2020 Eastern Oregon Visitor Guide

2020Visitor Guide

Exploring Northeast Oregon

Rugged peaks and pristine lakes are backdrop for rich family adventures.

FOOD TRAILS Farm to table, grain farm to beer glass, taste the bounty of the region.

HIKING Stretch your legs on scenic trails through mountains, deserts and river valleys.

fold-out

MAP

Welcome Thank you for visiting Eastern Oregon. We hope you'll enjoy your time here, and that when your journey is over, you will take with you memories of a lifetime, and a desire to return again.

OPEN

Things are a little different in Eastern Oregon, where every road is the road less traveled and the landscape is vast, wide open and ever changing.

Traveling through the region you'll wander through majestic mountains, lush valleys, high desert plateaus, rolling rivers, and rugged canyons.

Scattered through this majestic landscape, you won't find many big cities.

What you will find is small town Americana surrounded by century farms and ranches, and the wide open spaces of the American West.

Our heritage runs deep in Eastern Oregon. This region was home to indigenous peoples for a millennia before being discovered by pioneers heading west on the Oregon Trails, and those hoping to strike it rich during the Gold Rush. You'll find that history on display in small town museums, interpretive centers, and heritage sites throughout the region. You'll also find it in the people you encounter along the way and the stories they share.

Follow us on Facebook and share your story with us on Instagram at: #easternoregon Eastern Oregon Visitors Association PO Box 511, La Grande, OR 97850 (800) 332-1843

On the Covers 2020 Visitor Guide

2020 Visitor Guide

Exploring Southeast Oregon Exploring the John Day River Territory

FOOD TRAILS Farm to table, grain farm to beer glass, taste the bounty of the region.

You don't have to adventure far off the beaten path to enjoy amazing vistas and spectacular landscapes. While every road in Eastern Oregon is scenic, the region is home to 9 Oregon Scenic Byways and 4 Oregon Scenic Bikeways. So, bring your camera, maybe a pair of binoculars too, and just take your time and enjoy the view as you travel through some of the most iconic scenery and landscapes in Oregon.

Amidst this visually stunning backdrop you'll also discover a cultural landscape of the working American West that is unique. Eastern Oregon is unmistakably cattle country, and working ranches still dominate the landscape. But, this country is also home to world class artists, musicians, and artisan makers. As you visit Eastern Oregon, there's a good chance that in addition to meeting a cowboy or two, you might also get to enjoy a local beer with the brewer who made it, sip wine with a local winemaker, or take home a souvenir forged while you watch by a local blacksmith.

Thank you for visiting us in Eastern Oregon. We hope you enjoy your time exploring this amazing region of Oregon that we call home.

2020 Visitor Guide

Mountain meets desert in this rugged land of exploration.

HIKING Stretch your legs on scenic trails through mountains, deserts and river valleys.

The physical landscape here is rugged and untamed with plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure, from hiking to alpine lakes in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, fishing the John Day River, exploring the desert landscape of the Owyhee Canyon Lands, white water rafting through Hells Canyon, watching wild mustangs in the Steens Mountains, boating along nearly 90 miles of the Columbia River, or exploring the region's rich geological history in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

2020 Visitor Guide

Explore the geology, rivers and history of this region under blue skies.

FOOD TRAILS Farm to table, grain farm to beer glass, taste the bounty of the region.

HIKING Stretch your legs on scenic trails through mountains, deserts and river valleys.

Exploring Oregon’s Rugged Country

Soak up the cultural and natural history of this unforgettable region.

Exploring Northeast Oregon

Rugged peaks and pristine lakes are backdrop for rich family adventures.

FOOD TRAILS Farm to table, grain farm to beer glass, taste the bounty of the region.

HIKING Stretch your legs on scenic trails through mountains, deserts and river valleys.

FOOD TRAILS Farm to table, grain farm to beer glass, taste the bounty of the region.

HIKING Stretch your legs on scenic trails through mountains, deserts and river valleys.

Southeast Oregon Photo by Nate Wyeth Oregon's Rugged Country Photo by Robert McLean Photography John Day River Territory Photo by Robert C Paulson Jr / Alamy Stock Photo Northeast Oregon Photo by Troy McMullin / Alamy Stock Photo

In partnership with

About this Guide The Eastern Oregon Official Visitor Guide is published annually

by Oregon Media, LLC. While every effort has been made to provide up-to-date information, the publisher assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of its contents. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission of the publisher. For editorial inquires please contact editorial@oregonmedia.com. For advertising information please contact ross@oregonmedia.com.

Your friends in Eastern Oregon info@visiteasternoregon.com www.visiteasternoregon.com

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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Top Golf Resorts in the U.S. #6 Silvies

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Silvies 2019

Most Awaited Courses in the U.S.

Silvies 2017

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Best U.S. Golf Course Restaurants Silvies #2 2018

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Silvies 2018

2019

Award-Winning Hankins & Craddock Courses

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Best Short Courses in U.S. McVeigh’s Gauntlet

SILVIES SIMPLY AMAZING SINCE 1883

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The boutique retreat of Frontier Oregon.

Home to four award-winning golf courses, luxury accomodations, gourmet cuisine, a full-service spa, and a wide variety of once-in-a-lifetime Western experiences.

There’s year ‘round fun for everyone at The Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch.

Western Luxury @SilviesSimplyAmazing

1-800-SILVIES (745-8437) WWW.SILVIES.US

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24 NORTHEAST 28 Baker County Three of Oregon Scenic Byways intersect in Baker City, home to a historic district. Hells Canyon.

Grand Tour Scenic Bikeway. Anthony Lakes.

38 Wallowa County Exploring the outdoors in one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Arts, culture and heritage in Joseph and Enterprise. Wallowa Lake’s alpine-themed village.

54 Union County Where the Grande Ronde Valley meets the Blue Mountains. Historic Union. Education and culture hub in La Grande. Grande Tour Route and Scenic Bikeway.

Painted Hills, one of three units of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

2020 CONTENTS EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

TERO Estates Winery

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ON THE FARM TRAIL Experience the flavors of the region by road-tripping scenic farm trails.

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Welcome Letter Map Calendar Resources

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68 Malheur County Raft or fish the Owyhee River. Soak up Juntura.

See Birch Creek Ranch. Visit and learn at Four Rivers Cultural Center.

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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

74 Umatilla County Native American, cowboy and ranching cultures meet. Watermelon festivals. Motorcycles. Cycling through Ukiah. Umatilla National Forest.

Locally-made beverages abound, from cider to beer to spirits.

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

94 JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Eastern Oregon’s history includes the stories of Native Americans, pioneers, geologists, miners and ranchers.

98 Grant County Explore a former boomtown mining region.

Strawberry Mountains. Kam Wah Chung Museum. Cycle the Old West Scenic Bikeway.

FRESH LIBATIONS

ON TWO WHEELS

INTO THE WOODS From mountains to canyons, the hiking options are top-notch here.

64 Harney County Steens Mountain and the vast desert, sage and grasslands beyond. Birding at Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Pete French Round Barn.

88 Morrow County Engage with local agricultural industry at the SAGE Center. Bike the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway. Take part in local festivities.

Explore the region’s scenic byways and bikeways on road bikes, mountain bikes and motorcycles.

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60 SOUTHEAST

TEE IT UP Swing your clubs on incredible landscapes, under wide-open skies.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

100 Wheeler County Paleo Lands Institute Center in Fossil. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Photograph the Painted Hills, one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon.

102 Gilliam County Raft or fish the mighty John Day River. Windsurf the Columbia River in Arlington. Charming downtown Condon. Heritage at Gilliam County Museum.

104 Sherman County Cycle the Wasco Loop. Sherars Falls. Oregon’s secondlargest state park, Cottonwood Canyon State Park.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

GAME UP

down the road.

SCENIC GOLF

VEGAS-STYLE GAMING

“One of America’s top casino golf courses.”

- Golf Digest

CASINO

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800.654.9453

GOLF

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Over 1,200 slots with all the latest reels and your favorite table games.

RV

MUSEUM

Pendleton, OR I-84 Exit 216

DINING

TRAVEL PLAZA

wildhorseresort.com F

Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 03134.TT.11.19

FINE DINING

Six restaurants on-site with a delicious aarray of food choices.

SPOTLIGHT

Foodie Farm Trails Farmland at the base of the Wallowa Mountains

TAKE THE FARM TRAIL

Eastern Oregon was made for farm trails, with scenic journeys past century farms, family-owned cattle companies, produce stands and purveryors of local goods around every bend.

RIVER TO HILLS FARM LOOP

Stretching from Boardman on I-84 to Hermiston, Echo then on to Heppner, the River to Hills Farm Loop travels from the magnificent Columbia River to the rolling foothills of the Blue Mountains. Follow the historic paths of Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail while discovering farm stands, gardens and ranches that provide food for the table as well as a boost to the spirit. Breweries, wineries, museums and flower growers are on the route, too. Spend a day or more eating blueberries, drinking goat milk, gazing at lavender fields and dining at farm-to-table restaurants.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Purple Ridge Lavender in Hermiston

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

The I-84 corridor leads east to west through some of the richest landscape in the state of Oregon. Along this route, detour off of the highway through established farm loops to fully experience the rich agriculture and delicious tastes that emerge in Eastern Oregon. At scenic small farms, U-pick orchards, family-owned cattle companies and honey stands, meet the growers, ranchers and purveyors of fresh, natural foods on the grounds of the very land they work and nurture. Find a host of maps and brochures about Eastern Oregon’s farm loops at visiteasternoregon.com, or see the fold out map in this guide.

Foodie Farm Trails

SPOTLIGHT

TERO Estates Winery in Milton-Freewater

WHISKY & ROCKS FARM LOOP

Begin in Pendleton and tour to Milton-Freewater, taking in abundant farms, orchards and wineries on the Whisky & Rocks Farm Loop. Meet artisan producers who make fresh delicious food, hand-crafted beverages and fine heritage crafts. Oenophiles and craft beer connoisseurs will delight in the wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Also on this route, find cheesemakers, chocolatiers, woolen mills and nurseries. Travel Oregon State Route 11, which continues on to Walla Walla, Washington, experiencing the artisans and foodmakers of the Rocks AVA and these classic cowboy communities.

Grande Ronde Goat Dairy

PHOTO BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

UNION COUNTY FARM LOOP

Jumping off of I-84 at LaGrande, the 55-mile Union County Farm Loop is a beautiful drive full of lush farmland framed by mountains and endless sky. Pass more than two dozen backyard farm stands, greenhouses, pastures and orchards on the selfguided Union County Farm Loop tour. The loop is in the heart of the Grande Ronde Valley and provides ample access to fresh, locally grown produce, meat and flowers near Cove, Union and La Grande. Cove is the land of big prize cherries and the home of apple pies. Over 500 acres of orchards grace this landscape, some with sweeping views of the valley. Union is home to one of the earliest nurseries in the Grande Ronde Valley, with both apple and pear trees planted as early as 1862.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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SPOTLIGHT

Foodie Farm Trails

THE FOUR RIVERS FARM AND GARDEN TRAIL

In and around Ontario, the Payette, Malheur and Owyhee Rivers join the Snake River in a lush valley of fertile land. A variety of crops are grown here. Begin at the crossroads of Highways 26 and 201, between Ontario and Vale. Explore farms, orchards and farm stands along this journey past modern farms and artisan producers of fresh, delicious food. Travel this route through Ontario, Vale and Nyssa and visit farmers markets, flower stands, bistros and produce stands.

Art & Soul Flowers

Octagon Barn in Wallowa County

Garden Gallery

BARN LOOP

Wallowa County is rugged and beautiful, with a deeply seated pioneer spirit. The Wallowa Barn Tour extends from south of Joseph to the Grande Ronde River Canyon. Along the way, see thirty-one well preserved barns, three historic schools, and plenty of little towns with stunning views of high mountain peaks and dramatic river canyons. This self-guided road-trip attracts photographers, historians and cyclists. Take your time and include stops at farms, breweries and restaurants along the way in this remarkable county.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTOS TOP DAWN TALBOT T

The Wallowa Barn Tour

SPOTLIGHT

Libations

SIPS AND SMILES

Fresh-made local beverages quench the thirst of the traveler.

The craft libation craze is brewing in Eastern Oregon. With such fertile land for growing hops, wine grapes, grains and cider apples, and so many makers already committed to providing people with fresh provisions straight from the earth and crafted by human hands, this country was made for delicious, creative spirits, wines and beers. Just like in days gone past, the region’s breweries, wineries, distilleries and cideries are welcoming places to stop along the road, drink in a bit of refreshment and meet the people of this fine place.

CRAFT BEER

After a day exploring the Painted Hills or the Wallowa Mountains, relax at one of Eastern Oregon’s sixteen craft brew hous-

es (and counting!). From ale houses in John Day, Boardman, Hermiston, La Grande, Pendleton and Baker City, all the way to Joseph and Ontario, the breweries in the region make mighty fine ales and lagers. Fill a growler to go and take your fresh beer with you to the next destination—where you just might find another quality brewpub.

LOCAL WINE

The climate on the east side of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains is much drier and more extreme than that to the west of the range, yet still can compare to the wine-growing regions of Germany and northern France. Visit the Rocks District AVA near Milton-Freewater, the Snake River Valley AVA near Ontario and Baker City,

and more wineries or wine tasting rooms near Pendleton and Echo.

CIDER

The apple orchards were already there.

Why not make fresh hard cider from all of those delicious apples? Cideries are popping up around the region, including in the Blue Mountains and Baker City region. From dry and crisp to sweet and refreshing, these ciders are delicious.

SPIRITS

Creative souls use locally-grown grains to make spirits, crafted in small batches with care and attention. Distilleries in Joseph, Baker City and Pendleton provide the best vodka, gin and whisky to visitors.

Echo Ridge Cellars

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Barley Brown’s

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PHOTOS LEF T J ONI K ABANA , RIGHT ALE X J ORDAN

Blue Mountain Cider Company

Local Flavors

of Baker City

Ruby D Quinine Tonics

Rain Barrel Ciderworks

Sorbenots Coffee Company

Glacier45 Distillery

Barley Brown’s Beer

Copper Belt Winery

Small batch quinine concentrate with more ruby goodness and zero added sugar. Made at BELLA Main St. Market in the century old Osborn Building in historic downtown Baker City.

(541) 523-7490 rubydtonic.com

Café & Drive-thru- 1270 Campbell Open- 5am-9:00pm daily Roastery & warehouse located 2219 11th St. Sorbenots Coffee- “Because today is that good” (541) 523-1678 sorbenots.com

Barley Brown’s is a family-owned brewery and restaurant offering a wide variety of awesome pub food and small-batch, hand-crafted beers.

(541) 523-4266 barleybrownsbeer.com

Our ciders are made using time-honored techniques that showcase the varietal flavors of fresh, sharp apples with depth and body for a drink that is as refreshing as pure rainwater.

(541) 362-4337 rainbarrelcider.com

Glacier45 premium all natural spirits are inspired by Oregon’s active outdoor community. Located in Historic Baker City at the base of the Elkhorn Mountain Range. Free tastings!!!

(541) 519-0081 glacier45.com

Small case production wines that are easy to enjoy from the moment you pop the cork. Visit our tasting room downtown directly across the street from the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.

(541) 519-0949 copperbeltwinery.com

TRAVELBAKERCOUNT Y.COM

SPOTLIGHT

History

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME A rich and fascinating history runs through this land.

From the experiences of the settlers on the Oregon Trail to the rich cultural legacy of many Native American tribes, Eastern Oregon is alive with history. Dozens of museums, interpretive centers, highway markers and heritage sites dot the landscape. Learn more about ranching, agriculture, geology, timber, rodeo, mining and natural history at some of these stops.

Painted Hills, one of three units of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

36 million years ago, the Eastern Oregon landscape was lush and tropical, roamed by mastadons, camels and saber-toothed tigers. Visit the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center near Dayville to learn more. A million years later, a series of volcanic eruptions and flooding laid down ash and soil to create the colorful layers of the Painted Hills. Visit the hills to hike, sightsee and capture amazing photos. Sometime after that, deciduous trees dropped their leaves and branches into a lake near Fossil, which is where you can find those very things today. In the 1860s, Thomas Condon began excavating fossils in the John Day Basin. His work paved the way for the establishment of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Visit each of the monument’s three units: Sheep Rock, Painted Hills and Clarno.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Thomas Condon Paleontology Center

PHOTOS ALE X J ORDAN

ROCK OF AGES

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

History

SPOTLIGHT

NATIVE LEGACY

Long before settlers of European descent arrived, tribes such as the Northern Pauite, Shoshonean, Wasco-Wishram, Walla Walla and Bannock populated Eastern Oregon. Visit Tamástslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton or Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario to explore historic native culture. Just north of Wallowa Lake near Joseph, visit the burial site of Old Chief Joseph, the father of Chief Joseph, the leader of the Wallowa band of the Nez Perce Tribe.

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

EXPLORERS AND SETTLERS

John Day passed by where the mouth of the Mah-hah River meets the Columbia in 1812, en route to the new Pacific Fur Company post in Astoria. Today, the John Day River, popular for fishing, rafting and recreation, bears his name. Immigrants began arriving via the Oregon Trail in the 1840s, some of whom ceased their journey and made Eastern Oregon home. Search for wagon ruts near the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City. Oregon’s Chinese community is interpreted at Kam Wah Chung Company, which became an important social, medical and religious center in the 1880s in John Day. Ing “Doc” Hay, a Chinese herbalist, established Kam Wah Chung, today a museum and time capsule of the historic Chinese market.

Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Sumpter Valley Railroad

PHOTOS SECOND AND THIRD FROM TOP BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

GOLD AND TIMBER

Gold was discovered in Sumpter in 1862! Three gold dredges were put into service between 1912 and 1934—one remains today as the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area. Gold brought wealth, and the creation of places like Baker City’s Geiser Grand Hotel, described as the finest hotel between Portland, Oregon and Salt Lake City, Utah. Don’t miss a chance to stay in this beautiful historic hotel, extensively restored to grandeur and reopened in 1993. The timber boom lasted longer than the gold rush. The Sumpter Valley Railroad was built to transport logs to the sawmill in Baker City, and today, tours run for visitors from Memorial Day through September.

Pendleton Round-Up

COWBOY CULTURE

Cattle needed rounding up, and cowboys were up to task. To celebrate the western lifestyle, the first Pendleton Round-Up sprang to life in 1910, bringing European and indigenous people together in a shared history.

Today the rodeo brings 50,000 people to Pendleton for a full week each September. Catch a rodeo somewhere in Eastern Oregon between May and September. Not rodeo season? Each county has at least one heritage museum, interpreting the history of the region.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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SPOTLIGHT

Cycling

PEDAL-POWERED TOUR TIME Open road enthusiasts will discover journeys lined with more trees, prairies and cattle than people and cars.

FOUR DESIGNATED SCENIC BIKEWAYS PASS THROUGH EASTERN OREGON OLD WEST SCENIC BIKEWAY john day river territory 174-mile loop This challenging route begins in John Day then passes by charming small towns, the Strawberry Mountains and the John Day River, as well as the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Over the Hill Bike Tours offers two- to eight-day SAGsupported road bike tours with lodging and meals included.

Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway john day river territory 130-mile loop Cycling through the Painted Hills reveals millions of years of history in layers of earth, ash and clay. This scenic bikeway connects all three units of the John Day Fossil Beds, which hold the world’s best fossil record of the Age of Mammals (the last 50 million years) and exhibit a record of climate change.

Bike Friendly

<<

Painted Hills Unit

Go it solo or book a supported tour with pro guides who will lead you through this high desert landscape.

WHO SAYS SCENIC BYWAYS ARE JUST FOR AUTOMOBILES? High Desert Discovery 127 miles

Blue Mountain Century 108 miles

Journey Through Time 286 miles

Hells Canyon 218 miles

(for more on scenic byways, go to the map on p. 2)

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway oregon’s rugged country 108-mile loop Climbing a total of 8,000 feet throughout the loop—with the bulk of the elevation gain in the Umatilla National Forest—this rugged adventure gives cyclists access to mountain meadows of wildflowers, hidden valleys, windswept prairies and working ranches. Beginning and ending in the town of Heppner, and including a thrilling descent into the town of Ukiah, the towns offer dining, drinks and lodging.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP TALIA J E AN G ALVIN, BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

Old West Scenic Bikeway

Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway northeast 134-mile “figure-8” route This route covers farms and rangeland with views of the Wallowa and Elkhorn mountains. Pedal through Baker City and La Grande, as well as Cove, Union and North Powder. Reward beers, pastries, repair shops and Main Street attractions are plentiful on this figure eight-shaped route, which still offers miles of remote open road.

Cycling

SPOTLIGHT

Mount Emily Recreation Area

>>

Anthony Lakes Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, known for great powder skiing, is becoming a premier destination for mountain bike riding as cyclists take to the Nordic trails and Broadway Flow trail during the summer months.

Anthony Lakes Mountain Bike Festival

Echo Hills

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort baker city (more on p. 34) During summer, Nordic ski trails are converted into eight miles of singletrack.

The Broadway Flow trail begins at the top of the chairlift and provides epic views of lakes and peaks, with challenging technical descents.

Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA) la grande (more on p. 55) A network of trails at this recreation area is popular with local mountain bikers, but with 3,669 acres of land to explore, the fat tire set has barely scratched the surface of Mount Emilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential.

Echo West Vineyard echo Twenty-five miles of concentric loops through zippy terrain climb over basalt outcroppings and plunge into desert arroyos, entirely on private land owned by Echo West Ranch and Vineyard, where Sno Road Winery wines are produced. For gear, visit Echo Bike & Board shop in Pendleton.

Pendleton Adventure Trails pendleton Accessible nine months of the year, this mountain bike network near the Pendleton airport is a popular option for bike and trail lovers.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

>>

PHOTO LEF T ERIC VALENTINE, OTHERS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

ENOUGH MOUNTAIN BIKING OPTIONS TO KEEP WHEELS TO TRAILS ALL DAY LONG

Echo Hills Echo Hillsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; terrain is home to the annual Red 2 Red mountain bike race in March that serves as the unofficial kick-off to the Oregon racing season.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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SPOTLIGHT

Motorcycling

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

ROADS MADE FOR MULTIDAY MOTORCYCLE TOURING There is a deep American connection to the romanticism of a leather jacket, the rev of a motor, plenty of time and an open road. Motorcyclists will find their stride on remote straights and passes surrounded by dense forests and golden-hued rolling hills in Eastern Oregon. There are good reasons that motorcycle enthusiasts find reasons to come back to the spacious landscape of Eastern Oregon.

From Northeast Oregon’s Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway near Steens Mountain, there’s plenty of land to explore. The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway winds around the Wallowa Mountains, which are designated as one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. This scenic route is also one of the few byways in the nation that is designated as an “All-American Road.”

Whether you’re new to motorcycle tours or want to expand your network, consider joining one of the annual Eastern Oregon rallies. Alternately, create a tour of your own. You’ll find plenty of scenery to enjoy as well as plentiful services and friendly people along the way.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally

RALLY ROUND THE MOTORBIKE Rallies are how motorcycle enthusiasts come together to show some pride, swap stories of the road and enjoy the wonders of the local area. The festivities often have the feel of a leather-clad family reunion set to live music and raucous entertainment. Plan a summer trip around one of these biker weekends.

Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally

In July of each year, this official High Desert HarleyDavidson event descends upon Baker City.

Pendleton Bike Week

The home of the epic Rattlesnake 400 ride, Pendleton Bike Week is also held in July.

Chief Joseph Rally

Join BMW riders in John Day in late June for this fun run through the Strawberry Mountains.

Gold Rush Ride

This August event takes riders from Government Camp to historic gold rush town Sumpter.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP GRTEGOR HALENDA , BOT TOM LEF T PENDLE TON BIKE WEEK , RIGHT BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

Pendleton Bike Week

stangmanor.com (541) 805-9884

This fully restored 1920's Georgian Colonial home is a must-see for anybody visiting Eastern Oregon. Built in 1925 by August Stange, the founder of the Mount Emily Lumber Company, the construction was lavish and unique for the era. Step back in time to enjoy the quiet relaxation of each of the bedrooms, each with their own available bathroom, most with original tile and fixtures. upstairs bedrooms. The Stang Manor is really the most elegant, comfortable and truly delightful lodging experience in all of the Grande Ronde Valley.

