websites.
A year later, the website sold to eBay for $300 million and the town took back its old name.
Local history and artifacts are preserved at the Pine Valley Community Museum, 115 E. Record St. It is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Hours: 1-4 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Or by appointment.
Admission: By donation
Information: pinevalleymuseum@gmail.com
Dale Taylor, 541-540-7194 • Bill Schuhle, 541-742-7891 • Frances Vaughan, 541-742-5152
Population (2024): 363
Elevation: 2,651 feet
Incorporated: May 27, 1909
Halfway City Hall
115 E. Record St.
Halfway, OR 97834
541-742-4741
hellscanyonchamber.com/history
Pine Eagle School District
375 N. Main St. Halfway, OR 97834
541-742-2550
www.pineeaglesd.org
Henry Miller settled here in August of 1862, and built the Stage Tavern known for many years as “Miller Station.” It was on the overland route which was known to all who traveled in pioneer days. The place was bought out in 1882 by brothers J.B. & J.M. Huntington, with J.M. as the first postmaster.
Huntington was known as a “division point” for the railroad. It became an important railroad town in 1884 when the Oregon Railroad and Navigation Company made Huntington its common terminal.
Huntington lies just a few miles from Brownlee Reservoir, a dammed portion of the Snake River that stretches more than 50 miles. This reservoir is popular for fishing and water recreation. Beware, however, that in the summertime this area can reach temperatures well over 100 degrees due to its low elevation.
Farewell Bend State Park is nearby; search https://stateparks.oregon.gov/ for details.
Huntington is a hot spot every Memorial Day weekend for the annual catfish derby. Anglers catch some big cats — and if you’re not into fishing, you can still eat some fish and chips.
The Huntington Museum, 395 First St., is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and by appointment.
Hours: 1-4 p.m. Saturdays
Admission: By donation
Information: Facebook (Huntington Oregon Historical Society & Museum) 208-249-5179
Population (2024): 506
Elevation: 2,110 feet
Incorporated: February 18, 1891
City of Huntington 50 E. Adams, Huntington, OR 97907 541-869-2202 huntingtoncityof@gmail.com
Huntington School District 520 3rd St. Huntington, OR 97907 541-869-2204
www.huntington.k12.or.us
Richland
Eagle Valley includes Richland, and nearby New Bridge. Gold was discovered in 1863 near Sparta, about nine miles northwest of Richland, which sparked an influx of miners. Homesteaders arrived in the 1870s and 1880s to settle in the valley. Agriculture is a cornerstone to this lower-elevation valley with a milder climate than much of the rest of Baker County, from farming to ranching to growing wine grapes. Highway 86 runs right through the middle of Richland, then continues on to Halfway. Richland also provides access to Brownlee Reservoir through two county parks: Hewitt and Holcomb.
Population (2024): 165
Elevation: 2,231 feet
Incorporated: August 8, 1902
City of Richland
89 Main St., Richland, OR 97870 541-893-6141 richcity@eagletelephone.com
Sumpter
Sumpter was platted in 1898 and became a gold mining boomtown in less than a decade. After the Sumpter Valley Railroad arrived in the early 1900s, the city population grew to 2,000 and featured churches, saloons, a brewery, sidewalks, three newspapers and an opera house — a nod to the nearly $9 million in gold that was extracted from the area’s 35 mines.
Tragedy struck in August 1917 when fire swept through to destroy nearly 100 buildings over 12 blocks. By this time, most mines were going bust and many residents left town. The gold dredges, however, continued to operate for decades. The last and largest — a 72-bucket contraption that processed nine cubic feet of material per minute — fell silent in 1954 after extracting $4.5 million in gold from the valley. Today it is the centerpiece of a historic park.
Construction of the narrow gauge Sumpter Valley Railroad in 1896 and the Transatlantic Railway in 1897 helped the mining and timber industries flourish for decades. Today visitors can take a ride on the restored steam-powered Sumpter Valley Railroad most weekends in the summer, and for special events in October, November and December. Visit www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org for information.
Sumpter is home to three flea markets every year: Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July weekend and Labor Day weekend.
City of Sumpter
240 N. Mill St., Sumpter, OR 97877
541-894-2314
cityofsumpter@qwestoffice.net
Population (2024): 208
Elevation: 4,429 feet
Incorporated: May 5, 1898
Don’t let the date of incorporation of 1972 fool you — the first post office in Unity was established in 1891. The upper Burnt River Valley thrived with logging, milling and mining operations. Miners and homesteaders established several small communities — Clarksville, Bridgeport, Hereford, Audrey, Whitney and Unity. Today the valley is home to ranches, many of which can trace their roots back to the homesteaders.
The Burnt River History Book group compiled and published a book — nearly 600 pages — full of facts, photos, and family histories from the Burnt River Valley. It is titled “Lest We Forget: Remembrances of Upper Burnt River in Baker County, Oregon.”
Another book, this one by Mike Higgins and Les Tipton, details the history of the 140-mile ditch that Chinese workers dug by hand in the gold fields of Eastern Oregon in the late 1800s. The title is “Ditch Walkers and Water Wars: The Life and Times of the Eldorado Ditch in the Gold Fields of Eastern Oregon.”
Population (2024): 40
Elevation: 4,040 feet
Incorporated: July 31, 1972
Burnt River School District
Saf-T-Stor
SECURE STORAGE
3100 15th St. (off “H” St.) Baker City
Saf-T-Stor can offer you a variety of storage options. We safely and securely store your documents and records, personal possessions, your RV, boat, trailer or camper.
