Wallowa Lake Marina
Eagle Cap Chalets
Matterhorn Village & Mtn. Pines Adventure Golf
Welcome to a side of Oregon where each place is more astonishing than the last. The charming side of Eastern Oregon boasts more discovery at every angle; plan a trip to see all you can here.
Stretching from the low desert to the high mountains, the most incredible forests to the deepest canyons, with lakes and rivers adorning the land between, Eastern Oregon is more ecologically diverse than you can imagine. With more roads to explore, trails to trek, and rivers and lakes to kayak, float and canoe than you could fit into one trip, there are always more reasons to return again and again. Enjoy the welcoming communities of the small towns, and stop to see unexpected roadside attractions. History and heritage can be found in each corner of the region. On the way, expect changing scenery and dazzling views, as the journey here is just as important as the destination.
Take every opportunity to soak in the wide open spaces, and don’t rush—you won’t want to miss out on anything. Remember to plan ahead before setting forth because cell phone service, ATMs and gas stations are sparse in this part of the state.
Welcome to wild rivers, deep canyons and picturesque sunsets. Welcome to culture and heritage, to hospitality and fantastic food, to big adventures and discoveries.
Welcome to Eastern Oregon.
Your friends in Eastern Oregon outreach@visiteasternoregon.com visiteasternoregon.com
Eastern Oregon Visitors Association PO Box 511, La Grande, OR 97850 (800) 332-1843
With a sprawling 150,000 acres in the Heart of Oregon’s Frontier Country, Silvies Valley Ranch is excited to offer all-inclusive golf vacation packages. Our award-winning resort offers four different golf courses, fine dining, horseback adventures, full-service spa with indoor pool, ATV tours and endless outdoor activities. Just a quick three hour drive between Bend and Boise, Silvies Valley Ranch will be the vacation of a lifetime – ask about our goat caddies!
Golfweek - Best Resort Courses in U.S., 2022 • Condé Nast - Top 10 Resorts, 2019 • Golf Digest - Best New U.S. Courses, 2018
Enter to win a FREE 3 night stay!
Revel in the solitude and majesty of a landscape that is as ancient as it is powerful. This diverse and inspiring region comprises half of Oregon and delivers endless delights throughout. From culinary treats to outdoor adventure to celebrated heritage and road trips featuring the best scenic byways and bikeways, you’ll be amazed at what you can do in this untamed expanse.
Experience the vibrant cultures of the region by exploring the local museums and art galleries. Learn how the Burns Paiute, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes, and Basque community, Braceros, and early Japanese and Chinese inhabitants have shaped the region’s rich history.
There’s always a way to feed your playful side with Eastern Oregon’s miles of trails and winding rivers, golf courses and beautiful dude ranches.
THERE’S MORE TO EXPERIENCE
THERE’S MORE TO PLAY
THERE’S MORE TO TREK
THERE’S MORE TO CRUISE
LESLIE
THERE’S MORE TO TASTE THERE’S MORE TO
Spanning mountain ranges and desert floors, Eastern Oregon is home to nearly 3.1 million acres of national forest landscapes.
Pack the car and travel through miles of scenic byways, passing by dramatic canyons, towering mountains and crystalline lakes.
Sip your way through award-winning wines, and look out for innovative breweries dotting the region. Try hidden-gem restaurants serving juicy grass-fed burgers, and taste fresh produce along the region’s various farm trails.
With approximately 546 combined miles of designated scenic bikeways, Eastern Oregon is home to some of the most challenging yet rewarding bike routes in the state.
From gulches, rolling hills to fossils embedded deep in time, discover the history of this vast region.
The state’s largest region, Eastern Oregon has diverse geography, abundant farmland, charming towns and endless outdoor activity. Whether you’re attending a rodeo, savoring local cuisine, delving into rich history or exploring stunning nature, Eastern Oregon provides expereinces like no other. The four main regions of Eastern Oregon offer an expanse of ecosystems and natural wonders that will be difficult to find anywhere else.
Oregon’s Northeast corner is home to extreme landscapes. Tall mountains and deep canyons give way to lush forests and vast range lands. The region’s communities are supported by bountiful farmland and are surrounded by endless opportunities for recreation.
A rich Native American heritage meets cowboy culture in Oregon’s Rugged Country. Enjoy tasty agricultural delights and locally produced wine. Engage in insightful educational experiences and attend a world-class rodeo. Experience the influence of local history on contemporary culture and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere.
The John Day River Territory is steeped in natural and cultural history. Tour the region’s abundant fossil beds and geographical wonders. Learn about the communities that have lived on and shaped this land for centuries. Acquaint yourself with the friendly towns and people continuing to make this place so special.
The Southeast has remained greatly undeveloped for more than a millennium, making its pristine landscape a playground for outdoor adventurers. Experience terrain that ranges from vast desert playa to gorgeous alpine peaks. Choose your adventure; whether it’s rafting, hiking, or soaking in hot springs, this region has it.
Fly into Portland, Oregon, Seattle, Washington or Boise, Idaho and take a connecting flight to the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in Pendleton to access Eastern Oregon by plane. The People Mover provides transportation between Eastern Oregon to Roberts Field in Redmond on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. See grantcountypeoplemover.com.
BY CARTravel at your own pace on the many scenic byways and through the expanses of Eastern Oregon. For up-to-date information, including road conditions, closures and weather throughout Oregon, see tripcheck.com. There are limited options on the roads for gas stations so be sure to gas up before you head out.
Pick up a rental car:
Eastern Oregon Regional Airport
Baker City
Hermiston
Island City
La Grande
BY BUSEastern Oregon is well-connected within the region and to the rest of Oregon through a comprehensive network of bus routes. Most major cities in the region offer bus transit from popular areas such as Bend and Portland from the west and Boise from the east. Pendleton, La Grande, Baker City and Dayville. The People Mover provides transportation around Grant County and beyond. Find out more about shuttle transportation at ccno.org/publictransit.
For travel information and current road conditions throughout Oregon, see tripcheck.com or dial 800-977-6368.
There are a limited number of restaurants in some of Oregon’s beautiful, remote places. Make sure you have picnic supplies, snacks and water to help you and your family stay happy.
July through October is peak wildfire season in Oregon. Be vigilant about extinguishing and disposing of cigarettes. Know fire risks and respect fire restrictions, including campfire bans. Avoid parking or driving on dry grass, because cars can spark wildfires. Report wildfires immediately by dialing 911.
Temps can top 100 degrees in summer. Pack hats, sunscreen and water to help beat the heat. During winter, slow down and drive with caution. Roads can be very slick. Weather can change in a minute, so check tripcheck.com before heading out. Know your limits for adventuring outdoors in winter conditions.
Do not rely on your GPS or phone for accurate directions because you may not get coverage throughout the area. Know where you’re going, and bring along a paper map.
While most businesses in Oregon take credit cards, there are services in rural areas that only take cash.
for help or directions from the people herding the cows. Don’t honk! Watch out for calves and dogs.
This is rattlesnake country—be careful. Avoid basalt rock slides, tall grass and heavy underbrush where snakes may shelter out of the heat. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Rattlesnakes can swim, so be careful about grabbing what looks like a stick in the John Day River.
Swift currents, undertows and whirlpools are common in waterways. Wear life vests and supervise children.
Given long distances between gas stations and unpredictable station hours, make sure you calculate your fuel needs wisely.
It’s not uncommon to come upon a cattle drive when traveling rural roads; go slow and patiently wait
Watch for signs and don’t trespass. Visitors are welcome on Tribal lands, but many locations and events are not open to the public. Avoid burial grounds, sacred ceremonies and spiritual gatherings. Do not pick up or remove artifacts or bring weapons, drugs or alcohol to Tribal lands. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
For much of the outside world, Grant County may seem like uncharted territory, a little-known part of Oregon. Although vast—it sprawls over 4,500 square miles, nearly as large as Connecticut—the county is remote from more urban parts of Oregon. It’s not just rural, but proudly frontier. No freeway or railroad runs through it. You can’t drive in from north, south, east or west without first crossing a 5,000-foot pass. If you don’t mind sharing a country road with a cattle drive, or pausing for a herd of elk, or stopping on the highway for a county fair parade, you will find it well worth the effort.
The 7,200 folks who call Grant County home have deep roots in their
communities and families, some tracing back to the 1862 Gold Rush. Our biggest city is small by urban standards, and it boasts just one stoplight, the only one in the whole county.
It’s a place where people greet each other, even strangers, on the sidewalk. A place where neighbors look out for their neighbors. A place where generation after generation has worked in harmony with the land. Above all, it’s a place defined by the bounty of nature— meandering rivers, open range, towering forests, stunning rock formations and abundant wildlife. And while your new friends in Grant County may not tell you where their favorite huckleberry patch is, they’ll gladly share the rest of their stories.