100 Full Hookup Pull-Through RV Sites RELAXING HOT SPRINGS SOAKING POOLS QUIET, SERENE LOCATION WITH RENOVATED FACILITIES ROOM FOR LARGE GROUPS

SEE WHAT’S POSSIBLE THE EASTERN EDGE

YURTS & CABINS

eou.edu OREGON’S RURAL UNIVERSITY

491

WWW.GRANDEHOTSPRINGS.COM 65182 HOT LAKE LANE. I-84 EXIT 265 - LA GRANDE

SPOTLIGHT

Hiking

THE TRAILS ARE CALLING A hiker’s paradise, Eastern Oregon has trails galore, from easy riverfront strolls to grand journeys through rugged scenery.

Hurricane Creek

NORTHEAST HURRICANE CREEK IN THE WALLOWAS The Wallowa Mountains dominate the northeast corner of Oregon, beckoning wilderness lovers into its vast expanses. The Hurricane Creek Trail is an access point to the Eagle Cap Wilderness, past subalpine meadows, massive granite and limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildflowers. Hikers might glimpse mountain goats, bighorn sheep, deer, elk and other mammals.

SOUTHEAST Steens Mountain, a massive fault block mountain, is a dramatic hike with outstanding views. Four gorges were carved over time by snow and glaciers. Hike into Big Indian Gorge from the trailhead at South Steens Campground. Wind through meadows with some creek crossings and continue into the gorge, marked by sagebrush, aspen, juniper and wildflowers in the spring. The entire hike is 17 miles round-trip, but you can always turn around early.

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY STRAWBERRY MOUNTAIN LOOP HIKE The Strawberry Mountain Loop Hike passes by scenic lakes and meadows, taking hikers by Strawberry Falls, High Lake and Slide Lake. Short spur trails also lead to Little Strawberry Lake and to Strawberry Mountain’s summit at 9,033 feet. The trail wanders through pine, fir, and larch, and it gets more exposed at higher elevations. Find the trailhead at Strawberry Lake, south of John Day. This hike is best in September or October.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Steens Mountain

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY SOUTH FORK WENAHA RIVER TRAIL The Blue Mountains were named by early settlers for the blue hue of their pine- and fir-lined slopes. The South Fork Wenaha River Trail is a 6.5-mile out-and-back hike within the WenahaTucannon Wilderness. The hike visits untouched stands of grand fir and provides breathtaking canyon views perfect for observing wildlife.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM WHITNE Y WHITEHOUSE

BIG INDIAN GORGE IN THE STEENS

RIVERLODGEANDGRILL.COM

|

541.481.6800

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BOARDMAN, OREGON

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Come join the adventure!

SPOTLIGHT

Golf

FORE!

The wide open skies and spectacular landscapes of Eastern Oregon are a unique and wonderful place to swing your clubs.

Whether you choose to play a round in a ghost town, a Native America resort, or with goats as caddies, golfing Eastern Oregon style is unforgettable. With 19 courses to choose from throughout the region, make a golf tour of your next road trip.

Silvies Valley Ranch

SILVIES VALLEY RANCH

The Retreat, Links and Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch is a golfer’s paradise with a reverse. At check in, hop into a golf cart assigned just to your group. McVeigh’s Gauntlet seven-hole challenge course comes with a goat caddie that carries your clubs and your libations, and families will love the Chief Eagan nine-hole par 3 course. Day one, golf the 18-hole Craddock Course one direction and the next day golf the Hankins Course: the same course in the other direction with slight variations.

GHOST TOWN GOLFING

Near Fossil, the Kinzua Hills Golf Club is all that remains of a company town. An on-site greenskeeper maintains the property.

For $11 on the honor system, golf the six-hole course, with three different tee boxes to make a nine-hole golf experience.

Kinzua Hills Golf Club

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

GOLF WITH A VIEW

The nine-hole golf course at China Creek Golf Course in Arlington provides a view of the Columbia River. Quail Ridge Golf Course in Baker City has spectacular views of the Elkhorn Mountains.

Venture to Union to Buffalo Peaks Golf Course, which boasts the backdrop of the Blue Mountains and the surrounding scenic ranches and farms.

NATIVE AMERICAN FLAIR

Wildhorse Golf Resort is an 18-hole championship golf course featuring pristine greens amid dramatic natural landscape and rolling wheat fields. Voted “one of America’s top casino golf courses” by Golf Digest, the John Steidel-designed course challenges players of all levels with both short and long course opportunities.

Wildhorse Golf Resort

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

VISIT. STAY. PLAY.

Ontario

AREA

Celebrating our Rich Culture & History of the Western Treasure Valley For a calendar list of events visit OntarioChamber.com

541-889-8012 | Toll Free 1-866-989-8012 | 251 S.W. 9th St. Ontario, Oregon

SPOTLIGHT

Calendar

CALENDAR 2020-2021 March 7

Snow Blast at Anthony Lakes Ski Resort north powder anthonylakes.com

13-15

Wee Bit O’Ireland heppner heppnerchamber.com

22

Taste of Nordic at Anthony Lakes Ski Resort north powder anthonylakes.com

April 4-19

Wildhorse Spring Poker Roundup pendleton wildhorseresort.com

16-19

Harney County Migratory Bird Festival burns migratorybirdfestival.com

May 1-2

Cattle Barons Weekend pendleton cattlebarons.net

1-3

Spring Wine Release Weekend milton-freewater wallawallawine.com

9

Chocolate Lover’s Walk enterprise myenterpriseoregon.com

23

Spray Rodeo & Eastern Oregon Half Marathon spray sprayrodeo.com

June 5-6

Umatilla Landing Days umatilla umatillaorchamber.org

22 |

6

America’s Global Village Festival ontario ontariochamber.com

7-9

Obsidian Days hines ci.hines.or.us

8-14

E. Oregon Livestock Show union easternoregonlive stockshow.com

13

Run to the Ruts -Sage Brush Scramble baker city trailtenders.org

13

3-5

Wildhorse Pow Wow pendleton wildhorseresort.com

3-5

Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival & Fossil Cruz-In fossil wheelercountybluegrass.org

4

Boardman Thunder 4th of July Celebration boardman boardmanchamber.org

4

19-21

Tamkaliks Celebration wallowa wallowanexperce.org

19-21

13-19

Pendleton Bike Week pendleton pendletonbikeweek.com

7-10

Farm-City Pro Rodeo hermiston farmcityprorodeo.com

18-22

Grant County Fair & Rodeo john day grantcountyfairgrounds. com

Brews by the Blues milton-freewater mfchamber.com

18-22

21-26

morrowcountyoregon.com

Chief Joseph Days joseph chiefjosephdays.com

25

25

3-4

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Baker City Broncs and Bull Riding baker city bakerbroncsandbulls.com

Harney County Brewfest Condon’s Fabulous 4th of burns July Celebration burnsbikebrew.com condon condonchamber.org

Arlington’s Show-N-Shine 4 Ione’s 4th of July arlington visitarlingtonoregon.com Celebration ione 20 cityofioneoregon.com Skull 120/60/30 Gravel Grinder 9-13 Hells Canyon Motorcycle burns harneycounty.com Rally baker city 20 hellscanyonrally.com Wild West Beerfest 11 pendleton wildwestbeerfest.org Spud Fest hermiston 26-28 hermiston.or.us Baker City Cycling Classic 11 baker city bakercitycycling.org Pendleton Whisky Music Fest 27 pendleton Eastern Oregon pendletonwhiskymusicfest.

Beer Festival com la grande eobeerfest.org 11-14 Elgin Stampede 28 elgin Union County Farm Crawl elginstampede.com union county visitunioncounty.org 12-14 Caledonian Games July athena athenacaledoniangames.org Haines Stampede Rodeo haines hainestampede.com

18-19

Arlington Show N Shine arlington visitarlingtonoregon.com

27

North Powder Huckleberry Festival north powder unioncountychamber.org

30-Aug 3

Malheur County Fair & Rodeo ontario malheurcountyfair.com

August 1

Anthony Lakes Mountain Bike Festival Baker City baker city anthonylakes.com

1

Chris Miller Steens Mountain Rim Run & Walk frenchglen steensrimrun.net

3

Back County Bash joseph backcountrybashjoseph.com

6-9

We Like ‘Em Short Film Festival baker city welikeemshort.com

Morrow County Fair & Rodeo heppner

21-22

Sherman County Fair moro shermancountyfairfun.com

24-25

7 Wonders Cup Dragon Boat Race joseph dragonsinthewallowas.com

29

Kidz Pow Wow pendleton tamastslikt.org

30-Sept 3

Gilliam County Fair condon co.gilliam.or.us

31

Juniper Jam Music Festival enterprise juniperjam.com

September 3-8

Harney County Fair, Rodeo and Racemeet burns co.harney.or.us

7-14

Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Indian Pageant pendleton pendletonroundup.com

11-12

Pine Fest Music Festival halfway pinefest.org

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Calendar

ROUNDUPS

THE LANDING 17

Wallowa Valley Arts Festival joseph wallowavalleyarts.org

18-20

Tator Tot Festival ontario tatertotfestivalontarioor.com.

21-22

Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway Annual Ride heppner heppnerchamber.com

23-27

Alpenfest joseph oregonalpenfest.blogspot.com

October 3

Taste of Baker City baker city basecampbaker.com

3-4

Baker’s Artist Studio Tour baker city crossroads-arts.org

5

Morrow County Harvest Festival boardman visitsage.com

10

Oktoberfest pendleton pendletonchamber.com

17

November 7

Turkey Trot baker city basecampbaker.com

December 7

Condon Light Festival condon condonchamber.org

7

SAGE Center Winter Market boardman visitsage.com

7

Winter Wonderland Parade ontario ontariochamber.com

12-13

Sumpter Valley Railroad Christmas Train sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org

31

New Year’s Eve Ball Drop la grande lagrandemainstreet.org

January 22-25

22-24

February

Sumpter Valley Rail Road and Haunted Dredge Tours sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org

DINING

26

Eagle Cap Extreme Dog Sled Race joseph eaglecapextreme.com

31-Nov 1st

AND

Huntington Weather Fest & Celtic Games huntington bmkdthrowers.com

Echo Oktoberfest echo echo-oregon.com

Eastern Oregon Film Festival la grande eofilmfest.com

H OT E L

13

Anthony Lakes Beach Party north powder anthonylakes.com

A boutique hotel and restaurant nestled in the heart of Eastern Oregon.

Come eat, drink and find happy.

Open Daily 7am-9pm

14

Halfway Snowmobile Poker Run halfway hellscanyonchamber.com

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Breakfast 7am-11pm Lunch 11pm-3pm Dinner 3pm-9pm 1501 ADAMS AVE, LA GRANDE • (541) 663–1501 LAGRANDELANDINGHOTEL.COM EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO THIS PAGE DAVID JENSEN , TOP LEF T JONI K ABANA , TOP RIGHT ALEX J ORDAN , BOT TOM BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

NORTHEAST pg. 28 Baker County Located at the intersection of three Oregon Scenic Byways— and surrounded by the Wallowa Mountains, Hells Canyon and the Elkhorn Mountains—Baker County is an adventurer’s paradise.

pg. 38 Wallowa County One of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, the Wallowas are home to the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Wallowa County is also known for the ridge-top views of Hells Canyon, the story of Chief Joseph and

Oregon’s northeast corner has many faces. Most think of the extreme landscape—tall mountains, deep canyons, fast rivers and broad, flat valleys. Visit mixed forests, lush farmlands and rocky hills covered with sage and bunchgrass. Lively, art-centric towns are a bonus that draw culture-seeking tourists as well as those looking for a little fun at a slower pace, with a view.

Native American heritage, and the art scene in Joseph.

pg. 54 Union County With La Grande (the largest town in the tri-county area) at its

Clockwise from left: Hells Canyon and Snake River. Cowgirl in Elgin, Oregon. Wallowa Lake State Park. Memorial Day wagon encampment at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City. Anthony Lakes.

center, Union County is home to a vast patchwork of farm and ranch land that covers much of the Grande Ronde Valley. At higher elevations, trails and roads lead into the natural playground of the Blue and Wallowa Mountains.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITORS GUIDE 2020

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NORTHEAST

I Like It Here

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE: DAN SIZER Dan Sizer grew up on 13 acres at the base of the Elkhorn Mountains outside Baker City, and spent his childhood exploring the outdoors. A degree in Anthropology from Lewis and Clark College led him around the world, but he came back home in 2015 to launch his company, Go Wild, and share his love of the region with visitors. Sizer leads newcomers into the wild, focusing on fun, food and understanding the natural world. “The sense of wonder I found as a kid in the outdoors is what I try to pass along to our guests today,” he said. “All our tours try to tick the boxes that make a good vacation: the people you meet, the food you eat, and the experiences that push you ever-so-slightly out of your comfort zone.”

1

Seek out music and art.

This region has remarkable art and music scenes attracting both local and traveling talent. I play drums and trombone in my two-man funk hip hop band, Good Sax. Catch us or other acts at Barley Brown’s Brewpub in Baker City, Side A Brewing in La Grande, or Terminal Gravity Brewing in Enterprise. Find a friendly place, grab a pint, enjoy the tunes, and strike up a conversation with the folks next to you.

2

Go snow skiing.

If you like dry powder and sunny days for your skiing adventures, check out the pistes at Anthony Lakes. We tout no lift lines, but remember if you come, the lines will get longer. Anthony Lakes also has terrific off-thebeaten-path trails for cross country skiing. You can also find wonderful places to break trail through the trees on cross country skis at Mount Emily Recreation Area and Meacham Divide.

3

Take a tour with Go Wild.

We have a knack for helping people make the most of a visit to Eastern Oregon. A few tours that are quickly becoming staples are our private family backpacking tours, our Taste of History Baker City walking tour, and our beginner fly fishing tours/lessons. New things we’re excited about are dating singles backpacking adventures and urban fly fishing experiences with a river revitalization component.

>>

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

❝Our mission at Go Wild is to foster enthusiasm for the outdoors and the rural lifestyle, to support the local community, and above all else, to have a wild good time. I’m excited about what we’re doing, as are our travelers.❞

A Personal Tour Dan Sizer and his business partner Pat Vaughan lead Go Wild tours themselves, to a growing audience of visitors from around the globe. “The key to getting newcomers to care about conservation, responsible recreation, and the outdoors lies in how they are introduced to the is on creating incredibly fun introductory outdoor experiences that lead to appreciation of the natural world.” Food is a key component: “This ranges from the cast-iron elk sausage hash that we serve for breakfast on an overnight family backpacking tour to the homemade sourdough and hors d’oeuvres that we

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

26 |

Go Wild tours

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

pair with the wine tasting on an alpine stargazing tour.”

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

outdoors,” he said. “That’s why our focus

Come Explore

THE WILDER SIDE OF OREGON

From the Heaven of the Eagle Caps, to the heat of Hells Canyon, it's like stepping back in time, the perfect adventure get-away. Hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in a photographer's paradise. Experience the rugged beauty of eastern Oregon.

THE MAIN PLACE

PINE VALLEY LODGE

CORNUCOPIA LODGE

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Lounge • Grill • Cafe Affordable Lodging

Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate, Let us spoil you!

Ride, Relax, Explore.

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Adjacent to the ghost town of Cornucopia

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Vacation Packages Available - wildersideoforegon.com | (888) 511-1760

NORTHEAST

Baker County

BAKER COUNTY

CULTURE AND ADVENTURE

ARTS FOR ALL

RICH HERITAGE, ARTS AND CULTURE, AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE. Baker County is the perfect getaway for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With three Oregon Scenic Byways wrapped by Hells Canyon and the Wallowa and Elkhorn mountains, exploration opportunities are limitless. A number of small towns can serve as basecamps for adventure. Americana is at its finest in historic Baker City, voted one of Rand McNallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six most beautiful small towns in America three years in a row.

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Baker County's burgeoning arts community offers visitors a chance to celebrate the arts throughout the year at a variety of award winning festivals and events including the We Like'em Short Film Festival, Pine Fest Music Festival, Baker City's Little Big Show and Open Studio Tours. For aspiring artists, the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center and Churchill School both offer a variety of classes.

BRING YOUR BIKE Cycling enthusiasts find plenty of backroads to explore including the Hells Canyon, Journey Through Time, and Elkhorn Scenic byways and the Grande Tour Scenic BikeWay. Gravel riding and mountain biking options abound, too. Find trail systems at Phillips Lake near Sumpter and Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort near Baker City, with trails for nearly every age and skill set including the Broadway Flow Trail. Cycling events include the Baker City Cycling Classic the last weekend of June each year, and the Anthony Lakes Mountain Bike Festival the 1st Saturday in August.

In the Studio with Robert Anders

28 |

Anthony Lakes Mountain Bike Festival

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Just off I-84, visit with pioneers at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center before taking a stroll in the original ruts of the Oregon Trail, first carved by wagons 175 years ago. The BLM-managed 500-acre historic site offers exhibits, interpretive programs, living history and workshops, in addition to four miles of hiking trails. Other highlights at the 23,000-square-foot hilltop facility include a full scale wagon train diorama, a replica gold stamp mill and gold panning demonstration area.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

OREGON TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER

Baker County

NORTHEAST

LIVING HISTORY BAKER CITY IS HOME TO ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST WELL-PRESERVED HISTORIC DISTRICTS IN OREGON. Baker City was once known throughout the West as the “Metropolis of Eastern Oregon” and the “Queen City of the Inland Empire.” A series of gold-mining booms in the late 1800s inundated the fair city with capital, and the quality of the 100-plus downtown structures on the National Historic Register reflect that influx. Take a self-guided architectural tour with stops at these charming businesses along the way.

Historic Downtown Baker City

Geiser Grand Hotel

PHOTO LEF T AND BOT TOM RIGHT BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

Copper Belt Winery

DOWNTOWN TOUR ON THE HEELS OF A RICH HISTORY WAS BUILT A THRIVING PRESENT. Barley Brown’s Beer A legendary craft brewery, Barley Brown’s beer competition medal holdings have reached triple digits. The taproom and brewpub both serve tasty food and more beers than you have fingers and toes to count them on.

Start with the Pallet Jack IPA, which tops many “best” lists.

Lone Pine Café Always bustling, this brick-lined eatery is about as citified as it gets around here: Vinyl records crackle and the smell of artisan-roasted coffee fills the air.

Ingredients are quality and mostly farm fresh.

The homemade German rye bread is worth writing home about. Try the BELT, a BLT with egg on housemade bread.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Geiser Grand Hotel

Copper Belt Winery

The fully restored grande dame of Baker City’s glitzy past is the cornerstone of downtown. Hotel details include a threestory cupola, ornate stained-glass ceilings, cavernous wine cellars, Victorian-style suites and upscale cuisine.

Sign up for a guided tour on the weekends.

Drink wine and shore up bragging rights, too. Tell your wine aficionado friends that you’ve tasted wine from the only winery on the Oregon side of the Snake River Valley AVA. Copper Belt Winery's tasting room is on Main Street and there’s always beer on tap if wine tasting isn’t for you.

Peterson’s Gallery & Chocolatier Who wouldn’t want to check out art from Pacific Northwest artists while enjoying handmade truffles, ganache and drinking chocolate? Peterson’s light-filled gallery of upscale art and gourmet chocolate provides a true sensory delight.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

| 29

NORTHEAST

Baker County

NORTH AMERICA'S DEEPEST RIVER CANYON DRAMATIC AND DEEP DEFINE HELLS CANYON.

>>

Hells Canyon

Fishing with a view Enjoy a day of fishing at the

Discover some of Baker County’s most spectacular scenery along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. The route between Baker City, with its popular Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, and Hells Canyon meanders through rolling farmlands—showcasing sweeping views of the Wallowa and Elkhorn mountains—and follows the winding Powder River before reaching the bottom of Hells Canyon. After a day on the Snake River, head back to Halfway and into the Wallowa Mountains. Along the way, enjoy Halfway Whimsical artists’ co-op and, of course, a jet boat tour or rafting trip along the Snake River. The small towns of Halfway and Richland offer a variety of lodging choices, restaurants, and other amenities, in addition to hosting numerous festivals including the Hells Canyon Jr. Rodeo, Eagle Valley Days, PineFest and the Richland Brownlee Panfishing tournament.

bottom of the deepest river gorge in North America with spectacular views like this, just below the Hells Canyon Dam on the Snake River.

GO DEEPER

Hells Canyon Adventures

30 |

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Explore the deepest river gorge in America with the experts at Hells Canyon Adventures, who have been at this for more than forty years. Wet and wild jet boat tour options range from daylong family-geared trips to fast-paced thirty-minute jaunts. Rather paddle?

Jump onboard a whitewater tour with Hells Canyon Outfitters.

PACK IN Wallowa Llamas, out of Baker County, hosts guided tours into the state’s largest wilderness area, the Eagle Cap, complete with amenities trekked in by the ever-helpful llama so you can hike unencumbered.

To access the wilds on horseback, start with a cabin stay at Cornucopia Lodge and book a trip through their pack station.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

ON A BOAT

FULL SERVICE BIKE & SKI SHOP

Affordable Luxury

DOWNTOWN BAKER CITY TRAIL INFO. MAPS. OUTDOOR REC INFO. LOCAL BREWS ON TAP. GOOD FOLK.

1828 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY | 541.523.1668

Geiser Grand Great Food and Good Spirits daily 6:30a-10p; locally sourced, from scratch

Guest Suites with breathtaking views, fireplaces, cozy robes, room service, fitness center, horse drawn carriage Photo: Brice Shirbach

CHURCHILL OLD SCHOOL BIKE-SKI HOSTEL BAKER CITY, OREGON

Dorm style lodging for those wanting to get outdoors.

Sleeps up to 8 in the historic Churchill School in Baker City, Oregon. Now a place for Art, Music and Recreation.

WWW.CHURCHILLBAKER.COM 3451 BROADWAY ST. BAKER CITY, 97814

Live Music in 1889 Bar Special Event Rooms up to 300 people Western Heritage Gift Shop

Standing proudly on Main Street since 1889

541.523.1889 GeiserGrand.com

Historic Baker city, oregon

NORTHEAST

Baker County

EXPERIENCE THE RANCHING LIFE Throughout Baker County, visitors can see the ranching heritage that still shapes the community today. With more than two dozen Oregon State Heritage farms and ranches in Baker County, the working West is still a way of life here. Geiser Grand Hotel owner Barbara Sidway noticed that many of her guests had an interest in what it is like to live on a ranch in Eastern Oregon, so she created the Geiser Grand Ranch Experiences, connecting local ranchers with visitors who would like a taste of the economically and culturally important ranching industry.

Pedal Power Each summer, the Baker City Cycling Classic brings hundreds of road cyclists to the region to ride and race on scenic roads.

<<

A LOCAL TOUR INTERPRETS THE REGION'S LONG HISTORY OF GRAZING.

ELKHORN SCENIC BYWAY The Elkhorn Scenic Byway is one of the three Scenic Byways that connect in downtown Baker City. The byway offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s rich turn-ofthe-19th-century gold rush heritage and even offers a few ghost towns. Meandering through the spectacular Elkhorn Mountains, attractions include the Sumpter Valley Railroad, Sumpter Dredge State Park, the ghost town of Granite and Anthony Lakes (a popular ski resort, and summertime mountain biking and hiking destination). End your adventure in the small town of Haines, home of Haines Steak House and the Eastern Oregon Museum, where nostalgic artifacts tell the region’s history.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

HISTORY, NATURE AND A STEAK.

Baker City Cycling Classic

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

HELLS CANYON ADVENTURES

JET BOAT TOURS 1 - 2 DAY RAFTING TRIPS FISHING CHARTERS SHUTTLE SERVICES LODGING, RV & TENT CAMPING

800-422-3568 541-785-3352

HELLSCANYONADVENTURES.COM

Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone you’re here.

1100 Acres of Lift Accessed Terrain. 30k Nordic Trails.

Fun, family atmosphere. Cat Skiing. Yurt Rentals.

