Eastern Oregon Visitor Guide 2017

VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Outdoor Pioneers

Pedaling the John Day River Territory one painted hill at a time.

CYCLING Pedal-powered tours on Oregon’s scenic bikeways.

HERITAGE Interact with geological and cultural history at dozens of museums.

The Wallowas, One of Oregon’s Seventh Wonders!

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Welcome Vast expanses of mountain, valley and canyonland cover the eastern half of Oregon. Most of this landscape hasn’t changed in centuries, apart from

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a patchwork of farmland and small population hubs that bring ruralites together. Our reverence for this land runs deep, and we invite mindful travelers to see where the West is still wild.

Things are different here in Eastern Oregon. We are a rare slice of authentic Americana, which is embodied in our heritage and witnessed in the ruts of the Oregon Trail, in the voices of our Native American predecessors, and in our quaint rural towns where you may share lunch with a cowboy whose horse is one of his (or her) closest companions. Our history is not buried in books—it is “living” history. An endless array of outdoor activities pair with cultural adventures to provide a rich blend of

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discovery and excitement.

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In presenting this guide, we find ourselves in a bit of a dilemma. See, La

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we rather like our roads less traveled and our trails untrodden. This is a Ma

hidden gem of a place that has previously only been discovered through

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VILLAGE AT WALLOWA LAKE FOR FAMILY FUN!

word of mouth by like-minded people. While we love having our wild landscape to ourselves, we want to share the secret with others who sincerely “get it.” If you were inspired to pick up this guide, we think you’ll also like these things we hold dear. So come, slow down, and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness and our vibrant culture. Then share, quietly, with other folks who will truly appreciate our natural beauty and good people.

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Wallowas—too fun, too close, too beautiful not to experience.

Out here, the need for the instant gratification of the digital world is replaced

Gondola ridges to the top of the

surface and finds a home inside the heart.

Wallowas for a birds-eye-view

Our special region is on the global radar this year, as a once-in-a-lifetime

of the Seven Wonders. Horseback rides, Hiking, Fishing, Boating, GoEa

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Cap

C ha le ts

P in e s A dv e n tu r e G o lf

slower pace, closer to nature. Eastern Oregon’s beauty penetrates past the

totality solar eclipse will darken the skies in August. See page 17 to learn more about the big day and how to respectfully join people from around the world who will be coming to witness the event.

Karts, Miniature adventure golf, RV,

This guide is a small representation of this, of our people and our

Camping, Cabin rentals, Motels and

homeland. If you seek to understand, to go deeper, to live large in a

Historic Lodge and Cuisine to match

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with a sense of contentment that is found only when life is experienced at a

humble manner with respect for the environment, you will come to love this part of Oregon as much as we do. We look forward to greeting you.

the Seven Wonders!

Just don’t tell everyone!

www.wallowalake.net

Alice Trindle, EOVA Executive Director eova@eoni.com www.visiteasternoregon.com

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Eastern Oregon Visitors Association PRESIDENT Chelsea Harrison, Harney County Chamber of Commerce VICE PRESIDENT Kalie Davis, SAGE Center SECRETARY Vicki Searles, Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce TREASURER Rachel Weinstein, Gilliam County Economic Development EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Alice Trindle Follow us on Facebook and share your story with us on Instagram at: #easternoregon Eastern Oregon Visitors Association 15477 Sky Ranch Lane, Haines, OR 97833 (800) 332-1843

On the Covers VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Outdoor Pioneers

Pedaling the John Day River Territory one painted hill at a time.

CYCLING Pedal-powered tours on Oregon’s scenic bikeways.

HERITAGE Interact with geological and cultural history at dozens of museums.

VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Dip into the Wild

Discover Northeast Oregon’s natural beauty.

IN GOOD SPIRITS From ranch and farm to glass and table, taste the bounty of the region.

CYCLING Pedal-powered tours on Oregon’s scenic bikeways.

VISITOR GUIDE 2017

VISITOR GUIDE 2017

The New Crop

Stand in History

Rugged Country’s newest pioneers are grabbing life by the bottle.

Break in your boots on Southeast Oregon soil.

IN GOOD SPIRITS From ranch and farm to glass and table, taste the bounty of the region.

HERITAGE Interact with geological and cultural history at dozens of museums.

CYCLING Pedal-powered tours on Oregon’s scenic bikeways.

CYCLING Pedal-powered tours on Oregon’s scenic bikeways.

Cycling in the Painted Hills.

Photo by Joni Kabana Backpacking in the Wallowas.

Photo by Leon Werdinger Wine tasting at Echo Ridge Cellars.

Photo by Joni Kabana Photographing the Pete French Round Barn.

