2019 Visitor Guide
Exploring the John Day River Territory Wander the open rangeland on horseback under sunny blue skies. FOOD FOR THE TRAIL Farm to table, vineyard to wine glass, taste the bounty of the region. CYCLING Two wheeled adventures abound on some of the most scenic roads anywhere.
Don’t try to reach me... I’ll be out of range.
A DV E N T U R E E CO - G E TA W AYS AT T H E RA N C H S I LV I E S , O R
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@SilviesSimplyAmazing
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www.Silvies.us @SilviesRetreat
Wallowa Lake
24 SOUTHEAST 28 Harney County Steens Mountain and the vast desert, sage and grasslands beyond. Birding at Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Pete French Round Barn. 32 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
40 Umatilla County Native American, cowboy and ranching cultures meet. Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway. Motorcycles. Ukiah. Umatilla National Forest.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 7 EASTERN OREGON’S FOUR REGIONS Scenic photos representing the distinct and beautiful landscapes of Eastern Oregon.
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ICONIC BITES & SIPS Experience the flavors of the region by road-tripping to the best coffee shops, diners, restaurants, ice cream stops and more.
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Welcome Letter Map Calendar Resources
64 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. 66 Gilliam County Raft or fish the mighty John Day River. Windsurf the Columbia River in Arlington. Charming downtown Condon. Heritage at Gilliam County Museum. 70 Sherman County Cycle the Wasco Loop. Sherars Falls. Oregon’s secondlargest state park, Cottonwood Canyon State Park.
72 NORTHEAST
Eastern Oregon’s rich history includes the stories of Native Americans, pioneers, geologists, miners, ranchers and more.
76 Baker County Three Oregon Scenic Byways intersect in Baker City, home to a historic district. Hells Canyon. Grand Tour Scenic Bikeway. Anthony Lakes.
ON TWO WHEELS
88 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.
CALENDAR Plan a trip to coincide with top events in the region.
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62 Grant County Explore a former boomtown mining region. Strawberry Mountains. Kam Wah Chung Museum. Cycle the Old West Scenic Bikeway.
HISTORY THROUGH TIME
Explore the region’s scenic byways and bikeways on road bikes, mountain bikes and motorcycles.
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58 JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
94 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.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO TOP DAVID J ENSEN, BOT TOM ALE X J ORDAN
2019 CONTENTS
52 Morrow County Engage with local agricultural industry at SAGE Center. See amber waves of grain while biking the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway. Take part in local festivities.
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CASINO • HOTEL • GOLF • CINEPLEX • RV• MUSEUM • DINING • TRAVEL PLAZA
800.654.9453 • Pendleton, OR I-84 Exit 216 • wildhorseresort.com
F
03039.BS.12.18
ROUNDUPS
Scenic Tour
A SCENIC TOUR OF EASTERN OREGON It’s big. It’s beautiful. It’s begging to be explored. Eastern Oregon is the largest region of this fine state. From rugged mountains to pristine rivers to high desert plains, the scenery just doesn’t stop. Explore Eastern Oregon’s four regions in these pages before you hit the road and see it all in person.
PHOTO SE AN BAGSHAW
SOUTHEAST OREGON Gaze up at the peaks of Leslie Gulch along the Owyhee River.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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Scenic Tour
ROUNDUPS
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
PHOTO DAVID J ENSEN
Hike into the hills of this unforgettable wide open country.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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ROUNDUPS
Scenic Tour
JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
PHOTO ALE X J ORDAN
Wander the open rangeland on horseback under sunny blue skies.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO ALE X J ORDAN
Scenic Tour
ROUNDUPS
NORTHEAST OREGON Dip into a family adventure on scenic Wallowa Lake.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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ROUNDUPS
Bites & Sips
Great Pacific Wine and Coffee Co.
ICONIC BITES & SIPS OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
This region has a reputation for its agricultural bounty, and the views along the way are just the icing on the cake. You can’t go wrong when you start your day with a coffee and breakfast sandwich. Tucked inside Murray’s Drugs in Heppner, Breaking Grounds Coffee is the favorite local stop first thing in the morning. From Heppner, head to Hermiston, a town near the Columbia River known for its watermelons. For lunch, Hermiston Brewing Company and Nookies Restaurant is the kind of place
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where you feel right at home surrounded by the locals. When you’re ready to take a quick break from exploring, grab a cider in Milton-Freewater. It doesn’t get more local than Blue Mountain Cider Company, a family-owned orchard of apples that are transformed into delicious hard ciders served in a historic building. For dinner, head to the cowboy capital of the region. Step back in time in the heart of Pendleton, with a glass of wine at Great Pacific Wine and Coffee Co., followed by dinner at Hamley Steakhouse & Saloon. Check out all the historic artifacts that adorn the Western-themed restaurant.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
Blue Mountain Cider Company
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTOS J ONI K ABANA
A foodie’s tour of the best bites and sips around Eastern Oregon, because we can’t be the only ones that plan our vacations around meals.
Bites & Sips
ROUNDUPS
NORTHEAST TERRITORY
PHOTO TOP RIGHT TALIA J E AN PHOTOGR APHY, OTHERS ALE X J ORDAN
Tour one of the remote corners of the state one bite at a time. Tucked on a corner in downtown La Grande, Knead’s Bakery should be the first stop for breakfast. Find handmade, from-scratch recipes of drool-worthy baked goods. Don’t forget to leave with a good cup of coffee in hand to fuel the day ahead. Known as the first stop on the Oregon Trail in Oregon, Baker City has grown into a charming small town filled with restored historic sites. Stop at Barley Brown’s Taphouse, where you can enjoy award winning craft beer brewed on site and a menu that everyone in the family can enjoy. In Joseph, the place to be for lunch is Old Town Café, where everything is scratch-made and the atmosphere is charming. Don’t leave Joseph without picking up a treat at Arrowhead Chocolates, which has won awards for its truffles. Just up the road in Enterprise, the local watering hole is Terminal Gravity Brewing. The craft brewery and pub opened twenty years ago in what they call “Middle of Nowhere, Center of the Universe” and have been drawing crowds to the homey atmosphere since. Stay for dinner, listen to the live music and kick back in the shadow of the Wallowas.
Old Town Café
Terminal Gravity Brewing
JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
1188 Brewing Company
Near the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Dayville is a small town on Highway 26 with a hidden gem of a breakfast joint. Stop at the Dayville Cafe for a big plate of food and a warm cup of coffee. If you’re driving through in the right season, visit Thomas Orchards in Kimberly. Fill your car with fresh produce from the fruit stand, or pick your own on the farm. In John Day, 1188 Brewing Company has a selection of bites like salad and flatbread to enjoy while you’re sipping on craft brews and is a perfect stop for lunch. Head north to Condon where the place to be for dinner is The Round-Up Bar + Kitchen. Find a variety of sandwiches and pizza on the menu that everyone in the family can enjoy, along with friendly people and good times.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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ROUNDUPS
Bites & Sips
SOUTHEAST TERRITORY
If you’re in Jordan Valley for breakfast, Rockhouse Coffee is the place to start your day. It’s a long drive to Fields Station in Fields, but anyone in Oregon will tell you that the milkshakes are legendary, and well worth the trip. Fill up your tank with a burger and fries, too. Back in Burns, Steens Mountain Brewing Co. is brewing some of the best beer in the region. Stop in for a tasting along your way. Second & Vine Bistro in Ontario has an extensive local wine and beer list to pair with its menu of Pacific Northwest fare. Relax there for an evening and enjoy the local flavors of the region.
FARM LOOPS A number of farm loops offer selfguided routes to feast upon. COVE-UNION FARM LOOP Pass more than two dozen backyard farm stands, greenhouses, pastures and orchards on the self-guided Cove-Union 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.
WHISKY & ROCKS FARM LOOP
Rockhouse Coffee
The Whisky & Rocks Farm Loop is for oenophiles and craft beer connoisseurs. Find stops at wineries, breweries, distilleries, cheesemakers and chocolatiers beginning in Pendleton and ending in Milton-Freewater.
Fields Station
RIVER TO HILLS FARM LOOP Follow the historic paths of Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail on the River to Hills Farm Loop that stretches from Boardman to Hermiston, Echo then on to Heppner. It’s great for families, with stops at museums as well as farms and restaurants.
WALLOWA BARN TOUR Thirty-one unique barns await on the Wallowa Barn Tour, a road-trip through the county that attracts photographers, historians and cyclists, and includes farms, breweries and restaurants.
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Platz Family Farm This small family farm in Union uses natural growing practices to produce a wide range of products from delicious berries, broccoli and
Platz Family Farm
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
beets to eggplant, honey and eggs.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA
Keep an eye out for new farm loops, including the Four Rivers Farm Trail near Ontario, the Baker County Century Farms Trail and the Kimberly Area Farm & Food Trail in the John Day River Territory.
The best road trip through
takes you through Grant County to the John Day Valley Photo Credit Come Ride With Us Motorcycle Maps
•d Ben
n Joh
Day
To Boise
Where the high desert meets the mountains
Enjoy our Grant County communities:
Grant County Chamber of Commerce www.gcoregonlive.com 541-575-0547
Stop by and see us at 301 West Main Street John Day, OR 97845
Download our Travel Guide App: Go to your app store and type in grantcounty, or
Photo Credit Blue Mountain Eagle
JOHN DAY • PRAIRIE CITY • CANYON CITY SENECA • MT VERNON • LONG CREEK DAYVILLE • MONUMENT • KIMBERLY DALE • FOX • GRANITE
Landscape photos and ad design by:
Timeline
ROUNDUPS
EASTERN OREGON THROUGH TIME DINOSAURS, FOSSILS AND RAILROADS, OH MY! The history, culture and geology of Eastern Oregon unfolded over time, leaving behind a rich landscape laden with treasures to be discovered by curious visitors today. Thomas Condon Paleontology Center
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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.
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MILLION YEARS AGO 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.
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MILLION YEARS AGO
10,000 1812 1840 YEARS THROUGH AGO 1880
Leaves and branches from deciduous trees fall into a shallow lake in Fossil, Oregon, ultimately forming fossils that can be found to this day. Visit the hill behind Fossil High School to dig for your own fossils.
Tribes of the Northern Pauite, Shoshonean, Wasco-Wishram, Walla Walla and Bannock populated Eastern Oregon. Visit Tamástslikt Cultural Institute or Four Rivers Cultural Center to explore historic native culture.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
John Day passed by where the mouth of the Mahhah River meets the Columbia en route to the new Pacific Fur Company post in Astoria. By the 1850s, the Mahhah River bore his name. The John Day River is popular today for fishing, rafting and recreation.
The Oregon Trail was a wagon road stretching 2,170 miles from Missouri to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Search for wagon ruts near the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO LEF T ALE X J ORDAN, RIGHT BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
Timeline
ROUNDUPS
1862 1865 1866 1877 1880s 1889 Gold is discovered in Sumpter! Three gold dredges were put into service between 1912 and 1934—one remains today as the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area.
Thomas Condon begins 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.
Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, son of Sacagawea and Toussaint Charbonneau of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, dies near Danner, Oregon. A modest grave at the site can be visited today.
Chief Joseph, the leader of the Wallowa band of the Nez Perce Tribe, leads his people on an epic flight across the Rocky Mountains while battling the U.S. Army. Visit the burial site of Old Chief Joseph, his father, just north of Wallowa Lake near Joseph.
Ing “Doc” Hay, a Chinese herbalist, establishes the Kam Wah Chung Company, which became an important social, medical and religious center for Oregon’s Chinese community. Today, Kam Wah Chung is a museum and veritable time capsule of the historic Chinese market.
Described as the finest hotel between Portland, Oregon and Salt Lake City, Utah, the Geiser Grand Hotel opened in 1889 during the gold rush and was dubbed “The Queen of the Mines.” Don’t miss a chance to stay in this beautiful historic hotel, extensively restored to grandeur and reopened in 1993.
Geiser Grand Hotel
PHOTOS TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Painted Hills State Park
Sumpter Valley Railroad
The Sumpter Valley Railroad was built in 1890 to transport logs to the sawmill in Baker City. Today, tours run for visitors from Memorial Day through September.
The first Pendleton Round-Up springs to life, 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.
1890 1910 FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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ROUNDUPS
Timeline
Baker County Century Farms Trail
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Tamástslikt Cultural Institute
A local physician teamed up with an entrepreneur to develop a 180-degree hot spring swimming pool south of Burns. Today, Crystal Crane Hot Springs continues to draw guests to its healing waters.
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The first chairlift opened at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, one of Oregon’s best small ski areas still in operation today.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is established, securing the protection of Oregon’s most extensive fossil deposits.
Tamástslikt Cultural Institute opens, interpreting the history of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes. Visit this cultural treasure in Pendleton on your journey.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario opens a Japanese garden to honor Japanese and Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II and who have fought for the United States.
Eastern Oregon gets its sixth food trail, the Baker County Century Farms Trail. Learn more about regional food trails on page 12.
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PHOTO RIGHT BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
1920s 1967 1974 1998 2005 2019
Make Railriders part of your adventure in the wallowas Online Reservations jbrailriders.com 501 W Alder St, Joseph, OR 97846 For more railriding adventures, visit: ocrailriders.com & vcrailriding.com
La Laguna Family Mexican Restaurant
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, we won't tell anyone youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here.
Authentic Homemade Dinners Large Selection of Vegetarian Entrees Enterprise, OR 307 W North St 541.426.3500
Joseph, OR 507 N Main St 541.432.0380
1100 Acres Lift Accessed Terrain. 30km Nordic Trails . Fun, family atmosphere. Cat Skiing. Yurt Rentals. Mountain Bike Trails. Camping. Summer at the Starbottle.
www.AnthonyLakes.com
ROUNDUPS
Cycling
EASTERN OREGON IS ON A ROLL Open road enthusiasts will discover miles of roads lined with more trees, prairies and cattle than people and cars. With four designated scenic bikeways covering more than 400 miles, each passing mile is drenched in blue skies and rugged scenery. THE OLD WEST HAS A NEW SET OF SPOKES.
SCENIC BIKEWAYS 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 winding John Day River, as well as the world-famous 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.
Old West Scenic Bikeway
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Baker City Cycling Classic
Bike Friendly Go it solo or book a supported tour with pro guides who will lead you through this high desert landscape.
CRUISE ON SCENIC BYWAYS High Desert Discovery 127 miles
Blue Mountain Century 108 miles
Journey Through Time 286 miles
Hells Canyon 218 miles Cycle Oregon
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(for more on scenic byways, go to the map on p. 2)
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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 the small cities of Baker City and La Grande, as well as the towns of 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. 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 PHOTOGR APHY, OTHERS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway john day river territory 130-mile loop Cycling through the Painted Hills reveals millions of years of history in colorful 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 dramatic record of past climate change.
Cycling
ROUNDUPS
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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.