Mountain Bike Trails. Camping. Summer at the Starbottle.

www.AnthonlyLakes.com

Oregon Trail Wagon Ruts Living History • Ranger Programs Exhibits • Hiking Trails Special Exhibits Wagons Ho! January 24 - June 14

Tech on the Trek

June 28 - October 12

22267 Oregon Highway 86 oregontrail.blm.gov I-84, Exit 302 | Baker City, OR | 541-523-1843

NORTHEAST

Baker County WINTER LOGISTICS

ANTHONY LAKES IN THE ELKHORNS PLENTY OF POWDER, FEW CROWDS AT ANTHONY LAKES, A SKIER'S DREAM AND A SUMMER MOUNTAIN LOVERS UTOPIA. Anthony Lakes is comprised of fifteen lakes and marshes in the Elkhorn Range. In winter, hit the slopes at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, where light, dry powder is the norm and the parking lot is rarely packed. Tucked high in the Elkhorn Mountains near the aptly named town of North Powder, the resort consists of 900 vertical feet of downhill and thirty kilometers of groomed Nordic trails. Anthony Lakes boasts the highest base in Oregon at 7,100 feet. More advanced riders will revel in 80 percent intermediate and expert terrain. Beginners will appreciate the magic carpet and the familyfriendly atmosphere. In summer, biking and hiking take the recreational lead.

Yurt Accommodations

Summer Singletrack

The full-service lodge includes a café, bar, retail shop and rental shop. Order a local beer at Starbottle Saloon. During the winter season, the lodge is open from Thursday through Monday. Every Thursday, lift tickets are half price.

SNOW CAT TOURS For a full or half day of powder skiing in the surrounding backcountry for up to twelve people, book a snow cat trip.

Access 2,000 acres of steeps, bowls and glades, covering 1,000-1,700 vertical feet per run. Lunch and snacks included.

IN SUMMER, BIKE IT During summer, snowmelt reveals miles of hiking trails and singletrack for mountain bikers. The guides at Range Tour & Shuttle Co., near Baker City, are singletrack experts who work in partnership with the Forest Service, BLM and the resort to cultivate the best trails. Pedal payoffs include panoramic views of Hoffer Lakes, Anthony Lake (yes, there is an actual lake), and Lee’s and Lakes Lookout peaks. The Broadway Flow downhill mountain bike trail is the resort's newest treassure, with three miles of downhill and banked turns, with options for all riders.

WHERE TO STAY The downtowns of Baker City, Union and La Grande are all located within just under an hour’s drive. North Powder is just seventeen miles from the ski area, and has several lodging options. If you can’t bear to leave the powder or the mountain bike trails behind for the night, book a yurt just a quarter of a mile from the main lodge.

The yurts sleep five to eight people and are fully outfitted with a wood stove for heat (including cut and split firewood), kitchen basics, lanterns, bunks, a table, games and access to an outhouse.

<< BY THE NUMBERS 300 inches average annual snowfall 1,100 acres of lift accessed terrain 21 runs 30 km groomed & track-set Nordic trails 8 miles single track biking trails 3 miles downhill biking trails

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO BOT TOM BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

EXPLORE

CHURCHILL SCHOOL

CROSSROADS CARNEGIE ART CENTER

The beloved historic Churchill School has new life as a year-round arts and recreation hub in Baker City, OR. This former elementary school now houses artist studios, a concert and events venue, a recording studio and several lodging options.

Welcome to Crossroads Carnegie Art Center in the heart of Downtown Baker City showcases the best of local and regional art with a full service gallery.

Crossroads also has arts education programming in a multiple of disciplines including ceramics, art, dance, craft and movement. Diverse programming is scheduled throughout the year- so ask for a schedule. First Friday every month in Downtown Baker City with a fantastic gallery walk with restaurants and shops open late! Open Monday thru Saturday 10 am to 5 Pm. Easy street parking, ADA accessible, bike friendly business! Art for Everyone- No Admission to Crossroads Gallery! Come and enjoy one of Oregon’s most vibrant art communities! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Monthly featured artists in the Hallpass Gallery, live music, Trivia Night and other cultural events happen here. 1859 Oregon’s magazine listed Churchill Dancehall as one of the best places in Oregon to see live music.

On your next trip to Eastern Oregon, come for a 1st Friday Art Walk or stay at Churchill for a week of creativity, inspiration and adventure.

3451 BROADWAY ST., BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 325-1689 • CHURCHILLBAKER.COM

2020 AUBURN AVE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-5369 • CROSSROADS-ARTS.ORG

ROYAL ARTISAN The most unique shopping experience! With over 50 local artists and makers on display, we represent the best of Baker County arts and culture.

Looking for quality preservation custom framing? We have that too! With products like locally handcrafted wood, Peruvian leather, glitter and acrylic, or Italian mouldings, we can frame anything!

TERRI AXNESS - MUDDY CREEK STUDIO

Join us evenings for our First Friday artist receptions or sip and shop every third Thursday during the downtown unWined events.

Painter, Potter, Mixed Media Artist. Studio Tours by Appointment.

1912 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 465-4547 • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

14942 MUDDY CREEK LN., HAINES, 97833 • (541) 403-0063 • AXNESSART.COM

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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EXPLORE

SHORTHORN RESTAURANT AND BAR You may be a long way from home but you’re always family when you walk in the door.

We will fill you up and get you back to your adventures with a smile on your face. With country cooking and a full service bar, we got you covered.

200 MAIN STREET, RICHLAND, 97870 • (541) 893-3117 FACEBOOK.COM/SHORTHORNRESTAURANTANDBAR

SUMPTER VALLEY RAILROAD

HAINES STEAK HOUSE Haines Steak House is known for its famous chuckwagon salad bar, slow cooked, tender and delicious Prime Rib and flame cast iron branded steaks.

Lobster, seafood, chicken and so much more. Smoked brisket and ribs deluxe.

Located in the city of Haines where there is “whiskey in the water and gold in the streets.” On the highway to spectacular Anthony Lakes Ski Resort and the beautiful Elkhorn Mountain Range. Just a short side trip off I-84 to US 30. At Haines Steak House, you will come away with a great dining experience. Great food and true western atmosphere.

Children welcome.

910 FRONT STREET HAINES, 97833 • (541) 856-3639 • HAINESSTEAKHOUSE.COM

THE DEPOT INN

Experience Oregon’s steam railroad heritage in the scenic Sumpter Valley. Fun and affordable for the whole family.

Open select weekends, Memorial Day through the end of September.

October 6 & 7 Photographer weekend special. Please email for reservations.

12259 HUCKLEBERRY LOOP ROAD, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 894-2268 SUMPTERVALLEYRAILROAD.ORG

FRIENDS OF THE SUMPTER VALLEY DREDGE Sumpter Valley Dredge is one of the nation’s oldest gold dredges and an important link to Oregon’s pioneering past and development.

Photo courtesy of Oregon State Parks Stop by the dredge, take a tour, walk the trails, and mine for gold. Visit the Interpretive Center and Gift shop for additional history of the Sumpter area, the dredge, and surrounding attractions.

We have a wonderful inventory of books, maps, jewelry, rocks and souvenirs.

Open daily May 1 – Oct 31. Interpretive Center open daily Mon-Thurs 10am 4pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm, park open 7am-7pm.

411 MILL ST, SUMPTER 97877 • (541) 894-2472 • HISTORICSUMPTER.COM

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown historic Sumpter.

Everything you want to see is within walking distance from the Depot Inn. You can access the Sumpter trail system that winds through the Sumpter Dredge State Park and Heritage Area from our parking lot. We host vendors for the Sumpter Flea Market. We have 14 non-smoking rooms, TV’s, queen size beds, refrigerators, phones, coffee makers. Call for reservations.

179 S MILL STREET, SUMPTER, 97814 • (800) 390-2522 • THEDEPOTINN.COM

HITCHING POST MOTEL Located in downtown Richland, the Hitching Post Motel is conveniently located for all your Eagle Valley adventures, whether in the hills or on the Brownlee Reservoir. Chukkar hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, riding or cycling, whatever your activity, you’ll have a place to rest nearby at the end of the day. Call 541-893-6176 for rates and reservations.

100 MAIN STREET, RICHLAND, 97870 • (541) 893-6176

LYNN BEAN GALLERY

SNAKE RIVER PCS Locally owned and operated wireless business located in the heart of Richland and Halfway. Friendly staff and reasonable prices. Local service nationwide coverage.

• Gifts • Jewelry • Painted ponies • Embroidery clothing • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, April through October • Flea market weekends 293 MILL STREET, SUMPTER, 97814 • (310) 944-4843 • LYNNBEAN.COM

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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EXPLORE

CAMPING ON THE OREGON TRAIL Full-service RV resort with rustic Oregon Trail charm and good old fashioned hospitality.

Family owned and operated since 1959. Come explore the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Hells Canyon, Sumpter Valley Railroad, ghost towns and scenic byways. Groups and big rigs welcome. Enjoy our outdoor pool, indoor spa, top rated restrooms, complimentary cable TV and Wi-Fi. 2845 HUGHES LANE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-4824 • MTVIEWRV.COM

ANTONE CREEK LODGE The park’s cabins provide comfortable lodging for those looking to explore the great outdoors or simply get a taste of tiny home living.

Whether to escape the heat of the summer or enjoy the mountain winter activities, Antone Creek Lodge is a great place to stay. Only 9 mi. from Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort and its numerous year-round activities, ACL is the closest place to stay, not to mention comfortable. Along The Elkhorn Scenic Byway, and lovely Antone Creek, nature’s beauty is right outside the window. Fun for the whole family, both kids and adults will love these one of a kind cabins.

51078 ANTHONY LAKES HWY, NORTH POWDER, 97867 • (541) 856-3232 ANTONECREEKLODGE.COM

BELLA MAIN STREET MARKETS

QUEEN CITY MODERN

The best little kitchen, wine, chocolate, good food, great beers and fine linens store you never expected to find in the Blue Mountains of beautiful Eastern Oregon.

Queen City Modern is a lifestyle boutique located in downtown Baker City featuring contemporary and stylish products; delightful paper goods, quality baby/kids clothing and toys, women's apparel and accessories, home decor pieces and a natural bath and beauty section.

Browse in a light filled space while you enjoy a latte from our coffee shop, Mad Matilda's, and find the perfect curated gift for a friend or family member. Check our our instagram page for gift giving ideas. We are open Wednesday-Friday from 9-5 and Saturday from 10-4. 1840 1st Street, corner of 1st and Court.

Sip a Hazelnut Mocha or enjoy Wine Tasting at the slate bar in our century old building. Gather everything you need for a picnic including gourmet cheeses, imported condiments and cold beverages!

2023 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • 1216 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 (541) 523-7490 • BIGMERLOT.COM • (541) 663-WINE

1840 1ST STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 519-2991 • FIND US ON INSTAGRAM

THE SYCAMORE TREE

PETERSON’S CHOCOLATES

Established in 1988, The Sycamore Tree is Baker City’s gift giving headquarters. With a great selection of gifts, fashion accessories, home décor and fresh, homemade fudge you are sure to find the perfect gift for that special someone.

Just knowing it came from the Sycamore Tree makes it special.

And, as always, gift wrapping is complimentary! Find us on Facebook and Instagram!

Peterson’s Chocolates offers 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 handpressed 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 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday though Sunday. Located right across the street from the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.

2108 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-4840

BETTY'S BOOKS Welcome to Betty’s Books, located in the heart of historic downtown Baker City! Housed in the Bamberger Building, built in 1888, Betty’s Books was established in 1979. With knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a variety of new & used books, we are sure to meet all of your bookstore needs.

Our local and regional history sections reflect years of careful curation. Maps and guidebooks for local exploration are another specialty and our collection of children’s books is hard to beat. With overnight ordering service, even travelers’ special needs can be accommodated.

1813 MAIN ST., BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-7551 • BETTYSBOOKS.INDIELITE.ORG

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

1925 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-1022

BEERDED DOG GROWLER FILL STATION & TAPROOM Sit and stay, or fill and go away.

Choose from 22 taps at BEERded Dog Growler Fill Station.

1805 VALLEY AVENUE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 519-5011

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

WALLOWA COUNTY

WILDERNESS ENTRY POINTS

LOSTINE Up the east fork of the Lostine Canyon, Two Pan Trailhead provides access to Lakes Basin and any number of backcountry trips. Stop for your last espresso or latte at the Blue Banana in Lostine.

NATURAL BEAUTY FROM NATIONAL FOREST TO PRISTINE HIGH LAKES. By far the state’s largest wilderness area, the Eagle Cap Wilderness covers about 534 miles of trails. These trails lead to four wild and scenic rivers, plus the legendary high lakes of Oregon. In the region’s towns, plenty of diversions await visitors who seek culture, fun and a scenic backdrop. The diversity of landscape is vast, and all of it is wild and remote. Much of Wallowa County’s land is federally protected, and thus, pristine.

WALLOWA LAKE From the Wallowa Lake Trailhead— where the highway dead ends into the side of a mountain—access to the Eagle Cap Wilderness is plentiful.

Within minutes of hiking, knee-high creeks weave against trails. During summer, hikers can take their pack into the backcountry for a multi-day adventure via Wallowa Lake Pack Station. Families can claim a campsite near the trailhead or closer to the lake at Wallowa Lake State Park. Try your luck with a fishing pole and a boat rental (paddle or motor) at Wallowa Lake Marina, next door to the state park, where angling expertise is on offer. Get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape by taking the Wallowa Lake Tramway to the top of Mt. Howard.

Backpacking in the Wallowa Mountains

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Into the Wild “The jagged, white-granite peaks, sparkling lakes, and wildflower-covered meadows of the Wallowa Mountains make this range one of the most beautiful in the nation. In fact, there is so much glorious scenery here that a lifetime would be inadequate to see all of its glories.”

- Douglas Lorain, 100 Classic Hikes in Oregon

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO LEF T LEON WERDINGER, RIGHT ALE X J ORDAN

Wallowa Lake Marina

Wallowa County

NORTHEAST

EXPLORE THE REMOTE REACHES The forty-six-mile flow of the Minam River, from Blue Lake to its confluence with the Wallowa River, constitutes one of the largest rivers in the state that is considered nearly pristine. This is just one entry point to the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Access this and much more via horseback through pack station tours.

Minam River Lodge

Del Sol Wilderness Adventures

BACKCOUNTRY REVELRY

PACK IN WITH DEL SOL With Del Sol Wilderness Adventures, riders are in the company of folks who’ve spent thirty years training horses and trekking the Minam and Snake River trails. You’ll feel like you have, too.

MINAM RIVER LODGE Fly, hike or ride in to find rustic luxury in the wilderness at Minam River Lodge. People will “come to the lodge just to be there—to read a book by the wild and scenic river, enjoy innovative wilderness cuisine from our own garden and local farms, or just relax and put away their electronic devices,” said owner Barnes Ellis. Old-world craftsmanship is apparent in the new lodge and cabins include many of the original materials used to build the retreat in the mid-20th century. Guests can lounge in the wood-fired hot tub, ride horses and eat locally-sourced meals of delicious foods.

WALLOWA VALLEY BARN TOUR

PHOTO TOP FORRES T COX

BARNS ARE AT THE HEART OF WALLOWA COUNTY. In the early 2000s, the Wallowa Valley Photo Club published two barn books so people could discover the Wallowa Valley through the iconic structures. “We have received a multitude of calls over the years asking about the Wallowa County Barn Tour,” said Vicki Searles of the Wallowa County Chamber. “Why? Because there is a history here in loving barns and heritage.” The excursion has been revived, with a new brochure detailing thirty-plus barns and historic sites on a self-guided tour. The tour includes a bike route and an early pioneer account of the county’s north end settlements, Flora and Troy. However you approach the tour, it’s guaranteed to be rugged, nostalgic and full of beautiful views.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

WALLOWA LAKE AN ALPINE-THEMED VILLAGE ADDS EVEN MORE ALLURE TO ONE OF OREGON’S SEVEN WONDERS. Nestled in one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, Wallowa Lake’s magnitude is felt in its natural beauty, rich history as a sacred Native American homeland and present-day site for recreation and adventure. Carved by glaciers eons ago, the glassy, five-mile-long sliver of water is cradled by steep, grassy moraines. In the mountains beyond, jagged peaks—largely made of basalt and granite—rise out of thick forest as the largest concentration of 9,000foot peaks in the state. Trails are carved through the rugged terrain of the pristine Eagle Cap Wilderness, where hikers seek glacial lakes and high peaks and trail riders roam on horseback.

Historic Beauty A group of local investors bought the historic Wallowa Lake Lodge—a nostalgia-inducing building located at the head of the lake on eight treed acres adjacent to Wallowa Lake State Park.

Investors worked with the Nez Perce Tribe, which now holds a conservation easement, to leave the site as visitors have enjoyed it for decades. The large, rustic lodge, fine dining restaurant and cabins are located within walking distance to attractions in the family-friendly village.

AT THE HEAD OF THE LAKE

Wallowa Lake

Wallowa Lake

• Ascend, gondola style, on the Wallowa Lake Tramway—the steepest gondola in the country (cabin cars glide nearly 4,000 vertical feet up the flank of Mt. Howard). Explore two-and-a-half miles of easy trails from the 8,150-foot summit, where you can see all the way to Idaho’s Seven Devils on a clear day.

Take a breather at Summit Grill.

<< Summit Grill After your eyes get used to the jaw-dropping scenery all around you at the top of the Wallowa Lake Tramway, sit back and relax with Wallowa Lake Tramway

Vali’s

a local beer and some food at the Summit Grill.

Remind yourself that this is real life.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, OTHERS TALIA J E AN G ALVIN

• A walkable, Alpine-themed village is complete with lodging, eateries, gift shops, mini-golf courses, dining, a horseback outfitter, bumper boats and go-carts. The Bavarian influence culminates annually in September with Alpenfest. Make a reservation at Vali’s, a second-generation establishment serving Hungarian dishes.

EAST STREET COTTAGES

INDIAN LODGE MOTEL

NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

Downtown Joseph

JOSEPH

DRINKS ON MAIN STREET

A HISTORY OF CATTLE RANCHES AND TIMBER LOGGING EVOLVES TO A MODERN ARTISTIC PRESENT.

Wander downtown for art galleries and shops galore. Farm-to-table foods, artisan food products, and craft beer and spirits are on hand in Joseph. Cap a day in this charming town by relaxing at the Outlaw Restaurant and Saloon. This family-friendly establishment is done up in western decor, with outdoor seating that reveals an outstanding view of Chief Joseph, the mountain peak in the Wallowa Range, from the deck. Sip on craft beer or freshly made cocktails, dig into comfort food dishes like burgers, fajitas and chicken fried steak, and kick back and dine cowboy style.

Chocolate Fix See chocolatiers work their magic at Arrowhead Chocolates, where rustic meets modern in downtown Joseph, and the air smells of Stumptown coffee and sweets. Lick the spoon that was just dipped in melted chocolate and drizzled into your mocha. Local ingredients include huckleberry, Stein Distillery spirits and Douglas fir.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Arrowhead Chocolates

Stein Distillery opened its doors in 2009, pioneering handcrafted micro-distilled spirits in Eastern Oregon. Every step of the process is done by hand, from grain growth to harvest to fermenting, distilling, filtering and bottling. In 2011, the company released their much-anticipated 2-year American oak-aged Straight Rye and Straight Bourbon Whiskeys. Visit their tasting room on Main Street in Joseph to try awardwinning rum, vodka, cordials, whiskey and bourbon. Cocktails and flights are on hand, as well, from the spirited rhubarb lemonade to the whiskey mule. Cheers!

Stein Distillery

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T TALIA J E AN G ALVIN, RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

LIQUID INNOVATION

Joseph turned its economic focus from logging and ranching to the arts in the 1980s. A community-wide effort to nurture the arts and bring the iconic western downtown up a notch utterly transformed this small community into a worthy destination for art lovers, shoppers and western culture seekers. Learn more at Josephy Center, a gathering place for arts in the county.

MOUNTAIN VIEW MOTEL & RV PARK

Nestled at the foot of the breathtaking Wallowa Mountains, the Mountain View Motel & RV Park is ranked among the best places to stay near Joseph, Oregon.

AAA Inspector’s Best of Housekeeping Award in 2018 Rated #1 of 4 Joseph Hotels by Trip Advisor since w2017

• •

https://www.mtviewmotel-rvpark.com 83450 JOSEPH HWY, JOSEPH, OR 97846 RESERVATIONS ONLY BY PHONE: 541-432-2982

RAFT THE SNAKE RIVER IN HELLS CANYON DEEPEST RIVER GORGE IN NORTH AMERICA

Multi-Day Trips • World Class Adventure • Extraordinary Wilderness • Hiking & Fishing

WINDING WATERS RIVER EXPEDITIONS

8 7 7 . 4 2 6 . 7 2 3 8 | 2 0 4 E a s t Wa l l o w a Av e n u e , J o s e p h , O R | W i n d i n g Wa t e r s R a f t i n g . c o m

NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

NORTHEAST OREGON ARTS TRAIL

RODEO AND CELEBRATION

NEW ART IN THE OLD WEST.

CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS

Chief Joseph Days, launched in 1946, has grown to become one of the largest community rodeos in the Northwest.

The event more than doubles the population of Wallowa County for the week. Besides featuring one of the largest rodeos in the Northwest, the festivities include a Nez Perce encampment and pow wow, parades of the kid and grand varieties, dances, a golf tournament and a cowboy church service. Six days of Western entertainment are kicked off each year by a bucking horse stampede, which runs right down Main Street in Joseph.

Don’t miss the cowboy breakfast, a fundraiser at the rodeo grounds which starts on Saturday night at 11 p.m. after the dances and continues through the night. Pancakes and bacon in the wee hours will carry you on through Sunday’s festivities.

PHOTO LEF T ELLEN MORRIS BISHOP

Arts centers, galleries, theaters and public art spotlight a vibrant range of artistic mediums and cultural events region wide. Find all that the cultural scene has to offer via the Northeast Oregon Arts Trail. You can cover the entire 225-mile scenic route in less than five hours, but we recommend that you slow down and take it section-by-section. In Joseph, start at the Josephy Center, and its Library of Western History and Culture, then continue on down Main Street. In September, don’t miss the Annual Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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Tour the Galleries of Joseph

Missy’s Uptown Art & Framing

Aspen Grove Gallery- Fine art & Picture Framing

Stewart Jones Designs - jewelry studio & art gallery

Phinney Gallery of Fine Art

Kelly’s Gallery and Barn Boutique

Valley Bronze Fine Art Gallery

A variety of art styles from oils to tiles and sculpture. Proud to represent Western Photographer Robert Dawson who’s images are seen across the country. Framing for 17 years. Stop in and say Hello.

(541) 432-0203

Hand-fabricated, one-of-a-kind jewelry creations, photography, hand-blown glass, fine art etchings, bronze sculptures and clay works by local and northwest artists.

(541) 432-5202 stewartjonesdesigns.com

Sophisticated, fun fine art gallery with something for seasoned collectors and new art enthusiasts alike. Located on Main Street for over 20 yrs, look for the bronze mare and foal!

(541) 398-2328 kellysgalleryatjoseph.com

Aspen Grove Gallery is Joseph’s most established Fine Arts & Custom Framing gallery celebrating 32 years in business. Owned by artists Mark & Carol McLaughlin Kortnik since 1989.

(541) 432-9555 aspengrovegallery.com

A haven for artistic inspiration and a destination for collectors.

Displayed are works of some of the finest artists of Northwest. The Phinney’s provide a pleasant visit for the viewer and collector alike.

(541) 231-2977 phinneygallery.com

Housed within a historic building a short distance from our production foundry, our gallery is located at 18 South Main Street in the scenic art community of Joseph, Oregon.

(541) 432-7445 valleybronze.com

CO.WALLOWA.OR.US

NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

A HISTORY CAST IN BRONZE JOSEPH IS AN ART LOVER’S DREAM. One of the nation’s leading sculpture communities has evolved here, nestled at the foot of the Wallowa Mountains in the extreme northeast corner of Oregon. Joseph is named Oregon’s first designated Art & Culture town. Why did bronze sculpture grow here? The beginning was quite an accident.