Photo by Joni Kabana

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

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

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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Hells Canyon* (p. 36) Blue Mountain* (p. 82) High Desert Discovery (p. 68) Journey Through Time (p. 28) Elkhorn Drive* (p. 38)

Lakeview

Old West (p. 22) Painted Hills (p. 24) Grande Tour (p. 48) Blue Mountain Century (p. 94)

Rocks District AVA (p. 7, 83) Cove-Union Farm Loop (p. 9) Steens Mountain (p. 69) Strawberry Mountains (p. 22) Wallowa Mountains (p. 82) Blue Mountains (p. 82)

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Harney Lake

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Mount Emily Recreation Area

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Diamond Craters

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Wallowa Lake

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Jordan Valley

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Birch Creek Ranch

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Catherine Creek State Park

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6 Malheur National Wildlife Refuge (p. 69) Pete French Round Barn (p. 68) Alvord Desert (p. 68) Birch Creek Ranch (p. 72) Cottonwood Canyon State Park (p. 28) Mount Emily Recreation Area (p. 47)

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Wallowa Mountains Joseph

Baker City

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BAKER

Juntura

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Owyhee River (p. 72) Wallowa Lake (p. 56) Sherars Falls (p. 28) Hells Canyon (p. 36) Eagle Cap Wilderness (p. 52) Umatilla National Forest (p. 84)

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Alvord Desert

Pete French Round Barn

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Haines

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Cove-Union Farm Loop

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North Powder

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Malheur Lake Malheur National Wildlife

Strawberry Mountain Wilderness

John Day

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Canyon City

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Blue Mountains

La Grande

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John Day Fossil Beds (p. 24) Painted Hills (p. 24) Columbia River (p. 26) John Day River (p. 22, 26) Grande Ronde River (p. 48) Zumwalt Prairie (p. 53)

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207 John Day Fossil Beds 19 National Monument Mitchell

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The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA

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Portions of our Scenic Byways are not accessible by car/ATV/RV during the winter and early spring, typically November - May.

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Scenic Bikeways:

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Prineville

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Stewart JonesDesigns jewelry studio & art gallery

Bronze Sculptor Shelley Curtiss This year Woodinville, Washington, is the site of Shelley’s most recent public installation called “Waiting for the Parade.” Every August the city holds a basset hound celebration called the Bassett Bash & Brigade. Shelley’s three larger-than-life hounds, Cap, Tag and Bow, stand, sit and recline at a corner of the parade route.

Artist with Bleu Dog and Pup

The subjects of bronze sculptor Shelley Curtiss range from stylized wildlife to Taoist monks to humorous portrayals of dogs waiting for the passing of a parade.

Her sculptures are permanently installed in private and corporate collections and public parks across the nation, including the Fred Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and five parks in New York City. Her life size cougar “He Who Thinks He is Invisible” is one of the featured bronzes that line Main Street in her hometown of Joseph, Oregon.

He Who Thinks He is Invisible

Shelley has been an Artist in Residence in the Sculpture Department at Eastern Oregon University, presented a workshop on Feminine Images in Classic Art, and was a guest panelist for The Creative Process, also at EOU. She gave a Ceramic Shell Bronze Casting Winter Fox presentation at the US Treasury Department, Washington, DC, sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, and gave a workshop on Casting Bronze for the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.

She has taught drawing classes for adult beginners for twenty-five years both privately and for Blue Mt. Community College. And she was an assistant instructor for a three-week ceramics workshop on “Primitive Ceramic Firing Techniques” as part of the Alaska Artists in Schools Program, on the Pribilof Islands, Bering Sea, Alaska.

Her practice of Immortal Crane Tai Chi, Chi Gong has led her to create a series of sculptures based on the Tao: “Wind” representing the principle Wind of entering reality and following a path of initiation; “Mountain” symbolizing the inner stillness resulting in mental clarity; “Thunder” representing action, whether inner reflection or outward movement.

Shelley has been featured in Fine Art Connoisseur magazine and 1859 Oregon’s Magazine and on Oregon Public Broadcasting’s “Art Beat” and “This Small Town.” Her work is represented by Stewart Jones Designs – jewelry studio & art gallery in Joseph, Oregon.

Waiting for the Parade

2 South Main Street • Joseph, Oregon • Friday & Saturday, 9 - 5 • Other Days by Appointment stewartjonesdesigns@gmail.com • 541.432.5202 • www.stewartjonesdesigns.com View Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Art Beat segments featuring Tom Clevenger, Shelley Curtiss and Stewart Jones at www.opb.org/programs/artbeat Local lodging - Dobbin House B&B: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14489618

La Grande Grande&& La Union County County Festivals Festivals&&Events Events2017 2017 Union

July August July 5 -58- 8 August 12 12 Elgin Stampede Grassroots Festival Elgin Stampede Grassroots Festival PRCA Rodeo, dances, parades and free Held in Union, the with day with PRCA Rodeo, dances, parades and free Held in Union, startstart the day community BBQ. breakfast at VFW, the VFW, community BBQ. breakfast at the thenthen headhead to to the show car show to music the car and and listenlisten to music all all July 14 15 day in the park.