We have multiple sizes of units, large covered areas and outside spaces. Our facility is securely fenced, with dusk to dawn lighting, a computerized gate and surveillance cameras. For all your storage needs. 541-523-2128
201 S. 1st Ave. Unity, OR 97884
541-446-3466
www.burntriver.k12.or.us
Elkhorn Scenic Byway
The Elkhorn Scenic Byway is 106 miles long, and chances are you won’t see very many other cars on this route that takes you all the way around the Elkhorn Mountains.
Highlights along the way include Phillips Reservoir, the Sumpter Valley Railroad, the Sumpter Dredge State Heritage Area, North Fork John Day campground and the Anthony Lakes area.
The route
From Baker City, take Highway 30 north to Haines (10 miles) where you turn left onto Anthony Lakes Highway. At Elkhorn Summit, the byway winds down to the North Fork John Day River and a junction with the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway.
Turn left toward Granite, then Sumpter. Three miles past Sumpter, turn left onto Highway 7 and back to Baker City. Or, you can always follow the route the other way — toward Sumpter first.
Closure
Snow closes a segment between Granite and Anthony Lakes from late fall to early summer (sometimes as late as July 4). Heed the “road closed” signs near Anthony Lakes and Granite, please.
Distance
106 miles
Time
5 to 6 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way to explore
Attractions
Phillips Reservoir, Sumpter Valley Railroad, Sumpter Dredge State Heritage Area, Anthony Lakes
Information
www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a loop that encircles the Wallowa Mountains, intersecting with Interstate 84 at La Grande and Baker City.
Small towns along the drive offer visitor services, but plan ahead — from Baker City to Hells Canyon there are four opportunities to fill up with gas: Richland, Halfway (two stations) and Oxbow.
Closures
The entire route is fully open only from late spring to fall because a segment between Joseph and Halfway — Forest Road 39 — closes due to snow in winter. The section typically opens by late May. Tourists are encouraged to check road conditions on www. hellscanyonbyway.com.
The byway circles the Wallowa Mountains through 11 communities, offering visitors a taste of life in rural Northeastern Oregon.
Summer recreation options along the way include a tramway at Wallowa Lake, fishing in cold rivers, hiking the canyon country or alpine forests, camping in parks or the wilderness, or playing in the water for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
In the winter, there are places to ski or ride a snowmobile on a section of the byway that closes to automobiles after the snow falls.
The route
The 218-mile trip can start in Baker City and travels through Richland, Halfway, Joseph, Enterprise, Elgin, Imbler and La Grande — plus other small communities.
If you’d rather not tackle the entire byway, we have some suggestions for a nice day trip to the edge of Baker County, starting in Baker City.
Richland: This small town, 41 miles east of Baker City, offers a gateway to Brownlee Reservoir and two county parks — Hewitt and Holcomb — for camping, fishing and picnicking.
Halfway: The Wallowa Mountains tower over this town and the Pine Valley, which means you can access hiking and backpacking. While you’re there, find 18 quilt blocks on the Quilt Block Trail with a short drive around Halfway and Pine Valley. In winter, the Panhandle Snowmobile Club maintains approximately 260 miles of groomed trails. Halfway is about 55 miles east of Baker City.
Oxbow: A series of dams on the Snake River creates three reservoirs and various camping opportunities. Idaho Power maintains five parks within the Hells Canyon Complex: Woodhead Park, McCormick Park, Carters Landing, Copperfield Park and Hells Canyon Park. For details and reservations, go to idahopower.com and click on “Community and Recreation.”
Information
www.hellscanyonchamber.com • www.hellscanyonbyway.com
Know before you go
The Hells Canyon Byway’s section on Forest Road 39 (shown in yellow on the map) is open to over-snow vehicles only through April 15. After that, it’s up to Mother Nature as to when the snow melts and the road is passable for vehicles. It is not maintained until around June 15.
The Wallowa Mountain Loop Road and Forest Road 66 are often closed by snow from late October through late May or early June (later for Road 66) and are not passable by automobiles during this time period. Both Roads 66 and 39 are snowmobile routes. For information and updates, call the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest office in Baker City, 541-523-6391, or the Joseph office, 541-426-5546. Information about the Hells Canyon Byway can be found
Jet Boat Tours and Whitewater Rafting
Hells Canyon Adventures offers jet boat tours, white water rafting trips, fishing charters and jet boat shuttle services in the wild section of the Snake River. • hellscanyonadventures.com
Sumpter Valley Railroad
This historic steam train operates weekends on narrow-gauge tracks that run from McEwen Station to Sumpter. Special events include staged robberies, night trains and fall foliage events.
Visit www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org for information.
Construction of the narrow gauge Sumpter Valley Railroad in 1896 and the Transatlantic Railway in 1897 helped the mining and timber industries flourish for decades. Today visitors can take a ride on the restored steam-powered Sumpter Valley Railroad most weekends in the summer, and for special events in October, November and December.
Visit www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org for more info.
The Armstrong nugget
The Armstrong nugget, a hunk of gold weighing 80 ounces, has been donated to Baker County by U.S. Bank in Baker City. The nugget was discovered by miners George Armstrong and Dick Stewart on June 19, 1913, when they were placer mining in Buck Gulch, near Susanville in Grant County. Armstrong kept the nugget at the bank and loaned against it for a year, then sold it to the bank in 1914 for $1,408.75. A special exhibit featuring the nugget and many other gold pieces opened in spring of 2025 at the Baker Heritage Museum.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/wallowa-whitman/specialplaces/?cid=fseprd505427 https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-armstrong-nugget
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