JUNE 2023
Maxville Heritage Site
100-year Celebration
Maxville, June 2-3
Barley Browns 25th Anniversary Party
Barley Browns, June 1-3
America’s Global Village Festival
Ontario, June 3
Blue Mountain Super D
La Grande, June 4
Eastern Oregon Livestock Show
Union, June 4-11
Richland Brownlee Panfishing Tournament
Richland
Obsidian Days
Hines, June 9-11
Blackbird Music Festival and Street Fair
Burns, June 10
The Old Time Fiddlers Jamboree
Burns, June 15-18
62 Days
Canyon City, June 16-17
South Morrow County Farm Crawl
Heppner, June 17
Flora School Days
Flora, June 17
Elgin Lions Riverfest Car Show
Elgin, June 17
Skull Gravel Grind Bike Race
Burns, June 17
Sherman County Harvest Fest
Moro, June 18
Chief Joseph BMW Motor Cycle Rally
John Day, June 22-25
Jackalope Jamboree
Pendleton, June 22-24
Baker City Cycling Classic
Baker City, June 23-25
Umatilla Landing Days
Umatilla, June 23-24
2023 Fossil Camp & Jam
Fossil, June 30-July 2
JULY 2023
Wildhorse Pow Wow
Pendleton
Haines Stampede Rodeo
Haines, July 3-4
4th of July in Eastern Oregon See VisitEasternOregon.com/events
The Elgin Stampede
Elgin, July 5-8
Athena Caledonian Games
Athena, July 8
La Grande Classic Car Show
La Grande, July 14-15
Miners’ Jubilee
Baker City, July 14-16
Pendleton Whisky Fest
Pendleton, July 15
The Pendleton Run
Pendleton, July 20-22
Tamkaliks Celebration
Wallowa, July 21-23
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo
Joseph, July 25-30
East West Shrine Game
Baker City, July 28-30
Cruz-In-Car Show
Arlington, July 29
Fiber Fest
Prarie City, July 29-30
AUGUST 2023
County Fair Season
See VisitEasternOregon.com/events
CRWAA Summer Walleye Classic
Boardman, August 4-5
Steens Rim Run
Frenchglen, August 5
Farm City Pro Rodeo
Hermiston, August 9-12
Josh Turner in Concert
John Day, August 11
Union Grassroots Festival & Car Show
Union, August 12
Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic/ Epson Tournament
Umatilla Indian Reservation, August 14-20
Wheatstock Music Festival
Helix, August 18-19
Cove Cherry Fair Cove, August 19
Eastern Oregon Beer Festival
La Grande, August 19
Northeast Oregon
Oregon
Rugged Country
John Day
River Territory
Southeast Oregon
Oregon Trail Pro Rodeo
Heppner, August 19
Eastern Oregon Country Music Festival
La Grande, August 25-26
Burns Paiute Powwow & Lacrosse Games
Burns
Painted Hills Festival
Mitchell, September 2
Baker County Fair and Panhandle Rodeo Halfway, September 2-4
Pine Fest
Halfway, September 8-9
Hells Canyon Mule Days
Enterprise, September 8-10
Pendleton Round-Up
Pendleton, September 9-16
Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts
Joseph, September 15-17
Tater Tot Festival
Ontario, September 15-16
Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bike Ride Heppner
Oregon’s Alpenfest
Joseph, September 29-October 1
Echo Sage Run
Echo, September 30
Harvest Festival
Boardman, October 7
Rock the Locks Music Festival
Umatilla, October 6-8
Mountain High Broncs & Bulls
June 17
mountainhighrodeo.com
Shake the Lake 4th of July Fireworks | July 7-8
josephoregon.com
Summer Fishtrap
July 10-16 fishtrap.org
Chief Joseph Days
July 25-30
chiefjosephdays.com
Main Street Show & Shine
August 18-19
mainstreetshowandshine.com
Juniper Jam
September 2 juniperjam.com
Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts | September 15-17
josephy.org
Woodlands & Watersheds Festival | June 30
wallowaresources.org
Wallowa County Fly-In
July 7-8
wallowacountyflyin.com
Tamkaliks Celebration
July 21-23
wallowanezperce.org
Wallowa County Fair
August 4-12
co.wallowa.or.us
Wallowa Mountain Cruise
August 25-26
wallowamountaincruise.com
Hells Canyon Mule Days
September 8-10
hellscanyonmuledays.com
Eagle Cap Extreme
January 18-21
eaglecapextreme.com
For more information, visit wallowacountychamber.com
OCTOBER 2023
Oktoberfest
Pendleton, October 7
Taste of Baker
Baker City, October 7
Eastern Oregon Film Festival
La Grande, October 19-21
DECEMBER 2023
Timber Truckers Light Parade
John Day, December 9
New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
La Grande, December 31
JANUARY 2024
Eagle Cap Extreme Dog Sled Race
Joseph, January 18-20
FEBRUARY 2024
Sumpter Snowmobile Poker Run
Sumpter
MARCH 2024
Wee Bit O’Ireland Celebration
Heppner
Taste of Nordic
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Echo Red to Red XC
Echo
CRWAA Spring Walleye Classic
Umatilla
APRIL 2024
Harney County Migratory Bird Festival
Burns
Root Feast
Umatilla Indian Reservation
MAY 2024
Spring Wine Release Weekend
Milton-Freewater & Echo
Ladd Marsh Bird Festival
La Grande
Spray Rodeo and Half Marathon
Spray
Chautauqua Music Festival
Richland
Wasco Memorial Day Celebration
Wasco
Local experts make excellent resources. Contact one of these information hubs in advance to plan your next trip, or stop in while you’re on the road.
Baker County Tourism & Visitor Center
490 CAMPBELL ST., BAKER CITY 541-523-5855
TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM
Eastern Oregon Visitors Association
541-970-4551
VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
@EASTERNOREGON
Grant County Chamber of Commerce
301 W MAIN ST., JOHN DAY 541-575-0547
GCOREGONLIVE.COM
Harney County Chamber of Commerce
484 N BROADWAY, BURNS 541-573-2636
HARNEYCOUNTY.COM
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
HELLSCANYONBYWAY.COM
Heppner Chamber of Commerce 541-676-5536
HEPPNERCHAMBER.COM
Hermiston Chamber of Commerce
541-567-6151
HERMISTONCHAMBER.COM
Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce
725 SOUTH MAIN ST., MILTONFREEWATER 541-938-5563
OREGONCHAMBER.ORG
Ontario Chamber of Commerce 251 SW NINTH ST., ONTARIO
541-889-8012
ONTARIOCHAMBER.COM
For a complete list of events in Eastern Oregon, visiteasternoregon.com/events.
Oregon Frontier Chamber of Commerce 311 S MAIN ST., CONDON 541-384-7777
OREGONFRONTIERCHAMBER.COM
Oregon Parks & Recreation Dept. 800-551-6949 OREGON.GOV/OPRD
Oregon Tourism Information TRAVELOREGON.COM
Oregon Welcome Center and Boardman Chamber of Commerce
101 OLSON ROAD, BOARDMAN 541-481-3014 VISITSAGE.COM
BOARDMANCHAMBER.ORG
Pendleton Chamber of Commerce & Travel Pendleton 501 S MAIN ST., PENDLETON 541-276-7411
TRAVELPENDLETON.COM
Umatilla Chamber of Commerce 700 SIXTH ST., UMATILLA 541-922-3226
UMATILLA-CITY.ORG
Umatilla County Tourism 541-276-7111
UMATILLACOUNTY.NET
Union County Chamber 207 DEPOT ST., LA GRANDE 541-963-8588
VISITUNIONCOUNTY.ORG
Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce 101 W MAIN ST., ENTERPRISE 541-426-4622
WALLOWACOUNTYCHAMBER.COM
Churchill School
Baker City, OR Art, Music & Recreation.
Live music & events monthly
Bike Hostel
Haunted Studio Tours in October
Self Directed Art Residencies
Art Galleries
www.ChurchillBaker.com
Rest, Repair, Recharge & Rejuvenate in Downtown Vale
We listened to the youth from Drexel Foundation’s Engaging
Young Voices in Shaping our community & transformed to action:
• Electric vehicle charging station: Free to charge all EV car types dual ports Level 2
• A bike repair station: Free use with tools & pump for fixing bikes & skateboards
• Free Map for a self-guided tour: sharing 28 public art assets in Vale
• Outdoor Displays of untold stories: showcasing the inclusivity and diversity reflected in the public conversation of Malheur County history
• QR codes of historic buildings: Historic Photos to learn more about 10 historic buildings in Vale
• For more information about these Free amenities or our Free programs like us on Facebook & Instagram: drexelhfoundation
Find it all at National Historic Register Grand Opera House at 147 Main Street N. Vale, Oregon on the Authentic Oregon Trail near the crossroad of Hwy 20 & Hwy 26. Find more info at www.thedrexelfoundation.org
Drexel H. Foundation’s mission is to enrich the lives of youth & families by providing art, humanities and multicultural experiences and to restore & preserve historical buildings in rural Eastern Oregon. We provide FREE multidisciplined Art Programs for children and families. See the banner on site thanking all our project partners.
Find more local EV charging stations at idahopower.com/ev
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE • THE OREGON TRAIL • YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION • ALPINE WILDERNESS • FARM TRAILS
GOLD RUSH HISTORY • HISTORIC RAILROADS
Wallowa County
The hub of Eastern Oregon, La Grande is located along the picturesque Grande Ronde River. This region is known for its stake in history, its current status as home to Eastern Oregon University and some of the most interesting geographical features in the state.
Begin your journey in La Grande or Baker City and follow the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to circle the magnificent Wallowa Moutains and peek into Hells Canyon. Time-travel to when gold was struck in the moutains and towns sprung up to serve the miners, farmers and cattlemen.
Whether you’re here to learn, getaway, explore or everything in between, the northeast region of Oregon will not disappoint. Choose a destination, and don’t think about it too hard, there isn’t a wrong way to explore this region.
La Grande, situated on the river and near the Grande Ronde Valley, boasts a rich history and culture of the Nez Perce and other local tribes.
North Powder is a gateway to outdoor life in Eastern Oregon. Just 8 miles away, Haines is full of Oregon railroad history. Nearby, Anthony Lakes, is a mountain resort open during winter or summer.
Visit Baker City and Sumpter, rooted in gold rush history. Baker City is also a perfect jumping off point for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hells Canyon is renowned for its spectacular, rugged scenery, rafting and jet boating opportunities.
The art scene in Joseph thrives against the backdrop of the Wallowas. Close day-trips include Enterprise and Minam.
27 MILES
Stops: La Grande • Union North Powder • Haines
Taste: The Local La Grande
Discover: Art Center East La Grande
Tour: Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway North Powder
Play: Haines
Stampede Rodeo Haines
Mount Emily Recreation Area, located just north of La Grande, offers nearly 100 miles of motorized and nonmotorized trails. Enjoy hiking and biking in the summer, and backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Or try out all-terrain vehicle activities such as snowmobiling, four-wheeling and dual sport biking. Camp for free at Fox Hill Campground and enjoy its world-class archery range. Morgan Lake, just west of town, offers excellent rainbow trout fishing, camping and paddle boarding. To the south is the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area which has more than 6,000 beautiful acres of wildlife preserve. Ladd Marsh also offers some areas for game hunting when in season. Interested in fishing? The scenic Grande Ronde River boasts 23 species of native fish and excellent whitewater rafting. The Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway, a 134-mile figure-eight ride featuring fragrant sage and stunning mountain views, is an avid cyclist’s dream. Gear up for a variety of adventures with outfitters conveniently located downtown. Pick up a state-of-the-art bow or gear for fishing at Alpine Archery and Fly. Before any paddlesport expedition, visit Blue Moutain Outfitters Stop at The Mountain Works for all your bike, ski and climbing gear needs.