July 14 - 15 day in the park.

Crazy Days Downtown La Grande May 5 7 Crazy Days Downtown La Grande May 5 - 7 Annual sidewalk sales with music, August GrandeTour TourScenic ScenicBikeway Bikeway Annual sidewalk sales with livelive music, August 19 19 Grande vendors, games, prizes, show, Eastern Oregon Festival SpringRide Ride vendors, games, prizes, car car show, andandEastern Oregon BeerBeer Festival Spring much more.

4th Annual Festival 145mile milebike bikeride ridefrom from Grande TheThe 4th Annual BeerBeer Festival will will 145 LaLa Grande to to much more. be a one day event that will feature Baker City and back to La Grande. be a one day event that will feature Baker City and back to La Grande.

July 14 15 music July 14 - 15 livelive music and and beer!beer!

Grande Ronde a View Car Show May 19 21 Grande Ronde - a - View Car Show May 19 - 21 Held in conjunction with Crazy Days,August August Bird Festival at Ladd Marsh Held in conjunction with Crazy Days, 19 19 Bird Festival at Ladd Marsh show features classic cars and antique Cove Cherry Birding,painting, painting,indoor indoor outdoor show features classic cars and antique Cove Cherry FairFair Birding, && outdoor cars.

Don’t miss the annual car show Come join usCove’s for Cove’s annual events held outside of La Grande. cars. Don’t miss the annual car show Come join us for annual events held outside of La Grande.

BBQ on Friday in La Grande!

Cherry all day BBQ on Friday in La Grande!

Cherry Fair,Fair, all day long!long!

June 2 4 June 2 - 4 July HogWild WildDays DaysininIsland Island City October July 2929 Hog City October 19 -19 21- 21 North Powder Huckleberry Festival Vendors,food, food,barbeque, barbeque, parade, Eastern Oregon Festival Vendors, parade, allall North Powder Huckleberry Festival Eastern Oregon FilmFilm Festival Celebrate the wonderful huckleberry. this in Island City.

EOFF is a legitimate, cutting Celebrate the wonderful huckleberry. this in Island City.

EOFF is a legitimate, cutting edgeedge You can enjoy huckleberry desserts, event for filmmakers and film love You can enjoy huckleberry desserts, event for filmmakers and film lovers food vendors, craft show, car show and June 5 11 to come together. food vendors, craft show, car show and to come together.

June 5 - 11 parade.

Eastern Oregon Livestock Show parade.

Eastern Oregon Livestock Show PRCARodeo Rodeo &&PRCA August EOLS is the longestcontinually continually August 2 -25- 5 EOLS is the longest Union County Fair runningrodeo rodeoininthe theNorrthwest, Norrthwest, par- Union County Fair running parThe Fair is kicked with a parade amounthorse horseracing, racing,4-H 4-H FFA. The Fair is kicked off off with a parade in in amount && FFA. downtown Grande.

Then head to the downtown La La Grande.

Then head to the Fair Grounds for a good old-fashioned June17 17 Fair Grounds for a good old-fashioned June county fair.

Elgin River Fest county fair.

Elgin River Fest Celebratethe theGrande GrandeRonde Ronde River Celebrate River in in August Elgin with a day filled with festiviAugust 4 -46- 6 Elgin with a day filled with festivi22nd Annual Co-ed Moonlight ties.

22nd Annual Co-ed Moonlight 24 24 ties. hour hour Softball Tournament Co-ed softball July 4 Softball Tournament Co-ed softball July 4 Grande tournament held in La Grande.

ImblerTown TownBBQ BBQ Grande Tour Tour SpringSpring Ride Ride tournament held in La Grande.

Imbler Classicsmall smalltown townparade parade and free Classic and free communityBBQ. BBQ. community December3131 December NewYears YearsEve EveBlock BlockParty Party New Held everyear in Downtown Held everyear in Downtown LaLa Grande,join joinususforfora night a night filled with Grande, filled with fun! fun!

| 207Depot DepotStreet, Street, Grande | unioncountychamber.org | 541.963.8588 | 207 LaLa Grande | unioncountychamber.org | 541.963.8588 | | info@unioncountychamber.org info@unioncountychamber.org

18 JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY 22 Grant County Explore a former boomtown mining region.

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

24 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.