Virtue Flats
MOUNTAIN BIKING CALLING ALL TRAIL-ORIENTED THRILL SEEKERS. EASTERN OREGON HAS PLENTY OF SINGLETRACK TO KEEP YOU OCCUPIED.
Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA) la grande (more on p. 90) A network of trails at this recreation area is popular with local mountain bikers, but with 3,669 acres of land available, the fat tire set has barely scratched the surface of Mount Emily’s potential.
Echo Hills
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
Echo Hills
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PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort baker city (more on p. 82) 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.
Anthony Lakes
Echo Hills’ 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 2019
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ROUNDUPS
Motorcycles
Pendleton Bike Week
Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally
MILES BY MOTORCYCLE
MOTORCYCLE RALLIES
EXPLORE THOUSANDS OF MILES OF COUNTRY ROADS ON TWO MOTORIZED WHEELS.
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.
There is a deep American connection to the romanticism of a leather jacket, the rev of a motor 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. From Northeast Oregon’s Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway near Steens Mountain, there’s plenty of space to explore. The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway winds around the Wallowa Mountains, one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, and is one of the few byways 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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MOTORCYCLE RALLIES 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.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO LEF T GREGOR HALENDA , TOP LEF T PENDLE TON BIKE WEEK , BOT TOM LEF T BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Excursion Train eaglecaptrainrides.com
Beside the Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers Book online or contact us for planning assistance.
Elgin, Oregon
800.323.7330
THE LANDING
HOTEL AND DINING
1501 ADAMS AVE, LA GRANDE • (541) 786–1212 LAGRANDELANDINGHOTEL.COM
ROUNDUPS
Calendar Pendleton Round-Up
CALENDAR 2019-2020 May
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2-4
Snow Blast at Anthony Lakes Ski Resort north powder anthonylakes.com
Cattle Barons Weekend pendleton cattlebarons.net
15-17 Wee Bit O’Ireland heppner heppnerchamber.com
Spring Wine Release Weekend milton-freewater wallawallawine.com
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Taste of Nordic at Anthony Lakes Ski Resort north powder anthonylakes.com
April 4-19 Wildhorse Spring Poker Roundup pendleton wildhorseresort.com
11-14 Harney County Migratory Bird Festival Pack your binoculars and join other bird enthusiasts at this Southern Oregon festival, which takes place during the height of the spring sandhill crane, waterfowl and shorebird migrations along the Pacific Flyway. More than 100 species of birds typically cruise through the festival. burns migratorybirdfestival.com
3-5
3-9 Eastern Oregon Livestock Show union easternoregonlive stockshow.com
7-9 Obsidian Days hines ci.hines.or.us
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Chocolate Lover’s Walk enterprise myenterpriseoregon.com
Skull 120/60/30 Gravel Grinder burns harneycounty.com
25-26
21-22
Spray Rodeo & Eastern Oregon Half Marathon Cowboy boots meet rubber soles at this weekend of wild rides and runs. Cheer on the riders and runners or get in the mix. A 5k and 10k are also offered. spray sprayrodeo.com
June 1 America’s Global Village Festival ontario ontariochamber.com
1 Run to the Ruts baker city trailtenders.org
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11-14
Umatilla Landing Days umatilla umatillaoregonchamber.org
Boardman Thunder 4th of July Celebration boardman boardmanchamber.org
Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally baker city hellscanyonrally.com
June 28-30
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Condon’s Fabulous 4th of July Celebration condon condonchamber.org
Burns Bike and Brew burns burnsbikeandbrew.com
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Baker City Broncs and Bull Riding baker city bakerbroncsandbulls.com
Baker City Cycling Classic Let the mountain air feed your adrenaline at one of the best stage races in the country. The multiday event will cover pavement from rollings hills to downtown thrills. baker city bakercitycycling.org
Ione’s 4th of July Celebration ione cityofioneoregon.com
5-7
July
Wildhorse Pow Wow pendleton wildhorseresort.com
3-4
5-7
Haines Stampede Rodeo haines hainestampede.com
Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival & Fossil Cruz-In fossil wheelercountybluegrass.org
Chief Joseph Days
13 Pendleton Whisky Music Fest pendleton pendletonwhiskymusicfest. com
12-14 Caledonian Games athena athenacaledoniangames.org
11-14 Elgin Stampede elgin elginstampede.com
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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17-21 Pendleton Bike Week pendleton pendletonbikeweek.com
19-21 Tamkaliks Celebration wallowa wallowanexperce.org
19-21 Brews by the Blues milton-freewater mfchamber.com
23-28 Chief Joseph Days joseph chiefjosephdays.com
27 Arlington’s Show-N-Shine arlington visitarlingtonoregon.com
27 North Powder Huckleberry Festival north powder unioncountychamber.org
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO TOP BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , BOT TOM ANGELIK A URSUL A DIE TRICH
March
Calendar
October 5
Eagle Cap Extreme Dog Sled Race
August July 30-August 3 Malheur County Fair & Rodeo ontario malheurcountyfair.com
3 Chris Miller Steens Mountain Rim Run & Walk burns steensrimrun.net
3 Back County Bash joseph
6-7
Sherman County Fair moro shermancountyfairfun.com
Pine Fest Music Festival halfway pinefest.org
24-25
7-14
7 Wonders Cup Dragon Boat Race The sky-blue water of Wallowa Lake plays the supporting role as dragonboats race toward the finish line in this most aesthetic competition. joseph dragonsinthewallowas.com
Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Indian Pageant Tradition, competition and a rollicking good time culminate at Oregon’s famed rodeo. Just as memorable is the pageant, a show depicting the settling of the American West from Native Americans to pioneers. pendleton pendletonroundup.com
backcountrybashjoseph.com
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7-10
Juniper Jam Music Festival enterprise juniperjam.com
Farm-City Pro Rodeo hermiston farmcityprorodeo.com
14-18 Grant County Fair & Rodeo john day grantcountyfairgrounds.com
14-18 Morrow County Fair & Rodeo heppner morrowcountyoregon.com PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
21-22
15-18 We Like ‘Em Short Film Festival baker city welikeemshort.com
September August 30-September 3 Gilliam County Fair condon co.gilliam.or.us
1 Kidz Pow Wow All kids up to age 12, Tribal and non-Tribal, play games, dance, and win prizes. FREE. pendleton tamastslikt.org
3-8 Harney County Fair, Rodeo and Racemeet burns co.harney.or.us
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
11-15 Wallowa Valley Arts Festival joseph wallowavalleyarts.org
21-22 Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway Annual Ride heppner heppnerchamber.com
26-29 Alpenfest joseph oregonalpenfest.blogspot. com
Baker’s Artist Studio Tour More than a dozen local artists open their studios for this annual studio tour where art appreciators can meet artists and hear about their creative process. Explore the spaces that spark the inspiration for various mediums including glass, woodworking, bronze and metal sculpture, ceramics and painting. baker city crossroads-arts.org
5 Cast Iron Chef: Dutch Oven Cook-off baker city trailtenders.org
5 Morrow County Harvest Festival boardman visitsage.com
12-13 Sumpter Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Photographers Weekend sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org
November 2
ROUNDUPS
7 Winter Wonderland Parade ontario ontariochamber.com
14-15 Sumpter Valley Railroad Christmas Train sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org
January 22-25 Eagle Cap Extreme Dog Sled Race The only Yukon Quest and Iditarod qualifier in the state, this 200-mile, twelvedog race brings mushers into the belly of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Sleds start at Fergi Ski Area. joseph eaglecapextreme.com
February 9 Anthony Lakes Beach Party bonfire. north powder anthonylakes.com
16 Halfway Snowmobile Poker Run halfway hellscanyonchamber.com
Huntington Weather Fest & Celtic Games November isn’t kilt weather, which makes competition all the heartier. Many of the Inland Northwest’s top Celtic athletes will brave the elements and go for gold. huntington bmkdthrowers.com
December 7 Condon Light Festival condon condonchamber.org
7 SAGE Center Winter Market boardman visitsage.com
Sumpter Valley Railroad Christmas Train
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO THIS PAGE ALE X J ORDAN, FACING PAGE ALL PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
SOUTHEAST pg.28 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. 32 Malheur County Malheur borders both Nevada 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.
Clockwise from left: Alvord Desert. Sheep farm outside of Burns. Blitzen Valley Overlook on the Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway. BLM Wild Horse Corrals. Downey Woodpecker at Idlewild Campground.
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. 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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Birding Harney County
MigratoryBirdFestival . com Annually in April
Harney County Chamber 541.573.2636 HarneyCounty.com
I Like It Here
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
I LIKE IT HERE: PETE RUNNELS Pete Runnels, a judge for Harney County, has roots in Southeast Oregon going back generations. His grandfather was a sheep herder on Steens Mountain, and his family has stayed in the region ever since. He and his wife Cheryl have been married for thirty-eight years, have two kids and have been very involved in the community. They owned a pizza restaurant in town and have been the cooks for the Steens Mountain Running Camp for twenty-six years. But the best part about living in Harney County? The stars. “Our night time stargazing is some of the best there is, from anywhere in our 10,000-plus square mile county,” said Runnels.
1
Go camping on Steens Mountain
Other mountains in Oregon get a lot of attention, and maybe that’s a good thing, because if you decide to take a trip to Steens Mountain, you might have it all, or at least a good part of it, to yourself. The mountain has a diverse landscape, with gorges, rivers and a variety of wildlife. The best time to visit is between June and October. Drive up to the Fish Lake Campground and camp there for a weekend. There’s plenty of hiking, fishing, swimming and more to keep you and your family busy.
2
Soak in a hot springs.
On a chilly morning or evening, dip into one of the abundant mineral hot springs that can be found throughout the arid landscape. Crystal Crane hot springs, just outside of Burns, is commercially developed and has a large soaking pool, as well as private soaking pools to book. In the Alvord Desert, there’s a more rudimentary hot springs to try out. Whichever one you choose, you’ll leave feeling relaxed and revitalized.
3
❝You’ll hear around Burns that there’s nothing to do here, but there’s something to do every weekend. We are a ways away from everything, but worth the trip.❞
Visit Burns for Brewfest.
Oregon’s renowned craft beer culture has arrived in Burns with the Harney County Brewfest that takes place each July. Held at Arrowhead Plaza, the beer festival has a variety of beer and cider on tap to taste, as well as live music from regional bands. It’s a good event to get to know the community of Burns as well as regional breweries, like 1188 Brewing from John Day and Steens Mountain Brewing Company in Burns.
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SOUTHEAST
Pete Runnels Pete Runnels was born and raised in Burns. He comes from a family with deep roots in the region. He and his wife, Cheryl, met while they were both working at a local grocery store in town. Runnels said that they’ve stayed in Burns their whole lives because of the family connections here and
PHOTOS BOT TOM LEF T AND MIDDLE ALE X J ORDAN
the community. For the last twentysix years, they’ve been the cooks for the Steens Mountain Running Camp, a popular high-altitude running and training camp for teenagers. “It’s a big part of our life, and takes up most of July,” he said. He also appreciates that kids get to be kids out there on the mountain, away from distractions like cell phones and immersed in the stunning wilderness area.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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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 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.
ALVORD DESERT
Alvord Desert
Steens Mountain Brewing Co.
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 must-visit Harney County landmark or event.
<< 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 Pete French Round Barn
inclimate weather. The historic structure is now a state heritage site.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO TOP RIGHT ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM M ARIE BESCHEN
NANO BREWERY
Harney County
SOUTHEAST
NORTHERN GREAT BASIN AIR TRAFFIC IS HEAVY OUT HERE. 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.
American Avocet
EXPLORE STEENS
PHOTO TOP RIGHT BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , 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.
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.
For anyone who appreciates floral beauty, 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 2019
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EXPLORE Harney County
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
BURNS RV PARK 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. 1273 SENECA DRIVE, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 573-7640 • BURNSRVPARK.COM
Come stay with us and enjoy our friendly customer service and wonderful amenities. 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 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
FRENCHGLEN HOTEL
GOURMET & GADGETS
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.
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.
39184 HWY 205, FRENCHGLEN, 97736 • (541) 493-2825 • FRENCHGLENHOTEL.COM
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
ROBIN’S CLOSET A unique boutique providing high fashion to the wilds of Eastern Oregon.
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. 42456 HWY 20E, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 493-2535 • OARDSGALLERY.COM
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
• JAG • KUT from the Kloth • Habitat • Tribal • Lysse • Color Me Cotton • PJ’s Excellent variety of gift items. robinscloset2015@gmail.com 408 N BROADWAY AVENUE, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 589-0978
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THE
Round Barn
VISITOR CENTER
FAMILY MUSEUM FABULOUS GIFT SHOP WIDE SELECTION OF BOOKS AND TACK
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
Open Daily March 1 - January 3
Hotel Diamond is a special place. We make retreats, receptions, meetings and reunions memorable, and give new meaning to the term “base camp”.
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.
photography: lloydirwinphotographer.com
Destination: Yesterday
State Heritage Area
Bates State Park From John Day
• Pete French Round Barn: See how one forceful rancher changed history. • Frenchglen Hotel: Cozy B & B and restaurant. oregonstateparks.org | information: 1-800-551-6949
Baker City
il e
s
56 m
Burns
Pete French Round Barn
• Bates State Park: Prettiest pond anywhere. Historical info on the lumber mill and townsite that once existed here. • Kam Wah Chung: A must see! A store, a home, a pharmacy, a temple, all frozen in time.
35 min
123 miles
les
State Heritage Site: It’s in the town of John Day.
• Sumpter Valley Dredge: Take a tour, and see what a massive, 1240-ton gold digger can do—and did.
1 hr
3 0 mi
Kam Wah Chung 128 m i
Roll back time 100 years or so.
Sumpter Valley Dredge
le s
49130 Main Street Diamond, Oregon 97722 (541) 493-1898 / HistoricHotelDiamond.com
2 hrs 20 min State Heritage Site 2 hrs 15 min
Frenchglen Hotel
State Heritage Site
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.
Pillars of Rome
Owyhee State Park
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.
ROCKHOUSE COFFEE
Birch Creek Ranch
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
You’ll see cowboys, border collies and dramatic scenery in Southeast Oregon, but the distance between services is great. Don’t miss the chance for a cup of great coffee, a home-baked snack or dish of ice cream and friendly conversation in this historic stone building in Jordan Valley.
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PHOTO TOP AND BOT TOM RIGHT G ARY HALVORSON, BOT TOM LEF T ERIC VALENTINE
FOUR RIVERS CULTURAL CENTER
Malheur County
SOUTHEAST
Owyhee River
RAFT OREGON’S GRAND CANYON 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.
FISH THE MIRACLE MILE
RAFTING
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.
Multiday trips are offered by a number of outfitters who are well-versed in the beauty—as well as the summer heat—found along the Owyhee. Boats float past 1000-foot rhyolite cliffs, 9,000-year-old petroglyphs, fauna and riverside hot springs. Quiet sections are broken up by adrenalineinducing rapids. Trips can be tailored to adventure levels, navigating different sections of the wild and scenic river.