Glen Anderson, a retired businessman, got a great deal on an empty building. What would he do with it? A few local sculptors suggested that a bronze foundry would be to their great convenience. Persuaded by the possibilities, Valley Bronze of Oregon was born, initiating a world-class collective for artistic bronze casting.

Valley Bronze of Oregon casts works of art for both national and international artists. Their namesake gallery accompanies several other top-notch galleries in town, including Aspen Grove, Edge of the Wilderness, the Josephy Center, Kelly’s Gallery & Barn Boutique, Missy’s Uptown Art, Phinney Gallery of Fine Art and the Stewart Jones Gallery. Within short walking distance art lovers will enjoy a wide range of art, including bronze sculpture, original oils, watercolors, pastels, fine art photography and exquisite jewelry.

<< Art Walk The Joseph Mainstreet Beautification Project was completed in 2000, funded in partnership with many state and beneficiary organizations. The historic town of Joseph already had great bones, and today it’s prettier than ever. Take in the scenery on the lovely, self-guided Art Walk tour, on which you’ll be treated to over a dozen life-size and monument bronze sculptures, encapsulating the history, the wildlife and the “now” that has become Joseph, Oregon.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO TOP LEF T G ARY HALVORSON, OREGON S TATE ARCHIVES

Isn’t Main Street beautiful? That isn’t an accident.

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WALLOWA COUNTY

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CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS RODEO

AUG 8 1-

WALLOWA COUNTY FAIR

OREGON JOSEPH, OR

wallowacountychamber.com

AUG 30 29T SEP 13 11-

WATERSHED FESTIVAL ENTERPRISE, OR

wallowaresources.org

FLYIN JOSEPH, OR

wallowacountyflyin.com

JOSEPH, OR

chiefjosephdays.com

ENTERPRISE, OR

extension.oregonstate.edu/ 4h/wallowa/fair

DRAGONS IN

THE WALLOWAS WALLOWA LAKE, OR

dragonsinthewallowas.com

HELLS CANYON MULE DAYS ENTERPRISE, OR

hellscanyonmuledays.com

OREGON’S BOBeEiZALPENFEST lElEoUQMS& T P X SE 27 24WALLOWA LAKE, OR

oregonalpenfest.blog.com

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MOUNTAIN HIGH BRONCS & BULLS ENTERPRISE, OR

mountainhighrodeo.com

SUMMER FISHTRAP WALLOWA LAKE, OR

fishtrap.org

TAMKALIKS CELEBRATION WALLOWA, OR

wallowanezperce.org

BACK COUNTRY

BASH

JOSEPH, OR

backcountrybashjoseph.com

MAIN STREET SHOW & SHINE ENTERPRISE, OR

mainstreetshowshine.com

JUNIPER JAM

MUSIC FESTIVAL ENTERPRISE, OR

juniperjam.com

WALLOWA VALLEY FESTIVAL OF ARTS JOSEPH, OR

wallowavalleyarts.org

EAGLE CAP EXTREME JOSEPH, OR

eaglecapextreme.com

For more information visit www.wallowacountychamber.com

NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

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ENTERPRISE AND WALLOWA VALLEY IN THE HEART OF WALLOWA COUNTY ARE TOWNS WITH A LOT OF HEART. Anchored by a photo-worthy historic courthouse, Enterprise was chosen as a Preserve America Community because of its Bowlby stone buildings and historic features. Complete with grocery stores of both the natural food and chain variety, Grain Growers agricultural supply store and a state-of-the-art hospital, Enterprise is the hub for getting things done in the county. Turn off the main drag to find lively pockets of interest, and also don’t miss the opportunity to play a round at Alpine Meadows Golf Course.

Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center In the community of Wallowa visit the renovated Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center, a 1,000-square-foot facility documenting the people and culture of the Chief Joseph’s band, the Walwáama. Learn the stories of their lives prior to their tragic 1877 flight toward Canada, their imprisonment in Kansas and Oklahoma, their return to the Northwest, and their lives today. Maps and images show the path of their April-October trek from Wallowa County through Yellowstone to capture at Bear Paw Meadow in Montana. Read the names of many Nez Perce on the retreat, including women warriors.

O.K. Theatre

Nez Perce Tamkaliks Celebration

YEAR-ROUND FUN AT EVERY TURN DOWNTOWN TREASURES

BOOKSTORE DELIGHTS

The historic O.K. Theatre has a new life as a music venue, bringing in big acts. Favorite Finds on Main Antiques is a treasure trove. Shop for botanical beauty products at Wild Carrot Herbals. “Our products are very place-based and inspired by the beauty and the plant communities that surround us,” said Wild Carrot co-owner, Jody Berry, about the now internationally distributed line.

At the Bookloft and Skylight Gallery, the hand-carved screen door made by local artist Steve Arment is a portal to literary bliss and art admiration. Find folk art mugs

by Olaf Pottery and landscape prints of Wallowa County at its most photogenic by David Jensen. You may emerge hours later, musing over how the pint-sized bookstore, café and gallery of local artists’ works enraptured you for so long.

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PHOTOS LEF T TALIA J E AN G ALVIN, TOP RIGHT ELLEN MORRIS BISHOP

Wild Carrot Herbals

EXPLORE Village at Wallowa Lake

WALLOWA LAKE LODGE Built in 1922, the historic Wallowa Lake Lodge is warm, cozy and artfully restored, and it is the only lodging option in the Wallowa Lake community with a lakefront setting on glacial Wallowa Lake. The lodge is a peaceful retreat in Oregon’s spectacular Wallowa Mountains. It’s like one of the great national park lodges, but without the crowds.

Stay in one of the lodge’s 22 rooms—some with balconies and all with private baths—or in one of eight rustic cabins. Hike, mountain bike, boat, fish or swim without ever getting into your car.

Enjoy a creative breakfast or dinner menu in the Camas Dining Room, or dine in the open air on the expansive deck. Equipped for meetings, group events, weddings, and receptions, the Wallowa Lake Lodge’s surrounding natural beauty and park-like grounds provide a setting you won’t forget.

60060 WALLOWA LAKE HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-9821 WALLOWALAKELODGE.COM

EAGLE CAP CHALETS Located halfway between Wallowa Lake and the hiking trailhead, you can be at the center of all the summer fun at Wallowa Lake! The tramway, go carts, pack station and restaurants are within easy walking distance. Enjoy one of our famous mountain berry shakes at the snack shack or a smoothie or latte in the coffee shop. Browse the local handcrafted items in our gift shop. Relax by the pool and hot tub. Take a swing at our historic and challenging mini-golf course.

Some of our cabins date back to the 1950s, and we are extensively renovating all of them. The six that have been finished have air conditioning! Most have fireplaces. Our spacious condos feature full kitchens and fireplaces. Our chalet (motel) rooms provide a good alternative if you just need a place to sleep!

59879 WALLOWA LAKE HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-4704 • EAGLECAPCHALETS.COM

WALLOWA LAKE & FLYING ARROW RESORTS A variety of cabin styles along the Wallowa River, Wallowa Lake and the resort area.

Walking distance to Wallowa Lake, tram, boat rentals, miniature golf, Go Karts, bumper boats, horse rides, fishing, restaurants and miles of hiking trails.

Dogs welcome in many cabins.

84681 PONDEROSA LANE, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-2391 WALLOWALAKERESORT.COM & FLYINGARROWRESORT.COM

WALLOWA LAKE VACATION RENTALS Have Fun—We Take Care of the Rest.

• Exceptional customer service • Stand up paddle board and kayak rentals • Pet friendly/lake front homes/private homes • CSA travel and damage insurance • Concierge service • Gift certificates We genuinely care about your trip. Book your fun today!

Contact Chad & Cindi Aschenbrenner (800) 709-2039 • (541) 426-2039 • WALLOWALAKEVACATIONRENTALS.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

WALLOWA LAKE TRAMWAY The Summit Grill Diner offers guest table service dining overlooking the beautiful Wallowa Lake and the majestic peaks of the Wallowa Mountains. This European alpine setting, in one of Travel Oregon’s designated 7 Wonders, is a spectacular environment in which to enjoy a leisurely lunch, snack, or a favorite beverage. Open daily, Memorial weekend – Sept. 30.

SOUTH END OF WALLOWA LAKE, JOSEPH, OR 97846 • (541) 432-5331 WALLOWALAKETRAMWAY.COM

EASTERN EASTERNOREGON OREGONVISITORS VISITOR GUIDE 2017 2020

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EXPLORE Enterprise

GO

LF

ALPINE MEADOWS GOLF COURSE

BARKING MAD FARM B&B

Located at the base of the Wallowa Mountains, ten minutes from Joseph and an hour from La Grande, this 9-hole public course offers a challenge for tourists and locals alike. A par 36, AMGC features a wide range of shot selections and difficulties, including two attackable par-fives. Each green has its own character, including several multi-tiered surfaces. Given the speed of the steep sloping greens, your flat stick may prove to be your most important club. Wildlife roam the course freely, especially in the late afternoons. AMGC is the perfect course for golfers of all abilities.

If you want to enjoy the best of Wallowa County you’ll love your stay at Barking Mad Farm. The working farm setting couldn’t be more idyllic; grazing buffalo, uninterrupted mountain views, adorable farm animals, and a short drive to Joseph, Wallowa Lake, hiking, local brew pubs, shops, and restaurants. Guest rooms are spacious, well-appointed and afford glorious views. You’re in for a treat each morning with gourmet breakfasts featuring local farm-fresh ingredients served on the wraparound porch with an uninterrupted view of the Wallowa Mountains.

Open to the public April-October, clubhouse, cafe and full service bar. Feel free to contact us in the winter months when the course is closed at lambgolf@frontier.com 66098 GOLF COURSE ROAD, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3246 GOLFALPINEMEADOWS.COM

SUGAR TIME BAKERY

- Breakfast All Day, Brunch on Sunday - Paninis, Grinders, Soup and Signature Salads - Beer, Wine and Cocktails - Cheesecake, Pies, Cupcakes and Custom Cakes - Wedding Desserts - Catering - Open Mon-Sat 7:30 to 4:00 - Open Sunday 7:30 to 2:00

107A N RIVER ST, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-0362 • SUGARTIMEBAKERY.COM

65156 POWERS ROAD, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 886-0171 • BARKINGMADFARM.COM

EAGLE’S VIEW INN & SUITES Located atop the hill above Enterprise with a spectacular view of the Wallowa Mountains. Wellappointed rooms, and a pool and spa will welcome you.

1200 HIGHLAND AVENUE, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-2700 EAGLESVIEWINNANDSUITES.COM

THE BOOKLOFT & SKYLIGHT GALLERY & COFFEE BAR

FAVORITE FINDS ON MAIN ANTIQUES For those who feel the lure of antiques, there is no better place than Favorite Finds on Main in the heart of historic downtown Enterprise. You will find an ever-changing collection of wonderful treasures of traditional quality antiques, interesting country collectibles, vintage quilts, linen, pottery, American antique furniture, jewelry and so much more.

300 WEST MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3229 FACEBOOK.COM/FAVORITEFINDSONMAIN

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We carry books for all ages and interests and specialize in Wallowa County history. Our art gallery features a variety of selections from local photographers, potters, glass blowers, fiber artists, jewelers and other unique offerings.

107 E MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3351 BOOKLOFTOREGON.COM

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EXPLORE Joseph

STEWART JONES DESIGNS Stewart’s jewelry design & fabrication studio offers personalized demonstrations on his circa 1860 antique Swiss Rose Engine Lathe. Explore how the great jewelry houses of Europe created their intricate and beautiful designs on jewelry, watch faces, Fabergé eggs and boxes. Please call for appointment.

(541) 786-7159 • STEWARTJONESDESIGNS.COM

BRONZE ANTLER BED & BREAKFAST KOKANEE INN Kokanee Inn offers eclectic and modern bed and breakfast accommodations.

Honoring the adventurous spirit of our town and guests, our rooms are named for some of our favorite mountains – both big and small. Fully renovated and air conditioned, we strive to offer the modern amenities without sacrificing charm of a rustic mountain retreat. Walking distance to Joseph shops and restaurants, and just one mile from Wallowa Lake - guests have easy access to the all our region has to offer. Everyone is welcome at Kokanee Inn, your base camp for adventure!

700 SOUTH MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-9765 • KOKANEEINN.COM

VALLEY BRONZE OF OREGON Valley Bronze takes pride in producing art castings of the highest quality.

Working in bronze and stainless steel as well as other metals, we combine a state-of-the-art casting facility with a fully equipped metal fabrication operation. Valley Bronze of Oregon has been in continuous production at its foundry facility in Joseph, Oregon, since 1982. Come experience this casting process for yourself in a guided tour once daily Monday -Friday @ 11:00am located at 307 West Alder Street Joseph, Oregon 307 WEST ALDER ST, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-7551 • VALLEYBRONZE.COM

GENUINE WALLOWA COUNTY Local Treasures. Shipped Anywhere.

Give the gift of Wallowa County!

Genuine Wallowa County showcases high-quality items from nearly 50 local artists, musicians, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs. From chocolate to fishing lures to handmade home decor, GWC ships your order in a specially wrapped box, for a beautiful presentation of unique items. We support multiple ship-tos so you can easily share gift and subscription boxes with friends and family, or enjoy yourself. Free shipping on all orders above $100!

Subscription • Gift boxes • Build-a-boxes • Corporate gift program • Weddings GENUINEWALLOWACOUNTY.COM

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• Full breakfast daily • En-suite bath in every room • Walking distance to downtown Joseph • Complimentary electric car charging for guests

• Outdoor sitting areas and bocce court • Fully restored Arts & Crafts Home 309 S MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-0230 • BRONZEANTLER.COM

HEIDI’S GIFT SHOPPES Visit our stores for the best selection of Wallowa Lake and Joseph sweatshirts, t-shirts and caps for the entire family. Enjoy some of our gourmet huckleberry popcorn, chocolates and syrups.

Pick up a souvenir mug, water bottle, keychain, magnet or sticker as a reminder of your visit.

Both stores have a large selection of toys, games and puzzles. In addition our Wallowa Lake store has water toys and yard games as well as swimwear for the whole family. Our Joseph boutique has a wide variety of sizes in women’s clothing and shoes, sandals, scarves and jewelry to complete your look.

59974 MT. HOWARD LN., JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-0830 • HEIDISGIFTSHOPPE.COM

JO PADDLE GLASS BOTTOM KAYAK NIGHT TOURS AND DAY RENTALS Discover Wallowa Lake both above and below the surface on your Glass Bottom Kayak. Choose from a variety of thrilling nighttime tours or daytime rental options. Explore your adventurous side seeking out hidden treasures, fish, and boulders beneath the surface of our crystal clear lake. Glass Bottom Kayaking is a unique memorable experience for the whole family to enjoy! We also offer canoe and SUP rentals.

Season runs Spring through Fall, see website for exact dates. Tours and rental deliveries start at the NORTH end of Wallowa Lake. Reservations required.

JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 886-0086 • JOPADDLE.COM

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NORTHEAST

Wallowa County

VALLEY VIEW SMALL TOWN PLEASURES UNDER MOUNTAIN PEAKS. EAT & DRINK Grab a beer and a meal at Terminal Gravity Brewing, where locals and visitors intersect over award-winning beer from an iconic Oregon brewery. Fuel up at Red Rooster Cafe, Gypsy Java or Stockman’s Restaurant & Lounge. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the offerings at Sugar Time Bakery. The treats are almost too pretty to eat but you’ll be hooked after the first bite. After all, their tagline is, “Life’s short.

Eat dessert first!”

BRONZE STATUES Joseph is known as the bronze capital, but two mainstay foundries are in Enterprise: Parks Bronze & TW Bronze. Visit both the foundries for tours and gallery gazing.

Learn about the dozen-step fabrication process; marvel at the magnificent detail that emerges when a cast is turned into a finished sculpture. Statues from both foundries are on display throughout the country and the world.

Terminal Gravity Brewing

FARM ANTIQUES History-minded travelers will be enchanted by Sunrise Iron on Highway 82, which has the largest collection of pioneer relics anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. Dozens of antique tractors are just part of the collection here. Farm implements dating back to 1835 are on hand as well. Visit by appointment only; admission is free.

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Built in 1909 and 1910 using locally quarried stone, the Wallowa County Courthouse is a massive structure in the high Victorian style. The building is the seat of government and houses offices, but it is a community gathering place too. Every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. during the summer season, blankets and lawn chairs dot the lawn of the courthouse for the Courthouse Concert Series. Bring a picnic and relax with the entire family—this event is fun for all ages.

Concurrently, shop for local goods and produce at the Farmer’s Market nearby.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO TOP TALIA J E AN G ALVIN, BOT TOM ALE X J ORDAN

Wallowa County Courthouse

Excursion Train Beside the Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers We sell, rent and service bicycles for adventures to local trails and beyond.

eaglecaptrainrides.com

We also offer a wide range of sporting goods and clothing for other adventures such as rock climbing, skiing, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, camping and cycling.

Be active, be happy, be healthy, make a difference.

1301 ADAMS AVE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-3220 • MOUNTAINWORKSBICYCLES.COM

There are a lot of amazing things to see and do outside in Eastern Oregon – We are here to help you get After it!

Ride themes include Bigfoot, Bandits, Fall Colors & Wine Tasting Book online or contact us for planning assistance.

Elgin, Oregon

541.437.3652

• Buy and sell USED gear!

• USFS MAPS, sno park and rec passes!

• 10% STUDENT & Military DISCOUNTs! • FREE SHIPPING on special orders!

• Free gift wrapping!

1124 Adams Ave • downtown La Grande • 541-624-3113 • Bluemtnoutfitters.com

NORTHEAST

Union County

UNION COUNTY

EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE

FRESH AIR & CHARM

BEAUTIFUL. ADVENTURES. AWAITING. Union County sits in the Grande Ronde Valley, the second largest fully enclosed valley in the world. As the hub of Northeast Oregon, Union County supports economic development, state government and higher education, with vast wilderness as its playground. Enjoy immediate access to outdoor recreation like the Mt. Emily Rec Area, with hundreds of miles of motorized and non-motorized trails and three national forests for hiking, hunting and exploring.

Grande Ronde River

The smell of fresh mountain air is abundant in Union County, composed of eight individual towns and twelve unincorporated communities with unique charm. From a rich history dating back before settlers were in the Grande Ronde Valley, to outdoor recreation, to a thriving arts and cultural scene, make Union County your home-base for adventures just a short jaunt away. Whether you’re looking for rafting, hunting, theater, or to slow things down and take your time exploring the rolling hills and lovely terrain of the Union County Farm Trail, make sure to revel in all of Union County’s beauty and adventure.

EASTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY Located minutes from downtown La Grande, Eastern Oregon University is home to the Nightengale Gallery, Mountaineers Athletics, the Grand Staircase and numerous theater performances throughout the year.

OUTDOORS ALL AROUND

Grande Ronde River

Eastern Oregon University

Elgin Opera House

Union County is the gateway to the spectacular Eagle Cap Wilderness, Hells Canyon and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, where hunting, fishing, skiing, camping and whitewater rafting abound.

North Powder is the access point for Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, with thousands of acres of lift-accessed terrain as well as 30 km of groomed trails.

The Elgin Opera House, a historic 1911 theater, features live concerts and performances all year round. The Elgin Stampede, with four days of PRCA rodeo action, solidifies this community’s reputation as part of the living West.

There are museums and art galleries throughout Union County, including a Carnegie Library converted into a gallery and an old fire museum attached to Union County’s own brewery.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER

CULTURE & HISTORY

Union County

NORTHEAST

DESIGNED BY NATURE, OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWAIT FOUR SEASONS PROVIDE QUADRUPLE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVENTURE. Vast national forests, rivers and mountains make up our backyard. In the warmer months, enjoy hiking, backpacking and mountain biking through the rolling hills of the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway. Winter months bring backcountry skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding, or snowshoeing. All year, enjoy all-terrain vehicle (ATVs) activities including snowmobiling, four-wheeling and dual sport biking. From the highest peaks for rock-climbing, to the clearest sparkling rivers and lakes for fishing, rafting, kayaking and paddle-boarding, Union County is the spirit of adventure.

Eagle Cap Wilderness

GRANDE RONDE RIVER

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

MT. EMILY REC AREA MERA is a nationally acclaimed motorized/non-motorized park with nearly 100 miles of trails, a world-class archery range, free camping and only 10 minutes from downtown La Grande.

ANTHONY LAKES MOUNTAIN RESORT Winter brings everything from alpine and Nordic skiing to cat skiing, snowshoeing, yurt camping and snowmobiling. During the summer and shoulder seasons, Anthony Lakes is a wonderland for mountain biking, hiking and backpacking.

Enjoy mountain bike festivals to Snow Blast, one of the largest fireworks displays in Eastern Oregon.

LADD MARSH VIEWING AREA Ladd Marsh boasts over 6,000 acres of wetlands and uplands for viewing and wildlife preservation as well as some areas for game hunting. The annual Bird Festival in March offers a week of activities aimed from the novice to the expert birders.

BUFFALO PEAK GOLF COURSE Nestled next to the hills of Union, Buffalo Peak is an 18-hole linksstyle municipal golf course where the untamed beauty mingles with a manicured splendor against the breathtaking Blue Mountains backdrop.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

For water sports, the Grande Ronde River has more than 20 miles of meandering coursework from Anthony Lakes throughout the Grande Ronde Valley, perfect for rafting and fishing.

MORGAN LAKE Just a short drive from downtown La Grande, Morgan Lake is located atop a mountain and perfect for rainbow trout fishing, camping, picnicking, paddleboarding and gentle nature walks.

EAGLE CAP WILDERNESS High alpine lakes and meadows, exposed granite peaks and ridges all provide an endless opportunity for any type of outdoor recreation, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hunting, biking, water skiing, horse riding, camping, fishing, scenic drives and so much more.

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NORTHEAST

Union County

Eagle Cap Excursion Train

FUEL YOUR CREATIVITY AROUND EVERY CORNER IN UNION COUNTY, THE OPPORTUNITY TO BROADEN YOUR CULTURAL HORIZONS AWAITS.

Locally Made Gift Ideas Northwest Skillet Company: View live forging of handspun carbon steel skillets made using Ancient Egyptian techniques.

The Potter’s House: Call ahead to watch live kiln firing while sampling wines and cheeses before taking home your very own raku and stoneware.

Art Center East: Browse a featured exhibit in a Carnegie Library and take home a piece of art.

Boylan Studios & Birddog Glass: An old 1920s service station is now a glassblowing hot shop and showroom gallery.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Union County Farm Loop

A PERFECT DAY SPENT IN UNION COUNTY FULL DAY ITINERARY

MORNING Grab a map for the Union County Farm Loop, which links together a series of farm stands and farms—see and interact at these self-serve locations. It is a totally organic, intimate experience you won’t find anywhere else!

AFTERNOON Before heading to the museums for a glimpse of authentic Oregon Trail history, grab lunch at the local brewery Side A Brewing—converted from the old town firehouse and adjoining the Fire Museum—with many original fire engines.

EVENING The Elgin Opera House and the Grand Lumiere Event Center both always have a full calendar of events and ever-expanding projects. From interactive murder mystery dinners to full-scale theater and musicals, entertainment abounds in so many forms.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER

Ready to slow the pace? Explore many creations throughout the Grande Ronde Valley to feed your heart, soul and mind. Hop on the Art Trail of Northeast Oregon to visit places like the Arts Center East, housed in a Carnegie Library, catch a worldclass show at the Elgin Opera House, or explore the Eastern Oregon University campus, home to the Grand Staircase and Nightengale Gallery, featuring exhibits of students and artists year round. The Eagle Cap Excursion Train offers a serene ride throughout scenic Northeast Oregon. Some rides are themed (like wine and cheese rides), others are simply intended to enjoy the landscape. No matter what paced adventure you seek, Union County will leave you with lasting memories and the desire to start planning your Arts Center East next visit back, before you leave!