26 Gilliam County Fish and raft the mighty John Day River. Windsurf or standup paddle the Columbia River in Arlington.

Charming downtown Condon.

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

30 NORTHEAST

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 7

IN GOOD SPIRITS Wine in The Rocks District AVA. Local beer and spirits.

AGRICULTURAL BOUNTY 9

Agricultural bounty at farmers’ markets and roadside stands. CoveUnion Farm Loop. SAGE Center.

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CYCLING THROUGH TIME Scenic byways and bikeways.

Mountain biking. Motorcycles.

14 HERITAGE

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Welcome Letter Map Calendar Resources

Native American and pioneer history, plus natural and cultural history.

16 CALENDAR Plan a trip to coincide with top events in the region.

46 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.

52 Wallowa County Exploring the outdoors in one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Arts, culture and heritage in Joseph.

Enterprise, in the heart of Wallowa County. Wallowa Lake’s alpine-themed village.

64 SOUTHEAST 68 Harney County Steens Mountain and the vast desert, sage and grasslands beyond. Birding at Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Pete French Round Barn.

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

Birch Creek Ranch. Four Rivers Cultural Center.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

80 Umatilla County Heritage: Native American, cowboy and ranching cultures meet in a region full of bounty. New wine region. Blue Mountain Century scenic bike route.

Motorcycles. Ukiah. Umatilla National Forest.

94 Morrow County Sustainable agriculture and energy at SAGE Center. Blue Mountain Scenic Byway and Bikeway.

Heppner’s Irish history.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP TIM BISHOP, BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

2017 CONTENTS

34 Baker County Three Oregon Scenic Byways instersect in Baker City, home to a well-preserved historic district.

Hells Canyon. Elkhorn Scenic Bikeway. Coloradoquality snow at Anthony Lakes.

Locally Grown Rye + High Mountain Glacier Water = Handcrafted Fine Whiskey & Spirits

Come try Whiskeys, Vodka, Cordials, & Rum in our tasting room.

Phone: 541-432-2009

www.steindistillery.com 604 North Main Street • Joseph, Oregon

Libations

ROUNDUPS

ROUNDUPS WE’VE ROUNDED UP SOME OF THE TOP EXPERIENCES IN LIBATIONS, AGRITOURISM,CYCLINGANDCULTURALHERITAGETOINSPIREYOURTRIP.

Copper Belt Winery

Prodigal Son

IN GOOD SPIRITS

Fertile soil, plentiful sunshine, and pure spring water are the secret weapons of distillers, winemakers and brewers in the region. From grower to glass, the libations coming out of Eastern Oregon are reason to cheers.

WHAT IS THE SECRET SAUCE IN WALLA WALLA’S WINES? OREGON GRAPES.

PHOTO LEF T TIM BISHOP, CENTER AND RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

THE ROCKS DISTRICT AVA Rocky wine seems oxymoronic, but the smooth cobblestones that texturize the landscape in The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater American Viticultural Area (AVA) have helped make this the newest and hottest AVA in Oregon.

And we do mean hot. A sub-appellation of the Walla Walla Valley AVA and the larger Columbia Valley AVA, The Rocks District is known for full-bodied red wine grape varieties that thrive in warmer climates. The rocks help with drainage, bolstering this terroir. Spicy, robust, blackberry-hued, earthy, jammy wines are the gems here—with syrah and cabernet varietals leading the charge. Nineteen winemakers have vineyards within The Rocks District so far.

Did you know? Most of the grapes grown in The Rocks District AVA are used in Washington wines. In fact, 83 percent of all grapes used in Walla Walla wines are grown in Oregon, even though most are bottled, sold and marketed as Washington wines.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Platz Produce

Zerba Cellars On one of Zerba’s three estate vineyards sits a log cabin that could pass as a pioneer homestead. Inside, all the necessary modern amenities bolster tastings of its award-winning wines. Highlights include the sangiovese (also available as a rosé) and the cabernet franc, but Zerba makes a red or white for any taste.

Castillo de Feliciana As the name suggests, this winery and its tasting room pay homage to Spanish panache.

Sip tempranillo and albariño varietals under a terra cotta roof on the estate vineyard for a taste of Spain in Oregon.

Spofford Station “One winery, two labels, three cows” is the catchphrase at Spofford Station. For a true farm-raised story and red wines from this one-woman show, call to make a tasting appointment.