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PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM G ARY HALVORSON
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.
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EXPLORE Malheur County/Ontario
CLARION INN
COUNTRY KITCHEN
• Choice Hotel Gold
Country Kitchen Presidential Award-Winning Restaurant
award-winning property • Conveniently located close to I-84 • Pet-friendly rooms available • Free, hot made-to-order breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • 24 Hour Business Center • On-site restaurant and lounge • Banquet space available with on-sit catering services 1249 TAPADERA AVENUE, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-8621 CHOICEHOTELS.COM/HOTELS/OR174
OGAWA’S RESTAURANT Ogawa’s is a locally owned and operated restaurant, offering fresh rolled to order sushi, teriyaki bowls and burgers. Ogawa’s has a comfortable atmosphere, and is a fun place for birthday, retirement and graduation parties. In addition, Ogawa’s provides catering services for a number of events in the area, including: wedding receptions, business holiday parties, business lunches, etc. Looking for a space to hold your event... ask about our new banquet room, now available for use. Come in and see us today... we look forward to having you be our guest! 375 E. IDAHO AVE., ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-2725 • OGAWASRESTAURANT.COM
• Comfortable family-friendly dining
• Enjoy our full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu
• Open Daily at 6 am • Spirits, local wines and craft beer available
• On-site catering available 1249 TAPADERA AVENUE, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3941 COUNTRYKITCHENRESTAURANTS.COM
OREGON TRAIL HOBBIES We Sell Serious Fun R/C cars and planes, toys, art supplies, metal detectors, drones, trains, home decor, greeting cards and collectibles available. MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE $5 OFF ANY $30 PURCHASE. 272 S OREGON STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3747 OREGONTRAILHOBBIES.COM
THE HOUSE THAT ART BUILT Our store is filled with unique, handmade treasures. We have paintings, glassware, scarves, hats, gloves, soap, jewelry, dolls, mosaics, mirrors, artwork, aprons, cards, pottery and much more. There is always something new to see because inventory is constantly changing. Many of our items are one-of-a-kind. We also offer some classes so please call us to find out what is scheduled for the month.
443 SW 1ST STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3616
SPREAD WOOD FIRE EATERY Open Tues-Sat: Lunch 11am-3pm, Dinner 5pm-9pm & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm. Happy Hour 3 Times a Day: 2pm, 5pm & 8pm *Bar stays open late! Call to inquire about To-Go Orders & Catering (Gluten Friendly options available). Follow us on Facebook & Instagram or Subscribe to our Website for updates on Live Music & Events! 1620 N. WHITLEY DRIVE, FRUITLAND, ID, 83619 • (208) 887-1507 SPREADWOODFIREEATERY.COM
ONTARIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Ontario is nestled on the lush banks of the Snake River and is the first Oregon city you encounter when traveling west from the Idaho border. Rich in deep cultural history and diversity, Ontario finds itself a vibrant, growing city. A business-friendly community, the area offers several locations for your groups to hold meetings and conferences within easy reach of a variety of unique recreational opportunities. 251 SW 9TH STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-8012 • ONTARIOCHAMBER.COM
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
MOTEL 6 Motel 6 in Ontario is located off I-84 at Business US 30. Restaurants are within walking distance. Ontario Municipal Airport is 2 miles away. Micro-fridge units in select rooms. Enjoy a seasonal outdoor heated pool. Free Wi-Fi throughout the building. 275 NE 12TH STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-6617
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EXPLORE
FOUR RIVERS CULTURAL CENTER
WHERE EVERY LIFE HAS A STORY Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday, April-October
| museum | Japanese GArden | Art Gallery | | Performing arts theatre | | community center |
676 S.W. 5th Ave., Ontario (541) 889-8191 | 4RCC.COM
PHOTO THIS PAGE DAVID J ENSEN, FACING PAGE BOT TOM LEF T J ONI K ABANA , TOP MIDDLE ROCKSDIS TRIC T.COM , TOP RIGHT DAVID J ENSEN
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY pg. 40 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. 53 Morrow County Clockwise from left: Farmland in Umatilla. Golf course at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. Watermill Winery. Along Blue Mountain Scenic Byway in Morrow County. Pendleton Round-Up.
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.
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This “Rugged Country” has a reputation for agriculture. Farmers ply 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 2019
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What was old is new again.
FIRST FRIDAYS ARE FREE! Exhibits, Museum Store Open Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Kinship Café Open 11am-2pm Pendleton, OR www.tamastslikt.org 541.429.7700 TCI-318_eastern_oregon_ad.indd 1
7.922”x 5.25”
11/1/18 9:28 AM
I Like It Here
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
I LIKE IT HERE: BERLYN BALES Berlyn Bales was a senior in college when her dad bought the vineyard that would become Echo Ridge Winery. She added some viticulture classes to her schedule, worked at the vineyard after she graduated in 2011 and decided she liked the business of wine enough to stay in Echo (and convince her boyfriend to move to the town). When she’s not busy at the vineyard and winery, she likes to go hiking in the Blue Mountains. The region also has a handful of craft breweries, distilleries and wineries she likes to visit. “There’s so many fun products coming out of this area.”
1
Eat atWalker’s Farm Kitchen.
Take a short drive from Echo to Hermiston to eat at Walker’s Farm Kitchen. The farm-to-table restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients from farms and ranches nearby, showcasing the bounty of the region. The menu changes based on the products and season, so you can find dishes ranging from duck pasta to strip steak. Stop in to this popular restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
2
Take a walking tour of Echo.
The small town is filled with historic buildings that have been preserved and repurposed into a new local business. Pick up a brochure and tour the twenty-three historic sites downtown, all within walking distance. The town was also a hub on the Oregon Trail, and there are historic sites to visit, including the Covered Wagon Museum.
3
Taste local beer, wine & spirits.
Oregon’s Rugged Country has a great lineup of craft beer, wine and spirits to try. For wine, visit Echo Ridge Cellars, where you can find Berlyn and her mom pouring wine every day, and Sno Road Winery. If you’re in the mood for beer, there’s Ordnance Brewing in Boardman and Prodigal Son Brewing in Pendleton. Also in Pendleton, visit Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery. Ordnance Brewing
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YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...
❝Echo itself has so much to do. There’s a coffee shop, cafe, two wineries, vintage antique shops. Pretty much every building has an interesting history. It’s such a quaint, fun little town.❞
Berlyn Bales Berlyn Bales, 29, works with her parents at Echo Ridge Cellars. They purchased the property in 2010. From grapes grown on their sixty-acre vineyard, Echo Ridge produces a variety of wines, but on this side of the Cascade Mountains, you won’t find pinot on the list.
PHOTOS LEF T AND RIGHT J ONI K ABANA
They produce about 1,000 cases each year of cabernet franc and sauvignon, syrah and merlot. Winemaking is a neverending business, and Berlyn finds herself working long days, especially during the fall harvest season. “I work a lot, but work is fun,” she said. They recently renovated the old onion storage shed into a modern winery and tasting room. “It Echo
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doesn’t smell like onions anymore,” she said with a laugh. “It smells like wine now.”
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
Umatilla County Pendleton Woolen Mills
UMATILLA COUNTY EXPERIENCE THE WEST.
Pendleton Round-Up
PENDLETON ROUND-UP 109 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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Pendleton Round-Up Stadium
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
PENDLETON WOOLEN MILLS 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. “We live where we work, and we love what we do,” says Charlie Bishop, Mill Manager. “This level of commitment, talent and experience plus first-rate technology make it possible for us to weave wool fabrics of such amazing quality. Come see for yourself how we do it. Stop by to say ’hello’ and take the tour at one of our mills.” Tours are free Monday through Friday, 9am, 11am, 1:30pm, and 3pm. Closed on holidays.
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PHOTOS TOP LEF T J ONI K ABANA , TOP RIGHT J IM HE APHY, BOT TOM BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
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, farmer’s markets, a scenic bikeway route and a regional airport, Umatilla County is a growing community that hasn’t lost its Old West charm.
Umatilla County
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
HERITAGE AND THE ARTS TAMÁSTSLIKT CULTURAL INSTITUTE Nearly twenty-five years ago, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation conceived of the idea for a cultural museum that would showcase regional tribal history, the tribes’ present day affairs and plans for the future. Today, Tamástslikt Cultural Institute welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to experience an immersive education on the multi-faceted culture of the local tribes. Guests explore the story of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. Interactive exhibits, Coyote Theater, the Living Culture Village, Museum Store, and Kinship Café ensure an educational and engaging visit for all people of all ages.
Wildhorse Pow Wow
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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.
LOCAL ARTS SCENE 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. In town, the Pendleton Center for the Arts strives to make art accessible to everyone, whether you’re interested in buying works produced in the region or want to find a space where you can create your own masterpiece. Desert Arts Council and Inland Northwest Musicians bring more art and culture to the greater county.
WILDHORSE RESORT & CASINO
PHOTO BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA
Pendleton Underground Tours
Tour the underground network in Pendleton for an exceptional historical account of the region’s lesserknown 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.
At the base of the Blue Mountains, Wildhorse Resort & Casino is a favorite destination with a championship golf course, 300 hotel rooms, pools, seven cafes and restaurants, an RV park and a casino. Over 1200 slots, table games, bingo and poker tournaments ensure gamers will find exciting opportunities to test their luck. A Cineplex and child entertainment center plus concerts promise a good time for everyone. Banquet rooms and conference rooms welcome events. At Wildhorse, it’s unique, authentic and exciting!
FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM
Wildhorse Resort & Casino
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
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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 at Windrow Vineyard
A SAMPLING OF WINERIES
ZERBA CELLARS On one of Zerba’s three estate vineyards sits a log cabin tasting room that could pass as a pioneer homestead. Inside, modern amenities bolster tastings of its award-winning 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.
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.
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.
ECHO RIDGE WINERY 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
CASTILLO DE FELICIANA VINEYARD & WINERY
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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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.
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.
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PHOTO BOT TOM JAN ROSKELLE Y
Zerba Cellars
Enjoy a Tour of
Umatilla County & beyond
Columbia River
Milton-Freewater
730 395
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WASHINGTON OREGON
Hermiston Echo
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Pendleton 395
ECHO RIDGE CELLARS
K & K BLUEBERRIES
Echo Ridge Cellars’ tasting room is located in a renovated grain elevator in Echo, Oregon. Sourcing grapes from our 60-acre vineyard above town, we make all our wine in a repurposed warehouse. Visit us for wine tasting, relaxing on the outdoor patio and special events. Event space available.
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.
551 n. thielsen street, echo · (541) 376-8100 · echoridgecellars.com
29555 minnehaha rd, hermiston · (541) 567-3146 · kandkblueberries.com
TERO ESTATES
BARKWELL FAMILY FARM
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.
Making great gardners better since 1993. Barkwells, owned & operated by horticultural professionals Steven & Donna Barkwell. Visit our 5 acre farm with 15 greenhouses bursting with colorful annuals, perennials, & blooming baskets. Also display gardens, store & cottage. Open Feb-June.
52015 seven hills rd, milton-freewater · (541) 203-0020 · trwines.com
53506 w crockett rd, milton-freewater · (509) 386-3064 · barkwellfarm.com
ZERBA CELLARS
UMAPINE CREAMERY
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.
Visit a true Farmstead Operation making artisan farmstead cheeses. 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, with love, from our family to yours,
85530 hwy 11, milton-freewater · (541) 938-9463 · zerbacellars.com
50901 umapine rd, milton-freewater · (541) 861-2111 · umapinecreamery.com
BENNETT GARDENS
BLACK ACRE FARM
KRISanthemums is a flower design studio located on 5 acres at Bennett Botanical Gardens. The gardens host a variety of events where you can enjoy the unique trees, shrubs, perennial and annual plants. KRISanthemums features seasonal elements from the gardens for exceptional flower designs.
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
71634 baseline ln, lexington · (541) 989-8188 · blackacrefarmstead.com
SPOFFORD STATION WINERY
WALCHLI FARMS
One Winery, two labels, three cows….Spofford Station winemaker, Lynne Chamberlain is the only Native of Walla Walla to manage vineyards, produce wines and raise Cabernet Cows to boot! Visit her winery at the ranch.
We are a family owned and operated farm in Hermiston Oregon. Along with melons we also produce asparagus, specialty melons, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, corn, wheat and alfalfa. Stop by April-June for fresh picked asparagus. Then July-Sept. for delicious produce fresh from the field to your table.
85131 elliot road, milton-freewater · (509) 301-5148 · myvinette.mobi/spofford-station
32697 E loop rd, hermiston · (541) 567-4300 · walchlifarms.com
Sponsored by Umatilla County Tourism • co.umatilla.or.us • whiskyrocksfarmloop.com • riverhillsfarmloop.com
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
Umatilla County
BREWERY BOOM
RESTAURANTS
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. “We don’t really have a niche,” Guenther said of their beers. “In a small town you have to cover everything.” 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.
FINE WESTERN DINING After opening in 2006, Hamley’s Steakhouse became a mainstay in downtown Pendleton. The Western-style restaurant is a step back in time, with historic details as well as great food. Virgil’s at Cimmiyotti’s, also downtown, is a great comeback story. Wellloved by the community for decades, the restaurant fell into disrepair and closed in 2005. Four years later, it was revitalized and is now thriving. Plateau Restaurant at Wildhorse Casino is another great choice for fine fare.
SUNDOWN BAR & GRILL Many people who have visited Pendleton remember Raphael’s fondly. The same chef is serving up his signature dishes and barbecue favorites in the same beautiful location under the new Sundown Grill moniker. The smell of barbecue will win you over before you take your first sip of one of the restaurant’s award-winning cocktails.
WALKER’S FARM KITCHEN Though Walker’s Farm Kitchen describes its menu as “simple,” the food is anything but that. A rotating menu filled with ingredients sourced from local farms keeps things fresh at this popular brunch, lunch and dinner spot in Hermiston.
DELISH BISTRO Prodigal Son Brewery & Pub
In Hermiston, Delish Bistro serves everything from teriyaki chicken to macaroni and cheese to crab burgers, satisfying any craving. The real treat is the housemade gelato served in a fromscratch wafflecone. In the summer, eat on the charming outdoor patio.