Hop on the Northeast Oregon Arts Trail, and stop at Art Center East in La Grande, located in a converted Carnegie Library, to visit its gallery and artist studios or take a class. Witness the creation of blown glass art at Boylan Studios or take home an ornament from Birddog Glass, two businesses that share a renovated 1920s service station. The blacksmiths at Northwest Skillet Company create artisan cookware from copper to carbon steel. The studio is open to visitors by appointment. At The Potter’s House, watch live kiln firing and purchase raku and stoneware. Explore the Eastern Oregon University campus: visit the Nightingale Gallery for year-round artist exhibits, the McKenzie Theater for theater performances and experience the Italian Renaissance Revival Grand Staircase, rising five stories on a campus hillside.
eaglecaptrainrides.com
Enjoy a scenic train ride beside the Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers
Book online or contact us for assistance. Elgin, Oregon 541.437.3652
City of Union Chamber
Beautiful Historic Union OR. Just minutes away from the Great Outdoors! Hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, hunting, great food and great people!! Get away and enjoy beauty beyond compare in NE Oregon. WHERE ADVENTURE BEGINS!
541-786-1492
grvoutskirts.com
union county museum
Experience life in the rugged West! Featuring Cowboys Then & Now, the Livery Station, Pioneer Cabin, the General Store and so much more.
333 S Main Street, Union 541-562-6003
ucmuseumoregon.com
mt. emily recreation area
Just two miles north of downtown La Grande you will find the 3,670 acre Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA).
• Open year round
• Views of the Grande Ronde Valley and surrounding mountain
• Camping at Fox Hill
• World class archery range
meetmera.org
buffalo peak golf course
The Way Golf Was Meant to Be. Golfers who have discovered Northeast Oregon’s challenging 18-hole, inland links-style course are raving about the course and the spectacular vistas of three mountain ranges and the majestic Grande Ronde Valley.
541-562-5527
buffalopeakgolf.com
HUNGRY?
Beef is always on the menu in ranching country. Walk up to the old-fashioned meat counter at Hines Meat Company for freshly cured meats ready to be barbequed. Or enjoy 6 Ranch beef expertly prepared at Side A Brewing, along with craft beer and delicious pub food. The Wagyu beef from Mamacita’s International Grill is a musttry, and The Landing Hotel offers local fare in a cozy dining room. When the sweet tooth calls, visit The Local a vintage Texaco station— for coffee, breakfast, lunch and ice cream cones. Heading out on an adventure? Stop by Liberty Theatre Cafe for coffee and snacks to go.
Experience the heart and soul of the Grande Ronde Valley by journeying the Grande Ronde Farm Trail a self-guided tour with 27 stops at various farms, ranches, dairies and orchards. Visitors will loop from La Grande to Summerville, Cove to Union, and back. Highlights of La Grande include Avella Orchard , a two-acre forest of nut and fruit trees, and Mt. Emily Farmstead’s fresh eggs, goat’s milk and vegetables. The delightful La Grande Farmers Market is a must-stop come summertime. Schedule a tour of the Grande Ronde Goat Dairy or reserve your place at Buffalo Peak Land & Livestock to see a working cattle ranch.
When you hit Cove, head to Pick’N Patch in the fall for pumpkins and other in-season produce. During the summer, visit Nella Mae's Farm Stand in Cove and Platz Family Stand in Union. Go by car or bike, and bring along cash, as many of the farm stands are selfserve and most require you call before visiting.
In Union, gain a glimpse of life for pioneers in the rugged West at the Union County Museum. Then take a soak in the mineral-rich waters of the ancient geothermal springs at Hot Lake. The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs offers cozy accommodations for those who want to relax in luxury post-soak.
Step into the past in this 1880’s Italiante home owned by “Mr. Baker City”, Leo Adler. Original period furnishings. Hear the stories of the Adler family from our passionate volunteers.
Anthony Lakes becomes a popular backpacking and mountain biking destination once the sun melts away the snow. Hire an expert guide from The Trailhead in downtown Baker City before hitting the trails. On the trail, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Hoffer Lakes, Anthony Lakes, and Lees and Lakes Lookout peaks. For some downhill fun, head to Broadway Flow, three miles of downhill mountain biking complete with banked turns and options for all skill levels.
The mountains are calling, specifically the Elkhorn Mountains, and there’s no better hideaway than Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort. The resort offers access to a pristine winter wonderland full of endless adventure.
This area offers thousands of acres of lift-accessed terrain, 900 vertical feet of downhill and thirty kilometers of groomed Nordic trails. If traveling off the beaten path is more your speed, embark on a backcountry adventure with a snow cat tour, which the resort offers for full or half days. The cat carries up to 12 people and will help you access 2,000 acres of beautiful terrain.
What better way to truly experience life in the mountains than by renting a cozy yurt? With space to sleep up to eight people, a wood stove, kitchen basics, bunk beds and board games, the cabin provides a night you won't forget.
The Starbottle Saloon is the perfect place to refuel between runs or for aprés-ski fun after the last tracks of the day. Order a regional microbrew, something from the locally sourced menu, and then sit back and enjoy the frequent live music shows that the saloon hosts all winter.
Head east from the mountains and unwind in the small town of Haines, dubbed “Oregon’s biggest little town” for its big heart and lively atmosphere. In July, attend the Haines Stampede Rodeo, complete with rodeo royalty, cowboy breakfast and a beer garden. Fourth of July fireworks are also on the docket, and in August, you’ll want to attend the popular demolition derby.
The Eastern Oregon Museum, currently under renovation and temporarily located at the historic Haines High School gymnasium, offers insight into the city’s agricultural and boomtown history. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Haines Steak House. The famous slow-cooked and tender prime rib or iconic cast iron branded steaks are guaranteed to satisfy you.
We offer a variety of handcrafted chocolates and confections in our beautifully renovated, historic store front. Relax at our comfortable chocolate bar while sipping on a mocha, latte or cappuccino made from hand-pressed espresso. Enjoy a selection of truffles, signature bars, drinking chocolate, rich brittles and smooth caramels, all produced on site from the finest ingredients. Open 10:15am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday and located right across the street from the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.
1925 Main Street, Baker City • (541) 523-1022
Visit a pair of charming Gold Rush-era boomtowns Baker City
Baker City, celebrating its 150th year, is a small town with big charm. The wealth that flooded the town during the gold rush in the mid-1800s, led to one of the most architecturally significant and best-preserved downtown districts in Oregon. Be sure to stop by the Geiser Grand Hotel, which exemplifies some of the town’s beautiful architecture: a three-story cupola, stained glass ceilings, Victorian-style suites and cavernous wine cellars.
Visit the Baker Heritage Museum (open seasonally) to learn about the history of Baker County industries, Chinese heritage and regional Native American artifacts. Exhibits from the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (closed for renovations until spring of 2024), which tell the story of Oregon Trail-era pioneers, are also displayed at the museum. Finally, swing by The Oregon Trail Shop for a souvenir. Along with gold, ranching has also shaped the area’s history and continues to shape the community. More than two dozen Oregon State Heritage farms and ranches are still operating in Baker County today.
Downtown Baker City is full of flavor. Stop by the Barley Brown’s Brewing Company taproom and brewpub, celebrating its 25th year, for tasty food and award-winning beers—the brewery's Pallet Jack IPA tops many “best” lists. Sip hand-crafted spirits at Glacier 45 Distillery, including vodka, bourbon and gin. Wine enthusiasts should head to Copper Belt Winery located downtown on Main Street.
For a true sensory delight, check out Peterson’s Gallery and Chocolatier. Thought-provoking art and delectable treats—what more could you want? More art can be found at Sweet Wife Baking and The Cheese Fairy, which display local art and participate in the popular First Friday event. At BELLA Main Street Markets, browse artisan home goods, wine, chocolate and the famous locally brewed Ruby D Tonic. Go Wild: American Adventures offers an immersive self-guided walking and tasting tour to experience all Baker City has to offer.
ROAD TRIP SUMPTER TO HALFWAY
83 MILES
Stops: Sumpter • Baker City Richland • Halfway
Baker County has a developing art scene that includes the We Like’em Short Film Festival and Pine Fest music festival, Baker City’s Little Big Show and Open Studio Tours
Aspiring artists can hone their skills with various classes at the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center and Churchill School
From the Hells Canyon to Journey Through Time, the Elkhorn Scenic Byways to the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway, cyclists here have options, to say the least. For local resources, bike repairs and expert insight, head to The Trailhead in Baker City. The area also hosts a variety of exciting cycling events throughout the year. Each summer, the Baker City Cycling Classic brings hundreds of cyclists to the region to ride and race along scenic roads.
Discover: Geiser Grand Hotel Baker City
Cruise: Sumpter Valley Railroad Sumpter
Be sure to make a trip to Sumpter, another Gold Rush-era town that exudes historical charm and acts as a gateway to the Blue Mountains. In the summer, take a ride on the historic Sumpter Valley Railroad, which once served as a young community's lifeblood, ferrying logs down to a Baker City sawmill. Once you’ve ridden through gold country on a historic steam railroad, visit the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area. It’s home to one of the nation’s oldest gold dredges and an essential part of Oregon’s pioneering past. Want to get your heart pumping? Find a trail system at nearby Phillips Lake for exciting mountain biking, gravel riding, or hiking. Back in town, there is the annual and muchloved Sumpter Flea Market, where vendors offer a treasure trove of antiques, art and jewelry. Finally, book a room at The Depot Inn, conveniently located in the heart of downtown.
There are so many things to see and do here. Whether it’s an event, glamping, or a family vacation, we offer it all. We also provide menus for all our favorite local restaurants, hiking maps, and information on what is happening in the County.
Live the Life - Book Now!
• AAA Inspector’s Best of Housekeeping Award
• Rated #1 of 4 Joseph Hotels by Trip Advisor since 2017
83450 JOSEPH HWY, JOSEPH, OR 97846 BOOK DIRECT AT 541-432-2982
A tour through Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river canyon, cannot be missed. The beautiful Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is the perfect way to explore the canyon and nearby Wallowa Mountains. The Byway stretches from Baker City to La Grande, leading visitors through the rugged Wallowas, offering stunning views at the Hells Canyon Overlook and granting access to more remote areas of Hells Canyon. For those seeking greater adventure, a visit to the Hells Canyon Dam on the Snake River or a trip to Buckhorn and Hat Point lookouts for views from a ridgeline are highly recommended. However, it's important to note that some sections of the loop, including Buckhorn and Hat Point, are closed during the winter months, making summer the best time to travel this route.