Go South On Milton-Freewater’s south end, make a stop at Watermill Winery (also the location of Blue Mountain Cider), then head on to your scheduled tasting at Don Carlo Vineyard (by appointment only). Cap the day at TERO Estates—Wine Enthusiast regularly scores TERO’s vintages above 90 points. Try the love letter worthy cabernet sauvignon.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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Libations

Glacier45 Distillery

Prodigal Son

LOCAL PROOF Amber waves of grain are a common sight in these parts. Two craft distilleries are taking the ingredients from field to bottle. Oregon Grain Growers is a new microdistillery in Pendleton that sources wheat for its Ouragon vodka (a nod to the Beaver State’s original name) from just down the road in La Grande. Stein Distillery in Joseph quickly made a name for itself with a full line of spirits made from regionally sourced ingredients and wheat grown on the Stein family farm. Another secret to Eastern Oregon’s finest libations? The water. For a pure spring water taste, sip the triple distilled 9 Rocks vodka from Spray’s Black Rock Distillery. A newcomer in Baker City, Glacier45 Distillery’s name even pays homage to the water.

COMMUNITY, ONE BEER AT A TIME Oregon and beer are synonymous. In the Eastern half of the state, breweries are making award-winning beer and creating community by the pint. Locals and visitors gather at these watering holes around the region to share perspectives on rural life and tell tales of outdoor adventures over a good meal (most use local ingredients, when possible) and a frothy brew. Or two.

1188 Brewing Company john day Dragon’s Gate Brewery milton-freewater Tiger Town Brewing mitchell Ordnance Brewing boardman Hermiston Brewing Company hermiston Tandem Brewing ontario Barley Brown’s Beer baker city Prodigal Son Brewery pendleton Terminal Gravity Brewing enterprise

Barley Brown’s

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Steens Mountain Brewing burns Side A Brewing la grande

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PHOTO TOP AND BOT TOM LEF T TIM BISHOP, TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

ROUNDUPS

Bounty

A FOODIE’S PARADISE

ROUNDUPS

LOCAL BOUNTY Local produce is plentiful during warmer months at weekly farmers’ markets around the region. The bounty is sure to inspire a memorable meal— from watermelons (Hermiston area), cherries, peaches, apples, pears, and apricots to corn, carrots, beets, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro and basil.

Find fresh ingredients at local farmers’ markets, roadside stands— where payment is on the honor system—and local trading posts.

FIND A COMMUNITY BUILT AROUND THE LAND.

Naturally raised beef or lamb is the main course for most people. Ranches include Triple H Homestead in Monument, Painted Hills Beef in Fossil, Country Natural Beef in Burns, Carmen Ranches in Wallowa and Liza Jane’s Farmstand in Enterprise—to name a few.

Toppings aren’t in short supply, either.

Marinate meat with barbecue sauce from BBQ Buckwild or dip a bite in Saucy Mama’s tangy mustard.

SAGE CENTER

PHOTO TOP TIM BISHOP, MIDDLE AND BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

Eagle Valley Steak Feed

How does our food get to our plate in this day and age? Interactive exhibits devoted to sustainable agriculture and energy sources are housed at SAGE Center, a state-of-the-art visitor center just off I-84 in Boardman. Take the family on a (simulated) hot air balloon ride for an airborne tour of Morrow County’s vast farmland and diverse landscape.

At a closer level, exhibits teach visitors about the sustainable technologies farmers are employing to feed the world and power homes and businesses.

Sort potatoes as they tumble by on a conveyor belt or take the wheel in a simulated tractor ride to plant a straight row of corn. (more on p. 95)

Rimrock Inn

Kimberly Orchards

Weston Farm Stand

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Farm Loops A number of farm loops offer trails to feast upon in Eastern Oregon. Pass more than two-dozen backyard farm stands, greenhouses, pastures and orchards on the self-guided Cove-Union Farm Loop tour. Northeast Oregon’s Grande Ronde Valley Loop provides ample access to fresh, locally grown produce, meat, and flowers near Cove, Union and La Grande.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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Cycling

CYCLING THROUGH TIME The freedom that comes from pedaling two wheels across expansive terrain is a joy worth seeking. Open road enthusiasts will discover miles of roads lined with more trees, prairies and cattle than people and cars. Oregonians take cycling to heart— the only designated scenic bikeways in the country are here in Oregon. With four such bikeways covering more than four hundred miles in the eastern half of the state, the benefits of the designation become clear with the passing of each quiet mile drenched in blue skies and rugged scenery.

THE OLD WEST HAS A NEW SET OF SPOKES.

Painted Hills

CRUISE ON SCENIC BYWAYS High Desert Discovery 127 miles

Blue Mountain Century 108 miles

Journey Through Time 286 miles

Hells Canyon 218 miles

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

SCENIC BIKEWAYS OLD WEST SCENIC BIKEWAY john day territory 174-mile loop This challenging route begins in John Day then passes through a handful of charming small towns interspersed with scenic wonders such as the Strawberry Mountains and the winding John Day River, as well as the world-famous John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Based along the Old West Scenic Bikeway, Over the Hill Bike Tours offers two- to eight-day sag supported road bike tours with lodging every night in a different town. Tours include breakfasts, snacks and dinners.

Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway john day territory 130-mile loop Cycling through the Painted Hills reveals millions of years of history in the layers of earth, one color at a time. The hills get their name from delicately colored stratifications in yellows, golds, blacks and reds, formed by shifting volcanic islands. A closer look reveals ancient plant and wood fossils. 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.

<<

Bike Friendly Along the route, many storefronts have a “Bike Friendly” sign hanging in a window. For a full

Old West Scenic Bikeway

list of these cycle-friendly businesses, go to

visiteasternoregon.com/cyclingeasternoregon

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP J ONI K ABANA , BOT TOM PHOTOS TIM BISHOP

ROUNDUPS

Cycling

ROUNDUPS

Spoke’n Hostel

PHOTO LEF T TIM BISHOP, TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

Elkhorn Scenic Byway

BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTURY SCENIC BIKEWAY rugged country 108-mile loop The challenge is real and the reward is grand. 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. While there are only two towns on the loop, both have amenities. Beginning and ending in the town of Heppner, and including a thrilling descent into the town of Ukiah (where a stellar scoop of ice cream awaits), the towns offer dining, drinks and lodging. If you crave more action, Pendleton is located just twenty miles from the northeastern corner of the route.

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>>

GRANDE TOUR SCENIC BIKEWAY northeast 134-mile “figure-8” route This route is anchored by the region’s towns, each spread between farm and range land 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, while still offering miles of remote open road and the scent of fragrant sage.

The crossover point of the two loops is in Union, which you could use as a jumping off point for riding the full tour, or just the smaller northern loop or the larger southern route.

Treo Ranches

Cycling Retreat During the off season at Treo Ranches’ bird hunting property near Heppner, the proprietors rent their lodge to cyclists and offer their deep knowledge of the roads less traveled.

All-inclusive, fully supported cycling retreats or basEcamp basics can be catered to fit cyclist’s interests and abilities. Hit the pavement or tour Eastern Oregon’s gravel roads, which offer challenging climbs, quaint ghost towns and scenery rarely seen from the saddle. After a day of exploration, relax in Treo’s hot tub and fuel up on pheasant and jalapeño pot pie.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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ROUNDUPS

Cycling Virtue Flats

>>

Near Baker City, this nearly 5,000-acre off-road vehicle haven is also popular for mountain bikers who seek rolling high desert terrain.

CALLING ALL TRAIL-ORIENTED THRILL SEEKERS. Range Tour and Shuttle Co. baker city (more on p. 40) Eastern Oregon’s vast opportunities for the fat tire set are still being discovered. For now, the only experts providing tours are the trail hounds of Range Tour. The guides have put rubber to trail and know the splendors of the Elkhorn Mountain Range, having worked with the Forest Service, BLM and Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort to develop a portfolio of singletrack rides.

Mt. Emily Recreation Area la grande (more on p. 47) A network of trails at this Northeast recreation area are popular with local mountain bikers, but with 3,669 acres of land available, the fat tire set has barely scratched the surface of Mt. Emily’s potential.

12 |

Echo West Vineyard echo If you’re looking to start your season early, the Echo Trail system consists of a series of concentric loops through zippy terrain that climbs over basalt outcroppings and plunges quickly into desert arroyos. Man made features add extra fun at varying levels. The trail system lies entirely on private land owned

by Echo West Ranch and Vineyard, where Sno Road Winery wines are produced.

Working with Echo West’s owners, former pro rider Shayne Myers scratched twenty-five miles of banked singletrack turns out of desert dirt. Myers’ and his wife, Stephanie, own Echo Bike and Board shop in Pendleton, which serves as the intelligence agency for local riding.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Echo Hills

Echo Hills 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.

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PHOTOS RIGHT TOP AND BOT TOM TIM BISHOP

MOUNTAIN BIKING

PP

>>

Virtue Flats

Cycling

ROUNDUPS

Hells Canyon Motorcylce Rally

(Tim Bishop)

MILES BY MOTORCYCLE

PHOTOS THIS PAGE TIM BISHOP

EXPLORE THOUSANDS OF MILES OF COUNTRY ROADS ON TWO MOTORIZED WHEELS. 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. Established and charming restaurants, shops and ample biker-friendly lodging are ready to meet a community of likeminded people heading east in search of discovery by bike. From the Northeast Oregon’s Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the High Desert Discovery 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. (more on p. 81)

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MOTORCYCLE RALLIES Rallies are where motorcycle enthusiasts come 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 the tune of live music and raucous entertainment. Plan a trip around one of these biker weekends:

Fossil Campout fossil May 26-29

fossilcampout.com

Chief Joseph Rally john day June 23-25 bmwro.org

Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally baker city July 6-10 hellscanyonrally.com

Pendleton Bike Week pendleton July 19-23 pendletonbikeweek.com

Wallowa County Thunder Run enterprise August 24-27 wcthunderrun.com

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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ROUNDUPS

Heritage

NATIVE HISTORY The ancestral homeland of the Nez Perce, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes, Northeast Oregon is also a sacred place to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

>>

Part of the Wildhorse Resort and Casino near Pendleton, Tamástslikt Cultural Institute is a 45,000-square-foot facility presenting a new perspective on the history of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes.

Tribal artists are highlighted in a permanent gallery, the tribes’ story is shared through exhibits, and a museum wing features archives and photo collections. (more on p. 80)

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

TRIBAL HISTORY

Iwetemlaykin State Heritage site

Library of Western History and Culture

Perched at the foot of Wallowa Lake, Iwetemlaykin (pronounced ee-weh-TEMMlye-kinn) State Heritage Site is named after the Nez Perce term for the area and translates to “at the edge of the lake.” The property is adjacent to Nez Perce National Historical Park, site of Old Chief Joseph Gravesite and Cemetery. Hike a series of short trails with spectacular views of the Wallowa Mountains. Soak in the beauty and history at Knight’s Pond. Photograph vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer.

The Alvin M. and Betty Josephy Library of Western History and Culture is housed in the Josephy Center for the Arts—a mainstay of the arts and culture scene in Wallowa County. It boasts a comprehensive collection of historian and writer Alvin Josephy’s writings about Native American issues, in addition to other works and materials relating to Nez Perce, Columbia Plateau Indian, and Northeast Oregon history, geography and culture.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center In the town of Wallowa, don’t miss the Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center, where the customs and culture of the indigenous inhabitants are preserved and celebrated. A partner in the Nez Perce National Historical Park, the center’s nearby homeland site is a designated traditional Lostine Campsite by the National Park Service. Attend the Tamkaliks Celebration, a friendship potluck and powwow held there each July.

Wallowa County Museum The Wallowa County Museum hosts a collection of artifacts and information from the county’s human past, representing the Nez Perce plus the pioneers and settlers who arrived more than a century ago, along with their descendants.

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PHOTO TIMBISHOP

Centuries-old ties to the Nez Perce tribe and its illustrious history are paid homage in Wallowa County. The town of Joseph is named after renowned Nez Perce peacemaker Chief Joseph, who famously said “From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever” after his people were forcibly moved from their ancestral home here. Today, there are many avenues from which to explore the tribal history of the region.

Heritage

ROUNDUPS

Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum

Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum Chinese immigrants Ing “Doc” Hay and Lung On arrived in John Day’s Chinatown in 1887. Opening a trading post and medical clinic using Chinese products and practices proved to be a lucrative and history-making endeavor. The Kam Wah Chung storefront moonlighted as everything from a spiritual center to a boarding house. In their long and successful careers, Hay and On created community, and healed Chinese and settlers alike. The museum is essentially a continuation of the store but frozen in time—complete with half burned incense and partially used bottles of tinctures. (more on p. 22)

Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

All Natural

PHOTOS THIS PAGE TIM BISHOP

If you want to delve beneath a surface appreciation of the topography, discover Oregon lands and waters from a scientific perspective at Wallowology! in Joseph.

Crack a thunderegg at Lucky Strike Rock Museum in Mitchell or venture deep into a fossilized history in the John Day area (more on p. 24). For an ancient mammalian experience, the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center in Dayville is home to some fine specimens.

PIONEERING THE WEST Industrious pioneers stopped their wagon wheels once they reached the promising land of Eastern Oregon. More than two dozen museums and visitor centers throughout the region pay homage to the lives and traditions of the people who established the farmland, ranchland and towns we know today. Many of these sites also house fossils and other geological artifacts.

Ranching, agriculture, timber, rodeo and mining history round out the modern documentation of this storied region. A few highlights include: Oregon Trail Visitors Park la grande

Cultural Treasures

Union County Museum union

Opportunities to see Eastern Oregon’s heritage and culture abound. Four Rivers Cultural Center’s program of music, humanities, civic discourse, art and theater, plus educational and historical curation is a shining cultural light in Ontario. Shop for jewelry, art and more specialty Native American works from nine tribes at Oard’s Gallery in Burns, which has a free artifacts museum on site.