Umapine Creamery
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Hamley Steakhouse
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
Brent and Yvonne Carrol, owners of Brevon Farm, have a long history in the dairy business. The cheese is made from the milk of their cows and can be purchased directly from their Umapine Creamery and in Umapine and Pendleton. FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM
PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN
UMAPINE CREAMERY
WALLA WALLA CHEESE COMPANY
Artisan cheese from local cows! (541) 861-3778 | wallawallacheesecompany.com 606 N. Main, Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
HAMLEY STEAKHOUSE & Saloon
Court & Main, Pendleton 541.278.1100
OPEN DAILY 8AM-4PM SERVING BREAKFAST 8-11AM LUNCH 11AM-3PM
OPEN DAILY 4PM SERVING DINNER 5PM DAILY
Hamley Steakhouse is a family-friendly, comeas-you-are restaurant with a cowboy feel and authentic western decor. We serve USDA Prime Graded steaks and affordable, traditional Ranch Cookin.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
Umatilla County
Umatilla River
Umatilla National Forest
Hat Rock State Park
OUTDOORS GET OFF THE GRID. For hikers, hunters, horseback riders and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s easy to find a variety of recreation year-round in Umatilla County. In the spring and summer, hiking and fishing abound in the Umatilla National Forest, which stretches into neighboring Morrow County. The Tollgate area is great for hiking in summer and snow sports in winter. Harris Park offers summer hiking and camping near Milton-Freewater. The Two Rivers area in the west county region offers hiking and biking.
Operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Indian Lake is a popular summertime camping destination. Campsites with firepits are plentiful, some of which are right next to the beach or boast their own horseshoe pit. Indian Lake is stocked regularly with Rainbow trout, and fishing is open May 1 through October 31. Fishing permits required, and campsite reservations are suggested in advance: campindianlake.com.
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Less than twenty miles east of Ukiah, the WinomFrazier Off Highway Vehicle Complex is an ATV-rider’s dream. There are 150 miles of trails in the area that vary in elevation and difficulty as they travel through the forests, meadows and creeks of the region. While the area is popular with ATV users, horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers also use the Winom-Frazier.
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
Hikers, backpackers and horseback riders can traverse through hundreds of miles of trails in the Umatilla National Forest during warmer months. Four Corners Sno-Park in the Umatilla National Forest is the winter destination for snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing. There aren’t any groomed or marked trails, but the area is open for exploring.
& 4 WILDLIFE FISHING
Visitors can spot herds of elk and more wild animals in the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area. The McKay Creek Wildlife Refuge offers perfect hiking for families and birders looking to spot rare species. 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.
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PHOTO LEF T DAVID J ENSEN, OTHERS LEON WERDINGER
1 INDIAN LAKE 2 ATV 3 NATIONAL ADVENTURE FOREST
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
Umatilla County
MOTORCYCLE TOURISM: PENDLETON BIKE WEEK WHEN WE SAY “TWO WHEELS SPOKEN HERE,” WE MEAN MORE THAN JUST BICYCLES.
“We don’t like the freeway, we call it the super slab,” said Folkestad. “We’re after the remote two-lane county road or highway that takes you to the real America.” Four years ago, he started a similar event in Pendleton. Pendleton Bike Week is hosted each July. He saw the town as a perfect host for a larger rally because the facilities can accommodate the growing number of motorcycle tourists. In addition, he knows what bike enthusiasts want when they tour: opportunities to find the best local restaurants, bars and shops in America’s small towns. Pendleton Bike Week
Two years ago, turnout saw double the number of riders pour though the celebration compared to the previous year, and Folkestad foresees more growth. “There’s a lot of discovery in these small towns,” he said.
RIDE THE LOOP
BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTURY SCENIC BIKEWAY
Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway
EXPLORE THE REGION BY BIKE. 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 and you won’t miss the details. The Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway is sponsored by the Heppner Chamber and follows a section of the Oregon Trail, beginning and ending in Heppner and winding through both Umatilla and Morrow counties. The loop will challenge cyclists and lead to stunning views of the region. And yes, as they say, the mountains really are blue.
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HEPPNER
UKIAH
Heppner is the start and end to the scenic bikeway loop. The small town is known for its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration each March that commemorates its Irish heritage. There are lodging options in town to refresh and reset after the challenging ride.
Ukiah, a small town with a population of less than 200 people in Umatilla County, is the halfway point along the bikeway. Rest your legs after a day of climbing at the Stage Stop Motel & RV, the Antlers Inn or at one of fifteen campgrounds in the area. Refuel at the Thicket Café & Bar in town.
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM
PHOTO BOT TOM RUSS ROCC A , TOP BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
Eric Folkestad knows Oregon’s highways well. He’s been riding and working with the motorcycle industry since he was a teenager. Fourteen years ago, he and his brother, Steve, started the Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally in Baker City to bring like-minded motorcycle enthusiasts to the area for a week of touring.
EXPLORE Umatilla County
ECHO HILLS GOLF COURSE This challenging yet scenic 9-hole municipal course attracts regulars from throughout Northeastern Oregon and Southeastern Washington. Inexpensive rates and easy access add to the attractions of the rolling course complete with pro shop, snack bar, driving range, cart rentals and Par 72. Located in historic Echo, 20 miles west of Pendleton. Take Exit 188 off I-84 and follow signs to 420 Golf Course Road. The course is located on rolling hills overlooking the Umatilla River Valley. A green oasis in the Eastern Oregon desert. 400 GOLF COURSE ROAD, ECHO, 97826 • (541) 376-8244 ECHO-OREGON.COM
THE COMMUNITY THRIFT SHOP The Community Thrift Shop has a long and rich history in Pendleton. We take pride in providing a fresh, clean and upscale atmosphere, along with reasonable prices and a friendly helpful staff. From antiques and collectables to nice clothing and craft materials, our inventory is constantly changing. Proceeds benefit the Umatilla County Historical Society. Come check us out! Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. − 4 p.m., Saturday 12 − 4 p.m.
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.
Find on Facebook at “Community Thrift Shop” 138 SE COURT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-7808
VISIT HISTORIC ECHO America in Bloom Small Cities Winner 2009, 2010 & 2013. State Heritage Award Winner. Echo boasts 10 National Register Buildings, Oregon Trail ruts, historic sites, a golf course and wineries.
20 S BONANZA STREET, PO BOX 9, ECHO, 97826 • (541) 376-8411 ECHO-OREGON.COM
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
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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
UMATILLA COUNTY FAIR Join us Aug. 6-10, 2019 at the Eastern Oregon Trade & Event Center! Enjoy 5 nights of Main Stage entertainment, secondary stage acts & over 75 acres of carnival fun, games, vendors, activities, contests, exhibits & more! During the fair, come experience the Farm City Pro Rodeo in our brand new state-of-theart arena! Support 4-H and FFA programs 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! Family time, date night, girls night out, guys night; The UCF is sure to impress! 1705 E AIRPORT RD., HERMISTON, 97838 • (541) 567-6121 • UMATILLACOUNTFAIR.NET
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Upcoming Events
of Umatilla County
JUNE 7-9
JULY 17-21
OCTOBER 4-5
HERITAGESTATIONMUSEUM.ORG/ EDUCATION.SHTML#PUBLIC PENDLETON
PENDLETONBIKEWEEK.COM PENDLETON
JUNKBARNGIRLS.COM HERMISTON
JULY 19-20
OCTOBER 12
UMATILLAOREGONCHAMBER.ORG UMATILLA
MFCHAMBER.COM/BREWS-BY-THEBLUES MILTON-FREEWATER
FACEBOOK.COM/ OKTOBERFESTPENDLETON PENDLETON
JUNE 21-23
AUGUST 6-10
OCTOBER 19
HODAKADAYS.ORG ATHENA
CO.UMATILLA.OR.US/FAIR HERMISTON
ECHO-OREGON.COM/NEWS/A.HTML ECHO
Old Iron Days
MARCH 2
Red to Red
ECHORED2RED.COM ECHO
MAY 3-5
Spring Release Weekend
WALLAWALLAWINE.COM/#EVENTSHOME COUNTY WIDE
MAY 2-4
Cattle Barons Weekend CATTLEBARONS.NET PENDLETON
MAY 25
Century Ride of the Centuries CYCLEPENDLETON.COM/EVENTS PENDLETON
MAY 25
Heart of the Country Rodeo HELIXRODEO.ORG HELIX
JUNE 1-2
Pioneer Days UMATILLACOUNTY PIONEERSASSOCIATION.COM WESTON
JUNE 7-8
Bonanza Art Antiques Expo
PENDLETONBONANZA.COM PENDLETON
JUNE 21-22
Umatilla Landing Days
Hodaka Days
Pendleton Bike Week
Brews by the Blues
Umatilla County Fair
Junk Barn
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest
JUNE 22
AUGUST 7-10
OCTOBER 26
WILDWESTBREWFEST.COM PENDLETON
FARMCITYPRORODEO.COM HERMISTON
CITYOFWESTONOREGON.COM WESTON
Wild West Brew Fest
JULY 4
4th of July Celebration
CITYOFSTANFIELD.COM/STANFIELD4TH-JULY-COMMITTEE STANFIELD
JULY 12-14
Athena Caledonian Games ATHENACALEDONIANGAMES.ORG ATHENA
JULY 13 Fun Fest
HERMISTONCHAMBER.COM HERMISTON
JULY 13
Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
PENDLETONWHISKYMUSICFEST.COM PENDLETON
Farm-City Pro Rodeo
AUGUST 16-18
Community Days/ Reunion Weekend
CITYOFPILOTROCK.ORG/ COMMUNITYDAYS PILOT ROCK
AUGUST 17
Wheatstock Music Festival WHEATSTOCK.ORG HELIX
SEPTEMBER 7-14
Pendleton Round-Up
PENDLETONROUNDUP.COM PENDLETON
SEPTEMBER 7-14
Happy Canyon Pageant & Night Show HAPPYCANYON.COM PENDLETON
Umatilla Co. Potato Show
NOVEMBER 1-3
Fall Release Weekend WALLAWALLAWINE.COM/ #EVENTS-HOME COUNTY WIDE
DECEMBER 6-8
Holiday Barrel 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.
EXPLORE Pendleton
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! 24 SW COURT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 215-1400 MONTANAPEAKS.NET
VIRGIL’S AT CIMMIYOTTI’S A Pendleton tradition since 1959. Hand-cut steaks, cocktails, seafood, pasta and vegetarian items. Serving dinner Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. Join us Friday nights at 9 p.m. for The CIMMI’S Martini Lounge Experience.
137 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-7711
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. 31 SW EMIGRANT AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-0730 PENDLETONUNDERGROUNDTOURS.ORG
PENDLETON HAT COMPANY 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” 141 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (360) 739-7289 PENDLETONHATCOMPANY.COM
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
PRODIGAL SON BREWERY & PUB 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.
230 SE COURT AVE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-6090 PRODIGALSONBREWERY.COM
FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM
OMG! BURGERS & BREW Pendletons’ newest hot spot for specialty burgers, dogs and awesome milkshakes along with a full bar! Serving only the freshest grass fed local beef, fresh made buns and the best local ingredients! Beautiful place with an indoor fire pit!
241 S. MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 377-2434 OMGBURGERSANDBREW.COM
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Frazier Farmstead Museum
Umatilla is waiting for you…
Located in the south end of the fertile Walla Walla Valley, this 6 acre farmstead has much to explore. Tour the beautiful Victorian home of early pioneer, William Frazier, the 100 yr. old Prairie barn, the carriage house and the historic McCoy Cabin. Free Admission!
Come work up an appetite hiking the trails, fighting that fish, or kayaking the rivers. Then feast on the finest local cuisine. Tie your boat up at the dock and relax at the RV park, or one of our many hotels. And plan now to be here for the annual Landing Days Festival, the 4th weekend in June.
1403 Chestnut St. Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
See you soon!!! Sponsored by the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center
Hours: Open April thru December. Thurs.-Sat. 11am-4pm and by appointment. Contact us at : 541-938-4636. Email: frazier1868@gmail.com. Website: www.frazierfarmsteadmuseum.org You can also find us on Facebook!
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
Morrow County
OREGONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RUGGED COUNTRY
MORROW COUNTY
EMBRACE THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Morrow County has a rich history, from the historic 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. One good route for adventure is the sixty-mile River to Hills Farm Loop, which follows segments of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Oregon Trail between Boardman and Pendleton.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVENTURE
WATER RECREATION Willow Creek flows from the Blue Mountains and eventually into the Columbia River. Near Heppner (in South Morrow County), 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. For a longer stop, recreation opportunities abound. Guests can stroll along a walking path on the banks of the Columbia River, stake out prime camping spots and fish.
FORESTS AND PARKS Camping and hunting enthusiasts will enjoy Anson Wright Park as well as Cutsforth Park, both within an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Boardman Marina
Anson Wright Park
PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, OTHERS KRIS TI C A SON
Morrow-Grant County OHV 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.
FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM
E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
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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 postOregon 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
Morrow County Courthouse
into the finished structure.
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.
SAGE Center
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E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2019
On October 5, 2019 the SAGE Center and Boardman Chamber of Commerce will hold the annual Morrow County Harvest Festival. Vendors sell locally made food, crafts and clothing. Free activities include mule drawn wagon rides, pumpkin painting and a photo booth. Adults can enjoy a free tasting of local beer and wines.
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PHOTO TOP DAVID J ENSEN
MORROW COUNTY HARVEST FESTIVAL
Morrow County
OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY
4th of July in Boardman
Watermelon Festival
Wee Bit O’Ireland
CELEBRATIONS CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY AND HAVE SOME FUN AT THESE ANNUAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS. You can always find something festive and fun when in Morrow County. The region’s small towns embrace the meaning of community and the locals look forward to sharing it with you. Come enjoy small town hospitality, 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.
BIT 1 WEE O’IRELAND
Always held the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day (for 2019, March 15-17), 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 KUMA 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!
2 4TH OF JULY 3 WATERMELON 4 WALLEYE FESTIVAL TOURNAMENT 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.
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The Irrigon Watermelon Festival is an annual event held at the Irrigon Marina the last weekend in July (July 27, 2019). 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.
Fishermen from all over will gather at the Boardman Marina in Boardman on July 27 and 28 to partake in some of the Best Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River. The tournament allows for teams of all skill levels to sign up and try their hand at landing the big fish and taking home the cash prize. For more information search Facebook for Columbia River Walleye Anglers Association.
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EXPLORE Morrow County
RODEWAY INN If you want great value while you’re on the road, the Rodeway Inn hotel in has you covered. Our hotel caters to both business travelers and vacationing tourists alike with complimentary services and amenities including free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, seasonal outdoor pool, guest laundry facilities, copy, print and fax machines. Let us offer you a fresh, clean room for a good night’s sleep, which include features such as refrigerators, microwaves, TVs and a nice, hot shower to wake you up. Get the rest you need for wherever travel takes you at the Rodeway Inn hotel in Boardman. We look forward to hosting you–reserve your guest room today! 105 FRONT ST SW, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 481-2375 • CHOICEHOTELS.COM
WILLOW CREEK RV PARK 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. 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, BBQ pits, Wi-Fi and a close by boat ramp at the lake’s marina around the corner. 68965 WILLOW CREEK ROAD, HEPPNER • (541) 676- 5576 • WILLOWCREEKPD.COM
DRIFTWOOD RV PARK Driftwood RV Park & Resort is located in Boardman, Oregon, about two miles from the beautiful Columbia River. We offer a large indoor pool and spa. Outside there is a basketball court, tennis court and horseshoe pits for your enjoyment. We also have a meeting room and a banquet facilities. Wi-Fi is also available at the resort.