Want to explore from the water? Hells Canyon Adventures has wet and wild jet boat tour options ranging from daylong family-geared trips to fast-paced thirty-minute jaunts. Back on the scenic byway, be sure to make a snack and photo pitstop at the Buckhorn Overlook. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a narrow cliff-hugging road to Hat Point for breathtaking views.
Two towns that serve as excellent base camps for your exploration of Hells Canyon are Halfway and Richland. Each offers a variety of lodging, restaurants, and amenities, as well as numerous fun festivals. Check out the Hells Canyon Junior Rodeo, PineFest, Eagle Valley Days and the Brownlee Richland Panfishing Tournament The Baker County Fair and Panhandle Rodeo in Halfway is held Labor Day weekend and recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. In Halfway, visit the community’s artist collective Halfway Whimsical. Afterward, head to The Main Place, where you can grab a bite from the grill or book a room for the night.
From La Grande, head north on the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the small town of Elgin, located in Indian Valley. The quaint town is nestled against a backdrop of beautiful mountains—the Wallowas to the east and the Blues to the west, with the Grande Ronde River flowing right through it and providing access to the remote towns of Wallowa, Lostine, Enterprise and Joseph. One fun way to experience the scenery surrounding Elgin is with a ride through the backcountry on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train. Take a serene trip through gorgeous landscapes, or book one of their themed rides, such as a train robbery, complete with bandits on horseback.
For old-school entertainment, check out the Elgin Opera House downtown. Built in 1911, this historic theater has been beautifully restored and is acoustically perfect for the frequent live music and performances that happen yearround. Get a taste of the Old West at the Elgin Stampede, a four-day PRCA Rodeo held alongside various related community events each summer.
opening receptions quick draw art walk
SEP 15 - 17 2023
live music & awards
403 N MAIN ST JOSEPH OREGON 978 46
silent auction en plein air competition josephy.org
classes. exhibits. concerts. lectures. library of western history & culture. sculpture garden. festival of arts. art shop featuring local artists.
visit the skylight gallery Featuring a variety of selections from local photographers, potters, glass blowers, fiber artists, jewelers,and other unique offerings.
The Eagle Cap Wilderness covers about 534 miles of trails, crowning it the most extensive wilderness area in Oregon by a landslide. These trails lead to four Wild and Scenic rivers, plus the legendary high lakes of Oregon. The area’s exposed granite peaks, alpine waters, and miles of trail provide endless opportunities for various outdoor recreation. There are hunting, biking, horseback riding, camping, backpacking, fishing and more activities to be enjoyed. The biodiversity of the landscape is vast, and all of it is wild and remote. Much of Wallowa County’s land is federally protected, thus, pristine. Before you head for the trails, you’ll want to fuel up on food. In Lostine enjoy some tasty slow-cooked barbeque at Z's BBQ in The Lostine Tavern; grab some delicious pizza, beer and groceries from the M. Crow & Company General Store or sip on one final espresso or latte at The Blue Banana
After eating, head into the Lostine Canyon to find Two Pan Trailhead, which will provide access to Lakes Basin and is en route to any number of backcountry trips into the WallowaWhitman National Forest. For avid mountain bikers, locate the Redmont and Wagon Road Trail Network. Cyclists may choose from several loops, ranging from seven to more than 20 miles in length through heavily-forested mountainous terrain. Breaks in the trees along the trail reveal views of the Wallowa and Seven Devils mountain ranges. While visiting, be sure to visit the renovated Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland Visitor Center in the community of Wallowa, a 1,000-square-foot facility documenting the Wal’wama people who used to call this land home. Learn the stories of their lives before their tragic 1877 flight toward Canada, their imprisonment in Kansas and Oklahoma, their return to the Northwest and their lives today.
50 MILES
Elgin • Enterprise • Joseph
Experience: Eagle Cap Wilderness
Taste: Summit Grill
Make a trip to Minam and get off the beaten path. This small community sits near the Wallowa Mountains, where the Minam and Wallowa rivers converge, and is an excellent base camp for your expeditions. Visit the Minam Store to plan a beautiful day on the river; they’ve got you covered for fly fishing tours and rafting trips. For an even more secluded experience, book a stay at the luxurious Minam River Lodge. Accessible only by an 8.5-mile hike or horseback ride, or via plane; it’s an unforgettable experience. For a night under the stars or a day hike, check out the Minam River Recreation Area
A trip to Enterprise offers breathtaking views, Bowlby stone buildings, and lots of history. In the summertime, head to the iconic courthouse, built in 1909, every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. when blankets and lawn chairs dot its lawn for the Courthouse Concert Series. Also, check out the OK Theatre, a venue hosting live music shows and theater performances. Thirsty? Stop by Terminal Gravity Brewing to enjoy awardwinning craft beer. Grab a meal from Red Rooster Cafe, Heavenly’s or La Laguna for local adventure fuel. Satisfy your sweet tooth or grab lunch from the offerings at Sugar Time Bakery.
Enterprise has a significant bronzeworking industry, and Parks Bronze and TW Bronze Foundry are the leading players. Call for information about visiting both foundries for tours where you can learn about the dozen-step fabrication process and marvel at the beautiful sculpture work. Sunrise Iron Museum, located just off Highway 82, is home to the most extensive collection of pioneer relics in the Pacific Northwest and is a must-stop for all history buffs.
After you indulge in shopping at Favorite Finds on Main, Red Rose Boutique, Wild Carrot Herbals, and The Bookloft, it’s time to settle in for the evening. At Barking Mad Farm Bed and Breakfast, you’ll wake up to mountain views at this idyllic farm retreat. Or, for a convenient overnight stay, check in at the Eagle’s View Inn and Suites, which also boasts views of the Wallowas, plus a pool. Thirty five miles north of Enterprise, enjoy seasonal tipi lodging at Joseph Canyon Lodge.
The remote town of Joseph is home to a vibrant art scene, delicious food and breathtaking nature. Explore the Wallowa Barn Tour to see one of the region’s prominent features— beautiful barns. Find a memorable adventure at Joseph Branch Railriders, enjoy a variety of paddlesports at JO Paddle, or begin a trip to the surrounding whitewater with Winding Waters River Expeditions
Joseph was put on the art world map when a few local sculptors banded together to create Valley Bronze of Oregon, a world-class collective for artistic bronze casting. After visiting the namesake gallery, peruse the other galleries in town. Visit Aspen Grove, the Josephy Center, Kelly’s Gallery & Barn Boutique and Phinney Gallery of Fine Arts. Walking around the town promises to be a treat in and of itself, thanks to The Joseph Mainstreet Beautification Project.
Experience Joseph’s iconic culinary scene with stops at The Dog Spot, The Blythe Cricket, and local favorite, the Cheyenne Cafe. Enjoy a bite from Dining Car Sushi at The Depot. Feeling thirsty? Embers Brewhouse offers 17 rotating micro-brews along with pizza and wings. Try hand-crafted spirits at Stein Distillery’s downtown tasting room or grab a drink at the western-themed Outlaw Restaurant and Saloon Sugar craving hit? Head to Arrowhead Chocolates for Stumptown coffee and sweet treats.
Joseph is also home to one of the largest community rodeos in the Northwest, Chief Joseph Days set for July 2530 in 2023. Initially founded in 1946, the festivities include a Nez Perce encampment and Pow Wow, parades, dances, and a cowboy church service. The week of fun kicks off each year with a bucking horse stampede right down Main Street. Learn about the rich history of this area at the Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center, which collects, preserves and interprets the history of Maxville, a nearby logging community. View items of historical significance from the region’s past at the Wallowa County Museum. Find educational exhibits, workshops and presentations at Wallowology Natural History Discovery Center
Head south to Wallowa Lake, known for its rich Indigenous history and jaw-dropping beauty. Get on the water at the Wallowa Lake Marina, offering boat and paddleboard rentals. Tour on horseback at the Wallowa Lake Pack Station. Lodging options include historic Wallowa Lake Lodge and beautiful Eagle Cap Chalets. Eagle Cap Vacation Rentals offer pet-friendly, novel accomodations in Wallowa County. Rent a cabin lakeside with Wallowa Lake Resort or Trouthaven. Little Ranch B&B offers five acres of country living. Enjoy Hungarian cuisine at Vali’s Alpine Restaurant. Or ascend the Wallowa Lake Tramway up Mt. Howard and dine at Summit Grill.
We are located in the picturesque and scenic Wallowa County. The Eagle Cap Wilderness with miles of hiking is nearby. Just 5 minutes from the town of Joseph and 10 minutes to Wallowa Lake. Come and stay with us for an enjoyable vacation. You will be staying in your own private unit separate from the main home.
(808) 937-5068 | littleranchbnb.com
Located halfway between Wallowa Lake and the hiking trailhead, you can be at the center of all the summer fun at Wallowa Lake!
Nestled in the majestic Wallowa Mountains, Wallowa Lake is a breathtakingly beautiful glacial lake. At the head of the lake is the little community of Wallowa Lake where Eagle Cap Chalets is located. We have activities for everyone: fishing, boating, golfing, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, go carts, bicycling, shopping, museums, hunting, skiing, iceskating, touring, and photography. Or you can just curl up in your cabin with a book by the fire and get away from it all!
59879 Wallowa Lake Hwy, Joseph, 97846 (541) 432-4704 | eaglecapchalets.com
For those looking to get back to the basics or explore Oregon in a way like no other, the rugged eastern countryside near the Columbia River is the place to start. Home to rich Indigenous heritage, ranching culture and some of the best vineyards in the Northwest, there’s something for everyone. This region has exclusive Oregon views of the Columbia River, especially from towns such as Umatilla, Irrigon and Boardman. Hermiston is filled with an agricultural history of watermelon farming. Pendleton celebrates Indigenous history in the region as well as the famous Pendleton whisky. The scenic miles between the city adventures are enough to make the trip worthwhile. Hop on the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, which covers 145 miles of Oregon’s Rugged Country and find views from all angles.