Plan Your 2020 Year in Union County June June June

Relay

Union, OR

Island City, OR

Elgin River

Grassroots

Festival

Festival

Elgin, OR

Union, OR

The Grande

Cherry Festival

Tour

Union County

Cove, OR

Eastern Oregon Film Festival

La Grande, OR

La Grande, OR

Elgin

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve

Stampede

Ball Drop La Grande, OR

Backcountry Fest

La Grande, OR

North Powder, OR

Anthony Lakes Beach Party &

February

Grande RondeA-View Car Show & Crazy Days

December

Eastern Oregon Beer Festival

October

July

Elkhorn

August

June

Eastern Oregon Livestock Show

Elgin, OR

July

La Grande, OR

August

June

Island City, OR

August

July

Wild Days

Union County Fair

August

Hog

Huckleberry Festival North Powder, OR

Cove - Island City - North Powder -

La Grande

www.visitunioncounty.org - Summerville - Imbler - Elgin - Union

EXPLORE

UNION COUNTY MUSEUM

TAKE A SWING AT BUFFALO PEAK The Way Golf Was Meant to Be. Golfers who have discovered Northeast Oregon’s challenging 18-hole, inland links-style course at Union are raving about the course and the spectacular vistas of three mountain ranges and the majestic Grande Ronde Valley. Visit our website and Facebook page for specials and events.

1224 E FULTON STREET, UNION, 97883 • (541) 562-5527 • BUFFALOPEAKGOLF.COM

MOUNT EMILY RECREATION AREA

Experience life in the rugged West! Meet the people who explored, logged, chased bandits, drove cattle, plowed soil, dug for gold, sold calico and made this place home. Featuring Cowboys Then & Now, the Livery Station, Pioneer Cabin, the General Store and so much more. See the website for special events.

Test your knowledge of the cowboy code of conduct!

333 S MAIN STREET, UNION, 97883 • (541) 562-6003 • UCMUSEUMOREGON.COM

BELLA MAIN STREET MARKETS

Just two miles north of downtown La Grande you will find the 3,670 acre Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA).

The best little kitchen, wine, chocolate, good food, great beers and fine linens store you never expected to find in the Blue Mountains of beautiful Eastern Oregon.

Open year round • Elevation ranges from 2900 to 5600 feet • Views of the Grande Ronde Valley and surrounding mountains • Free camping at Fox Hill Campground • World class archery range • Abundance of birds and wildlife

BELLA has the most comprehensive wine selection and the best values you’ll find in the eastern half of Oregon. You’ll love the selection of NW foods and hand crafted products as well as our fabulous card selection!

MEETMERA.ORG

2023 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • 1216 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 (541) 523-7490 • BIGMERLOT.COM • (541) 663-WINE

HINES MEAT COMPANY

KNEADS BAKERY

Welcome to Hines Meat Company where we believe that today is worth the very best we have to offer while preserving the best of yesterday. We proudly offer an old-fashioned meat counter with excellent service, housesmoked meats, and the very best steaks and more to accommodate classic and modern palates. Take a look through the window to our cutroom where you can watch meat cutters breaking down whole carcasses for custom cutting, domestic and wild game. We are a family owned business, well-rooted in Eastern Oregon and committed to doing our part to maximize quality of life in our community.

Located in historic downtown La Grande, Kneads Bakery offers sweets, savories, and breads baked fresh daily using natural and locally sourced ingredients.

2315 JEFFERSON AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 975-2333

NORTHWEST SKILLET COMPANY BLACKSMITH MADE ARTISAN COOKWARE - Carbon Steel Skillets - Copper Cookware - Cooking Tools - Grass-Fed Meats & Cooking Lard - Visitors welcome by appointment Hand-forged in the Blacksmith’s Shop at Homestead Springs Farm & Forge SUMMERVILLE, 97876 • (541) 605-8286 • NORTHWESTSKILLETCOMPANY.COM

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Winter hours | November to Mid-May: Wednesday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Farmers’ Market Season hours | Mid-May through October: Tuesday farmers’ market 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday farmers’ market 9 a.m. to noon.

1113 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-5413

BIRDDOG GLASS Sharing a renovated 1920’s service station with Boylan Studios, Birddog Glass features a glassblowing studio that gives guests a close up, behind the scene view of working with hot glass. Specializing in bar ware, custom lighting and one of a kind art glass, local artist Kevin Boylan balances heat and gravity to create with this mesmerizing medium. Birddog Glass also offers seasonal workshops making pumpkins, paperweights, and ornaments, giving visitors a hands on, introduction to glassblowing.

702 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 910-3510

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

MUSEUM • JAPANESE GARDEN • PERFORMING ARTS • CONCERT HOUSE

CONNECT

A MORE VIBRANT COMMUNITY THROUGH STORIES, ART, & CULTURE

Ready to explore and connect to the world around you? At Four Rivers Cultural Center, we seek to equip all people who make up our region

— now and in the future —

with a lifetime of enriching experiences because when we as individuals are constantly bettering ourselves and celebrating one another, we build a brighter, more vibrant future.

676 SW 5TH AVE., ONTARIO, OR 97914 | 4RCC.COM | 541.889.8191

PHOTO THIS PAGE TROY MCMULLIN / AL A MY S TOCK PHOTO, FACING PAGE BOT TOM LEF T BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM

SOUTHEAST pg.64 Harney County Oregon’s largest county is also one of its least populated. That means more room for intrepid travelers to explore the iconic Steens Mountain, Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and the Alvord Desert. Hunters, anglers and hikers will all feel at home in the vast solitude of landscape that has changed little over the last millennia.

pg. 68 Malheur County Malheur borders both Nevada

Clockwise from left: Steens Mountain. Alvord Desert. Leslie Gulch. American Avocet at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

and Idaho, but its landscape is pure Oregon. Here you’ll find open rangeland, river canyons and remote mountains that beckon explorers willing to venture off the beaten path.

This unyielding landscape commands respect—in return it yields natural treasures beyond imagining.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Remote and underexplored mountain ranges, desert river canyons, secluded hot springs and historic homesteads steeped in little-known history—it’s all part of the allure of Southeast Oregon. From the amazing spectacle of mass avian migrations at the Malheur Refuge to the roiling waters of the fabled Owyhee River canyon and beyond, the region is a playground for adventurers and explorers. Raft the Wild and Scenic Owyhee with a fishing guide. Hike on Steens Mountain and its deep glaciercarved gorges. Feel like you’ve landed on the moon in the Alvord Desert.

Grab hiking boots, binoculars and a camera. It’s time to see what you’ve been missing in this vast country.

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SOUTHEAST

I Like It Here

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE: FRANK YRAGUEN Frank Yraguen was born in Ontario, Oregon and graduated from Vale Union High School in 1958. After completing his undergraduate degree at Oregon State University, spending a few years in the Marine Corps including a Vietnam tour, a short stint as a teacher and then attending law school at Willamette University, Yraguen returned to Malheur County as the appointed District Attorney. He has served as a judge in Malheur and Harney Counties since 1976. “I love the people in this region,” he says. “They are very friendly and neighbor-oriented. The landscape keeps me here too—you can find a bit of everything in Eastern Oregon.”

❝What I love best about Eastern Oregon is the diversity and attributes of the land. We have everything in Eastern Oregon except an ocean beach.❞

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

Frank’s hometown Vale has a rich Oregon Trail history. Emigrants crossed the Malheur River here, and visitors today can seek out sightings of the ruts. Historic outdoor murals depicting the region’s history are found all around town. The Stone House Museum displays Oregon Trail history and artifacts, in a stone house built on the trail in 1872.

Gold mining equipment and Native American artifacts are found at this museum too. “Take a walking tour of the town and revel in history.”

2

Spend a day at the Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario.

The Treasure River Valley area around Ontario was born around agriculture and a diverse population of residents. The Four Rivers Cultural Center celebrates the four rivers that sustain the region and farming, as well as the many cultures that have cast influence, including the Northern Paiutes, Basque, Japanese, Hispanic and EuroAmerican immigrants.

3

Visit the Owyhee Dam and Reservoir.

The largest dam built in its era, the Owyhee Dam forms the Owyhee Reservoir and Lake Owyhee State Park. Colorful volcanic formations dot the 53-mile-long lake, which is a draw to anglers seeking warm water catches like catfish, bass and crappie.

Two campgrounds and a day use area make it easy to enjoy this beautiful destination on the far-eastern border of Oregon, south of the small town of Nyssa.

Invested in Community As a longtime Eastern Oregonian born to a Basque father and an English and Scottish mother, Frank Yraguen is well versed in the diversity and community cultural resources of the region. He and his wife of 56 years, Patty, volunteer for many cultural and community

Owyhee Dam

organizations including the Vale Stone House, the Vale Heritage Reflections Mural Society, the Basque Club of Ontario, and the local courts conducting legal mediations. “What I love best about Eastern Oregon is its people— hard-working; down-to-earth; salt-ofthe-earth people—folks who go out of their way to know one another and be good neighbors to one another and help

Mural in Downtown Vale

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

those in need,” he says.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T GREG VAUGHN/AL A MY S TOCK PHOTO

Visit historic Vale, Oregon.

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1

Rustic Bunk House accommodations and campsites Call for Details.

Online Reservations Available.

Natural Mineral Hot Springs located in the Heart of the Alvord Desert.

An amazing place to visit any time of the year.

alvordhotsprings@gmail.com www.AlvordHotSprings.com

Hot Springs & Campground 36905 E. Steens Rd. Princeton, Oregon 97721 Reservations: 541.589.2282 Facebook.com/alvordhotsprings

SOUTHEAST

Harney County

HARNEY COUNTY

EASTERN OREGON’S VAST DESERT, SAGE AND GRASSLANDS. Home to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Steens Mountain and the Alvord Desert as well as one of the country’s largest Ponderosa pine forests, Harney County has no shortage of environments to explore.

Burns is your jumping off point for Eastern Oregon, with hotels, markets and sporting goods. From there it’s just a short drive south along the High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway to Steens Mountain, one of Oregon’s most iconic ranges and home to an abundance of wildlife and miles upon miles of hiking and two-wheeled exploration. To the west of the mountain the Malheur Refuge teems with activity from resident wildlife and the scores of birds that make an annual migratory stop.

HOT SPRINGS

ALVORD DESERT

BURNS BREWS

Whether as a destination or a stopover on a longer journey, Crystal Crane is an oasis for weary travelers. Visitors here can soak in the natural pools, bathing in the rejuvenating mineral springs under expansive Eastern Oregon skies. On the Alvord Desert, the remote Alvord hot springs is a chance to soak in a semideveloped pool with a view of the playa.

Think of Utah’s salt flats and you’ll get a sense of the Alvord Desert’s perfectly featureless landscape. Here on the playa, you’re at the bottom of what once was a 200-feet-deep lake that stretched from Steens Mountain to Nevada. When you visit, pack your fishing rod for nearby Mann Lake where trophy Lahontan cutthroat trout cruise the waters.

Steens Mountain Brewing Company is a family-owned nanobrewery located in a tasting room in Burns. All beer is smallbatch brewed with regional heirloom hops (some grown at the brewery owner’s home in the adjacent hop yard).

Each beer name is inspired by a mustvisit Harney County landmark or event, like the McCoy Creek Scottish Ale.

Pete French Round Barn

Pete French Round Barn Built by cattle baron Peter French from stone and juniper, this circular barn near Burns was originally used for breaking horses during inclimate weather. The historic structure is now a state heritage site.

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PHOTO LEF T C AVAN / AL A MY S TOCK PHOTO, RIGHT M ARIE BESCHEN

Alvord Hot Springs

Harney County

SOUTHEAST

A BIRDER’S PARADISE THE FLYWAY OVERHEAD WILL BLOW YOUR MIND.

Two White-faced Ibis

The Grand Central Station of migratory birds, the abundant wetland at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is paradise for those interested in ornithology. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you want to catch the incredible diversity of species that descend on the Northern Great Basin as part of their epic annual migration. The refuge—a crucial stop along the Pacific Flyway—offers nesting and breeding habitat for hundreds of migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors will want to bring binoculars and a good camera lens to the 187,757-acre, federally protected wildlife habitat. Many of the species seen here are highlighted as priority species in national bird conservation plans. In addition to unparalleled bird watching, educational opportunities, wildlife viewing, hiking, regulated fishing and hunting await anyone on their own migration path to this region.

EXPLORE STEENS

PHOTO BOT TOM DAVID J ENSEN

WHERE ARID LANDSCAPES PAINT A HIGH DESERT PICTURE. The largest fault-block mountain in the Northern Great Basin, Steens Mountain was formed when immense geologic forces pushed the east edge of Steens Mountain up along the edge of the Alvord Desert. Today, the mountain range rises more than a mile above the east-facing landscape, affording visitors dramatic views from the summit. A series of four gorges provide endless opportunities for exploration. Hike the twenty-eight-mile Steens Mountain Gorges Loop, which treats hikers to waterfalls and leads to two massive, U-shaped gorges (Blitzen and Big Indian) that were carved during the last ice age.

At lower elevations, abundant wildlife draws hunters and anglers who take to stocked lakes and streams ripe with red-band trout. Stay overnight at the Frenchglen Hotel, Hotel Diamond or Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort, or camp at Page Springs Campground.

Wildhorse Lake

WILD HIGHLIGHTS AT STEENS WILDHORSE LAKE

WILDFLOWERS

The water is cold and cobalt blue at Wildhorse Lake, which is in a glacial canyon visible from Steens’ summit.

Descend to the lake for a post-summit dip.

Summer in the Steens brings a canvas covered in a profusion of color—all the more brilliant because of its contrast against jagged volcanic rock. From riparian and alpine meadows to woodlands, wildflower displays abound in the Steens, particularly in July.

Stay safe out there: Desert climates bring temperature swings and long expanses of scenic highway. Pack your car with extra water, maps and a full tank of gas to ensure that your trip is a prose-worthy adventure.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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EXPLORE Harney County

THE FIELDS STATION

FRENCHGLEN HOTEL

Gas - Diesel - Premium Non Ethanol - Propane - Cafe Grocery - Hotel - RV Park - Tap Beer - Liquor

A quiet wayside in a busy and hectic world, this historical hotel, originally constructed in 1916, sits at the base of the beautiful Steens Mountain. The hotel serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner is by reservation only). Enjoy many outdoor activities in the area, such as hiking, sightseeing on the mountain, fishing, bird watching, rock hounding, visiting with the locals and much more. Come and enjoy rustic accommodations, excellent food and the unique beauty of this timeless piece of Oregon history. Located 60 miles south of Burns on Highway 205.

Come and enjoy a world famous milkshake and hamburger!

Owners: Jacob and Jaide Downs

22276 FIELDS DRIVE, FIELDS, 97710 • (541) 495-2275

39184 HWY 205, FRENCHGLEN, 97736 • (541) 493-2825 • FRENCHGLENHOTEL.COM

BURNS RV PARK

RORY & RYAN INNS

Enjoy our quiet and shaded back-in sites with plenty of lawn area, big rig pull thru, two rustic cabins, and three new tipis,community fire ring, gazebo with BBQ’s, horseshoes, and book exchange. Tent and bikers welcome. Open all year long with owners on site. A variety of birds and deer are seen in park. Discounts to Good Sam and Military. Visa/MC accepted.

Come stay with us and enjoy our friendly customer service and wonderful amenities.

1273 SENECA DRIVE, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 573-7640 • BURNSRVPARK.COM

We serve a hot breakfast every morning from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Indoor heated pool and a hot tub to help you relax after a long day. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. In-room refrigerators and microwaves, coffee, ironing boards and irons.

504 HWY 20 N, HINES, 97738 • (541) 573-3370 • BURNSORHOTEL.COM

BEST WESTERN RORY & RYAN INNS

STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS RESORT The resort is located on 16 acres and looks out across the South end of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. There are 9 different rental units, all the units have a kitchen area, bathroom with a shower and heating and cooling units so that they can be used year round. There are different size units to accommodate a variety of groups and families. We have full hook-up RV sites that are all long pull thru sites, also 14 tents sites with grass and shade. All guests have access to free Wi-Fi, DVD library, restrooms, laundry facilities.

35678 RESORT LANE, FRENCHGLEN, 97736 • (541) 493-2415 • STEENSRESORT.COM

GOURMET & GADGETS We pride ourselves in being the little kitchen shop with the big inventory. We stock merchandise mainly for the kitchen along with gifts and collectibles.

Our inventory consists of small appliances, cookware, bakeware, linens, tabletop, cutlery, seasonal merchandise, cookbooks, candles, chimes, Northwest food products and chocolates.

Stop by to see our fun, but very useful store.

Biggest Little Kitchen Store in Eastern Oregon.

340 N BROADWAY, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 573-1725 • GGADGETS.COM

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Indoor heated pool and hot tub. Full hot breakfast served daily, in-room coffee, refrigerator and microwave in every room.

534 HWY 20 N, HINES, 97738 • (541) 573-5050 • BESTWESTERN.COM

OARD’S GALLERY & MUSEUM A must-visit for lovers of authentic Native American jewelry, art, pottery, Navajo rugs, local Paiute and native American history and art. The arts of nine different tribes are represented at the gallery.

Photo by Jay Hill Images

42456 HWY 20E, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 493-2535 • OARDSGALLERY.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

THE

Round Barn

VISITOR CENTER

HOTEL DIAMOND

Few places have escaped commercialization like Diamond and the surrounding area. Located at the base of Steens Mountain and adjacent to Malheur Wildlife Refuge, Harney County’s oldest hotel (established 1898) is rich with history of settlers, Indians, sheepherders and cattle barons.

Family-style dinner by reservation Children welcome Breakfast included with your room Hotel Diamond is a special place. We make retreats, receptions, meetings and reunions memorable, and give new meaning to the term “base camp”.

49130 Main Street Diamond, Oregon 97722 (541) 493-1898 / HistoricHotelDiamond.com photography: lloydirwinphotographer.com

FAMILY MUSEUM FABULOUS GIFT SHOP WIDE SELECTION OF BOOKS AND TACK

Open Daily March 1 - January 3 51955 Lava Bed Road | Diamond, OR 97722 888.493.2430 Follow the Pete French Round Barn signs at every junction after leaving Highway 78 to the West and from Highway 205 to the East.

I t ’ s n o t h a r d t o ma k e a memory last a lifetime just do something unforgettable.

hellscanyonbyway.com

SOUTHEAST

Malheur County

MALHEUR COUNTY

BIRCH CREEK RANCH

SPARSE POPULATION MEETS DESERT EXPANSE. This is remote country that reaches to the Nevada-Oregon border.

Here the cattle outnumber the residents and always will. That means serious elbow room for the rest of us to explore the far reaches of the state, from the Snake River to the edge of the Alvord Desert, and over to the geologic wonder that is the Pillars of Rome. Just remember to set your clock forward if you plan to keep a schedule—due to its close connection to the Boise valley, much of Malheur is on Mountain time. Then again, Malheur County is the kind of place where time isn’t measured in minutes or hours, but rather by how much you can fit between sunrise and sundown.

A rare BLM-owned ranch lies thirty-eight miles down a bumpy dirt road northwest of Jordan Valley. Though you need a high-clearance vehicle to get there, the ranch grounds are well worth the trek.

The BLM caretaker and his wife are typically on site to answer questions about this Owyhee River gem, which was purchased as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Stake a tent at one of the primitive campsites, but be sure to check out the twentysix structures—most of them well preserved—at this lush riverside oasis.

SOAK UP JUNTURA It’s easy to miss the little town of Juntura as you travel east or west at speeds that would dismay pioneers who once crept across this landscape in wagon trains. Ease off the gas, however, as you approach the horseshoe bend on the Malheur River. Follow the gravel road under a steel trestle train bridge, amazing in its own right, to the riverside hot springs where a small soaking pool awaits.

FOUR RIVERS CULTURAL CENTER In Ontario, at the confluence of the Snake, Malheur, Owyhee and Payette rivers, Four Rivers Cultural Center documents another kind of convergence: that of cultures. The Center takes visitors on a historic journey, from the native Northern Paiutes to the settlers who came in the 19th century to the Japanese Americans interned in the area during World War II.

Pillars of Rome

Birch Creek Ranch

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Rockhouse Coffee

You’ll see cowboys, border collies and dramatic scenery in Southeast Oregon, but the distance between services is great. Rome Station in Rome offers great milkshakes and tater tots. In Jordan Valley, grab a cup of coffee, a home-baked snack or some ice cream and friendly conversation in the historic stone building Rockhouse Coffee.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T ERIC VALENTINE

SUSTENANCE, PLEASE

Malheur County

SOUTHEAST

Owyhee River

RAFT OREGON’S MAJESTIC OWYHEE THE OWYHEE WAS NAMED THE “LAST GREAT UNAPPRECIATED RIVER” BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC.

Leslie Gulch

Referred to as Oregon’s Grand Canyon, the Owyhee River cuts through a remote and rugged canyon near the town of Rome. Considered to be one of the most scenic and challenging whitewater rivers in the Northwest, the Owyhee begins in the mountains of western Idaho and empties into Oregon’s Owyhee Reservoir. Years of advocacy have kept the area off limits to natural resource development. The handful of visitors who venture here get to experience this timeless area’s natural landscape as it has been for millennia.

Multiday trips are offered by a number of outfitters who guide boats past 1,000-foot rhyolite cliffs, 9,000-year-old petroglyphs, fauna and riverside hot springs. Quiet sections are broken up by adrenaline-inducing rapids.

FISH THE MIRACLE MILE

A WILD ROAD TRIP

Clinging just barely to the edge of the state is Oregon’s finest brown trout fishery. The lower Owyhee River emerges cold and skinny from the foot of the massive Owyhee Dam. It is here that anglers gather every spring and fall in hopes of landing one of the many trophy-size brown trout that inhabit a roughly five-mile stretch of blue-ribbon water below the dam. Primitive camping along the river is available year-round.

Roads are rocky, rutted and often muddy, and you must make sure that you bring plenty of your own gas, food and water, but a road trip through the Owyhee Canyonlands is an unforgettable experience. Hike Jordan Canyons or Painted Canyon Loop, and camp at Slocum Creek Campground or Succor Creek State Natural Area. In summer, prepare for hot weather and little shade—but plenty of scenery.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

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PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM SE AN BAGSHAW

TWO WAYS TO EXPLORE THE OWYHEE RIVER

Leslie Gulch Bighorn sheep, mule deer and elk deftly traverse the precious metal-hued volcanic tuff formations.

Sport climbers are also known to scale these remote crags, though new routes are not currently allowed to be set on the BLM-managed land.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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PHOTO THIS PAGE DAVID R. FR A ZIER PHOTOLIBR ARY, INC . / AL A MY S TOCK PHOTO, FACING PAGE TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA , BOT TOM DAVID J ENSEN

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY pg. 74 Umatilla County While the main draw each year may be the nationally acclaimed rodeo, the cultural history of the county is a year-round immersive experience. Native American heritage meets cowboy and ranching culture in a region full of bounty.

pg. 88 Morrow County Clockwise from left: Wheat harvest near Pendleton. Watermill Winery.

The town of Heppner. Willow Creek Reservoir

Golf courses, parks and more hidden gems are waiting to be discovered in Morrow County, where a cluster of small towns form a strong community full of agricultural bounty. Historic districts and museums showcase life in the region now and throughout history.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

This “Rugged Country” has a reputation for agriculture. Farmers work fertile soil to produce everything from wheat to watermelons. Delve into the agricultural heart of this region at the fun and educational SAGE Center. Craft libation makers brew, distill and ferment local bounty. Making its mark in the world of wine with national accolades, The Rocks District AVA grows some of the best grapes in the Northwest. The Umatilla National Forest is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground.

Pendleton lore is so rich that major wool and whisky brands bear its name. In Morrow County, visitors will find miles of rolling hills that call for cyclists and riverfront adventure along the Columbia River.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

I Like It Here

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE: CRAIG COLEMAN

❝Coming from the northern Willamette Valley, I appreciate the wide-open nature of this area. I really like how agriculture is still the foundation of the economy here.❞

Craig Coleman came to Hermiston with his wife Janna and three children Catie, Maggie and Bob, fifteen years ago from the Willamette Valley. A self-described “farmer by trade who can’t stand still and is always looking for new challenges,” Coleman launched Neighbor Dudes Tap House in Hermiston in 2013 with friends. The following year, he started Ordnance Brewing, a farmer-owned craft brewery in Boardman. Now Ordnance beers are found around the state, and there is even a second tasting room location in Wilsonville. “I spend my days working side by side with my son, daughter and wife,” Coleman said. “It really is a family business!”