800 W KUNZE LN, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 481-2262 • DRIFTWOOD-RV.COM
TREO BIKE TOURS
GATEWAY CAFE
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.
Come join us for steak, seafood, pork chops, pasta, teriyaki, gourmet burgers, desserts and much more. Make us your next food destination. Open every Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to close.
55600 HARDMAN RIDGE ROAD, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-5840 TREOBIKETOURS.COM
BOARDMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Boardman has that small town charm that captures your curiosity and allows you the escape you have been yearning for. Located along the shores of the mighty Columbia River, Boardman has something for everyone. Water sports, camping, golfing, and fishing are just a few of the many recreational activities that captivates visitors and keep them coming back season after season. Come and escape to Boardman, Oregon where the river is near and tradition is strong. Check out our Boardman Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. 101 OLSON ROAD, PO BOX 1, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 481-3014 BOARDMANCHAMBER.ORG
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168 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-6000
MURRAY’S DRUG Your family pharmacy! Murray’s drug offers quality professional pharmaceutical service with a friendly home-town feel. Visit any of our three locations in Heppner, Condon & Boardman! Serving Morrow, Gilliam and Wheeler counties since 1959. 217 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-9158 • MURRAYSDRUG.COM
E A S T E R N O R E G O N V I S I T O R G U I D E 2 019
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
JOIN THE FUN EVERY MARCH!
“A WEE BIT O’IRELAND”
CLIMB, DIVE AND STEP INTO INFINITE
fun
HEPPNER OREGON
SAVE THE
DATES!
37TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATION March 15-17, 2019
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
PHOTO ALE X J ORDAN, FACING PAGE BOT TOM ALE X J ORDAN, TOP LEF T AND MIDDLE BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY pg. 62 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. 64 Wheeler County As the home to fossil beds, ancient oceans and the gateway to the John Day River, Wheeler County beckons sportsmen as well as sightseers ready to explore its natural riches.
pg. 66 Gilliam County World-class kitesurfing on the Columbia River in Arlington. Cycling though rolling
Clockwise from left: Painted Hills National Monument. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway at Bates State Park. Cycling the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway near Dayville. Kitesurfing in Arlington. Thomas Condon Paleontology Center.
hills with mountain views.
pg. 70 Sherman County
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Perched on the high Columbia Plateau between the Deschutes and John Day
When you can count hills hued in natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most brilliant colors among your attractions, life is pretty good. 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. Discover some of the richest fossil beds in the world, Oregonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest state park and two scenic bikeways.
rivers, Sherman County is the gateway to the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.
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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
I Like It Here
JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
I LIKE IT HERE: DARLA SEALE Darla Seale, the owner of Country Flowers in downtown Condon, thinks the best way to get to know the region is to take your camera, find some back roads and document the diversity of scenery and wildlife found throughout the region. “There are old homesteads and antique equipment ready for your photography trips,” she said. “Just respect the property and leave things as you found them.” As for the landscape, you’ll find deep canyons and flowing rivers dotted with bighorn sheep, elk, deer, antelope and a plentiful supply of birds like hawks, owls and eagles.
❝A bonus here are the amazing sunsets and starry nights that are not common with city lights. Oh, and be prepared for the sound of silence at night broken up by the occasional coyote yapping across the canyon.❞
YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...
Established in 2013, Cottonwood Canyon State Park is the second largest state park in Oregon. Encompassing 8,000 acres on the lower John Day River, the park offers great hiking, biking, camping, fishing and hunting. The park also has a new Experience Center where visitors can learn about cultural and geologic history. Stay at one of four cabins to fully experience this beautiful asset to Eastern Oregon.
2
Taste local produce
Apricot Apiaries is a small family business started in 2012 after owner Matt Allen picked up two beehives and brought them home to his wife Liz Lovelock. Visit their honey stand in Kimberly, next door to the fruit stand operated by Thomas Orchards. The Thomas family has worked together for over 65 years to bring delicious produce, including high quality fruit, to visitors to the John Day Fossil Beds region.
3
Hike the Blue Basin Trail
From the Blue Basin trailhead, you can hike into the center of Blue Basin. An even better option for the scenery is to hike from that trailhead to do the three-mile loop trail that reveals fantastic views of the valley. Peer down into the Blue Basin and be amazed at its beauty. Tip: Do the loop counter clockwise so you traverse the steepest section first. The footing is easier to manage heading uphill.
>>
1
Visit Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Darla Seale
PHOTO LEF T ALE X J ORDAN, MIDDLE DAVID J ENSEN, RIGHT HAYLEE P OT TER
Darla Seale started Country Flowers in downtown Condon thirty years ago. “I
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
enjoy meeting people from all over the world that come through seven days a week,” she said. The store has an espresso bar, an old fashioned soda fountain and popular hard ice cream shakes. It also has a variety of goods and gifts—and the only Powell’s Bookstore satellite store east of the Cascades. Seale says the way to experience small town America at its best is to plan on visiting during the Fourth of July to join the festivities and stay for the Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival. “You never know who you will see here, and it Blue Basin Trail
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makes a great stop in the long scenic drive in every direction.”
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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
Grant County
GRANT COUNTY
VISIT THE KAM WAH CHUNG & CO. MUSEUM John Day’s Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum 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.
SADDLE UP AND EXPLORE BOOMTOWN 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.
SILVIES VALLEY RANCH Silvies Valley Ranch merges luxury and relaxation with an authentic Western ranch experience. Golf the 18-hole reversable course. The Hankins and Craddock courses reverse on alternating days providing 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. 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.
HIKE 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.
Silvies Valley Ranch
Thomas Orchards
Thomas Orchards
>>
The Thomas family has farmed this orchard ranging from cherries and apricots to plums and pears, the fruit stand includes dried fruits, jams, spreads, syrups and applesauce. The onsite fruit stand and U-pick are open daily during harvest season.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO TOP BRIAN OAR
since 1947. In addition to fresh produce
EXPLORE Grant County
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.
Oxbow Trade Co. . VEHICLES . ANTIQUES . COLLECTIBLES
wagons@oxbowwagonsandcoaches.com www.oxbowwagonsandcoaches.com 303 S. Canyon Blvd. • P.O. Box 658 • Canyon City, OR 97820
72000 AIRPORT ROAD, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-1151 • gcra.org
DAYVILLE CAFE 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 don’t want you to leave hungry!
212 W FRANKLIN AVENUE, DAYVILLE, 97825 • (541) 987-2122
OXBOW TRADE COMPANY Oxbow Wagons & Coaches (Oxbow Trade Co.) is proud to offer the very best in horse drawn vehicles for utility and pleasure. We are a family business located in the beautiful Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. We relocated our shop and home to the West from Wisconsin. Originally, having horses and an interest in antiques, particularly the ones that roll, led us to the purchase of a few old horse drawn vehicles, and then a few more. Horse drawn vehicle restoration and construction followed, naturally. Located in a historic, turn-of-the-century building, we have more than 12,000 square feet of horse-drawn vehicles, parts and a wide variety of antiques, firearms, western decor and more. Oxbow Wagons & Coaches buys and sells several styles of fine horse drawn vehicles and offer many horse drawn wagons and coaches. Oxbow Wagons & Coaches stock includes parts, harnesses and a large variety of Western hand-crafted items. 303 S CANYON BOULEVARD, CANYON CITY, 97820 • (541) 575-2911 OXBOWWAGONSANDCOACHES.COM
1188 BREWING COMPANY
HOTEL PRAIRIE
Welcome to 1188 Brewing Company, Grant County’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 “Time Well Spent” for the entire family.
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.
141 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-1188 • 1188BREWING.COM
EASTERN OREGON REALTY Grant County’s oldest real estate firm. Serving Eastern Oregon since 1979. • Experienced agents, satisfied customers, lasting friendships • Home warranty for buyer/seller • IRS 1031 tax free exchanges • Accredited buyer/seller representation • Senior real estate representation Ranch - Residential - Recreational - Commercial 160 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-2121 • EASTERNOREGONREALTY.NET
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
MARY & JIM JENSEN (541) 575-2911
112 FRONT STREET, PRAIRIE CITY, 97869 • (541) 820-4800 • hotelprairie.com
GRANT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Imagine open rods that wind through pine forests, open meadows and rugged canyonlands…and NO traffic. As much as its scenery, there’s a sense of solitude that touches visitors to Grant County, Oregon and keeps them coming back. To learn more about Grant County’s abundant recreation opportunities, breath-taking scenery, friendly people and more, visit www.gcoregonlive.com or download our interactive Travel Guide from your app store – Type in Grant County, OR. 301 WEST MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-0547 • GCOREGONLIVE.COM
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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
Wheeler County
EXPLORE THE NATIONAL MONUMENT
WHEELER COUNTY
A VAST EXHIBITION OF PREHISTORY. The least populous county in Oregon, Wheeler was once home to a thriving timber industry. Today, it’s known primarily for natural resources of a different kind. 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.
For your first stop, visit the Paleo Lands Institute Center in Fossil. This communityrun information hub is the gateway to the ancient forests and sea floors that lay beyond. Maps, travel itineraries and wellinformed staff will get you pointed in the right direction for your forays into the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Bonus: Behind Wheeler High School, hunt fossil beds for signs of ancient flora and fauna, visit the Oregon Paleo Lands Institute, then head to the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center in Grant County.
WANDER 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-million-year-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.
Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival
John Day River
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. It’s fun for all ages!
<< Rafting the Mighty John Day Raft and relax on the Wild and Scenic John Day River. Relatively peaceful with few rapids, the water slows down and warms up during summer, making it perfect for swimming and floating in the sunshine.
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PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM RIGHT JA SON HUMMEL
Painted Hills
EXPLORE John Day River Territory
THE OREGON HOTEL
FOSSIL MUSEUM
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.
Lower Pine Creek Schoolhouse, Steiwer’s Sheepherders Cabin. 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.
104 E MAIN STREET, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3027 THEOREGONHOTEL.NET
501 FIRST STREET, FOSSIL, 97830
WILSON RANCHES RETREAT B&B
SPOKE’N HOSTEL
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.
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!
15809 BUTTE CREEK ROAD, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 763-2227 WILSONRANCHESRETREAT.COM
RIVER BEND MOTEL The River Bend Motel has clean rooms that are tastefully decorated with reasonable rates. Standard rooms, suites and a retreat house with riverside views are available.
708 WILLOW STREET HWY 19, SPRAY, 97874 • (541) 468-2053 RIVERBENDMOTEL.COM
300 US HWY 26, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3333 • SPOKENHOSTEL.ORG
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
FOSSIL FUEL AND ESPRESSO
TIGER TOWN BREWING CO.
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.
Located near the Painted Hills National Monument in the heart of Mitchell, Tiger Town Brewing Co. offers a family friendly English style public house environment. Local craft beer brewed on site compliments the diverse menu and specials. Bring your friends and enjoy a cocktail after a day of exploring Eastern Oregon’s rugged beauty. Indoor and outdoor seating available. Open year-round.
1003 E MAIN STREET, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 763-4766
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
108 MAIN STREET, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3663 • TIGERTOWNBREWING.COM
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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
Gilliam County
GILLIAM COUNTY
EXPERIENCE THE JOHN DAY RIVER
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. Electric vehicle charging stations in Condon and Arlington are just two signs that a pioneer past meets a modern present in this wide open landscape dominated by wheat fields on rolling hills that meet seemingly endless skies.
One of the longest free-flowing rivers in the U.S., the John Day begins as a mountain stream and finishes as an desert river, cutting through a massive canyon. In spring, the John Day is a rafters’ paradise as winter snow melts and rushes toward the Columbia. In summer, it’s full of lazy swimming holes and bass fishing at its prime. By fall, autumn rains again replenish the river, beckoning a run of wild steelhead nearly unrivaled in the lower forty-eight states.
BIKE THE WIDE EXPANSES Gilliam County lies within an 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 (Condon is a good basecamp) or Highway 206 toward Cottonwood Canyon State Park, and take whatever scenic offshoots move you. Expect to see wildlife and windmills. In Condon, you’ll find bikefriendly lodging options and services.
DOWNTOWN CONDON
Downtown Condon
Columbia River
<< Kitesurfing A day of water sports on the Columbia River begins with fueling up at River’s Edge Deli in Arlington. 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). Celebrate a day on the water with a burger and peanut butter milkshake at Pat’s Pheasant Grill.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO TOP PHIL C ARL SON, BOT TOM LEF T J ONI K ABANA
Cycling Gilliam County
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.
John Day Day River RiverTerritory Territory EXPLORE John EXPLORE
COUNTRY FLOWERS Be amazed at the unique assortment of gifts, clothing and toys available in the relaxing atmosphere. 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
GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 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. HIGHWAY 19, BURNS PARK, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4233
PORT OF ARLINGTON
THE DRIVE-IN
RV Park and Marina: Fishermen, experience some of the best bass and walleye fishing on the Columbia River.
The Drive-In is family owned and operated. Our menu offers something for everyone...burgers & fries, chicken, deli sandwiches, salads, homemade soups, and daily specials. We also offer delicious soft serve ice cream cones, milkshakes & sundaes. Also we make “Take & Bake” pizzas! Call ahead and we’ll even bake your pizza. Both indoor and outdoor seating available as well as drive up window service. Ample onsite parking available. Open Monday though Saturday 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visit and follow us on Facebook @thedriveincondon for daily specials!
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
RIVER’S EDGE DELI & BBQ We’re an easy stop at Exit 137, or the perfect place to get recharged after a day on the River. The River’s Edge offers a large assortment of house smoked meats, homemade fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps and don’t miss our homemade bread pudding or Pat’s famous Cowboy beans! We are that family friendly local restaurant and a friendly stop along your travel route. Oh, and the next time you’re in Arlington, stop across the street at Pat’s Pheasant Grill for a burger and a peanut butter milkshake! 225 LOCUST STREET, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 454-2300 • RIVERSEDGEDELIBBQ.COM
433 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-3922
CONDON MOTEL The Condon Motel has 18 comfortable and cozy rooms with refrigerators, microwaves, coffee and Wi-Fi. Of course, pets are always welcome. Come and visit the wonderful world of Gilliam County, our little piece of heaven in Oregon. 216 N WASHINGTON STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-2181
VISIT ARLINGTON OREGON
EXPLORE HISTORIC CONDON
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.
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.