Pendleton
For views of the Columbia River, head to Boardman. Go to Irrigon for fresh produce from farms, and make your way to the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge, and to Hermiston known for its watermelon farms and Hat Rock State Park. Find all things Oregon Trail in Echo, including ruts made by the wheels of covered wagons in several spots.
Here, see views of the Blue Mountains and explore the vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley. Beyond wine, Milton-Freewater is also home to beloved brewery, cidery and chocolate shops. Visit Tollgate, nestled in the mountains, to grab fresh baked goods to fuel yourself for the trip.
One of the most popular towns in Eastern Oregon, Pendleton is brimming with activity and culture. Travel beyond the city to see smaller townships, Helix and Athena. Pilot Rock is another short drive from Pendleton well worth the hype; the city boasts a natural rock formation made from basalt.
Follow the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway to Heppner and Ukiah, and take your time to enjoy the views of the mountain range looming in the distance. You can continue towards Grant County, which is home to part of the Malheur National Forest, and will lead you to another Eastern Oregon gem: John Day.
9. Echo Bank Building and Historical Museum
10. Heritage Station Museum
11. Pendleton Round-up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame
12. Pendleton Underground Tour
13. Pendleton Woolen Mills
14. Sustainable Agriculture and Energy Center
15. Tamástslikt Cultural Institute
33 MILES
Stops: Boardman • Irrigon Hermiston • Echo
Experience: Sustainable Agriculture and Energy Center Boardman
Big River Golf Course Umatilla
Boardman sits right along the mighty Columbia River and is a major port for recreation and commerce. Take a self-guided tour around the busy industrial area of Port of Morrow. For a scenic stroll, head to Port of Morrow Riverfront Center and wander the Boardman Marina Walking Path. Take a dip in the protected swimming area at the marina, pack a picnic, check out the Sailboard Beach Disc Golf Course , and let the kids romp around the playground. Catch the annual Walleye Fishing Tournament each summer, or visit The Marker 40 Golf Club for a friendly atmosphere and great views.
Boardman is home to the Sustainable Agriculture and Energy Center , a visitor’s center, and Travel Oregon Welcome Center. SAGE has been wowing and educating visitors since opening in 2013, providing free educational tours to students and informing visitors about the region’s agricultural and industrial heritage and future. On your way out of town, take a tour of the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge and McCormack Slough to see mule deer, burrowing owls, herons and other wildlife.
An abundance of local farms and ranches surrounding Boardman provide the community with fresh food to make
great meals. Visit Burnt Field Brewing for craft brews and brick-oven-baked slices. C & D Drive-In and Bakery, a muchloved eatery for more than four decades, serves delicious baked goods, deli sandwiches, pizza and many burger options, including a tasty elk burger. Hit the Sunrise at Boardman for iconic hashbrowns, and then grab lunch at Two Barrels Taps + Grill. To fully experience Boardman, spend the night in a cozy cabin at the River Lodge + Cabins, with rooms right on the Columbia River waterfront.
Hermiston and Irrigon are best known for growing watermelon. Each town has an annual festival devoted to it, complete with a watermelon-eating contest. Find various other agricultural delights at Purple Ridge Lavender , Oregon Trail Honey Farms and K & K Blueberries Veg Out , a small restaurant in downtown Hermiston, brings many local farm products together in salads, wraps and soups. Enjoy beer and hard cider from Neighbor Dudes Tap House . Also, check out Bellinger Farms and Gourmet Shoppe and The Gathering Place at Bellinger’s for sensational and fresh cuisine. Also at Bellinger Farms, stop by for a monthly wine tasting event featuring local Pacific Northwest wineries, food and music. Nookie’s , Hermiston Brewing Company , Hale’s Restaurant and Delish Bistro are highly recommended eateries.
MARCH 11
Wildhorse Anniversary
Fireworks
WILDHORSERESORT COM
CTUIR
MARCH 25
Red to Red
ECHORED2RED COM
ECHO
APRIL 7-9
Walla Walla Valley Wine Month during Spring Kickoff
WALLAWALLA.ORG/SPRINGKICKOFF-WEEKEND WW AVA WINERIES
MAY 5-6
Cattle Baron’s Weekend
CATTLEBARONS NET PENDLETON
MAY 5-7
Spring Release Weekend
WALLAWALLAWINE COM /#EVENTS-HOME COUNTY WIDE
MAY 20
Pendleton Underground Comes to Life
PENDLETONUNDERGROUNDTOURS ORG PENDLETON
JUNE 2-4
Old Iron Days
HERITAGESTATIONMUSEUM ORG/ EVENTS
PENDLETON
JUNE 3
Heart of the Country Rodeo
FACEBOOK.COM/HELIXOREGONRODEO
HELIX
JUNE 3
Art Festival FACEBOOK.COM/ HERMISTONDOWNTOWN HERMISTON
JUNE 3
Pioneer Days
WESTONOREGON COM/NEWS
WESTON
JUNE 3
Get Wild in Pendleton
TRAVELPENDLETON COM/GET-WILDIN-PENDLETON-OREGON PENDLETON
JUNE 10
Pioneer Day at Heritage Station Museum
HERITAGESTATIONMUSEUM.ORG PENDLETON
JUNE 17
Wild West Beer Fest WILDWESTBEERFEST.ORG PENDLETON
JUNE 24
Frazier Farmstead Museum
Summer Festival
FRAZIERFARMSTEADMUSEUM ORG/ EVENT/JUNE-SUMMER-FESTIVAL
MILTON-FREEWATER
JUNE 22-24
Jackalope Jamboree
JACKALOPEJAMBOREE.COM
PENDLETON
JUNE 22-25
Hodaka Days
HODAKADAYS.ORG
ATHENA
JUNE 23-24
Camas Prairie
Cowboy Convention
FACEBOOK COM/UKIAHRODEO
UKIAH
JUNE 23-24
Umatilla Landing Days
UMATILLALANDINGDAYS ORG
UMATILLA
JUNE 30 – JULY 2
CTUIR Pow Wow
WILDHORSERESORT COM/ ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS
CTUIR
JULY 1
Get Wild in Pendleton TRAVELPENDLETON.COM/GET-WILDIN-PENDLETON-OREGON
PENDLETON
JULY 4
Stan eld 4th of July
FACEBOOK COM/STANFIELD4THOFJULY STANFIELD
JULY 8
Athena Caledonian Games
ATHENACALEDONIAN ORG
ATHENA
JULY 15
Pendleton Whisky Music Festival
PENDLETONWHISKYMUSICFEST COM
PENDLETON
JULY 20-22
Pendleton Bike Week/ The Pendleton Run PENDLETONBIKEWEEK.COM
PENDLETON
JULY 29
Weekend at the Blues
WWW.MFCDA.ORG
MILTON-FREEWATER
AUGUST 5
Get Wild in Pendleton TRAVELPENDLETON.COM/GET-WILDIN-PENDLETON-OREGON
PENDLETON
AUGUST 9-12
Umatilla County Fair
UMATILLACOUNTYFAIR NET
HERMISTON
AUGUST 9-12
Farm-City Pro Rodeo
FARMCITYPRORODEO COM
HERMISTON
AUGUST 14-20
LGPA Ladies Classic WILDHORSERESORT COM
WILDHORSE
AUGUST 18-19
Wheatstock Music Festival
WHEATSTOCK ORG
HELIX
AUGUST 19
Melon Fest
FACEBOOK COM/HERMISTONDOWNTOWN
HERMISTON
AUGUST 26
Fine Wine & Arts Expo
WWW MFCDA ORG
MILTON-FREEWATER
AUGUST 26
Harvest Festival
CITYOFPILOTROCK ORG
PILOT ROCK
SEPTEMBER 2
Get Wild in Pendleton
TRAVELPENDLETON.COM/GET-WILDIN-PENDLETON-OREGO
PENDLETON
SEPT. 9-16
Pendleton Round-Up Festivities, Parades & Concert
PENDLETONROUNDUP COM
PENDLETON
SEPT. 13-16
Pendleton Round-Up PENDLETONROUNDUP COM
PENDLETON
SEPT. 13-16
Happy Canyon Pageant & Night Show
HAPPYCANYON.COM
PENDLETON
OCTOBER 6-8
Rock the Locks Music Festival ROCKTHELOCKS.ORG
UMATILLA
OCTOBER 7
Cork & Barrel
FACEBOOK.COM/HERMISTONDOWNTOWN
HERMISTON
SEPTEMBER 29
-OCTOBER 29
Echo Corn Maze
ECHOCORNMAZE.COM
ECHO
NOVEMBER 3-5
Fall Release Weekend
WALLAWALLAWINE.COM/#EVENTS-HOME COUNTY WIDE
DECEMBER 1-3
Holiday Barrell Tasting WALLAWALLAWINE COM/#EVENTS-HOME COUNTY WIDE
The River to Hills Farm Trail is a perfect route to taste the region’s produce and libations. This 60-mile loop follows segments of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Oregon Trail. Travel through Irrigon, Umatilla, Hermiston, Stanfield and Echo as you enjoy local spirits, produce, wine, watermelons and the smell of lavender. Learn about Umatilla’s rich history with a stop at the Umatilla Museum or a walk along the Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail. Catch a glimpse of some wildlife at the McNary Wildlife Nature Area or take a picnic to McNary Beach Park. A six-mile gravel trail leading to the beautiful Hat Rock State Park is excellent for hiking, cycling, walking and horseback riding. Visit the Echo Historical Museum for historical exhibits. Fort Henrietta Park and Echo Meadows are spots to see the wheel ruts left by covered wagons traveling the Oregon Trail. Up for a round of golf? Check out Big River Golf Course, featuring 18 holes next to the Columbia River.
If sipping on high-quality local wine while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery sounds nice, you will love Echo. Swing by the family-run Echo Ridge Cellars to sample awardwinning wine. Visit Sno Road Winery’s downtown tasting room. Pass by its ranch on Sno Road Winery Mountain Bike Trail, the system Echo Red to Red XC race is held on each March. Play scenic and well-maintained fairways at the 9-hole Echo City Golf Course.