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

1

See the Oregon Trail ruts.

The SAGE Center delivers a great idea of what is actually going on agriculture-wise in this area. “I have been told by visitors that they had no idea how many different things are happening in the area,” Coleman explains.

“Because the South Columbia Basin is so big, you can’t see most of what’s going on from the freeway.”

3

Taste local beer, wine & spirits.

Stop by and hang with the people at the two wineries in Echo, Sno Road and Echo Ridge. Also visit the breweries, Prodigal Son and of course Ordnance Brewing. Last but not least, stop in at Neighbor Dudes Tap House in Hermiston. “All of these places make delicious beverages and are great destinations at which to meet new friends from all walks of life,” said Coleman.

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Check out the Oregon Trail where it passed through this region outside of Echo, and imagine how hard it had to be for the emigrants to pull up stakes and take the sometimes-deadly trip in a wagon train to get to their western destination. “I’m guessing most people couldn’t wait to get through this hot, dry desert to get to the Willamette Valley,” said Craig Coleman.

2

Visit the SAGE Center.

SAGE Center

Prodigal Son Brewing

Craig and Ordnance The origin of Ordnance is a ghost town in Umatilla County, which was originally an Army depot established in the 1940s. Today Ordnance the town is a blip on the map, but Ordnance the brewery is a thriving and innovating Eastern Oregon industry. At the helm is Craig Coleman, who may be a also a smart businessman adept at navigating the modern ways of culture and industry.

He said, “I post to social media daily, of the trials and tribulations our farm goes through, working to bring safe, affordable food to the consumer’s plate.” Find Craig @girthdogfarms on Instagram and Craig F Coleman on Facebook.

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PHOTO BOT TOM RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

hardworking farmer by nature, but who is

Family Owned & Operated Since 1996 BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER • • • • • • • • •

Breakfast until 3pm Gluten-Free Options RV & Bus Parking Free Beverage refills to-go Free Kid’s Ice Cream Free WiFi Table Top Coloring Dog-Friendly Patio Spring/Summer Event Room with Capacity up to 50

1515 SOUTHGATE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 966-1100 • ROOSTERSDINING.COM

IMAGINE CROSSING THE MIGHTY COLUMBIA IN A

wooden canoe.

We did. The river provided our Tribes with food, a place to gather, a means for trade and transportation. The Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes were often busy on the river banks and meeting with other Tribes across the waterway.

Looks different to you now, doesn’t it?

FIRST FRIDAYS ARE FREE! Exhibits, Museum Store Open Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm | Kinship Café Open 11am-2pm I-84 east, Exit 216 | Pendleton, OR | www.tamastslikt.org | 541.429.7700

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

UMATILLA COUNTY EXPERIENCE THE WEST.

Though Umatilla County may be known as the home of the century-old Pendleton Round-Up, the region has plenty more to explore year-round. It even has another favorite rodeo: the Farm City Pro Rodeo in Hermiston. With historic and cultural centers, wineries and breweries, farmers’ markets, a scenic bikeway route and a regional airport, Umatilla County is a growing community that hasn’t lost its Old West charm.

A FAMOUS MELON AND IT TASTES GOOD TOO. The city of Hermiston is beloved for many reasons, but the most well-known is a very large fruit. The watermelon grows to perfection here each summer, with many purveyors selling the sweet treats locally and far afield. Hermiston celebrates all things melon with a festival each summer, with facepainting, games, a waterslide and a watermelon seed spitting contest.

Pendleton Round-Up

PENDLETON ROUND-UP 110 YEARS OF TRADITION. What began in 1910 as a small gathering of local cowboys has grown into one of the largest and most revered rodeos in the country. Each year, the Pendleton RoundUp brings thousands of people to Oregon’s Rugged Country. The week kicks off with the Dress-Up Parade and ends with crowning rodeo champions. One of the specialty events is the Happy Canyon Indian Pageant, a nightly theater production about Native Americans with roots in the region and the formation of Pendleton.

Year-round, visit the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame, a museum devoted to the rodeo and its legacy.

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E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

A HISTORY OF ARTISANSHIP. Pendleton’s Pacific Northwest woolen mills are a testament to the quest for quality established by the company’s founder in 1863. The intricate jacquard blankets and array of wool fabrics have earned a reputation on par with the greatest mills around the world. For more than 150 years, Pendleton has achieved beautiful color and original patterns that are the hallmarks of this family enterprise. The Woolen Mill Store offers the largest selection of Pendleton fabric, remnants and mill ends—unique and high-quality materials for artists and craftspeople alike. Tours are free Monday through Friday.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO LEF T ROBERT COSNER

PENDLETON WOOLEN MILLS

Umatilla County

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

THE OREGON TRAIL IN UMATILLA COUNTY GO IN SEARCH OF THE RUTS. Emigrants on the Oregon Trail found the fertile valley of the Umatilla River an excellent place to camp. The Whitman Mission was just to the north in Walla Walla, Washington, where they could buy supplies, and the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Native American tribes were happy to trade with the settlers in what is now Umatilla County. Look for signs of the trail in these locations.

PENDLETON

ECHO

ECHO MEADOWS

Follow the Oregon Trail signs to First Street and Frazier, where emigrants made temporary base camp as they gathered supplies before carrying on to the Willamette Valley.

The Oregon Trail crosses the Umatilla River at Fort Henrietta Park, the site of a former military stockade that replaced the Umatilla Indian Agency destroyed in the Yakama Indian wars.

At Echo Meadows, emigrants rested before traveling on westward towards the John Day and Deschutes Rivers.

Look for wagon ruts and interpretive signs on a short hike here.

Downtown Echo

STANFIELD REST AREA Emigrants passed by here while following the Umatilla to the Columbia River. Read about the struggles of their journey and lives in camps along the way here.

Echo Meadows

PHOTO TOP LEF T J ONI K ABANA

PENDLETON UNDERGROUND TOURS SUBTERRANEAN STORYTELLING. Tour the underground network of rooms and passageways in Pendleton for an exceptional historical account of some of the lesser-known facts and legends of the region’s past.

Learn about local Chinese immigrants and their role in building Eastern Oregon. Also hear true Wild West tales of brothels, bootlegging and gambling in the town’s Red Light District.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE TAMÁSTSLIKT CULTURAL INSTITUTE. Tamástslikt Cultural Institute was built by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation to preserve the culture and history of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Tribes and present their story to the world. The state of the art facility showcases regional tribal history, the tribes’ present day affairs and plans for the future through interactive exhibits, Coyote Theater, events and programs. In addition to quarterly exhibitions on timely topics, the permanent displays have recently been upgraded and other improvements made to further enhance the experience for visitors of all ages who come to enjoy an immersive education. Shopping at The Museum Store and dining at Kinship Café round out the visit.

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Pow Wow Wildhorse Resort & Casino is the largest resort in Eastern Oregon with a casino, 200+ hotel rooms, a cineplex, a nightclub, restaurants, a golf course, RV park and concert hall. The resort also hosts an annual Pow Wow in July.

Wildhorse Pow Wow

A MEANINGFUL SOUVENIR INDIGENOUS ARTS FOR SALE. Located on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Crow’s Shadow is a nonprofit contemporary printmaking studio that fosters indigenous art. Admire and purchase fine art prints at the onsite print gallery.

Pendleton Round-Up

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E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

The Pendleton Center for the Arts displays regional works for sale, and provides space for the creation of arts.

Desert Arts Council and Inland Northwest Musicians are two more organizations that bring art and culture to the greater county and its visitors.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO TOP LEF T COURTES Y WILDHORSE RESORT AND C A SINO, BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

Upcoming Events

of Umatilla County

MARCH 21ST

JUNE 20

JULY 17-18

OCTOBER 3

echred2red.com ECHO

wildweStBeerFeSt.org PENDLETON

mFchamBer.com MILTON-FREEWATER

FaceBooK - hermiSton downtown diStrict

Red to Red

Wild West Beer Fest

Brews by the Blues

MAY 1-3

JUNE 25-28

AUGUST 11-15

wallawallawine.com/#eVentShome COUNTY WIDE

hodaKadayS.org ATHENA

UmatillacoUntyFair.net HERMISTON

JUNE 27

AUGUST 12-15

FaceBooK - hermiSton downtown diStrict

Farmcityprorodeo.com HERMISTON

Spring Release Weekend

MAY 1-2

Cattle Baron’s Weekend cattleBaronS.net PENDLETON

Hodaka Days

Cork & Barrel

JULY 3-5

FaceBooK - hermiSton downtown diStrict

wildhorSereSort.com PENDLETON

POW WOW

HERMISTON

MAY 23

JULY 4

4th of July Celebration

cyclependleton.com/eVentS PENDLETON

cityoFStanField.com/StanField4th-JUly-committee STANFIELD

MAY 23

JULY 10-12

FaceBooK – heliX heart oF the coUntry rodeo

athenacaledoniangameS.org ATHENA

Century Ride of the Centuries

Heart of the Country Rodeo

Athena Caledonian Games

HELIX

JUNE 5-6

Umatilla Landing Days

UmatillaorchamBer.org UMATILLA

JUNE 6

Pioneer Days UmatillacoUntypioneerS aSSociation.com WESTON

JUNE 7-9

Old Iron Days

heritageStationmUSeUm.org PENDLETON

Spud Fest

FaceBooK - hermiSton downtown diStrict

pendletonBiKeweeK.com PENDLETON

OCTOBER 10

OCTOBER 17

AUGUST 15

Wheatstock Music Festival wheatStocK.org HELIX

AUGUST 22 Melon Fest

FaceBooK - hermiSton downtown diStrict

SEPTEMBER 16-19 Pendleton Round-Up

SEPTEMBER 16-19

Pendleton Bike Week

ECHO

cityoFpilotrocK.org/ commUnitydayS PILOT ROCK

Community Days/Reunion Weekend

JULY 11

JULY 16-18

FaceBooK - echo corn maZe & pUmpKin patch

www.FaceBooK.com/ oKtoBerFeStpendleton PENDLETON

pendletonroUndUp.com PENDLETON

pendletonwhiSKymUSicFeSt.com PENDLETON

Echo Corn Maze Find the Wine (&Beer)

AUGUST 14-15

HERMISTON

Pendleton Whisky Music Festival

OCTOBER 3

Oktoberfest

HERMISTON

JULY 11

HERMISTON

Farm-City Pro Rodeo

HERMISTON

MAY 16

Art Festival

Umatilla County Fair

Harvest Fest

Happy Canyon Pageant & Night show happycanyon.com PENDLETON

OCTOBER 2-3 Junk Barn

JUnKBarngirlS.com HERMISTON

Oktoberfest

echo-oregon.com/newS/a.html ECHO

OCTOBER 24

Umatilla Co. Potato Show cityoFweStonoregon.com WESTON

NOVEMBER 6-8

Fall Release Weekend wallawallawine.com/ #eVentS-home COUNTY WIDE

DECEMBER 4-6

Holiday Barrell Tasting wallawallawine.com/ #eVentS-home COUNTY WIDE

Umatilla County Tourism UmatillaCountyTourism VisitUmatillaCo Please be sure to check the events website for the most updated information.

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

AGRITOURISM BY THE GLASS SIP IN THE ROCKS DISTRICT AMERICAN VITICULTURE AREA. For Steve Robertson, general manager of Delmas Wines in Milton-Freewater, wine is all about place. Robertson spent three-and-a-half years convincing the wine community and the federal government to designate 3,767 acres on the Oregon side of the Walla Walla Valley as an American Viticulture Area (AVA) in February 2015. “The Rocks District is the only AVA in the United States of America whose boundaries were drawn predicated on one soil series and one land form,” said Robertson. The terroir consists of riverbed rocks that give the wine a characteristic flavor profile, particularly noticeable in syrah. “They’re wines that people will seek,” said Robertson. “That’s why we wanted to be there. That’s why I want to tell the story of this AVA.” TERO Estates

A SAMPLING OF WINERIES.

MILTONFREEWATER AREA ZERBA CELLARS On one of Zerba’s three estate vineyards in Milton-Freewater sits a log cabin tasting room that could pass as a pioneer homestead. Inside, modern amenities bolster tastings of its awardwinning wines.

WATERMILL WINERY Head to the historic Watermill Building in Milton-Freewater to taste wines and learn how Watermill Winery’s stewardship for the land contributes to their wine.

CASTILLO DE FELICIANA VINEYARD & WINERY Spanish style wine is served at this lovely little tasting room with plenty of scenic outdoor seating just south of the Washington state border near Milton-Freewater.

TERO ESTATES Wine Enthusiast regularly scores TERO’s vintages above 90 points.

Try the love letter-worthy cabernet sauvignon at their Milton-Freewater tasting room.

Zerba Cellars

MORE ARTISANAL TREATS IN MILTON-FREEWATER Blue Mountain Cider Company

At Blue Mountain Cider, taste cider made from classic Pacific Northwest ingredients.

Petits Noirs Fine Chocolates

The chocolates made at Petits Noirs are the perfect treat to pair with wine produced in the region.

The shop is run by two seasoned chocolatiers who bring their vast knowledge of fine chocolate.

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ECHO AREA SNO ROAD WINERY The Sno Road Winery tasting room is in a beautifully restored historic building located in downtown Echo and pours wine made from grapes grown on a historic ranch outside of town. The courtyard is a lovely venue for events too.

ECHO RIDGE WINERY Housed in a renovated onion cellar, Echo Ridge Winery is a family-run business that produces about 1,000 cases each year of cabernet franc and sauvignon, syrah and merlot.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

WALLA WALLA CHEESE COMPANY

Artisan cheese from local cows!

(541) 861-3778 | wallawallacheesecompany.com 606 N. Main, Milton-Freewater, OR 97862

DAILY FLIGHTS FROM PORTLAND TO PENDLETON

FLIGHTS STARTING AT

$59

boutiqueair.com | info@boutiqueair.com @boutiqueair | 1-855-BOUTIQUE

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

EAT AND DRINK

BREWERY BOOM

OREGON GRAIN GROWERS BRAND DISTILLERY

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY MAKES ITS MARK IN CRAFT BEER. The story of Prodigal Son Brewing lives up to its name. Tim Guenther started the brewery with two friends. All three of them had grown up together in Pendleton, moved away, then returned to follow their passion for craft beer. Opened in 2007, Prodigal Son was the first craft brewery in Pendleton. Since Prodigal Son opened, more craft breweries have cropped up in the region. Dragon’s Gate Brewery in Milton-Freewater is a farmhouse brewery that focuses on small-batch brews that use estate-grown hops and spring water tapped from a deep natural spring located beneath the brewery. In downtown Hermiston, stop at Hermiston Brewing Company for a sip of their delicious brews. Boardman boasts Ordnance Brewing, with a taproom for sampling their great beers. Burnt Field Brewing is nearby, offering tasty brick-oven baked pizzas alongside their brews.

Ordnance Brewing

Two Pendleton natives moved back home to raise their family. They showcased their appreciation for homegrown products by using local grains to make distilled spirits.

HALE’S RESTAURANT This laid-back pub in Hermiston offers an extensive selection of generous plates of classic all-American fare, with fresh-made cocktails and local craft brews on tap. Open all day!

DELISH BISTRO In Hermiston, Delish Bistro serves everything from teriyaki chicken to macaroni and cheese to crab burgers.

The real treat is the housemade gelato served in a wafflecone. In the summer, eat on the charming outdoor patio.

PLATEAU With sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and an upscale yet comfortable ambience, Plateau offers Northwest fare featuring the best cuts of meat and freshest ingredients. Upstairs in Wildhorse Casino, Plateau’s dining menu is accompanied by regional wines and cocktail creations.

UMAPINE CREAMERY Brent and Yvonne Carrol, of Brevon Farm, have a long history in the dairy business. The cheese made from the milk of their cows can be purchased directly from Umapine Creamery.

Umapine Creamery

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Hamley Steakhouse

Opening in 2006, Hamley’s Steakhouse became a mainstay in downtown Pendleton. The Western-style restaurant is a step back in time with great food. Virgil’s at CIMMIYOTTI’S, also downtown, has been a Pendleton tradition since 1959. Famous for steaks, this iconic restaurant is most loved for impeccable food and legendary service.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO TOP J ONI K ABANA

FINE WESTERN DINING

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

McKay Creek Wildlife Refuge

Umatilla National Forest

Hat Rock State Park

THE OUTDOORS IS CALLING RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ARE NEVERENDING IN THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY.

1 CAMPING

Harris Park sits alongside the South Fork of the Walla Walla River and offers summer hiking and camping near Milton-Freewater. The Two Rivers area in the west county boasts the Umatilla Forks Campground, with dense forest and plenty of campsite privacy. Campsites with firepits are plentiful at Indian Lake, some of which are right next to the beach or boast their own horseshoe pit. Campsite reservations are suggested.

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2 WILDLIFE

Visitors can spot dozens of wild animals in the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area, land protected to maintain key historic range for Rocky Mountain elk. Songbirds, deer and elk can be observed most of the year.

The McKay Creek Wildlife Refuge offers perfect hiking for families and birders looking to spot rare species.

The Winom-Frazier National Forest is another great place to hike and spot wildlife.

E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

3 HORSEBACK

The wide-open hills, valleys and river canyons of Umatilla County were made for horses and their human counterparts. Horseback riders can traverse through hundreds of miles of trails in the Umatilla National Forest during warmer months.

Mount your trusty steed and try the Alder Creek Trail, the Willow Creek Trail or the Blue Mountain Trail for backcountry horse riding fun.

4 FISHING

Anglers will find an abundance of fishing on the Columbia River, the lake in Hat Rock State Park and at McKay Reservoir. On the Umatilla River, fishing is good for rainbow trout, and steelhead and salmon can be found on the lower river runs. Indian Lake is stocked regularly with Rainbow trout, and fishing is open May 1 through October 31. Fishing permits required.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO LEF T DAVID J ENSEN, BOT TOM RIGHT LEON WERDINGER

For hikers, hunters, horseback riders and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s easy to find a variety of recreation year-round in Umatilla County.

clothing gifts jewelry boots hats saddles

Dine on delicious ranch-style cookin’ and experience the Hamley tradition of excellent food and outstanding service.

CAFE

Open daily 8am

SALOON

Open daily 4pm

“The most Authentic Western Store in America”

STEAKHOUSE

- True West Magazine

Open daily 5pm

C or ne r of C our t & Main, Pe ndl e ton, O regon

C or ne r of C our t & Main, Pe ndl e ton, O regon

WWW.HAMLEYSTEAKHOUSE.COM

WWW.HAMLEYWESTERNSTORE.COM

Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 03136.TT.11.19

Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 03135.TT.11.19

Please Come Visit:

Umatilla

Come work up an appetite hiking the trails, fighting the fish, or kayaking the rivers. Then feast on some local cuisine. Tie up your boat at the dock and relax at the Marina and RV Park, or one of the local hotels. Spend time with your family soaking up the sun at one of our parks. Also, plan now to be here the first weekend of June for our annual Umatilla Landing Days festival.

For more information please visit: umatillaorchamber.org or umatillaǦcity.org

Sponsored by Umatilla Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center and City of Umatilla

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

PENDLETON BIKE WEEK FUN FOR MOTORCYCLES AND THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE THEM Motorcycle enthusiasts will love Oregon’s smaller highways and the amazing scenery that goes with them. Light traffic and friendly people are a part of the perks of riding in Eastern Oregon. Enjoy great hospitality from local retail shops, dining spots and lodging businesses along our many routes for riding. Every third weekend in July, Pendleton Bike Week hosts its annual Rally & Races with the support of local businesses and surrounding communities welcoming all motorcycle enthusiasts. Discover Pendleton and nearby communities and the rich history they offer while enjoying great riding in Eastern Oregon.

Pendleton Bike Week

UMATILLA COUNTY ON WHEELS PACK THE PANNIERS FOR A BEAUTIFUL RIDE ON COUNTRY ROADS No matter where you ride your road bicycle in this gorgeous county, stunning and scenic views are all around you.

Enjoy an easy loop east of Pendleton or explore the rolling fields around Athena and Helix. Marvel at the beautiful Columbia River at Hat Rock or take in the breathless views and challenge of the Cabbage Hill Climb. The choices are endless!

The organization Pendleton on Wheels is pleased to offer a map of favorite routes.

See pendletononwheels.org.

<< Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway

Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway Cyclists will love these 108 miles of state sanctioned biking routes through both Umatilla and Morrow Counties.

Rich in history, defined by fertile valleys and a few long climbs, the route delivers little traffic and much reward.

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FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO TOP LONNIE OL SEN, BOT TOM RUSS ROCC A

The rolling and waving wheat fields of Umatilla County and the glorious peaks of the Blue Mountains provide a peaceful and amazing backdrop to your ride.

Cyclists of all levels will find something to suit them, and just about any road in our region makes for a great ride.

Enjoy a Tour of

Umatilla County & beyond

Columbia River

Milton-Freewater

730 395

125

12

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WASHINGTON OREGON

Hermiston Echo

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Pendleton 395

WATERMILL WINERY

K & K BLUEBERRIES

Watermill wines are estate grown and handcrafted in the Rocks District and Walla Walla Valley AVAs. Come visit to enjoy the fruits of our labor and experience our love of the land. Vineyard and winery tours available by appointment. Open 11-5 Thursday-Monday, check website for winter hours.

K & K Blueberries is a family owned and operated U-Pick located just outside Hermiston on 20 beautifully landscaped acres. Our season for picking varies, but we are typically open from mid-June to mid-July. K & K is your fresh source of delicious blueberries to eat, freeze, jam making and baking.

235 e broadway ave, milton-freewater · (541) 938-5575 · watermillwinery.com

29555 minnehaha rd, hermiston · (541) 567-3146 · kandkblueberries.com

BLUE MOUNTAIN CIDER

WILD RABBIT FARMS

Blue Mountain Cider welcomes you to relax in our cidery and taproom in the exquisite southern reaches of the Walla Walla Valley.

Enjoy flights, tasters, pints, growler fills, and bottles of our estate grown hard ciders plus a few rotating local microbrews. Open Thursday-Saturday 12-8, Sundays 12-5.

Located in the heart of farmland, orchards & wineries, this second story retreat overlooks a flowing creek & park like grounds. Its farm life outside, luxury inside with spa inspired linens & imported towels. Experience the charm of farm animals when you escape to this quiet country setting.

235 e broadway ave, milton-freewater · (541) 938-5575 · drinkcider.com

52843 sunquist rd, milton-freewater · (509) 308-3548 · wildrabbitfarms.com

ECHO RIDGE CELLARS

UMAPINE CREAMERY

Echo Ridge Cellars is located in a renovated grain elevator in Echo, Oregon. Sourcing grapes from our 60-acre vineyard, we make all our wine in a repurposed warehouse. Visit us for a tasting and mention this ad for 10% off your purchase. Event space available.

Visit a true Farmstead Operation making artisan farmstead cheeses and cultured butter.

Schedule a farm tour and cheese tasting.

See the cows, calves, and meet the family to experience the daily operation of a modern dairy farm. Taste and purchase great cheeses.

Made fresh here, from our family to yours.

551 n. thielsen street, echo · (541) 376-8100 · echoridgecellars.com

50901 umapine rd, milton-freewater · (541) 861-2111 · umapinecreamery.com

BENNETT GARDENS

BLACK ACRE FARM

Bennett Botanical Gardens covers 5 acres of lush grass, trees, shrubs and places of color at every turn. KRISanthemums is a flower design studio located within the gardens where Kris uses seasonal elements from the gardens for weddings and local deliveries. Schedule a tour to enjoy the beauty.

Set between the rolling hills of Eastern Oregon Black Acre Farm offers farm to table dinners, homesteading classes, fresh organic produce and a number of handcrafted goods.

We strive to use what is on hand, work within our community, and provide exceptional local goods. Come check us out!

32632 e punkin center, hermiston · (541) 571-2172 · krisanthemums.com

ZERBA CELLARS Estate winery located in the heart of the Walla Walla Valley. We own three estate vineyards.

Each vineyard and grape variety has a unique character that contributes to the quality, complexity and balance of our individual wines.