PO BOX 202, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 626-3426 • VISITARLINGTONOREGON.COM
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
105 S MAIN STREET, PO BOX 315, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-7777 CONDONCHAMBER.ORG
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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY
Gilliam County
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
LEARN AT THE EXPERIENCE CENTER Just opened in 2018 is an education center located in scenic Cottonwood Canyon State Park on the John Day River, straddling the county line between Gilliam and Sherman Counties. The $2.5 million project includes a 1,500-square-foot Experience Center, which serves as a classroom for outdoor education as well as a reservable event space. Cottonwood Canyon is also the location of the Cottonwood Crossing Summer Institute, a week-long residential field study course for high school students.
GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 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 along with several other buildings, each over a century old, at this destination of history interpretation in Condon. Get a glimpse into the lives of early pioneers who took wagons through here after their long journey on the Oregon Trail. 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.
SUMMER ARTISANS MARKET AND CONCERT IN THE PARK A few times each summer, Condonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Culture and fun come together on those sunny summer days in a historic city that looks like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Summer Concert in the Park
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, MIDDLE J ONI K ABANA
Gilliam County Historical Museum
EXPLORE John Day River Territory
THE CONDON ROUND-UP
CROSS RIFLE BBQ
Saunter in, relax and be in the company of good friends at The Round-up, a contemporary Western bar located in Condon’s historic downtown. Patrons can enjoy pool, shuffleboard or the digital jukebox. The menu offers creative cocktails, craft brews and fresh interpretations of traditional, home-style eats. The Round-up is also a great place for larger gatherings, and can help host parties such as birthdays, retirements or anniversaries. Find us on Facebook.
Cross Rifles BBQ was born out of a passion that Army veteran and owner, Randy, had for his soldiers to feed them and make them feel like family. Down home from scratch slow roasted BBQ is his specialty. We also offer a full menu featuring local Painted Hills Natural Beef. Proudly serving several micro brews on tap and a full bar.
209 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-5100
415 FIRST STREET, FOSSIL, 97830 • (541) 763-2270
SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
WASCO HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST
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, WiFi, and bike friendly. Open May through October.
Wasco House B&B features comfortable rooms with queen beds and private bathrooms.
200 DEWEY STREET, MORO, 97039 • (541) 565-3232 • SHERMANMUSEUM.ORG
• 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
Whatever Eastern Oregon adventures you are pursuing we are here to help you enjoy the journey!
Conveniently located to area attractions: Historic Main Street Condon, Cottonwood Canyon State Park, the Columbia River, all three John Day Fossil Beds National Monument units, agritourism producers in and around Kimberly and three of Oregon’s Scenic Bikeways. Arrange how you find it works best.
202 south main street , condon , oregon 97823 | hotelcondon . com | 541-384-4624
Lori’s Place at Hotel Condon
Family dining & catering 541-256-0702
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.
RIDE THE WASCO LOOP The Wasco Loop offers the best of all cycling disciplines, combining gravel roads, pavement and trails. The sixtymile 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.
EXPLORE COTTONWOOD CANYON STATE PARK 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 is only two hours from Portland yet feels a million miles away. Abundant wildlife make this a destination for hunters, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts. Cottonwood is home to Oregon’s largest herd of bighorn sheep. There are also mule deer and pronghorn in the vast canyon lands.
Sherars Falls
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.
BOUNDED BY THREE RIVERS This beautiful landscape offers many waterways that are the perfect place 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.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTO TOP J ONI K ABANA , BOT TOM DAVID J ENSEN
Wind turbines
It’s not so hard to make a memory that lasts a lifetime. You’ve just got to come do
something you’ll never forget.
175 Years of pioneer spirit Our History ~ Make it Your Story VisitEasternOregon.com
PHOTO THIS PAGE DAVID J ENSEN, FACING PAGE BOT TOM LEF T DAVID J ENSEN, TOP MIDDLE J ONI K ABANA , TOP LEF T AND RIGHT TIM BISHOP
NORTHEAST pg.76 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. 88 Union County With La Grande (the largest town in the tri-county area) at its center, Union County is home to a vast patchwork of farm and ranch land that covers much of the Grande Ronde Valley. At higher
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.
elevations, trails and roads lead into the natural playground of the Blue and Wallowa Mountains.
pg. 94 Wallowa County One of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, the Wallowas are home to the
Clockwise from left: Eagle Cap Wilderness. First Friday Art Walk in Baker City. Farm life. Baker City Bronc and Bull Riding. Memorial Day wagon encampment at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City. Wallowa Lake.
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Eagle Cap Wilderness. Wallowa County is also known for the ridge-top views of Hells Canyon, the story of Chief Joseph and Native American heritage, and the art scene in Joseph.
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Come Expl e
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
Halfway’s newest hot spot! Lounge • Grill • Cafe Affordable Lodging
Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate, Let us spoil you!
Ride, Relax, Explore. Oregon’s undiscovered gem. Adjacent to the ghost town of Cornucopia
(541) 742-6246 146 Main Street, Halfway, Oregon
(541) 742-2027 | pvlodge.com 163 N Main Street, Halfway, Oregon
(541) 742-4500 | cornucopialodge.com 56994 Queen Mine Road, Halfway, Oregon
- VACATION PACKAGES AVAILABLE WilderSideofOregon.com | (888) 511-1760
I Like It Here
NORTHEAST
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
I LIKE IT HERE: RICK BOMBACI Rick Bombaci moved to Wallowa County in 1980, when he was 24 years old. “The mountains brought me here,” he said. “The rural community kept me here.” He’s worked as a Forest Service wilderness ranger, owned a bicycle shop, was a teacher, started a computer business and has worked with local nonprofit organizations, most recently Wallowa Resources. He’s also lived in several of the small towns throughout Wallowa County, but most recently calls Enterprise home. “Like a lot of people here, I don’t identify with a town as much as I identify with the county as a whole.” He spends most of his time outside exploring the region. “The natural landscape is really diverse, and it’s also quite wild.”
1
Ride the Eagle Cap Excursion Train.
Hop on the vintage train at the depot in Elgin for a scenic ride through the rugged landscape of the Grande Ronde River and the Wild & Scenic Wallowa River. Wave to rafters and fishers, watch for wildlife and keep your eyes open for possible sightings of Bigfoot and train robbers! Most rides include a meal and some also highlight the region’s delicious wine and artisan fare.
2
Go to Tamkaliks Pow Wow.
The Tamkaliks Pow Wow is a three-day event celebrating Native American culture. The history and culture of the Nez Perce, who inhabited the region before settlers, is showcased in traditional songs and dances. There’s also a market with local food and Native American crafts. The festival culminates with the Friendship Feast, where there is traditionally prepared deer, elk, salmon and more, and the community brings pot luck dishes to share.
3
Grab a drink and bite at Terminal Gravity. Terminal Gravity has been brewing craft beer in Enterprise since 1997. It’s a popular spot to eat for locals and visitors alike. Sit outside in the summer and enjoy a good meal and a drink on the picnic tables. It’s a friendly atmosphere that’s family-oriented. There’s usually live music, as well.
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YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...
❝Wallowa County is unique: you have the Eagle Cap Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in Oregon, but you also have Hells Canyon and Zumwalt Prairie. The natural landscape is really diverse, and it’s also quite wild.❞
Rick Bombaci Rick Bombaci has lived in towns throughout Wallowa County since his early twenties, and he now calls Enterprise home. His daughter and grandson live close by, too. He loves to take his grandson hiking, camping and ‘riding the rails’ on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train. As a job, Bombaci works with Wallowa Resources.
PHOTO MIDDLE ALE X J ORDAN
The organization collaborates with the federal government, local organizations and private landowners for land, forest and water stewardship projects. They also provide outdoor education and sustainability projects. Tamkaliks PowWow
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
Terminal Gravity Brewing
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NORTHEAST
Baker County
BAKER COUNTY
CULTURE AND HERITAGE
LIVE MUSIC & FESTIVALS
RICH PIONEER AND GOLD RUSH HERITAGE. Baker County is an adventurer’s paradise. 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 McNally’s six most beautiful small towns in America three years in a row.
Baker County is home to several award winning music festivals including the weekly Powder River Music Review concert series Sunday afternoons in Baker City's Geiser Pollman Park, Pine Fest Music Festival in Halfway the second weekend in September, and the Eastern Oregon Oregon Tribute Fest the third weekend in August in Baker City. Visitors can also enjoy live music at a variety of local venues and events as Baker County is an increasingly popular stop over for bands and musicians touring the Northwest.
OREGON TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER
National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
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.
Pine Fest Music Festival
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Sumpter Valley Railroad
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
Punch your ticket for a trip back in time aboard the historic, steampowered Sumpter Valley Railroad. This narrow gauge railroad harkens back to a time when timber was king and cars were but a dream. The snippet of living history was restored entirely by volunteers beginning in the 1970s. Take the five-mile ride from McEwen to the former gold mining town of Sumpter and its towering Sumpter Dredge—a five-story, 1,240ton behemoth.
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PHOTOS THIS PAGE BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
SUMPTER VALLEY RAILROAD
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.
Geiser Grand Hotel
PHOTOS LEF T AND BOT TOM RIGHT ALE X J ORDAN, TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA
Historic Downtown Baker City
Barley Brown's
DOWNTOWN TOUR HISTORY COMES TO LIFE HERE ... MAKE IT YOUR STORY, TOO. 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.
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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.
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NORTHEAST
Baker County
Hells Canyon
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THE DEEPEST RIVER CANYON
Natural Wonder
HELL HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.
Journey from mountaintop
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.
down to valley floor to reach the deepest river gorge in America, Hells Canyon. Rugged basalt cliffs and grassy open ridges are a sight to behold. Have a picnic overlooking the tumbling course of the Wild and Scenic Snake River.
Hells Canyon Adventures
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ON A BOAT
PACK IN
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 familygeared trips to fast-paced thirtyminute jaunts. Rather paddle? Jump onboard a whitewater tour with Hells Canyon Outfitters or Winding Waters River Expeditions.
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 its pack station.
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
STEP INTO THE WILDER SIDE.
FULL SERVICE BIKE & SKI SHOP DOWNTOWN BAKER CITY TRAIL INFO. MAPS. OUTDOOR REC INFO. LOCAL BREWS ON TAP. GOOD FOLK.
1828 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY | 541.794.8376
Affordable Luxury
G G Great Food and Good Spirits daily 7a-10p; locally sourced, from scratch Guest Suites with breathtaking views, fireplaces, cozy robes, room service, fitness center, horse drawn carriage Live Music in 1889 Bar
Wagon Ruts • Nature Walks Living History • Interpretive Talks Exhibits • Hiking Trails
Special Exhibits 2019 Wagons Ho! Feb. 16 - June 2 Dead Reckoning June 19 - Sept. 2 Uncanny Tales Sept. 16 - Nov. 30
22267 Oregon Highway 86 oregontrail.blm.gov I-84, Exit 302 | Baker City, OR | 541-523-1843
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
Baker County
Pedal Power
RANCHING HERITAGE
Each summer, the Baker
A LONG HISTORY OF GRAZING. 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.
City Cycling Classic brings hundreds of road cyclists to the region to ride and race on scenic roads.
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NORTHEAST
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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PHOTOS BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
HISTORY, NATURE AND A STEAK.
Baker City Cycling Classic
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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HELLS CANYON ADVENTURES Marley Robb, Untitled Watercolor – July 2019
JET BOAT TOURS 1 - 2 DAY RAFTING TRIPS FISHING CHARTERS SHUTTLE SERVICES LODGING, RV & TENT CAMPING
Antonia Carriere, “Hazy Reflections” Pastel – November 2019
800-422-3568 541-785-3352
HELLSCANYONADVENTURES.COM
Visit. Explore. Play. Online reservations are available at four beautiful campgrounds in Hells Canyon.
Roberta Lavadour, “Fat Chance” Book Art – March 2019 Dori Litzer “Reflections” Oil on Canvas – May 2019
Visit idahopower.com/recreation today to plan your next adventure!
Crossroads Carnegie art Center Join us in Baker City, Oregon “Where Stunning Vistas and Alluring Art Meet!” We invite you to Oregon’s Art Getaway and join us in celebrating diverse regional art and artists during our 2019 exhibition year. 2020 Auburn Avenue, Baker City, Oregon 541.523.5369 • www.crossroads-arts.org
NORTHEAST
Baker County THE LODGE
CALLING ALL POWDER HOUNDS FIND COLORADO-QUALITY SNOW AT ANTHONY LAKES IN THE ELKHORN MOUNTAINS. 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. Coveted by powder hounds for its snowpack, 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 family-friendly atmosphere.
Yurt Accommodations
Summer Singletrack
The full-service lodge includes a café, bar, retail shop and rental shop. Order a local beer at Starbottle Saloon.
LOGISTICS 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.
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 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.
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
The Anthony Lakes area comprises a series of fifteen lakes and marshes in the Elkhorn Range. 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. Last year, the resort opened the new Broadway downhill mountain bike trail.
<< BY THE NUMBERS 300 inches average annual snowfall 1,100 acres of lift accessed terrain 21 runs 30 km groomed & track-set Nordic trails
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PHOTO BOT TOM BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM
SUMMER FUN
BARLEY BROWN’S BREWPUB
Our family-friendly restaurant features our original 4-barrel brewhouse, 13 taps, a full bar and classic pub food. Open at 4 p.m. daily. Closed on Sundays.
BARLEY BROWN’S TAPHOUSE
Our tap house, located directly across the street, features 22 taps of our awardwinning beer along with a fun atmosphere and live music on most weekends. Open at 2 p.m. daily, noon on Sundays.
CORNERS OF MAIN & CHURCH, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-BEER • BARLEYBROWNSBEER.COM
We named it
Hells Canyon
to scare people away. Not You. Other People.
PHOTO: GR ADY R AWL S - WINDING WATERS RIVER E XPEDITIONS
HellsCanyonByway.com
EXPLORE Elkhorn Scenic Byway
LYNN BEAN GALLERY • 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
THE DEPOT INN 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
SUMPTER STOCKADE MOTEL Seven room motel with huge suites ranging $20-$100. Each room is themed and comes with Wi-Fi, cable, microwave, fridge, and Kuerig. Come to our beautiful town that has a lot of events throughout the year, riding trails, scenic beauty, historical places and hospitality that comes straight out of the early 1900s. For more information visit our website sumpterstockade.com or call 541-894-2360. To find out about what our town has to offer visit sumpteroregon.com provided by the Sumpter Merchant Group. 129 AUSTIN STREET, SUMPTER 97877 • (541) 894-2360 • SUMPTERSTOCKADE.COM
SUMPTER'S GOLDEN NUGGET Home of the $100 ounce! The "Highest" dispensary in Oregon. We are a Recreational Marijuana Retailer selling a large variety of cannabis products and accessories. OLCC Required Disclaimers: Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. For use by adults 21 years of age and older. Keep out of reach of children. 160 N MILL STREET, SUMPTER 97877 • (541) 894-2400 • SUMPTERNUGGET.COM
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. Stop by the dredge, take a tour, walk Photo courtesy of Oregon State Parks 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. 211 AUSTIN ST, SUMPTER 97877 • (541) 894-2472 • HISTORICSUMPTER.COM
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EASTERN OREGON ATV ADVENTURES We offer a line of ATVs for off road adventure through the beautiful trails that Eastern Oregon has to offer. Half or full day rental available. Come ride with us! 179 S MILL STREET, SUMPTER, 97814 • (541) 519-3704
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
SUMPTER VALLEY RAILROAD 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
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
EXPLORE Baker City
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
PETERSON’S CHOCOLATES 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. 1925 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-1022
BELLA MAIN STREET MARKETS
CHARLEY'S DELI & ICE CREAM
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.