The fertile soil in Walla Walla Valley’s Milton-Freewater is excellent for growing genuine Walla Walla sweet onions and provides rich terroir for growing wine grapes. Start your day sipping at the Watermill Winery, founded by apple growers who have been sustainably farming this area for more than a century. Then try Ducleaux Cellars, a family-run winery crafting artisan wines from regional fruits. Rotie Cellars, Los Rocosos Vineyards, Delmas Winery and Cayuse Vineyards are all much beloved. Visit Zerba Cellars’ quaint log cabin tasting room on the north end of town. Nearby is the Castillo de Feliciana Vineyards, where you can enjoy Spanish-style wine with plenty of outdoor seating. Mongata Winery is a relaxing country vinyard with the Walla Walla River running through the property.
29 MILES
Stops: Milton-Freewater and Pendleton
Milton-Freewater Drive-In Movie Theater
Milton-Freewater
Pendleton
Woolen Mills
Pendleton
Frazier Farmstead Museum
Milton-Freewater
If you’re wondering where the beer is, don’t fret, Eastern Oregon has plenty. Get started by exploring the Whisky & Rocks Farm Loop, where you’ll find the following businesses. Find small-batch craft brews at Dragon’s Gate Brewery, a farmhouse brewery focusing on estategrown hops. Blue Mountain Cider Company and the Freewater Cider and Wine Company produce premier cider from locally grown apples.
You might also be surprised to learn that Oregon’s Rugged Country is home to artisan chocolatiers and fromagers.
Visit Petits Noirs Fine Chocolates for chocolates handmade with locally grown clove, lavender and rosemary. Pair your chocolate with gouda, havarti or cheddar from the Walla Walla Cheese Company, or head to Umapine Creamery for delicious cheese hand-crafted from milk fresh from their own cows. Looking for a full meal? Tate’s Umapine Mercantile offers delicious food in a friendly atmosphere. Find artisan goods at the family-owned and operated Clay in Motion, a pottery studio that crafts more than 100 different functional stoneware items.For a behind-the-scenes look at the area’s agricultural history, visit Frazier Farmstead Museum, located on
a charming farm built in 1892 and open April through December. The MiltonFreewater Drive-In Theater, not far from the museum, has been operating for six decades and takes viewers back to another era in time.
No trip to Milton-Freewater is complete without an expedition into the legendary Blue Mountains. Find beautiful camping spots at Harris Park or Umatilla Forks
Campground. In Weston, swing by the Outpost Country Store for fresh produce, or stop at the Alpine Outpost for coffee and a home-cooked meal before ascending into the mountains.
The Heritage Station Museum is located in Pendleton Oregon's historic 1909 train depot and is the product of the hard work and dedication of the Umatilla County Historical Society.
The Museum is excited to announce the completion of its new exhibit: Umatilla Gold: History of Wheat in Umatilla County. This stunning exhibit tells the story of the impact wheat has played in Umatilla County from early days to today.
For the most updated information, visit: heritagestationmuseum.org
108 SW Frazer Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801 | (541) 276-0012
STEAKHOUSE & SALOON
Dine on delicious ranch-style cookin’ and experience the Hamley tradition of excellent food and outstanding service.
Pendleton, one of the last bastions of America’s Wild West, celebrates the legacies of Native Americans and pioneers alike. Begin your experience with Pendleton Underground Tours, traveling through a network of rooms and passageways beneath Pendleton’s red-light district. Learn from knowledgeable historians about the local Chinese immigrants and their role in building Eastern Oregon and hear true stories of brothels, bootlegging and gambling. For more history, visit the Heritage Station Museum featuring a one-room schoolhouse, homestead cabin, barn, windmill and a train caboose. Confirm opening times before arriving. Make a trip to the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, a museum and cultural center of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes. Explore insightful exhibits that present the tribes’ rich past, vibrant present and ambitious future. Afterward, enjoy Native-inspired cuisine at the Kinship Cafe and shop the museum store.
The past 100 years have helped grow and shape what is now one of the nation’s largest, most well-respected rodeos. Each
year, the Pendleton Round-Up kicks off with the Dress-Up Parade and ends with crowning rodeo champions. The nightly Happy Canyon Night Show, a pageant portraying the area’s early American Indian culture and the arrival of emigrants seeking a new life before tragically clashing. Take in some of the fun year-round with a visit to the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame
One of Pendleton’s biggest claims to fame is Pendleton Woolen Mills. Founded in 1863, the mill has produced original textiles for nearly 160 years. Peruse the largest selection of Pendleton’s famous jacquard blankets at the Woolen Mill Store. Visit Pendleton Center for the Arts, which sits in the beautifully restored 1916 Carnegie Library, for even more artistry. Browse the galleries, enroll in a class, or attend a live music, literary arts or dance event.
Want to indulge in farm fresh delights? Journey one of the six farm trails the region offers and experience a taste of the best wine, produce, cheese, beer and spirits the area has. Pendleton’s food scene takes advantage of the local agricultural bounty, using the freshest ingredients possible. The Great Pacific Wine and Coffee Company has an extensive food and libations menu and espresso bar. Next to the Hamley Western Store is the Hamley Steakhouse & Saloon, known for its prime-grade steaks and impressive Old West ambiance. Virgil’s at Cimmiyotti’s is an iconic and much-loved eatery famous for its steaks, red velvet wallpaper, curved horseshoe booths and impeccable service.
Prodigal Son Brewery and Pub, owned and operated locally, offers craft brews and a delicious, Oregon inspired menu. Down the street, the Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery makes spirits from local grains, connecting visitors to the agricultural legacy through its high-quality, hand-crafted liquor.
Just north of the Umatilla National Forest, you’ll find the McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge, a habitat for rare and endangered species, migratory birds and a haven for breeding. After taking in the natural scenery, head down the road to Indian Lake Campground for a night beneath the stars.
Eastern Oregon is a motorcyclist’s dream with its miles of scenic, curvy highways and backroads. Check out the annual bike ride, race, rally event, The Pendleton Run, for scheduled rides and entertainment. There are also plenty of options for those who want a ride with a little less horsepower. The wheat fields of Umatilla and the peaks of the Blue Mountains act as beautiful playgrounds for cyclists.
Enjoy a leisurely ride that loops through Athena, Helix and Pilot Rock, or explore the trails of the Umatilla Basin. The Pendleton Adventure Trails Recreation Area offers miles of unpaved trails for runners, hikers and mountain bikers. For a heart-pumping challenge, embark on a ride up the Cabbage Hill Climb. The climb is celebrated annually at the Mini CROC, a one-day climb up Cabbage Hill.
Nestled amongst the rolling hills of Rugged Country is the small friendly community of Heppner. Its charming downtown is the perfect base camp for those enjoying the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway. Head out on a mini road trip to explore everything the Byway has to offer, from the banks of the Columbia River to the forested Blue Mountains. Cruise through the small towns of Cecil, Lone and Lexington. Make a stop at Pilot Rock to enjoy hiking trails through wildflower meadows.
Back at basecamp, explore Heppner’s
history with a visit to the Morrow County Museum, which displays artifacts and photographs dating back to the 19th century and a wide variety of educational exhibits. Gain insight into the evolution of farm machinery at the nearby Agricultural Equipment Museum. For a tour around town, follow Heppner’s “Talking Rocks”— bronze interpretive signs to learn more about the community’s rich history. Finally, visit the Morrow County Courthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its beautiful architecture and impressive craftsmanship. For festive fun, plan your trip to coincide with the Wee Bit o’ Ireland festival in March.
Rest your head at the Gilliam and Bisbee Building which offers suite-styled lodging options and a conference room. Restored in 2020, this beautiful and historic hotel once served as the town’s hardware store. Lodging at Northwestern Motel and RV Park offers travelers trailer sites and rooms.
Willow Creek, fueled by runoff from the Blue Mountains, flows into the Columbia River. Closer to Heppner, the creek fills the Willow Creek Reservoir, a 125-acre lake perfect for a summer day spent on the water. You’ll find trout, bass, catfish and plenty of swimming holes. Another way to cool off during a hot, dry Eastern Oregon summer is with a dip in the swimming pools at Willow Creek Water Park in Heppner. The park also features a slide into the pool, another fun way to cool down.
The RV park has 23 spaces available with no minimum stay. All have 50-60 ft pull-throughs, 2 sites are back-ins, and there is tent camping avilable. Partial and full hook-ups are designed to be compatible with large, modern motor homes.
Between Heppner and Ukiah, you’ll find hundreds of miles of expansive land waiting to be explored. Horseback riders can explore beautiful trails winding through the Umatilla National Forest. The Alder Creek Trail, the Willow Creek Trail, or the Blue Mountain Trail are great options for a backcountry horseback riding adventure.
Each September, the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway event, sponsored by the Heppner Chamber of Commerce, lets cyclists explore the beautiful Umatilla National Forests, the surrounding rolling hills and the golden wheat fields of Rugged Country with other riders. Ride the scenic 108-mile loop, which follows a section of the Oregon Trail and begins and ends in Heppner.
At the Morrow-Grant County OHV Park, you’ll find more than 9,000 acres of land ready to be explored on all-terrain vehicles. After riding around, stop by The Landing Lodge, open seasonally, for a tasty American-style meal. Anson Wright Park is one of the several nearby campgrounds.
Southeast of Heppner is the small town of Ukiah, a farming and ranching community that offers access to plentiful and peaceful wilderness. With abundant fresh produce and farm goods, Ukiah is home to a few eateries and markets. Enjoy taco Tuesdays and prime rib on Saturdays at the beloved Ukiah Thicket Cafe & Bar. Rhodes Supply is a general store with everything from groceries and cold drinks to ice cream cones. The Dale Store, including a post office and gas station, is a great place to stop for ice cream, groceries, and an abundance of local stories from the owner, Butch.
After you’ve fueled up, head towards Desolation Creek for a beautiful wilderness hike. Just north of Ukiah is Cutsforth Park, home to lots of trails waiting to be explored by hikers and horseback riders and campgrounds for the weary traveler. Or fall asleep to the sound of frogs croaking at Penland Lake Campground after fishing, boating or picnicking.
At the Sustainable AGriculture and Energy Center, our museum’s mission is hands-on learning and education through fun and interactive exhibits. Tour today, browse our gift shop, and finish your visit with a serving of delicious Tillamook ice cream!
101 OLSON ROAD BOARDMAN, OR
YOUR CALENDARS!