85530 hwy 11, milton-freewater · (541) 938-9463 · zerbacellars.com

71634 baseline ln, lexington · (541) 989-8188 · blackacrefarmstead.com

TERO ESTATES We produce small lots that reflect the ultimate expression of Windrow Vineyard.

Reviving this historic property that was planted in 1980 allows us to create treasured wines while showing respect for the vines and the people who tend them.

52015 seven hills rd, milton-freewater · (541) 203-0020 · trwines.com

Sponsored by Umatilla County Tourism • co.umatilla.or.us • whiskyrocksfarmloop.com • riverhillsfarmloop.com

EXPLORE Pendleton

OMG! BURGERS & BREW

PENDLETON HAT COMPANY

Pendleton’s hot spot for gourmet burgers, chicken burgers, hot dogs, salads and desserts!! We have an indoor firepit along with an event space for parties up to 100! We are a family friendly restaurant with a full service bar and rotating craft beers from all over Oregon!

Premier hatter in Pendleton Oregon of Beaver and Rabbit fur felt hats.

Our hats are hand made, right here in Pendleton, prices vary depending on the quality of fur blend and embellishment choices. Your options and possibilities are unlimited. PHC offers professional cleaning and refurbishing, we will provide you with comprehensive advise, professional service and support for all your hat needs, no matter who created them. We stock a full line of new and refurbished hats, hat bands, hat racks, Jacks, Travel cans, and a variety of hat care products.

“KEEP YOUR HEAD UP AND YOUR HAT ON”

241 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON • (541) 571-2153 • OMGBURGERSANDBREW.COM

141 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (360) 739-7289 • PENDLETONHATCO.COM

PRODIGAL SON BREWERY & PUB

VIRGIL’S AT CIMMIYOTTI’S

Craft beer brewed onsite, from-scratch cooking, full bar, family friendly. All housed in a 1915 former Packard car dealership located in historic downtown Pendleton.

Established 2010.

A Pendleton tradition since 1959.

Hand-cut steaks, cocktails, seafood, pasta and vegetarian items.

Serving dinner Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 4 p.m.

230 SE COURT AVE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-6090 PRODIGALSONBREWERY.COM

137 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-7711

HERITAGE STATION MUSEUM

PENDLETON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

A step through the doors of Heritage Station will begin a journey through the history of Umatilla County. Whether it’s sitting at a desk in the Byrd Schoolhouse, walking through the caboose, looking inside the barn, setting foot in a cabin from the late 1800s or enjoying our indoor exhibits, there is a lot of history to share.

At the Pendleton Center for the Arts, we provide opportunities to view, buy and make art.

Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, $5/adults, $4/Seniors, $2/ Students, Members Free.

Experience exciting work by a range of artists, from regional favorites to icons of American art history, or browse the best fine craft work in the region for a special gift. You can check our website to plan ahead or just catch one of the many FREE, drop-in art events we have each week. It’s always FREE to come in and explore.

214 N. MAIN, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 278-9201 • PENDLETONARTS.ORG

MONTANA PEAKS HAT CO. Hats custom-designed and fitted for cowboys and city slickers alike. Individually handcrafted using traditional methods and historic equipment. Come for a tour!

We cater to the truly discriminating felt hat wearer.

Our hats are all handmade and customized by shape, fit and accessories. Using traditional methods handed down through generations, each hat is made with the exacting standards you expect from a well-made hat. We believe there is no substitute for quality, and we stand by every hat we build. We are sure you will agree–our hats are unsurpassed in quality and value!

PENDLETON UNDERGROUND TOURS Take a 90-minute guided tour through Pendleton’s infamous past. Find out why Pendleton was once the entertainment capital of Eastern Oregon. Learn about the Chinese, prohibition, Madam Stella Darby and her Cozy Rooms bordello and much more. This is an unforgettable walk back through time. While you are here visit our Duff Severe Western Art Gallery and our gift shop where the tours begin.

Call for tour times and office hours. Reservations are needed in advance. Cost is $15. No children under 6 years old and no animals allowed on the tour. Be sure to like us on Facebook.

24 SW COURT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 215-1400 MONTANAPEAKS.NET

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31 SW EMIGRANT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-0730 PENDLETONUNDERGROUNDTOURS.ORG

FINDOUTMOREATVISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EXPLORE Umatilla County

HAMLEY STEAKHOUSE & SALOON Hamley Café open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Serves lunch 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hamley Saloon open 4 p.m.

Happy Hour 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Hamley Steakhouse dinner starting at 5 p.m.

Where friends and family meet.

8 SE COURT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 278-1100 HAMLEYSTEAKHOUSE.COM

COMMUNITY THRIFT SHOP The Community Thrift Shop is a boutique thrift store that supports the Umatilla County Historical Society. Shop the Community Thrift Shop often and see the ever changing inventory, or donate your gently used items.

Open Mon-Fri 10 am - 4 pm & Saturday noon - 4 pm.

138 SE COURT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-7808

UMATILLA COUNTY FAIR Join us Aug. 11-15, 2020 @ EOTEC, home of the Umatilla County Fair and Farm City Pro Rodeo!

Enjoy 5 nights of Main Stage entertainment, secondary stage acts & ACRES of carnival fun, games, vendor booths, fair food, activities, contests, exhibits & more! Children 10 & under are admitted for free! On day 2 of the fair, come experience the Farm City Pro Rodeo in our stateof-the-art arena! Support 4-H and FFA programs Photo courtesy of Blake Ranch Pix at our Youth Livestock Auction on Saturday!

Register your 1st through 5th graders in our 4-day, Fun @ The Fair Day Camp for a unique, behind the scenes fair adventure! #UCF! 1705 E AIRPORT RD., HERMISTON, 97838 • (541) 567-6121 • UMATILLACOUNTYFAIR.NET

TASTY TOURING IN FARM COUNTRY Buckets brimming with purple berries, generous slabs of sweet melon, bottles of award-winning syrah! This rolling landscape is known for its bounty. Two self-guided tours ensure you encounter the latest crop of growers and sample their homegrown offerings. Pick up or print out a map of the Whisky & Rocks Farm Loop and the River to Hills Farm Trail and taste your way through our award-winning beverages, top quality produce, decadent chocolates and yummy cheese. Meet the makers and take home hand-tooled leather items and country-inspired crafts.

WHISKYROCKSFARMLOOP.COM • RIVERHILLSFARMLOOP.COM

BUTTERCREEK COFFEEHOUSE Historic downtown Echo’s meeting spot, featuring espresso and coffee drinks made with beans sourced from Buckin’ Bean Roasters of Pendleton. We offer home-made cookies, cinnamon rolls and other sweets, as well as grab n’ go lunches and local beers and wines. While you’re here, shop our mercantile section for unique, Oregon-made gifts.

201 W. MAIN, ECHO, 97826 • (541) 376-5540

ALEXANDER’S ARTISAN CHOCOLATES Indulgence awaits.

HERMISTON DOWNTOWN Visit Downtown Hermiston for dining, shopping and fun events! Our 2020 Calendar includes: Art Festival – May 16; Cork & Barrel – June 27; SpudFest – July 11; Melon Fest – August 22; and Harvest Festival – October 3. Plus join the crowd the First Thursday of every month for special discounts, refreshments and drawings!

239 E MAIN STREET, HERMISTON, 97838 • (541) 289-1112

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

Experience the ultimate in handcrafted chocolates and fine wine at Alexander’s Artisan Chocolates in historic downtown Pendleton, Oregon.

363 S MAIN ST, PENDLETON, OR 97801 • (541) 429-5110 • ALEXANDERS.BIZ

E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Morrow County

ADVENTURE ABOUNDS

MORROW COUNTY

WATER RECREATION

EMBRACE THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Morrow County has a rich history, from the Morrow County Courthouse that survived the great 1903 flood to the vast Columbia River that now flows over the original town of Boardman. Today, as you travel in the diverse county, you will find a beautiful marina along the Columbia River, thousands of miles to bike on scenic byways and friendly small town businesses to help you along the way. Don’t miss a stop at the SAGE Center at the Port of Morrow, which interprets the impact of agriculture and technology on this region, with hands-on exhibits and even a taste of local foods.

Willow Creek flows from the Blue Mountains and eventually into the Columbia River. Near Heppner, the creek fills the namesake reservoir, which creates a 125-acre lake that is home to trout, bass and catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers.

Cool off in swimming pools at Willow Creek Water Park in Heppner. In North Morrow County, a swim in the warm summer water at Boardman Marina and R.V. Park is the perfect revitalizer on your drive along I-84. Guests can stroll along a walking path on the banks of the Columbia River, stake out prime camping spots and fish. Catch the annual Walleye Fishing Contest at the marina each summer, and compete with a group of friends as a team to catch as many as you can.

FORESTS AND PARKS Camping and hunting enthusiasts will enjoy Anson Wright Park as well as Cutsforth Park, both within an hour’s drive of Heppner. Cutsforth Park is a popular stop along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, with trails to explore for hikers and horseback riders. Part of the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway route, the byway is also perfect for riders looking for a physical challenge in a remote and beautiful setting.

GO OFF-ROAD

Morrow-Grant County OHV Park

Anson Wright Park

With more than 9,000 acres to explore via all-terrain vehicle, hiking, biking or horseback riding, the MorrowGrant Counties OHV Park is a favorite place to escape and has a variety of campgrounds to choose from. During spring and summer, stop for a meal at the Landing Lodge inside the park, an American-style restaurant.

GOLFING Willow Run Executive Golf Course in Boardman was designed by Dallas Wilson and is a favorite for its friendly atmosphere. In Heppner, the Willow Creek Country Club is a semi-private, 9-hole course with affordable fees.

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FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTOS BOT TOM KRIS TI C A SON

Boardman Marina

Morrow County

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

HERITAGE IN HEPPNER MUSEUMS

COURTHOUSE

The Morrow County Museum in Heppner is a museum centered around rural life, displaying photographs and artifacts dating back to the 19th century, when the area was settled post-Oregon Trail.

Exhibits range from agricultural history to a discussion of the Native American presence in the county and from the history of rural medical care to the story of the Heppner Flood.

At the Agricultural Equipment Museum, gain a window into farm machinery. Check out a snapshot of the town’s heritage at the mural on Riverside Street.

Finished in 1903 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture, design and craftsmanship, the Morrow County Courthouse is one of the oldest courthouses in Oregon that is still in use today. Features include a hip roof, a central entrance pavilion and a domed cupola with clock faces on three sides.

Hilltop History

>>

The courthouse site is elevated above much of the rest of Heppner, which saved the building from the great flood of 1903, just three months after county officials moved their offices into the finished structure.

Morrow County Courthouse

SEE HOW AGRICULTURE SHAPED A REGION

SAGE CENTER In 2013, the Port of Morrow opened the Sustainable Agriculture and Energy (SAGE) Center to tell the story of how agriculture and technology shaped the region, and to exhibit to what extent industry in the area continue to work together—especially in regards to sustainability. SAGE provides free educational tours to students and provides visitors from all over the world the opportunity to experience this region’s agricultural, industrial and transportation heritage and future. Soar over Morrow County to explore some of the best farmland in the country on a simulated hot air balloon ride. Watch a potato turn into curly fries.

Also in simulations, try your hand at milking a cow or driving a tractor. Browse the gift shop and finish your visit with a scoop of delicious Tillamook ice cream.

PHOTO TOP DAVID J ENSEN

MORROW COUNTY WINTER MARKET

SAGE Center

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

This annual holiday event features a Ladies Night Out on December 6, 2020 with door prizes, live music and refreshments. The family day on Saturday features entertainment and kids craft exhibits. Admission is free and offers an excellent opportunity to shop for holiday gifts, including handmade gifts, home decor, jewelry and beauty products.

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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Morrow County

4th of July in Boardman

Watermelon Festival in Irrigon

Wee Bit O’Ireland in Heppner

CELEBRATIONS CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY AND HAVE SOME FUN AT THESE ANNUAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS. Morrow County’s small towns embrace the meaning of community. Whether you are simply passing through or are planning on taking part in one of the area’s many events, you will leave with lasting memories.

WEE BIT O’IRELAND Always held the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day (for 2020, March 13-15), this Heppner event celebrates the Irish community. The event starts and ends with the Sheep Dog Trials. Find entertainment and activities for the whole family such as the Irish Coffee Hour, Great Green Parade, the welly toss and Cruz-In. You may not be Irish when you come, but you’ll be Irish when you leave!

4TH OF JULY

Celebrations kick off in Boardman with a pancake breakfast and hometown parade. Enjoy a day of entertainment at the Boardman Marina that ends with fireworks over the Columbia River. In Ione, celebrations take place at the Ione city park and amphitheater. Start with the Fireman’s breakfast, enjoy events all day, then watch the great firework display, visible throughout Ione.

WATERMELON FESTIVAL

HARVEST FESTIVAL

The Irrigon Watermelon Festival is an annual event held at the Irrigon Marina the last weekend in July (July 25, 2020). The allday festival consists of a breakfast, parade, games, live entertainment, classic car show, and craft and food vendors, alongside plenty of watermelons. Cap off the evening with your best dance moves at the street dance.

The annual Morrow County Harvest Festival occurs on October 3, 2020. Vendors sell locally made food, crafts and clothing. Free activities include mule drawn wagon rides, pumpkin painting and a photo booth. Live music as well as a beer and wine garden are an added attraction for adults. It’s a beautiful fall event for the whole family, held at the SAGE Center in Boardman and co-hosted by the Boardman Chamber.

BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTURY SCENIC BIKEWAY RIDE

In Oregon’s Rugged Country, the landscape changes quickly, from rolling hills of the Umatilla National Forest to wide fields of wheat.

See it all by bike on the annual summertime group ride the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway. Sponsored by the Heppner Chamber, it follows a section of the Oregon Trail, beginning and ending in Heppner and winding through both Umatilla and Morrow counties, including the half-way point Ukiah. The loop will challenge cyclists and lead to stunning views of the region.

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JOIN THE FUN EVERY MARCH!

“A WEE BIT O’IRELAND”

CLIMB, DIVE AND STEP INTO INFINITE

fun

HEPPNER OREGON

SAVE THE

DATES!

38TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATION March 13-15, 2020

For more information, go to

HEPPNERCHAMBER.COM

For details call: 541-676-5536 or Email: heppnerchamber@centurytel.net

,000 SQ. FT. O OVER 43 F EN TER TAIN ME NT! AFFO RDAB LE DAILY PASSES

- Featuring -

3 Pools • Water Slide • Weights/Cardio Room • Aerobics Room • Double Basketball Court Sized Gym • Rock Climbing Wall • Meeting Room • Family Changing Rooms • Men & Women’s Locker Rooms BOARDMAN POOL & RECREATION CENTER

311 N . O L S O N R O A D , B O A R D M A N , O R E G O N (B Y S AGE CE NTE R)

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

M O N D AY - T H U R S D AY 5:30 A M - 9 P M | F R I D AY 6 AM - 9 P M S AT 9 A M - 9 P M | S U N D AY 12 P M - 7P M

ver, Learn o c s i D & P l a y!

At the Sustainab Sustainable ble Agriculture Agricullture and and EEnergy gy CCenter t , education our mission ssion is hands-on learning and edu ucation through fun and over Morrow County on a interactive multi-media exhibits. Soar ov simulated hot air balloon ride. Watch a ppotato turn into curly fries. Try your hand at milking a cow or ddriving a tractor. fries Browse our gift shop and finish your visit with a scoop of delicious Tillamook ice cream!

101 OLSON ROAD WWW.VISIT

BOARDMAN, OR EXIT 164 .COM 541.481.7243

Run & Play on the playground!

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY

Morrow County

EAT AT C&D

C&D Drive-In

THIS CLASSIC DRIVE-IN IS A MUST STOP IN BOARDMAN If you’re driving through Boardman, you won’t miss the tall vintage sign out front that declares: “Eat!” C&D Drive-In and Bakery has been a go-to and locals’ favorite for more than two decades. Located right off of I-84, with deli sandwiches, fresh baked pizza and lots of burger options including a fresh and tasty elk burger, this old fashioned drive in is a muststop. Friendly service is available all day, as the C&D is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Homemade cookies, fresh-made donuts and brownies and bars are on the “bakery” side of the menu. Don’t forget to take some ice cream for the road. Grab a blackberry shake or some soft-serve in a waffle cone and roll on to the next gorgeous Eastern Oregon destination.

RESPITE IN HEPPNER A ROOM FOR THE NIGHT OR JUST A BITE Sometimes you just want a simple, beautiful place to rest for the night. That’s how Alvin Liu felt the first time he came to Heppner from Taiwan over two decades ago. He saw the rolling hills and wide-open sky of this remarkable region, and recalls, “I knew it was a place I’d hold dear in my heart.” Alvin settled in and attended Blue Mountain Community College and then Eastern Oregon University. He married, and he and his wife Lynda purchased the Northwestern Motel in downtown Heppner, securing a place for not only himself, but plenty of weary travelers, to rest. Over time, Liu added an RV Park to the motel. Then came the Cornerstone Gift Shop, Gateway Café, and Happy Pappy’s Catering Service, and you might say that these days, Alvin is the center of the hospitality industry in Heppner. Don’t be surprised if you see Alvin and Lynda themselves over the counter when you visit these establishments. Heppner is his own American dream, and he’s not going anywhere. “Rural communities may be small in size, but they are absolutely enormous in heart!” he said.

Northwestern Motel

PHOTOS J ONI K ABANA

Heppner

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EXPLORE Morrow County

WILLOW CREEK RV PARK

BOARDMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Please join us for boating, swimming, camping, and the scenery. The Willow Creek RV Park overlooks Willow Creek Lake/Reservoir. The Park is located on Willow Creek Road one mile from the junction of Hwy 207, south of Heppner.

The Park location is along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway and Bikeway.

Boardman offers our visitors and locals alike many recreational opportunities such as walking, biking, golf and fishing. With a nice selection of restaurants, motels, & RV sites.

Willow Creek RV Park has 23 spaces available. All have 50-60’ pull through and 2 that are back-ins. There are also tent sites available. The sites vary in services available but a majority of them have full hook ups and are designed to be compatible with large modern motor homes.

Willow Creek RV Park also offers restrooms with showers, picnic areas, Wi-Fi and a close by boat ramp at the lake’s marina around the corner.

Sport fishing has become popular on the mighty Columbia River, Boardman will be hosting the 2020 Columbia River Walleye Anglers Summer Classic July 11 & 12, 2020. $10,000 guarantee to the winning boat of the tournament, sponsored by Portview Appartments of Boardman, OR. Angler of the Year award will be awarded this weekend to the top angler of the CRWA Association as well.

We now offer online reservations at www.willowcreekpd.com 68965 WILLOW CREEK RD, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-1230 • WILLOWCREEKPD.COM

101 OLSON RD, BOARDMAN, 97836 • (541) 481-3014 • BOARDMANCHAMBER.ORG

ORDNANCE BREWING

TREO BIKE TOURS

Ordnance is a farmer owned craft brewery, located in the heart of Oregon’s beer desert. Our mission is to brew: DISTINCT, HONEST & SIMPLY ENJOYABLE BEER. Our beer can be found throughout Oregon, Washington and N. Idaho.

You can also swing by any of our 3 taprooms, 7 days a week:

You won’t see many motor carriages as you ride through Oregon’s Old West territory. What you will see is breathtaking scenery, panoramic vistas, historic homesteads and ghost towns, rock formations, swimming holes, rolling wheat fields, desert, farm and forest land.

Main Brewery location & Taproom: 405 N Olson Rd Boardman OR 97818 Wilsonville Taproom: 9740 SW Wilsonville Rd #200, Wilsonville, OR 97070 Neighbor Dudes (Hermiston) Taproom: 405 N 1st St. Hermiston, OR 97838 405 N OLSON RD, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 314-8720 • ORDNANCEBREWING.COM

55600 HARDMAN RIDGE ROAD, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-5840 TREOBIKETOURS.COM

GATEWAY CAFE

TWO OLD HAGS PIZZA TWO OLD HAGS PIZZA A local hometown pizza shop established in 2017. Stop in and try a pizza on our daily made pizza crust, as well as a gluten free option, pair this with our homemade marinara sauce or any one of our specialty pizza sauces we make in house. A fresh salad bar, daily lunch and monthly specials along with burgers, sub sandwiches, breadsticks and much more. We offer a light casual dining atmosphere. Where our motto is “come in as a guest, leave as our friend.”

111 N. COURT, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-1010

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

Gateway Café is excited to introduce our newest service to cater your next event! Happy Pappy’s Catering Service 541-371-2481 Gateway Café will be open Friday and Saturday from 5pm to closing serving steaks, seafoods, pastas, chops, burgers, teriyaki, and much more. Following us on Facebook for weekly specials and updates. www. facebook.com/Gatewaycafeheppner 168 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-6000

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY pg. 98 Grant County Hunting, fishing, hiking, biking adventures and more await those who take the time to explore the remote and scenic reaches of Grant County.

pg. 100 Wheeler County As the home to fossil beds, ancient oceans and the gateway to the John Day River, PHOTOS THIS PAGE TOP LEF T AND BOT TOM ALE X J ORDAN

Wheeler County beckons sportsmen as well as sightseers ready to explore its natural riches.

pg. 102 Gilliam County World-class kitesurfing on the Columbia River in Arlington. Cycling though rolling

Clockwise from left: John Day River.

Painted Hills. Kitesurfing in Arlington.

1188 Brewing.

hills with mountain views.

pg. 104 Sherman County

Discover some of the richest fossil beds in the world, Oregon’s newest state park and two scenic bikeways in this riverine region. Also gaze upon hills hued in nature’s most brilliant colors, made from eons of layers of ash and clay. Named after one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the country, the John Day River Territory is home to spectacular geography and friendly people.

Perched on the high Columbia Plateau between the Deschutes and John Day rivers, Sherman County is the gateway to the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

I Like It Here

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE: ARUNA JACOBI German mother-daughter team Aruna and Barbara Jacobi discovered this region in the 1990s, when Barbara first saw the Painted Hills and subsequently purchased two cottages nearby. They spent the next years driving from Seattle each weekend to work on the houses and gardens, discover magical places off the beaten paths and fall in love with the region. Today the cottages are Painted Hills Vacation–Cottages & Retreat, and welcome guests from around the globe. In 2016, Aruna and Barbara added a third cottage, and this year they launched the food truck Dino Bite.

❝I love that there is no light pollution here. You can see the Milky Way across the night sky, and many shooting stars, especially when the meteor showers arrive every year in August and September.❞

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

Hike to the Stove Pipes

Visit the Priest Hole

About 10 miles past the Painted Hills Unit in the direction of Twickenham is the BLM-managed Priest Hole. This is one of the best places to explore the John Day River which winds through this pristine valley filled with wild and magic beauty. You can walk a nice loop along the river, discovering small hidden beaches perfect for fishing and swimming.

Across the river, see the Painted Hills theme repeated in the landscape.

3

Drive the LOOP

Part of the Journey through Time Scenic Byway, the LOOP features breathtaking landscapes and vistas around every bend of the road. The roundtrip journey of about 4 to 5 hours starts in Mitchell and offers fantastic stops like Sheep Rock, Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, Cant Ranch Museum, Blue Basin, the trail of Fire and Ice, Thomas Orchards, the John Day River, and the towns of Spray and Fossil are along the way.

Aruna and Barbara

>>

The walk to the Stove Pipes on Sutton Mountain is a smaller version of the Blue Basin, presented in yellow colors, not blue.

The walk is easy along an old dry riverbed and ends in a geological fairy land, with small yellowish clay hills surrounded by steep rock formations and beautiful landscape views. It gives you a glimpse of the ancient history out here— there is so much beauty there and one usually has the place to oneself.

2

Pristine Nature Abounds

Aruna and Barbara wanted to create a special place for visitors from all around the world to stay and explore this amazing area, especially the Painted Hills Unit, but also Blue Basin, Smith Rock, Clarno and the John Day River. Barbara, a master gardener, created the extraordinary European gardens surrounding the cottages. Aruna’s father, an artist, painted many of the landscapes adorning the walls of the cottages. “There is beauty everywhere,” said Aruna. “I love how the light changes with the seasons and the subtle change in colors and moods. The Painted Hills

Sutton Mountain

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Thomas Condon Paleontology Center

are always special, no matter what the weather or the time of day. That’s the main attraction out here—pristine nature.”