Located in the heart of downtown Baker City, Charley’s offers handcrafted sandwiches using premium meats and cheeses, soups, salads, espresso and hand-scooped ice cream and shakes.
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
BEERDED DOG GROWLER FILL STATION & TAPROOM Sit and stay, or fill and go away. Choose from 22 taps at BEERded Dog Growler Fill Station.
Join us for a sweet treat or delicious sandwich next time you're in town! Eat well. Laugh often. Love Charley's.
2101 MAIN ST #101, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 524-9307 • CHARLEYSDELI.COM
BAKER HERITAGE MUSEUM Permanent and changing exhibits of mining, timber, ranching, agriculture, early Baker City life, Chinese culture and wildlife fill the 33,000-squarefoot building. Whether you spend an hour or spend the day touring the museum, you will come away with an appreciation of our region and the people who settled here. Open mid-March through October, 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
1805 VALLEY AVENUE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 519-5011
ADLER HOUSE MUSEUM Impeccably restored 1889 Italianate Victorian home of philanthropist Leo Adler. Adler House is open Fridays & Saturdays, Memorial Day through mid-September from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Other times by advance reservation.
2480 GROVE STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-9308 BAKERHERITAGEMUSEUM.COM
THE SYCAMORE TREE 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!
2305 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-9308 BAKERHERITAGEMUSEUM.COM/ADLERHOUSE.HTML
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2108 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-4840
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
Baker City Cycling Classic www.bakercitycycling.org “America’s Most Important Stage Race”
June 28 - 30th 2019
photo by Scott Conover
NORTHEAST
Union County
UNION COUNTY
LA GRANDE
DOWNTOWN Small city life in La Grande cultivates a robust cultural scene. Start at a popular stop along the Northeast Oregon Arts Trail, the Arts East Center at the old Carnegie Library, which hosts events, concerts and art walks. Head to the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum to admire restored antique fire trucks and learn about the brave role firefighters play in society. Finish your visit with hoppy revelry at Side A Brewing, a new brewery located in the same Historic La Grande Firehouse that houses the fire museum.
WHERE THE FIELDS MEET THE BLUES. A vast patchwork of farm and ranch land covers much of the Grande Ronde Valley floor in Union County. A thick fir and pine forest blankets the Blue Mountains at higher elevations (up to 9,000 feet), where the wilderness is a playground. La Grande is the largest city in a three-county area, and serves as a hub for commerce, state government and higher education. Small town charm is abundant in Cove, Union, Elgin and other rural Union County municipalities.
By day, fill up on locally roasted coffee and savory eats at Joe & Sugars. For a night on the town, head to local landmark Ten Depot Street, where there is often live music and always to-die-for prime rib. For shopping, dining, arts and more, visit the La Grande Marketplace, a collection of worthy destinations in a historical building near city hall. Get your Hollywood fix at the Historic Granada Theatre, which shows firstrun films on three screens. Plan a trip during the annual Eastern Oregon Film Festival in October, which draws awardwinning directors to its lineup of indie film screenings.
On Mount Harris
Academic energy is a boon to any community. Eastern Oregon University is the only four-year university in Eastern Oregon. A must-see for campus visitors is the Nightingale Gallery, which brings in top-notch contemporary art to one of the region’s few experimental galleries.
The Landing Hotel
>> Historic Granada Theatre
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The Landing Hotel Set up basecamp one block south of the historic district at the newly renovated Landing Hotel. A rustic farmhouse aesthetic meets modern, airy finishes at this boutique hotel. Also on site is Wine Down, a wine bar and bistro which keeps “locally raised” front of mind. Enjoy eats and drinks from the second floor balcony, which has tremendous views of the city and the Blue Mountains beyond.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO TOP DAVID J ENSEN, BOT TOM LEF T ALE X J ORDAN
EASTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY
Grande Ronde River
Union County
NORTHEAST
A SLICE OF LIFE VENTURE INTO POCKETS OF CULTURE IN THE SMALL TOWNS OF THE GRANDE RONDE VALLEY. With a population of just over 2,100, Union has maintained its rural charm and friendly atmosphere. Open space, Victorian-style homes, charming brick buildings and tree-lined streets maintain the town’s historic authenticity. Main Street is now a National Historic District. In Elgin, culture comes in many forms, from the Elgin Stampede rodeo to the opera house. Discover untamed territory on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train, which departs from Elgin. Elgin Opera House
Union County Museum
PHOTO TOP LEF T BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , OTHERS J ONI K ABANA
Eagle Cap Excursion Train
EAGLE CAP EXCURSION TRAIN
ELGIN OPERA HOUSE
HISTORIC UNION
Around the turn of the 20th century, the promise of fortune lured iron rails to the remote corners of Oregon. The expanding railroads also meant big riches for bandits, who performed daring heists of gold-laden trains. Today, visitors can still encounter gangs of mounted marauders intent on holding up the historic Eagle Cap Excursion Train during its twice-yearly robbery-themed outing. Tamer outings include wine and cheese tastings, plus autumn excursions to photograph the showstopping yellows of the western larch. Enjoy lunch and keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, bald eagles and the occasional bear along the scenic course beside the Grande Ronde and Wallowa rivers.
A surprising sight in the tiny town of Elgin, this historic colonial revival building was built in 1911 to serve dually as a city hall and performing arts center. Lauded for its sharp acoustics and slanted seating arrangement, the renovated space is true to the original motif, with plush draperies, box seats, an orchestra pit, elaborate backdrops and rococo décor. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the opera house is home to the performing arts group Friends of the Opera House. Community events, theater shows, movies and noted performers are scheduled throughout the year.
Union’s Victorian-style homes and brick buildings are a charming sight. Don’t miss the Historic Union Hotel and its Italian marble floors, period rooms and a restaurant offering hearty eats and refreshing beverages, both hot and cold. Play a round on Buffalo Peak Golf Course and step back in time at the Union County Museum, with excellent and informative displays and recreations of pioneer, cowboy and ranch life.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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NORTHEAST
Union County
Apple Spring Organic Micro Farm
A slice of life
>>
The Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA) Mount Emily Recreation Area
covers more than 3,600 acres of land, just north of La Grande. Pristine year-round recreation at MERA includes trails for off-road vehicles,
SEE THE GRANDE RONDE VALLEY, VIA CAR, BIKE OR FISHING WADERS. Union County is a central access point to two national forests, three mountain ranges and remote rivers. One way to explore the beauty is via the ninetyfive-mile-long Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway. The road begins and ends in La Grande—meandering past century farms, rugged sage-covered rangelands and lush forests. Numerous bodies of water color the route and provide ample picnic opportunities. Road cycling is popular on this scenic bikeway’s low-traffic roads, which offer excellent views of the Grande Ronde Valley to the north and Powder Valley to the south. Keep an eye out for historical markers, testaments to Oregon Trail wagon trains that crossed these valleys in the 1800s. Become a “looper,” visiting the farms and ranches along the Cove-Union Farm Loop to see why so many folks choose the country lifestyle.
Fall fishing on the Grande Ronde River
Gift Idea: Hand-forged Heirlooms from Northwest Skillet Company After many years as a blacksmith, Peter Clark found out that his ancestry traces back to John Shields, blacksmith for Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery. Today, he crafts hand spun carbon steel skillets using ancient Egyptian techniques. Each is built to become a family heirloom.
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mountain bikes, hiking or horseback riding and even an archery range.
DISCOVERY AWAITS, FROM FIELD TO CANYON.
Cove-Union Farm Loop Near La Grande, the Cove-Union Farm Loop links together a series of active, self-serve farm stands and farms that offer visitation if you call ahead. Platz Family Farm is one highlight along the route, especially for autumn bounty. Be sure to stop at the Union County Museum to hear about the area’s settlement history.
Grande Ronde River Cutting its way through now forested ancient basalt flows, this swift river winds through steep canyon lands and past basalt formations before joining the Snake River. See bird and wildlife habitat via raft with Oregon Whitewater Adventures. In-the-know anglers drift boat fish this river for steelhead and rainbow trout, plus bass.
Catherine Creek State Park Picnic, hike, fish or camp along Catherine Creek’s crystal-clear waters. The tranquil creek in this forested canyon is known for having a lot more rainbow trout than people. Wildlife viewing, interpretive displays and plenty of scenery make this an ideal stop in central Union County.
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PHOTO TOP LEF T BAKER COUNT Y TOURISM , TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA
Embrace the Great Outdoors
1219 Washington Ave. La Grande, OR (541) 605- 0163 SIDEABEER.COM
There are a lot of amazing things to do outside in Eastern Oregon – We are here to help you get After it!
• 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
EXPLORE La Grande
THE POTTER’S HOUSE GALLERY
KNEADS BAKERY Located in historic downtown La Grande, Kneads Bakery offers sweets, savories, and breads baked fresh daily using natural and locally sourced ingredients.
Bob and Judy Jensen are a team, working their individual creativity in the studio. Bob creates Raku and stoneware pottery. The stoneware is functional and great cooking items that can be used in the microwave or oven and are all dishwasher safe. In addition, he creates art pieces that are decorative and expressive to grace your home. Judy takes discarded furniture and brings them back to life with paint, fabric and creativity. You will always find upcycled pieces in the gallery. Follow our Facebook page. 1601 6TH STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 910-0550 THEPOTTERSHOUSEGALLERY.COM
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
BELLA MAIN STREET MARKETS
EASTERN OREGON FIRE MUSEUM
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.
The dream of former fire Chief Don Keeling is alive and well in the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum, which is situated in downtown La Grande, adjacent to Side A Brewing. Open 7 days a week, providing an atmosphere of industrial space within historic La Grande. You can enjoy regionally-sourced creative pub fare and a locally crafted beer while brushing up on the history of the building, firefighters, firefighting equipment, various fires throughout the area and even view historic firetrucks.
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! 2023 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • 1216 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 (541) 523-7490 • BIGMERLOT.COM • (541) 663-WINE
Mountain Works Bicycles We sell, rent and service bicycles for adventures to local trails and beyond.
We also offer a wide range of sporting goods and clothing for other adventures such as rock climbing, skiing, nordic skiing, MOUNTAIN WORKS BICYCLES snowshoeing, camping and cycling.
102 ELM STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 605-0163
SEE WHAT’S POSSIBLE THE EASTERN EDGE eou.edu OREGON’S RURAL UNIVERSITY
We sell, rent and service bicycles for adventures on local trails and beyond. We also offer a wide range of sporting goods and clothing for other adventures such as rock climbing, skiing and cycling. Stop in for information and a brew as we now serve beer, wine and a small selection of pop.
Be active, be happy, be healthy, make a difference.
1301 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-3220 • MOUNTAINWORKSBICYCLES.COM
1301 ADAMS AVE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-3220 • MOUNTAINWORKSBICYCLES.COM
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EXPLORE Union County
UNION COUNTY MUSEUM 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, the General Store and so much more. Test your knowledge of the cowboy code of conduct!
333 S MAIN STREET, UNION, 97883 • (541) 562-6003 • UCMUSEUMOREGON.COM
COVE-UNION FARM LOOP Fresh, healthy food, cute animals, friendly farmers and beautiful scenery - you’ll find it all along the Cove-Union Farm Loop. Explore on four wheels or two and bring along some cash, as many farm stands are self-serve. OREGON HWY 237, COVE, 97824 • (541) 963-8588 • VISITUNIONCOUNTY.ORG
GRANDE HOT SPRINGS RV RESORT
MOUNT EMILY RECREATION AREA
• 100 pull-thru RV sites • 15 tent sites • 2 yurts with private soaking • 1 Airstream cabin • 2 mineral soaking pools • Beautiful, quiet location • Just 8 miles to La Grande
Just two miles north of downtown La Grande you will find the 3,670 acre Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA). 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
65182 HOT LAKE LANE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-5253 GRANDEHOTSPRINGS.COM
ALPINE ARCHERY AND FLY The premier archery and fly shop in Eastern Oregon has the gear, flies, and local knowledge to prepare bowmen and fishermen alike for their next adventure. Owners John and Anieta are native to La Grande and experts in Northeast Oregon outdoor pursuits. Stop by to pick up the hottest flies or get current information on local waters not far from I-84. 117 ELM STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-4671 • ALPINEARCHERYANDFLY.COM
MEETMERA.COM
THE HISTORIC UNION HOTEL Vintage 1921 hotel located near La Grande in Historic Union. Themed rooms with private baths, meeting and wedding venues, RV park, restaurant and lounge. Bike friendly.
326 N MAIN STREET, UNION, 97883 • (541) 562-1200 • THEHISTORICUNIONHOTEL.COM
CATS PAW FARM MERCANTILE Cats Paw Farm Mercantile is keeping heirloom crafting alive with a contemporary twist. We create over 200 palm oil free artisan soaps using ingredients from our farm such as goat milk, herb infusions, natural exfoliates and specialty tallows. We also craft luxurious lotions, skin and hair care, and a line of homeopathic salves. Custom work is welcome! Our culinary line includes gourmet mustards, shrub syrup concentrates, fudge (year-round!), and a vast selection of hand blended herbal teas from ingredients grown in our spray-free gardens. We also raise turkey, duck, and chicken meat and eggs. HWY 203, UNION, 97883 • (541) 910-4961 • CATSPAWFARM.COM
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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
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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.
Wallowa Lake Marina
<<
Into the Wild “The jagged, white-granite peaks, sparkling lakes, 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
Hurricane Creek Trail in the Wallowa Mountains
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
inadequate to see all of its glories.”
- Douglas Lorain, 100 Classic Hikes in Oregon
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTOS ALE X J ORDAN
and wildflower-covered meadows of the Wallowa
Wallowa County
NORTHEAST
FIND 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
RETREAT
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 thirtyplus 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.
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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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.
• 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.