First Saturday in October
FOSSILS • KITESURFING • FISHING • RAFTING • CYCLING • PALEONTOLOGY • HIKING • RANCH RETREATS • FARMS TRAILS
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
In this region of Eastern Oregon, find one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the country, the John Day River. Exploration doesn’t stop at the scenery. There’s more here than meets the eye.
Fossils are unique to the John Day River Territory; learn more at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center. Or make a trip to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which offer a rich fossil record spanning 40 million years, and step into the past with a visit to one of the park’s three units: Clarno, Painted Hills and Sheep Rock units.
Adjacent to these magnificent marvels, the cities in this territory abound with friendly people and outdoor recreation opportunities.
John
Biggs rests on the Columbia, and Rufus is next door, offering a spectacular stop at Rufus Landing Recreation Area. Arlington’s charming swimming spots are not far away. Stop in Wasco to learn more about wind energy in Oregon. Then, go to Grass Valley to see miles of open plains beyond the historic buildings.
The geiological landmarks you have been searching for are here. Begin at Condon, where the historic town hosts a Powell’s Books outpost. Take the drive through Mayville, a ghost town. Fossil tells the story of geology in the region through the rich history of the town. Near the communities of Spray and Mitchell, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers a once-in-a-lifetime viewing of ancient remains. Don’t forget Oregon’s natural artwork: The Painted Hills are about an hour away.
John Day is a hub for hotels and entertainment while setting out on the multiple day-trip options surrounding the city. Mount Vernon provides a vantage point to see the expanse of the John Day River, and Prairie City offers Hotel Prairie: a boutique hotel providing charm and comfort. Throughout the region, discover spectacular geography and friendly people.
8.
9.
10.
11. Strawberry Lake
12.
13.
14.
15.
Biggs, perched on the rocky shores of the Columbia River, acts as a hub for travelers and a starting point for the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway—a 300-mile-long route cutting through some of Oregon’s most beautiful lands. Wind through canyons, past checkerboards of golden wheat fields and through picturesque small towns. Take a pit stop at the small community of Wasco, the center of Oregon’s wind energy boom, where turbine blades rotate on nearby hills. In the town of Moro, learn local history at the Sherman County Historical Museum , where you’ll find more than 15,000 artifacts that give insights into centuries past. Finally, stop in Grass Valley, where historic buildings dot the landscape and are the only interruption in miles of open plains.
Just off the Columbia River, you’ll find Arlington, a small town with lots to offer. Start your day off at Earl Snell Memorial Park, where an inlet of the Columbia River provides beaches, swimming access, picnicking spots and plenty of waterfront
102 MILES
Stops: Biggs • Fossil • Spray
Discover: Sherman County Historical Museum
Moro
Experience: Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival Fossil
Play: John Day River John Day
fun. Windsurfers and kiteboarders will want to head to the Port of Arlington to set sail, while golfers will want to check out the 9-hole course at China Creek Golf Course, boasting stunning views of the Columbia River. Thanks to the growing community of solar wind workers in town, Arlington has a blossoming restaurant scene for you to enjoy. Just east of Arlington is the small town of Rufus, an off-the-beaten-path stop along your journey.
South of Arlington, you’ll find the historic town of Condon, a small community with a big heart, best demonstrated each year by the booming Fourth of July parade and celebration. The town turns out for the street dancing, hula hooping contest, artisan market and fireworks display. Historic downtown Condon, full of charm year-round, offers plenty of options for indulging in a bit of shopping and good food. Peruse popular titles at Powell’s Books and pop into Condon Local, a boutique and old-fashioned soda fountain. Spend the night in one of the Condon Motel’s cozy rooms or at the historic Hotel Condon, a modern stay with a glimpse of the past. The Condon Golf Course offers a ninehole course as well as a community pool. Travel back in time at the Gilliam County Historical Museum where you can visit a one-room schoolhouse and a brothel-turned-barber shop, each over a century old.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park, which covers some 8,000 acres of the lower John Day River canyon, is Oregon’s second-largest state park and the perfect place to experience the great outdoors. Explore vast and diverse landscapes, or stargaze beneath the expansive sky. The canyon’s rugged terrain boasts abundant wildlife and is a beloved destination for campers, hunters, horseback riders, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s Experience Center serves as a classroom for outdoor education as well as an event space. The Cottonwood Crossing Summer Institute is a week-long residential field study course for high school students held onsite each summer.
ARLINGTON
38-MILE TRIP
Stops: Arlington and Condon
Experience: Cottonwood Canyon State Park Wasco
Historic Downtown Condon
Take in some Wheeler County culture at the beautiful historic Wheeler County Circuit Court in downtown Fossil. Dance at the Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival, held on the courthouse lawn and all around town each summer. Kick your heels up and spend the night at Wilson Ranches Retreat, an authentic working cattle ranch. Wake up for a hearty breakfast before saddling up for a ride into the high desert, taking a hike, or lounging around the ranch. Also, find a place to lay your head at Hyatt House Bed and Breakfast, Fossil Motel and RV Park, or Wheeler County Fairgrounds. Before hitting the road, grab a breakfast burrito at Brenda’s Blessings, and maybe hit a few balls at the tiny Kinzua Hills Golf Club. Fill the tank up at Fossil Fill-Up and continue your journey through John Day River Territory.
With a name like Fossil, visitors might not be surprised to learn that this little town has a rich history steeped in geology. In season, visit the Oregon
Paleo Lands Institute for maps and itineraries to explore the ancient forests and sea floors of the greater John Day Fossil Beds National Monument area. The City of Fossil Musem is an excellent spot to soak up more local history, including tales of the rich pine forests that once fueled a logging industry here. Don’t leave town without stopping by the fossil beds behind Wheeler High School, where you can comb through artifacts of ancient flora and fauna, the only fossils in the region that are free for you to pick up and take home.
The John Day River, Oregon’s longest free-flowing river, sits just north of Fossil and is the heart of river country where fishing, rafting and lazy days on the water await you. Set up camp or picnic along the river at Spray Riverfront Park. The charming farming town of Spray sits on a scenic bend in the John Day River and acts as a great home base for your river adventures. The Spray Pioneer Museum is home
to artifacts depicting the area’s history. Spend the night at the River Bend Motel, with rooms and suites available. Catch the Spray Rodeo, the “best small town rodeo around,” which coincides with the annual Spray Half Marathon Spray is the jumping-off point for the John Day River Farm Trail, offering dozens of stops to see the diversity of goods produced in the area. Just beyond Spray is the town of Kimberly; visit Thomas Orchards, Apricot Apiaries, and the John Day River Trading Post Locals refer to another beloved driving tour as “The LOOP,” an offshoot of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, which connects Fossil, Spray and Mitchell.
The town of Mitchell sits on the east side of the Ochocos in rusty rolling hills comprised of ash and soil in myriad colors. The Painted Hills are Mitchell’s most famous feature and are one of three units of The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The Clarno Unit is home to impressive land formations called The Palisades. Visit the Sheep Rock Unit, where you can find 33-million-year-old fossils and rocks that date back some 95 million years ago.
Enjoy a horseback ride at the nearby Owen Ranch, where an easy trail leads to the historic ranch house and orchards. Views of geological peaks Mitchell Rock and Bailey Rock pop up along this trail. Also nearby is Priest Hole and Burnt Ranch Recreation, where you’ll find beloved swimming holes. In Mitchell, shop for geological treasures discovered by local rockhounds. Stop by Bridge Creek Cafe, which cooks up burgers and big breakfasts. Grab wings, craft brews, and some live music at Tiger Town Brewery. Pick up some fresh eggs from the local Happy Hens Farm and tour the grounds. Lay your head at Painted Hills Vacation Cottages & Retreat, with charming cabins and well-tended gardens so lovely you’ll never want to leave. The Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway runs through here, and many cyclists find respite seasonally at Spoke’n Hostel just a few miles east of town. In downtown Mitchell, cozy up in the rustic Little Pine Lodge or feel like you’ve traveled back in time with a stay at the beautiful historical The Oregon Hotel, originally built in 1936.
Stops: Mitchell • John Day Prarie City
Experience: Painted Hills Vacation Cottages and Retreat Mitchell
Taste: Tiger Town Brewery Mitchell
Discover: Strawberry Mountain Wilderness Canyon City
Dayville is a sleepy Western town named after the mighty John Day River that flows nearby. A heartland of natural beauty, Dayville invites visitors to explore the surrounding landscape and wildlife. The Thomas Condon Paleontology and Visitor Center in Dayville is the perfect place to learn about the geological monuments that this area is known for. Enjoy the center’s colorful murals, fossils, and fishbowl paleontology laboratory, allowing the public to watch scientists actively study fossils. Between hiking and biking Dayville’s surrounding trails, make a pit stop at the Historic Cant Ranch Museum for a picnic. Fuel your exploration of the town at the family-owned and operated Dayville Cafe, or stock up on goods from Dayville Mercantile
Take a walk on the rural side and discover Sherman County’s history with award winning exhibits: the Oregon Trail, A Century of Rural Living, Horse Power Farming and Cultivation, Conservation & Wheat through the Ages. Experience the Oregon Trail, Sherman County Renewable Energy, Featured Local artist, and more!
We are featuring local vendors and artists in our “Museum Mercantile” selling handmade wood crafts, jewelry, and much more! Information Visitor Center, Wi-Fi, and bike friendly. Open May through October. The Visitor Center is located in the Museum lobby providing all your travel needs for where you want to go and what you want to know!
John Day is the largest town in Grant County and home to Grant County Regional Airport, serving both local pilots and visiting travelers. Tour the Old West Scenic Bikeway on two wheels to better take in the surrounding nature. Grab lunch and a brew at 1188 Brewing Company, John Day’s bustling and popular brewery. Want to attend an art class or workshop? Make a stop at the Painted Sky Center for the Arts. Learn about the area’s rich gold mining history and the communities of Chinese immigrants who called the John Day area home at the Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum. The Kam Wah Chung store was once the center of the community, and today its shelves of well-preserved herbal and traditional medicines serve as a window into history. Motorcycle lovers will want to take advantage of the Chief Joseph Rally, June 22-25 in 2023, for a ride through the scenic landscapes.