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T COURTES Y BURE AU OF L AND M ANAGEMENT, BOT TOM RIGHT ALE X J ORDAN

1

HOTEL

Come. Explore. Stay.

The best of the new and the oldâ&#x20AC;Ś at the foot of the Strawberry Mountains 112 Front Street, Prairie City, OR

541-820-4800

hotelprairie.com

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Grant County

GRANT COUNTY

KAM WAH CHUNG & CO. MUSEUM

TEE UP AND EXPLORE A WILD OUTDOORS WITH A BIG DOSE OF GOLD RUSH HISTORY. Outdoor adventures from hunting and fishing to hiking and biking await those who take the time to explore the remote and scenic reaches of Grant County. Steeped in history, the area was a gold mining region that drew thousands to its boomtowns in the late 1800s. The gold is gone but the pioneering spirit endures. Visitors have plenty to explore—from the historic Kam Wah Chung Chinese State Heritage Site to the picturesque Strawberry Mountains. If you’re looking for adventure without boundaries, Grant County has it in abundance.

The Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum in the small city of John Day remains much as it was nearly a century ago when a thriving community of gold rush-inspired Chinese emigrants called the John Day area home. The Kam Wah Chung store and apothecary was at the center of the community, and today its shelves of well-preserved herbal and traditional medicines serve as a window into history.

HIKE AND CAMP THE STRAWBERRY MOUNTAINS Located just east of the town of John Day, the “Strawberries” (as they are affectionately known) are one of the most scenic and accessible ranges in Eastern Oregon. More than 60,000 acres of land is set aside in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, an area that includes Strawberry Peak and Strawberry Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for nearly 400 species of birds, black bears and California Big Horn Sheep.

Strawberry Lake

Silvies Valley Ranch

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

Silvies Valley Ranch on scenic Highway 395 merges luxury and relaxation with an authentic Western ranch experience. Golf the 18-hole reversable course—one of only three reversable courses in the state of Oregon. The Hankins and Craddock courses are the same course played two different directions. Play one way one day, and reverse on the alternate day, to provide two distinctly different golf experiences. There is also a 9-hole Chief Egan course and the 7-hole McVeigh’s Gauntlet. In addition to world-class golf, feast on delicious and unique dining options, partake in exclusive outdoor experiences, and relax at the spa. Lodging is authentically western yet totally luxurious. A private airstrip is available for those wishing to fly directly on to the property. Have no doubt that a simply amazing adventure awaits you at Silvies Valley Ranch.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP TROY MCMULLIN / AL A MY S TOCK PHOTO, BOT TOM AISHA HARLE Y

SILVIES VALLEY RANCH

EXPLORE Grant County

One of Oregonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest general st es, over 124 years of service. Stop by and see where the Old West still lives.

ll ach G&rSi teak o c e g a t The S Chicken es

d beverag g Grille Featurin ariety of Ice Cold Condon &v at the kabobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Join us eds . s e g a s u Fossil B , and Sa t the John Day 6 0 - pm Center a p Rock Unit. 1 y. e he Monda at the S through Friday

207 W FRANKLIN AVENUE, DAYVILLE, OR 97825 | DAYVILLEMERC.COM | (541) 987-2133

1188 BREWING COMPANY Welcome to 1188 Brewing Company, Grant Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only modern day brewery. Nestled in the City of John Day, Oregon and surrounded by beautiful mountains, rivers, and forests, the popular 1188 has become a favorite gathering place for a cold pint of craft beer, a unique menu and good company. All beer is brewed on site and many of our menu items are handcrafted as well. Come in and enjoy a delightful menu of unique items sure to please the most discriminating palate and the most robust of appetites. A visit to the brewery and restaurant is truly â&#x20AC;&#x153;Time Well Spentâ&#x20AC;? for the entire family.

141 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 â&#x20AC;˘ (541) 575-1188 â&#x20AC;˘ 1188BREWING.COM

GRANT COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT The Grant County Regional Airport terminal was designed for energy efficiency and also to complement the colors and textures of the natural environment. A third-story observation deck allows visitors to enjoy expansive views of the surrounding mountains while watching air traffic come and go. The airport, open since the 1950s, serves both local pilots and visiting travelers. We offer Jet A and AVgas refueling, a pilot lounge and other amenities including a convenient courtesy car. A GPS instrument approach system and AWOS offer pilots safe and convenient access.

72000 AIRPORT ROAD, JOHN DAY, 97845 â&#x20AC;˘ (541) 575-1151 â&#x20AC;˘ gcra.org

EASTERN OREGON REALTY

DAYVILLE CAFE

Grant Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest real estate firm.

Serving Eastern Oregon since 1979.

We are proud to serve breakfasts to feed an army, all natural hamburgers and steak from the local Painted Hills Ranch, hand-cut french fries, fresh salads with lots of goodies, and hand breaded fish and prawns. All our desserts are made right in our kitchen. We have good food at a good price and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want you to leave hungry!

â&#x20AC;˘ Experienced agents, satisfied customers, lasting friendships â&#x20AC;˘ Home warranty for buyer/seller â&#x20AC;˘ IRS 1031 tax free exchanges â&#x20AC;˘ Accredited buyer/seller representation â&#x20AC;˘ Senior real estate representation Ranch - Residential - Recreational - Commercial 160 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 â&#x20AC;˘ (541) 575-2121 â&#x20AC;˘ EASTERNOREGONREALTY.NET

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

212 W FRANKLIN AVENUE, DAYVILLE, 97825 â&#x20AC;˘ (541) 987-2122

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Wheeler County

LEARN ABOUT FOSSILS, THEN GO FIND SOME

WHEELER COUNTY

A VAST EXHIBITION OF PREHISTORY. The least populous county in Oregon reveals plenty of charms, from modern bluegrass to family river floats to some of the most significant—and most beautiful—geology in the state.

Home to fossil beds, ancient oceans and the gateway to the John Day River, the region also beckons sightseers ready to explore the Painted Hills, one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon.

The Paleo Lands Institute Center in Fossil is a community-run information hub and the gateway to the ancient forests and sea floors that lay beyond. Maps, travel itineraries and well-informed staff will get you pointed in the right direction for your forays into the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

Bonus: Don’t leave town without visiting fossil beds behind Wheeler High School, which deliver artifacts of ancient flora and fauna—the only ones in the region that you are free to pick up and take home.

TAKE IN THE BEAUTY OF THE PAINTED HILLS One of three areas at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills are one of the most photographed places in Oregon. Rusted reds and copper orange mix with ochre and emerald to create this spectacular color splash.

Several trails offer short hikes to sweeping vistas of the area. Another geological wonder is the Clarno Unit, where the towering Palisades hold the 44-millionyear-old preservation of a near-tropical forest. Along the Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway, bike-friendly businesses such as Painted Hills Vacation Rentals, River Bend Motel, Spoke’n Hostel and Wilson Ranches Retreat enhance the journey.

FLOAT THE MIGHTY JOHN DAY RIVER

Painted Hills

Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival

The Wild and Scenic John Day River begins as a mountain stream and finishes as an desert river, cutting through a massive canyon. In spring and summer, raft and relax on the relatively peaceful and warm-watered river with few rapids. Perfect for a family or multigenrational float, the John Day is an excellent choice for swimming and floating in the sunshine of the high desert.

Jam at the Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival Held annually on the lawn outside of the historic county courthouse in Fossil, the Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival features three days of music, workshops, local food vendors, camping and jamming. Bring your lawn chair and get your music on.

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PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T ALE X J ORDAN

Clarno Unit

EXPLORE John Day River Territory

WILSON RANCHES RETREAT B&B

HOTEL PRAIRIE

Welcome to the epic beauty and pioneer hospitality on an authentic working cattle ranch.

• Wilson Ranches offers six pristine, ranch-style guest rooms in a genuine 1910 Sears Roebuck kit house.

• Wake up to a hearty family-style ranch breakfast.

• Saddle up for a ride into the high desert, hike, or mosey along while soaking in the diverse flora and fauna.

• Make us your home base for exploring pioneer towns, digging fossils in Fossil, fishing or rafting the John Day River, or wandering the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and the nearby Painted Hills—one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon.

Enjoy the best of the old and the new at Hotel Prairie--beautiful lobby, wine and beer lounge, patio, secure Wi-Fi and comfortable rooms with private bath. Located on Prairie City’s quaint main street with antique stores, specialty shops and dining. Hotel Prairie is the perfect base for hiking, cycling, fishing and wildlife viewing. Museums and geological sights close by. Driving electric?

Charge your vehicle, including Tesla, while having fun or enjoying a good night’s rest.

15809 BUTTE CREEK ROAD, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 763-2227 WILSONRANCHESRETREAT.COM

112 FRONT STREET, PRAIRIE CITY, 97869 • (541) 820-4800 • hotelprairie.com

RIVER BEND MOTEL

THE OREGON HOTEL

The River Bend Motel has clean rooms that are tastefully decorated with reasonable rates.

The Oregon Hotel is a beautiful historical hotel in Mitchell. If you are looking to take a step back in time and experience something different, come and visit this family-owned, breathtaking place. This building was built around 1936, is relaxing and has a positive vibe to it. It is a historical hotel, but has had a few upgrades. We are down to earth people and would love to have you visit our little lovely getaway. Many people say it’s like Grandma’s house.

Standard rooms, suites and a retreat house with riverside views are available.

708 WILLOW STREET HWY 19, SPRAY, 97874 • (541) 468-2053 RIVERBENDMOTEL.COM

SERVICE CREEK OUTFITTERS Service Creek Outfitters offers you lodging, on site store and cafe, raft rentals, Shuttles and all the needs for outfitters or a family raft float on the John Day River. We offer to locations for rooming, one right on the river in a 3 bedroom house or 5 rooms in the old boarding house. We have also added Glamcamping with 4 spots overlooking Service Creek. If you want bring your own tent and we have 4 camping spots, 2 right on the John Day River.

38686 HIGHWAY 19, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 468-3331 • SERVICECREEK.COM

104 E MAIN STREET, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3027 THEOREGONHOTEL.NET

SPOKE’N HOSTEL Travelers and explorers find respite and community at Spoke’n Hostel, just a few miles east of the Painted Hills National Monument. Fifteen spacious beds, a full kitchen, shower, WiFi, community spaces, laundry facilities, and creek-front tent camping make Spoke’n the perfect base station for hiking, biking, or sight-seeing the best of Eastern Oregon. Enjoy local cafés, restaurants, and pub, or visit the grocery store for ingredients to make your own meal in our kitchen.

Traveling by bicycle? Bring your bike inside and rest up before hitting the trail. Reserve a bed online today!

300 US HWY 26, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3333 • SPOKENHOSTEL.ORG

FOSSIL FUEL AND ESPRESSO

FOSSIL MUSEUM

Conveniently located at the corner of Hwy 19 and Main Street, Fossil Fuel and Espresso is a great stop for crafts by local artisans as well as an espresso to keep you going on your trek through Fossil. Our gas station Fossil Fill Up is located just two blocks north in the heart of downtown Fossil.

Stop in for directions, souvenirs and your refreshing drinks for the road.

Lower Pine Creek Schoolhouse, Steiwer’s Sheepherders Cabin.

1003 E MAIN STREET, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 763-4766

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Pictorial history back to the 1870’s. Audio tapes of oral histories by Wheeler County residents.

“Our museum is a warehouse of Wheeler County Memories” Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Wednesday - Monday 1 - 4 p.m.

501 FIRST STREET, FOSSIL, 97830

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Gilliam County

GILLIAM COUNTY

BIKE AND KITESURF

ROLLING HILLS AND PIONEER HERITAGE. Turn south at Arlington and follow Highway 19 as it climbs some 3,000 feet to the heart of the Columbia Plateau and historic downtown Condon, where the Fourth of July parade and celebration is the largest annual event. The John Day River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the U.S.—a rafters paradise and anglers heaven that cuts through this wide open landscape dominated by wheat fields on rolling hills that meet seemingly endless skies.

Gilliam County lies within a hour’s drive of three scenic bikeways, but also has hundreds of miles of car-free gravel roads and scenic roadways to explore.

Cruise up or down Highway 19 or Highway 206 to Cottonwood Canyon State Park. Windsurfers will want to head to the Port of Arlington to set sail.

Standup paddleboarders can rent a board from Arlington Hardware (lessons also available).

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CONDON Seated high atop the Columbia Plateau, Condon is the commercial and cultural heart of Gilliam County. Stroll historic main street along Oregon Route 19 and browse through popular and hard-to-find titles at Powell’s Books. Country Flowers serves more than the name suggests, integrating a boutique and old-fashioned soda fountain.

Cycling Gilliam County

This historical museum is more like a real-life trip back in time than a visit to a historical society. Visit an authentic one-room schoolhouse and a brothelturned-barbershop, each over a century old, at this history interpretation center in Condon. The Museum also showcases famous past residents and Nobel Prize winners Linus Pauling and William Murphy, who are celebrated on Nobel Laureate Day each February. The Gilliam County Historical Museum is open May through October.

Artisans Market and Concert in the Park

Gilliam County Historical Museum

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Summer Concert in the Park

Condon’s talented artists and artisans come together to offer their works to the public at the artisans market in downtown. The same day, a concert in the park entertains a varied audience of all ages of music lovers.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP PHIL C ARL SON, BOT TOM LEF T J ONI K ABANA

GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

EXPLORE John Day River Territory

SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

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 military pride and patriotism of this county, the famous Sherman County Journal newspaper along with hands on activities, museum store and so much more. Information Visitor Center, Wi-Fi, and bike friendly. Open May through October.

Located right next to Burns Park in Condon, displaying several historical buildings with furnished period interiors, including an 1884 Homestead, 1905 Railroad Depot, a 1900 Country School house, a 1900’s Barbershop, the old Condon City Hall and Jail, a country church, and finally a large agricultural display building with antique equipment and vehicles. Tours can be customized to fit all ages and special interest for large or small groups. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Open Wednesday thru Sunday 1 to 5pm (pst).

Open May 1st through last Sunday in October; Memorial and Labor Day.

200 DEWEY STREET, MORO, 97039 • (541) 565-3232 • SHERMANMUSEUM.ORG

HIGHWAY 19, BURNS PARK, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4233

COUNTRY FLOWERS

THE CORRALS CAMPGROUND

Be amazed at the unique assortment of gifts, clothing and toys available in the relaxing atmosphere.

This small campground located in South Gilliam County offers campers dry camping for tents or RVs. Horse pens are available for riders who wish to visit nearby public and deeded land for trail riding and sightseeing.

Access to the John Day River and Thirty Mile Creek are currently being used by guests who wish to launch rivercraft to float the John Day River, bank fish, swim, hike or pursue other recreational activities. For reservations and fees call Rita at 541-384-4189, or email ritarattray@gmail.com.

Enjoy espresso, hard ice cream and food from the old fashioned soda fountain, or pick up a book from Powell’s Books.

Reminiscent of “Mayberry R.F.D.” and “Cheers,” Country Flowers is where you will be made to feel welcome. Come in and get acquainted. We’d love to meet you.

201 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4120 COUNTRYFLOWERSCONDON.COM

WASCO HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST Wasco House B&B features comfortable rooms with queen beds and private bathrooms.

• Close to the Columbia, John Day and Deschutes rivers, wineries and museums • At the gateway to Eastern Oregon Email: info@wascohouse.biz 715 ARMSWORTHY STREET, WASCO, 97065 • (503) 341-4450 • WASCOHOUSE.BIZ

53461 ARMSTRONG ROAD, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4189

EXPLORE HISTORIC CONDON In Oregon, Condon could be on your way to anywhere. It could also easily be your destination. Condon is a proud, century-old farm community that is conscious of its productive past and acutely aware of the future it can offer to travelers and entrepreneurs, alike.

Breathtaking scenery, peaceful lifestyle, fresh air, gorgeous starlit night skies and friendly neighbors are a few of the luxuries Condon boasts. Experience a variety of family friendly events throughout the year, summer concerts, artisans markets and a hometown Fourth of July celebration. Visit our website for a list of events.

105 S MAIN STREET, PO BOX 315, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-7777 CONDONCHAMBER.ORG

PORT OF ARLINGTON

VISIT ARLINGTON OREGON

RV Park and Marina: Fishermen, experience some of the best bass and walleye fishing on the Columbia River.

Conveniently located at exit 137 on I-84, Arlington offers a picturesque park with clean restrooms, waterfront recreation on the Columbia River and many community events throughout the year. Local businesses include gas, restaurants, lodging, RV parks, tire repair, hardware, groceries and an EV charging station. Arlington is a great place to stop along the interstate so you can take your time and enjoy the ride. Whether you need to stretch your legs, want to spend the day on the river or are searching for a slice of small town life, Arlington is the place for you.

Port of Arlington offers newer facilities with free Boat launch and free Wind Surfing launch, fuel dock and free transient moorage. RV park has both full hook-ups and dry camping sites conveniently available. Sandy swim beach in adjacent Earl Snell Park. Call for reservation today.

I-84 EXIT 137 & COLUMBIA RIVER MILE 241.3, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 454-2868 PORTOFARLINGTON.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PO BOX 202, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 626-3426 • VISITARLINGTONOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Sherman County

SHERMAN COUNTY ROLLING HILLS AND A SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE.

Perched on the high Columbia Plateau between the Deschutes and John Day rivers, Sherman County is a place of abundant sky and few residents. Settled by ranchers and farmers in the late 19th century, today Sherman County is home to miles of rolling wheat fields that paint picturesque vistas across 360 degrees of horizon.

Well maintained, but lightly trafficked, roads make this a cyclists’ paradise. This is also the starting point for the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, where you can access world-class fishing on the nearby rivers and thousands of acres of public land.

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

EXPLORE COTTONWOOD CANYON STATE PARK AND EXPERIENCE CENTER Oregon’s second-largest state park is also one of its newest. Comprising some 8,000 acres straddling the lower John Day River canyon, Cottonwood boasts abundant wildlife, making this a destination for hunters, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Opened in 2018 is the 1,500 square foot Experience Center, which serves as a classroom for outdoor education as well as an event space. The Cottonwood Crossing Summer Institute is a weeklong residential field study course for high school students held onsite each summer.

SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM With more than 15,000 artifacts, centuries of history are represented at this museum.

Topics range from Native Americans to Oregon Trail pioneers and dry-land wheat farming to conservation. Military units and patriotic efforts are also paid homage.

WORLD CLASS FISHING

John Day River

This beautiful landscape offers many waterways perfect to get out and fish. From bass fishing on the John Day River to steelhead fishing on the Deschutes River to salmon on the Columbia River, there are plenty of reasons to take advantage of world class fishing in Sherman County.

The Wasco Loop offers the best of all cycling disciplines, combining gravel roads, pavement and trails. The 60-mile ride kisses the rim of the Deschutes River above Macks Canyon, where railroad barons once waged an epic construction competition to be the first line to Bend and its wealth of timber. The ride then heads east toward McDonald Ferry, where pioneers on the Oregon Trail forded the John Day River. In between, you’ll find the historic town of Wasco. This is the center of Oregon’s wind energy boom, where turbine blades rotating on nearby hills form a dramatic backdrop to the rolling wheat fields.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2020

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM LOWELL E. SMITH

CYCLE THE WASCO LOOP

If you’re waiting for your invitation to experience the wineries, food, and fun in Eastern Oregon –

You’re hereby cordially invited.

VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

RESOURCES

LOCAL EXPERTS MAKE EXCELLENT RESOURCES. CONTACT ONE OF THESE INFORMATION HUBS TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP. Arlington Community Chamber of Commerce PO Box 202 Arlington, OR 97812 541-626-3426 visitarlingtonoregon.com Baker County Tourism 800-523-1235 travelbakercounty.com Oregon Welcome Center and Boardman Chamber of Commerce 101 Olson Rd Boardman, OR 97818 541-481-3014 visitsage.com boardmanchamber.org City of Condon 128 S Main St Condon, OR 97283 541-384-2711 cityofcondon.com City of Fossil – Oregon Paleo Lands Institute 333 W Fourth St Fossil, OR 97830 541-763-4480 paleolands.org City of Echo 20 S Bonanza St PO Box 9 Echo, OR 97826 541-376-8411 echo-oregon.com City of Mitchell

mitchelloregon.us

City of Rufus 304 W Second St Suite 100 Rufus, OR 97050 541-739-2321 cityofrufus.com Condon Chamber of Commerce 307 S Main St Condon, OR 97823 541-384-7777 condonchamber.org Eastern Oregon Visitors Association 800-332-1843 visiteasternoregon.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @easternoregon Grant County Chamber of Commerce 301 W Main St John Day, OR 97845 800-769-5664 gcoregonlive.com

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Gilliam County Tourism PO Box 427 Condon, OR 97823 541-384-3767 co.gilliam.or.us Harney County Chamber of Commerce 484 N Broadway Burns, OR 97720 541-573-2636 harneycounty.com Hells Canyon Scenic Byway 800-848-9969 hellscanyonbyway.com

Oregon Parks & Recreation Dept.

800-551-6949 oregonstateparks.org Oregon Tourism Information traveloregon.com Road Conditions: 511 Calling from inside Oregon: 503-585-2941 Calling from outside Oregon: 800-977-6368 tripcheck.com Oregon’s Rugged Country 800-547-8911

Heppner Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1232 Heppner, OR 97836 541-676-5536 heppnerchamber.com

Port of Arlington 100 Port Island Rd Arlington, OR 97812 541-454-2868 portofarlington.com

Hermiston Chamber of Commerce PO Box 185 Hermiston, OR 97838 541-567-6151 hermistonchamber.com

Sherman County 500 Court St Moro, OR 97039 541-565-3416 co.sherman.or.us

Huntington Chamber 541-869-2529 visithuntingtonor.org

Travel Pendleton & Pendleton Chamber of Commerce 501 S Main St Pendleton, OR 97801 541-276-7411 travelpendleton.com

John Day River Territory info@johndayriverterritory.com 541-763-2191 johndayriverterritory.com Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Chief Joseph Days PO Box 13 Joseph, OR 97846 541-432-1015 chiefjosephdays.com Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce 157 S Columbia St Milton-Freewater, OR 97862 541-938-5563 mfchamber.com Ontario Chamber of Commerce 251 SW Ninth St Ontario, OR 97914 541-889-8012 ontariochamber.com Oregon Paleo Lands Institute 333 Fourth St Fossil, OR 97830 541-763-4480 paleolands.org

E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2020

Baker County Fair & Panhandle Rodeo

Umatilla Chamber of Commerce 100 Cline Ave Umatilla, OR 97882 541-922-4825 umatilla-city.org Union County Chamber 207 Depot St L a Grande, OR 97850 541-963-8588 unioncountychamber.org Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce 309 S River St Suite B Enterprise, OR 97828 541-426-4622

wallowacountychamber.com

Wallowa Mountains Visitor Center 201 E Second St Joseph, OR 97846 541-763-4328 fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman

Oregon Paleo Lands Institute

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SI TE A STE R NOR EGON.COM

Clay in Motion is a family owned and operated pottery studio. We create over 60 items in 9 patterns including The Original Handwarmer Mug (left or right handed). All of our pottery is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.

When you browse through our gift shop sipping coffee from Espresso in Motion, you will discover beautiful hand blown glass, jewelry, wall art, raku lamps, designer scarves, leather bags, garden art and so much more!

Piggy Bank

Open Every Day New Items Arriving Daily!

85301 Hwy 11 Milton Freewater, OR 541-938-3316

WOVEN in the

NORTHWEST Iconic wool shirts, USA-made blankets & so much more

P END LETON S TORE Blanket Outlet â&#x20AC;¢ Mill 1307 SE Court Place, Pendleton 541-276-6911 Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm Sunday 9am-5pm Winter hours may vary.

FREE MILL TOURS Monday-Friday 9am, 11am, 1:30pm & 3pm Please call to confirm.

B E ND O UTLET ST ORE 61334 S Hwy 97, Suite 200, Bend 541-383-7142 Monday-Saturday 9:30am-8pm Sunday 11am-6pm Winter hours may vary.

www.pendleton-usa.com