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 Vali’s
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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
a local beer and some food at the Summit Grill. Remind yourself that this is real life.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN, BOT TOM LEF T TALIA G ALVIN, BOT TOM RIGHT LEON WERDINGER
AT THE HEAD OF THE LAKE
NORTHEAST
Wallowa County
Downtown Joseph
CATTLE RANCHES, A HISTORY OF TIMBER AND AN ARTISTIC PRESENT. Due to environmental constraints, Joseph turned from logging to the arts in the 1980s. Its picturesque Bronze Art Walk on Main Street features a series of western-themed sculptures that make the town itself feel gallery-like. One of the largest and most renowned bronze foundries in the country, Valley Bronze casts works of art by internationally-acclaimed artists. The foundry’s namesake gallery accompanies other top-notch galleries in town, including Phinney Gallery, Aspen Grove Gallery and Stewart Jones Designs. The artistic theme continues at BeeCrow-Bee, where the intoxicating smell of essential oils melts stress as you shop for handmade body products. Shop fine silver jewelry and Native art and textiles at Lamb Trading Company. Rummage the eclectic jewelry gold mine at To Zion. Shop women’s wears at Tempting Teal Boutique, which also carries fleece items made by the owner. The area’s rich logging history is commemorated at Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center, which pays homage to the multicultural logging community of Maxville, home to fifty or so African-American families until the early 1930s.
ON MAIN STREET
INNOVATION IN BREWING A granddaddy of craft beer in Oregon, Enterprise’s Terminal Gravity (known as TG) has become a beer staple on taps and in grocery stores around the state. With that success comes the freedom of experimentation. In 2017, TG opened East Fork Brewery in Joseph. This additional brewing facility and pub is operating with its own staff, separate from TG, and offers one-off beers available only on site— plus TG beers and food made from scratch. Feel the creativity buzzing as you sip a one-ofa-kind brew and marvel at the mountain peaks rising from just beyond your picnic table.
Cap a day in Joseph at Stein Distillery with samples of local spirits (wheat-distilled cordials, oak-aged rye and bourbon whiskeys), then relax fireside on the patio at Embers Brewhouse. Choose from close to twenty microbrews on tap and enjoy the best patio view of the Wallowas in town—and perhaps even some live music.
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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East Fork Brewery
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO TOP ALE X J ORDAN
JOSEPH
Wallowa County
NORTHEAST OREGON ARTS TRAIL
NORTHEAST
CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS
NEW ART IN THE OLD WEST. 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.
CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS ALWAYS HELD THE LAST FULL WEEKEND IN JULY Six days of Western entertainment are kicked off each year by a bucking horse stampede, which runs right down Main Street in Joseph. Admire the athleticism of animal and rider over the course of the five-day Chief Joseph Days PRCA Rodeo, which is held in an historic arena just a few blocks from downtown. Chief Joseph Days, now in its seventythird year, more than doubles the population of Wallowa County for the week. Besides featuring one of the largest rodeos in the Northwest, the festivities also include a Nez Perce encampment and pow wow, parades of the kid and grand varieties, dances, a golf tournament and a cowboy church service.
PHOTO LEF T ALE X J ORDAN
Dance the nights away in the Thunder Room (for drinking age adults only; there is a teen dance at the community center). Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the cowboy breakfast, a fundraiser at the rodeo grounds which starts on Saturday night at 11 p.m. and continues through the night.
<< Bronze Age Joseph is the epicenter for bronze Joseph Branch Railriders
sculptures in the modern world. Discover foundaries, galleries and public art that celebrate the medium.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2019
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Wallowa County
NORTHEAST
ENTERPRISE >>
CENTRALLY LOCATED IN WALLOWA COUNTY, THIS TOWN HAS HEART.
Atop the Rim
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.
Authentically crafted tipis look reminiscent of another time against the backdrop of Chief Joseph Canyon, just outside of Enterprise. Inside, though, the digs at Rim Rock Inn are designed for modern guests. Book a luxury suite, tipi or vintage trailer. Warm sunset hues continue into the night around a fire pit. Eat well with locally sourced, scratch-made meals.
Wild Carrot Herbals
Chief Joseph Canyon
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DOWNTOWN
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.
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BOOKSTORE
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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SUMMER
Blankets and lawn chairs dot the lawn surrounding the gazebo every Thursday during the summer season for the Courthouse Concert Series. Culturallyminded travelers will be enchanted by Sunrise Iron on Highway 82, which has the largest collection of pioneer relics, including dozens of antique tractors, anywhere in the Pacific Northwest.
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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 Stockmans 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!”
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BRONZE
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.
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
PHOTO LEF T TALIA G ALVIN, RIGHT J ONI K ABANA
YEAR-ROUND FUN AT EVERY TURN
MOUNTAIN VIEW MOTEL & RV PARK
A G ATH E RIN G PL ACE FOR TH E A RTS
EXH IBIT S | CLASS ES | C O N C ERT S | LEC TU R E S LIB RARY OF W ES T ERN H I S T O RY & C U LTU R E Gi ft s ho p sp ecializing in local Artists and A rt i s an s www.josephy.org 4 0 3 N. Mai n St. P.O. Box 949 Jose ph, OR 9 7 8 46
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 2017
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
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Wallowa County’s Events & Festivals E JUN 8 7-
OREGON MOUNTAIN
CRUISE JOSEPH, OR
oregonmountaincruise.com
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mountainhighrodeo.com
ENTERPRISE, OR
wallowaresources.org
WALLOWA COUNTY
FLYIN JOSEPH, OR
wallowacountyflyin.com
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CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS RODEO
AUG 17 16-
MAIN STREET SHOW & SHINE
AUG 31 T SEP 15 11-
JOSEPH, OR
chiefjosephdays.com
ENTERPRISE, OR
mainstreetshowshine.com
JUNIPER JAM
MUSIC FESTIVAL ENTERPRISE, OR
juniperjam.com
WALLOWA VALLEY FESTIVAL OF ARTS JOSEPH, OR
wallowavalleyarts.org
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THUNDER RUN JOSEPH, OR
wcthunderrun.com
BOWLBY BASH ENTERPRISE, OR
myenterpriseoregon.com
SUMMER FISHTRAP WALLOWA LAKE, OR
fishtrap.org
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TAMKALIKS CELEBRATION
AUG 3
BACK COUNTRY
AUG 25 24-
WALLOWA, OR
wallowanezperce.org
BASH
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backcountrybashjoseph.com
DRAGONS IN
THE WALLOWAS WALLOWA LAKE, OR
dragonsinthewallowas.com
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JAN25, 22- 020 2
EAGLE CAP EXTREME
ENTERPRISE, OR
hellscanyonmuledays.com
JOSEPH, OR
eaglecapextreme.com
For more information visit www.wallowacountychamber.com
EXPLORE Enterprise
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ALPINE MEADOWS GOLF COURSE
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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. 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
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
RIMROCK INN
BARKING MAD FARM B&B 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. 65156 POWERS ROAD, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 886-0171 • BARKINGMADFARM.COM
Experience unforgettable dining and lodging on the edge of Joseph Creek Canyon. Choose from authentic tipis, hand painted & completely outfitted, vintage trailers from the 60’s, or our luxurious Chief Joseph Suite. All accommodations include a full country breakfast and amazing canyon views. Dine in style while feasting on cowboy cuisine. Reservations are required for dinner. Check website for hours, menu and availability. Enjoy the scenic drive, 35 miles north of Enterprise. 83471 LEWISTON HWY, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 828-7769 • RIMROCKINNOR.COM
THE BOOKLOFT & SKYLIGHT GALLERY & COFFEE BAR 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
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
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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EXPLORE Joseph
BELLE PEPPER’S B & B
STEWART JONES DESIGNS
Belle Pepper’s is a gracious bed and breakfast in the historic McCully Mansion. Surrounded by an acre of lawns and gardens and bordered by the Wallowa River, the setting is as lovely as the home. We are located just one block from Joseph’s charming main street, placing you within easy walking distance of galleries, restaurants, and other local businesses. Just a short distance away, you can explore the year-round splendor of the trails and breathtaking wilderness. Hiking, backpacking, winter sports and a vibrant art community are available for your pleasure.
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.
101 S MILL STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 398-2758 • BELLEPEPPERSBNB.COM
BRONZE ANTLER BED & BREAKFAST
(541) 786-7159 • STEWARTJONESDESIGNS.COM
WALLOWOLOGY NATURAL HISTORY DISCOVERY CENTER
Select RegistryTM Member AAA 3-Diamond Rating Fully restored Arts & Crafts home with a few surprises for the discriminating guest. Comfortable walking distance to all Joseph art galleries and restaurants. Full breakfast daily. Wine cellar on premises. We take care of the details so you focus on enjoyment. 309 S MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-0230 • BRONZEANTLER.COM
Explore Eastern Oregon’s Extraordinary Landscapes! At our Natural History Discovery Center in downtown Joseph, we invite visitors to explore and discover Eastern Oregon’s lands and waters through exhibits, outings, and evening presentations by scientists, experts and artists. Exhibits | Presentations | Workshops | Outings | Family Activities 508 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 94846 • (541) 263-1663 • WALLOWOLOGY.ORG
PALLETTE RANCH
GENUINE WALLOWA COUNTY
Historical Ranch in N.E. Oregon on the River. Built in the ’40s by actor Eugene Pallette as his hideaway from Hollywood and a refuge from potential world demise during World War II. Guests such as Clark Gable, Errol Flynn, and John Wayne were regular guests here. There are 340 acres on 2 miles of river. Also original log home of the early settlers that traveled here in covered wagons from Kansas in the late 1800s still stands. Many Lodging options. The main Bunkhouse (cap. 24) or (rent by the room) with a mess hall/Kitchen + M/W. Restroom/shower. Also a 2 bed house with Kitchen/bath.
E-commerce site curates handmade treasures from Wallowa County for you! Genuine Wallowa County makes sharing the bounty of the county with family and friends fun and easy. Subscription boxes are a fun, recurring surprise for a loved one, or a great pick-me-up for yourself! Gift box collections feature Wallowa County’s finest products nestled in artful packaging and a handwritten note. Each box is filled with handmade treasures of every description—from sweets to body care products to artwork—all supporting local “makers.” Visit us online to relive or share your Wallowa County experience!
57008 UPPER IMNAHA ROAD. IMNAHA, 97842 • (541) 577-3098
GENUINEWALLOWACOUNTY.COM
THE JOSEPH GUEST HOUSE
SPORTS CORRAL
• 1 bedroom units Downtown Joseph • king bed • 1 shared bath • 50 inch Direct TV • Pets welcome • Self-check-in • Walking to shopping & restaurants • Check yourself in with the keypad entry.
The Sports Corral has always been owned by the Snook Family since 1976.
Affordable Prime Season Rates Contact Air BaB for RES Info. Email Jeaoh.csr@gmail.com (503) 708-5873
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Larry and Shirley along with their son Brad are proud to carry affordable, name brand products and offer services to Wallowa County residents and visitors. The Sports Corral offers hunting and fishing supplies, outdoor clothing and foot wear. We offer everything for your outdoor adventures. Stop in and say “Hi” to the crew at the Sports Corral . 401 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-4363 • SPORTSCORRAL.COM
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
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
JO PADDLE GLASS BOTTOM KAYAK RENTAL AND TOURS Discover Wallowa Lake both above and below the surface on your marvelous Glass Bottom Kayak. It’s a peaceful adventure that’s great fun for all. Choose from a variety of rental options, or brave one of our thrilling nighttime tours. Explore your adventurous side seeking out hidden treasures, graceful fish, and enormous boulders beneath the surface of our crystal clear lake. This unique luxury recreational experience is suitable for beginners & expert kayakers! Glass Bottom Kayaking is a memorable experience for the whole family to enjoy! We also offer canoe and SUP rentals. Open 7 days a week. Reserve Online. 2019 Season: April - November Rental Deliveries and Tours Start At The North End Of Wallowa Lake JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 886-0086 • JOPADDLE.COM
WALLOWA LAKE VACATION RENTALS Have Fun—We Take Care of the Rest. • Exceptional customer service • Standup paddleboard and paddle 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 & 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
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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 basecampbaker.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
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
E A S T E R N O R E G O N V I S I T O R G U I D E 2 019
Oregon Paleo Lands Institute
FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM
Clay in Motion POTTERY STUDIO, ART GALLERY and COFFEE SHOP
Clay in Motion is a family-owned and operated pottery studio. We create over 60 items in 8 unique 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 a coffee from Espresso in Motion, you’ll discover beautiful handblown glass, jewelry, wall art, raku lamps, designer scarves, leather bags, garden art and so much more. See why we’re 2017 Best of the Best Art Gallery & Best n Gift Shop in the area!
Open Every Day New Items Arriving Daily! 85301 Hwy 11 Milton Freewater, OR 541-938-3316
2 0 1 8
WOVEN
in the
NORTHWEST
SINCE 1863 Iconic wool shirts, USA-made blankets & so much more
P EN DLETON 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.
BEND 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
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Biggs Junction
Whisky & Rocks Farm Loop
37
wa
to Portland
Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA
Milton-Freewater
Gr an d
er Riv a i mb Boardman Colu B lu e
A
Umatilla
20
Juntura
MALHEUR
Burns
Lake Owyhee
Crane
Malheur
205 Lake
E
Dis
Harney Lake
Narrows Pete French Round Barn Diamond Craters
Birch Creek Ranch
e r y Sc
HARNEY
Hells Canyon* (p. 78) Blue Mountain* (p. 48) High Desert Discovery (p. 28) Journey Through Time (p. 70) Elkhorn Drive* (p. 80)
Diamond
Old West (p. 62) Painted Hills (p. 64) Grande Tour (p. 90) Blue Mountain Century (p. 48)
Fields
Stee
Scenic Bikeways: C3 B2 B5 B3
78
Ri ve
Frenchglen
ns M oun tain
ay
F
enic B yw
A5 B3 E3 C3 C4
O w he e y
cov
Scenic Byways:
Alvord Desert
1 G4 E5 A4 A2 A1 B4
r
95
McDermitt
2
Alvord Desert (p. 28) Birch Creek Ranch (p. 32) Blue Mountains (p. 48) Columbia River (p. 66) Cottonwood Canyon State Park (p. 70) Cove-Union Farm Loop (p. 20)
Jordan Valley
F
*Portions of our Scenic Byways are not Lakeview accessible by car/ATV/RV during the winter and early spring, typically November - May.
G
E
New Princeton
High Desert
395
3 B5 A5 B6 C2 C3 E4
Eagle Cap Wilderness (p. 94) Grande Ronde River (p. 90) Hells Canyon (p. 78) John Day Fossil Beds (p.64) John Day River (p. 70) Malheur National Wildlife Refuge (p. 29)
4 A4 A4 F5 F4 C2 B1
Mount Emily Recreation Area (p. 90) Rocks District AVA (p. 42) Owyhee River (p. 33) Pete French Round Barn (p. 28) Painted Hills (p. 64) Sherars Falls (p. 70)
G
6
5 F4 C4 A4 B5 B5 A5
Steens Mountain (p. 29) Strawberry Mountains (p. 62) Umatilla National Forest (p. 46) Wallowa Lake (p. 96) Wallowa Mountains (p. 94) Zumwalt Prairie (p. 75)