The remote and scenic reaches of Grant County are worth taking the time to explore. Located east of John Day, “The Strawberries” (as they are affectionately known) are one of the most scenic and accessible mountain ranges in Eastern Oregon. More than 60,000 acres of land are set aside in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, which includes Strawberry Mountain and Strawberry Lake. Keep an eye out for nearly 400 species of birds, along with black bears and mountain goats. With several campsites and plenty of trails, these gorgeous peaks are just waiting to be explored.
In Prairie City, enjoy the best of the old and the new at Hotel Prairie, with a beautiful lobby, wine and beer lounge, patio and cozy rooms. Venture out for a day of strolling Prairie City’s quaint downtown, which offers antique stores, specialty shops and dining. Nearby is the unincorporated community of Bates, where you’ll find Bates State Park and sites where you can set up camp for the night.
On scenic Highway 395 south of John Day, visit Canyon City, where you’ll find multiple antique shops, Sels’ Brewery and the Grant County Oregon Historical Museum. A bit farther south is Silvies Valley Ranch, a working ranch and modern golf resort that merges luxury with an authentic Western ranch experience. Play the 18-hole reversible course, feast on delicious and unique dining options, relax at the spa or venture out on an exclusive outdoor adventure. A private airstrip is available for those wishing to fly directly to the property.
Don’t underestimate the quiet, secluded Southeastern terrain of Oregon: this is where river canyons, mountains, gorges, birds and the desert scene thrive. The dramatic peaks of the Steens Mountain and the Owyhee River Canyon are worth the roadtrip, and the hours you’ll want to spend exploring.
Find hot springs near the Alvord Desert and view wildlife at a distance at protected gorges and canyons such as Leslie Gulch and Owyhee Canyon. Birdwatch as avian migrations soar over the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
This county encapsulates the Steens Mountain as it dominates the center of the desert. Start in Burns where the high desert town rests alongside multiple outdoor adventures, and provides close access to the Malheur National Refuge near Princeton. Travel to Diamond for the full cowboy experience. Beyond the mountains, the Alvord Desert features a dried lake bed turned desert floor. Stargazing is also a popular pastime around Harney County.
Where the Snake, Malheur, Owyhee and Payette rivers converge, visit Ontario for restaurants, hotels, farmers markets and shopping if you want to keep your trip more city-centric. Down the road, follow the Four Rivers Farm and Garden Trail between Ontario and Vale to see orchards, farms and gardens which thrive and bloom in the high desert. When looking for sensational highs and lows, Jordan Valley is the gateway to canyons and gulches that adorn Southeast Oregon. Travel farther south to Rome, to see the Pillars of Rome—rock formations towering 100 feet above the Owyhee River where many choose to raft below.
ROAD TRIP
BURNS TO THE ALVORD DESERT
135 MILES
Stops: Burns • Fields
Alvord Desert
Taste: Fields Station Fields
Discover: Peter French Round Barn Diamond
Trek: Steens Mountain Gorges Loop Steens Mountains
Burns truly feels like a remote high desert outpost, probably because it sits in the heart of Harney County, Oregon’s largest and least populated county. Here you’ll find hotels, markets and sporting goods. Enjoy a meal at the steakhouse The Pine Room , or for a taste of culture, visit the Book Parlor , an independent bookstore offering good reads and home decor. In August, join the Burns Paiute Tribe at the Burns Paiute Powwow and Lacrosse Games —the weekend includes dance competitions, drumming contests and a community dinner. The Skull Gravel Grind Bike Race is an exciting and crowd-pleasing annual event. Take a trip to nearby Hines, a former mill town, for access to a plentitude of outdoor activities.
Just 30 miles south of Burns, find the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, a haven of avian action. This more than 187,000-acre, federally protected wildlife habitat is a crucial breeding ground and a migratory rest stop along the Pacific Flyway. Considered one of the top birdwatching areas in the Pacific Northwest, Malheur teems with wildlife and hundreds of migratory species of birds. Start your experience at the refuge headquarters’ visitors center and museum before heading out with a camera to
explore. Spring and fall are great times to visit. In April, catch the Harney County Migratory Bird Fest. In addition to unparalleled bird and wildlife watching, enjoy educational opportunities, hiking, and regulated fishing and hunting. Nearby, discover the Peter French Round Barn State Heritage Site , the circular 1880s structure built by cattle baron Peter French from stone and juniper and used for breaking horses in inclement weather.
The stunning Steens Mountain offers breathtaking views and adventure. Embark on the Steens Loop Tour for a climb up the backside and a summit that affords dramatic views. Then descend to Wildhorse Lake for a refreshing dip in cold, cobalt waters. The Steens Mountain Gorges Loop is a 28-mile journey that treats hikers to waterfalls and geological wonders. The abundant wildlife and lakes stocked with trout at lower elevations draw in hunters and anglers. The surrounding Steens Mountain Wilderness offers more than 100,000 acres of terrain waiting to be explored. The town of Fields is the perfect rest stop for weary travelers. Fields Station offers burgers, milkshakes, hotel rooms, groceries and fuel.
Steens Mountain brushes against the breathtaking Alvord Desert, providing explorers with a true sense of wonder. Here on the expansive, surreal playa, you’re at the bottom of what once was a 200-foot-deep lake that stretched from the Steens to Nevada. Walk out onto the white crusty surface, drive across the open space where rules allow, or take in the impressive expanse with your eyes. The remote Alvord Hot Springs is a chance to soak in a semi-developed pool with a view of the playa. Anglers should head to Mann Lake, where the trout are plentiful. The Mickey Hot Springs, on the north end of the Alvord, are not waters meant for soaking or drinking. You’ll just want to observe its deep pool, clear with nearboiling water, the ground hissing with steam and gurgling mud pots.
Rest your head at Hotel Diamond, built in 1898, which offers comfortable rooms and meals in the small community of Diamond. The Steens Mountain Guest Ranch offers an authentic dude ranch experience. If camping is your cup of tea, choose Page Springs Campground on the Donner and Blitzen River.
The skies in Eastern Oregon and Crane are said to go on forever. Take them in at the Crane Hot Springs, soaking in the views and healing waters. Right between Crane and Frenchglen is the Diamond Loop Tour Route, a 69-milelong drive highlighting historical settlements, ranching communities, and unmatched wildlife. Pass through the small but charming communities of Princeton and Diamond. Be sure to get out and stretch your legs at Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area, home to some of America’s most diverse basaltic volcanic formations, a curious array of collapsed craters, lava domes and other impressive features created 25,000 years ago.
ROAD TRIP CRANE TO LESLIE GULCH
225 MILES
Stops: Crane • Jordan Valley Owyhee Canyon • Leslie Gulch
Discover: Crane Hot Springs Burns
Cruise: Leslie Gulch Malheur County
JUNTURA TO ONTARIO
71 MILES
Stops: Juntura • Vale Ontario
Discover: Keeney Pass
Interpretive Site Vale
Taste: The Four Rivers Farm and Garden Trail Ontario
This eastern Oregon town is where the Snake, Malheur, Owyhee and Payette rivers converge, as well as a community of converging cultures. The Four Rivers Cultural Center serves as a community hub that showcases this cultural richness and features performances on its stage year-round. Go on a historical journey to learn about the native Northern Paiutes, the 19th-century settlers, Japanese Americans who interned in the area during World War II and migrant workers who have kept the fields green for generations.
Explore the communities of Ontario, Vale and Nyssa through the Four Rivers Cultural Center & Museum, experiencing the rich agriculture and delicious tastes of Southeastern Oregon. Visit Country Corner, a multigenerational family farm, and tour Andrews Seed Company for heirloom seeds, plants and gardening supplies. Boston Beef House offers Painted Hills Natural Beef, raised locally. Seasonally, plan a visit to the Ontario Farmers Market
Be sure to pull into the tiny and charming towns of Juntura and Vale. In Juntura, grab a meal at the Oasis Cafe and explore the nearby riverside
hot springs. In Vale, visit the Rinehart Stone House, a museum displaying exhibits about the Oregon Trail. Then, stroll through town to see the many Vale Murals depicting pioneer-era history. Find vestiges of the ruts left behind from covered wagons at the nearby Keeney Pass Interpretive Site
In Jordan Valley, grab a cup of coffee, a home-baked snack, or some ice cream and have a friendly conversation at the aptly named and charming Rockhouse Coffee. Stake a tent at one of the primitive campsites at Birch Creek Historic Ranch, a Owyhee River gem. Spend a day hiking the nearby Jordan Canyons or Painted Canyon Loop. Then pitch a tent at Slocum Creek Campground or Succor Creek State Natural Area
Thanks to years of advocacy, the nature preserve Leslie Gulch is in pristine condition and home to various bighorn sheep, mule deer and elk. Owyhee Canyon is another beautifully preserved area you must visit along your travels. Witness the scenic Owyhee river as it flows past 1,000-foot-tall cliffs, 9,000-year-old petroglyphs, and riverside hot springs before eventually emptying into Oregon’s Owyhee Reservoir. Make a pit stop in the small town of Rome, and enjoy delicious milkshakes and tater tots at the Rome Station
IT’S NOT HARD TO MAKE A MEMORY LAST A LIFETIME –JUST DO SOMETHING UN FORGETTABLE.
IF PEOPLE LOOKED AT THE STARS EACH NIGHT, I’LL BET THEY’D LIVE A LOT DIFFERENTLY.
-Bill WattersonPAINTED HILLS John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
THE NORTHWEST
Iconic USA-made wool blankets, shirts, jackets & more.
Iconic USA-made wool blankets, shirts, jackets & more.
PENDLETON STORE (Blanket Outlet & Mill)
PENDLETON STORE (Blanket Outlet & Mill)
1307 SE Court Place, Pendleton • 541-276-6911
1307 SE Court Place, Pendleton • 541-276-6911
Free daily tours of our historic woolen mill
Please call for availability
Free daily tours of our historic woolen mill Please call for availability
BEND OUTLET STORE
BEND OUTLET STORE
61334 S Hwy 97, Suite 200, Bend, OR 541-383-7142
61334 S Hwy 97, Suite 200, Bend, OR 541-383-7142
MERIDIAN VILLAGE
MERIDIAN VILLAGE
3525 East Longwing Lane, Suite A110, Meridian, ID • 208-639-5000
3525 East Longwing Lane, Suite A110, Meridian, ID • 208-639-5000
Find locations in 12 states at pendleton-usa.com/find-stores
Find locations in 12 states at pendleton-usa.com/find-stores