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center baker city (more on p. 34)

Baker Heritage Museum baker city Eastern Oregon Museum haines Harney County Historical Museum burns Happy Canyon Hall of Fame pendleton Gilliam County Historical Museum condon Sherman County Historical Museum moro

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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ROUNDUPS

Calendar

CALENDAR2017 4

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

4-6

24 Skull 60 & 120 Gravel Grinder burns harneycounty.com

May 2017

Red 2 Red Mountain Bike Race echo echored2red.com

5-7

17-19

12-13

Wee Bit o’Ireland Get into the Irish spirit at this annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration. In addition to food, drinks and fun, try your luck at two pot o’ gold drawings. heppner heppnerchamber.com

April 2017 6-9 Harney County Migratory Bird Festival Pack your binoculars and join other bird watching enthusiasts at this Southeast 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

Spring Barrel Tasting milton-freewater wallawallawine.com Cattle Baron’s Weekend pendleton cattlebarons.net

13 Chocolate Art Walk enterprise myenterprise.org

27-28 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 2017 3 America’s Global Village Festival ontario ontariochamber.com

3 Run to the Ruts baker city trailtenders.org

5-11 Eastern Oregon Livestock Show union easternoregonlivestock show.com

10 Obsidian Days hines ci.hines.or.us

23-25 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 rolling hills to downtown thrills. baker city bakercitycycling.org

29

July 2017

Sumpter Valley Flea Market sumpter historicsumpter.com

June 30-July 2 Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival & Fossil Cruz-In fossil

wheelercountybluegrass. org

Baker City Cycling Classic

3-4 Haines Stampede Rodeo haines hainesstampede.com

4 Boardman Thunder 4th of July Celebration boardman boardmanchamber.org

4 Condon’s Fabulous 4th of July Celebration condon condonchamber.org

4 Ione’s 4th of July Celebration ione cityofioneoregon.com

5-8 Elgin Stampede elgin elginstampede.com

29 North Powder Huckleberry Festival north powder unioncountychamber.org

August 2017 1-5 Malheur County Fair & Rodeo ontario malheurcountyfair.com

5 Chris Miller Steens Mountain Rim Run & Walk burns steensrimrun.com Grant County Fair & Rodeo john day grantcountyfairgrounds.com

6-10 Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally baker city hellscanyonrally.com

16-20

15

17-20

Burns Bike and Brew burns burnsbikebrew.com

14-15 Baker City Broncs and Bull Riding baker city

19-23 Pendleton Bike Week pendleton pendletonbikeweek.com

21-23 Tamkaliks Celebration wallowa wallowanezperce.org

21-22 Brews by the Blues milton-freewater mfchamber.com

22

16 |

Chief Joseph Days joseph chiefjosephdays.com

9-12

bakerbroncsandbulls.com

Pendleton Round-Up

25-30

Morrow County Fair and Rodeo heppner morrowcountyoregon.com We Like ‘Em Short Film Festival baker city welikeemshort.com

19 Eastern Oregon Beer Festival The Pacific Northwest is known for stellar beer and Eastern Oregon brews are no exception. Taste beer from thirty-plus local and regional breweries. Do it for the good of the community—proceeds go to enhancements for downtown La Grande façades and business development. la grande eobeerfest.org

26 Durkee Steak Feed baker city visitbaker.com

Arlington’s Show-N-Shine arlington visitarlingtonoregon.com

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTOS THIS SPRE AD TIM BISHOP

March 2017

Calendar

26-27

16

15

Dragons in the Wallowas 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

The Great Salt Lick Art Auction baker city whitdeschner.com

Sumpter Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Photographers Weekend sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org

September 2017

Sept. 28-Oct.1

2 Juniper Jam Music Festival enterprise juniperjam.com

7-10 Harney County Fair, Rodeo and Racemeet burns co.harney.or.us

13-16 Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Indian Pageant Its reputation precedes it. Tradition, competition and a raucous good time culminate at Oregon’s famed rodeo. Just as memorable is the longstanding pageant, a show depicting the settling of the American West from Native Americans to pioneers to frontier towns. pendleton pendletonroundup.com

15-17 Wallowa Valley Arts Festival joseph wallowavalleyarts.org

16-17 Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway Annual Ride heppner heppnerchamber.com Alpenfest joseph

oregonalpenfest.blog spot.com

October 2017 6-8 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

7-8 Burns Paiute Pow Wow burns burnspaiute-nsn.gov

7 Cast Iron Chef: Dutch Oven Cook-off baker city trailtenders.org

November 2017 4 Huntington Weather Fest & Celtic Games November isn’t classic kilt weather, which makes the competition all the heartier. Many of the Inland Northwest’s top Celtic athletes will brave the elements as they go for gold. huntington bmkdthrowers.com

December 2017 9-10 Sumpter Valley Railroad Christmas Train with Santa Visit with Santa, go shopping at the Sumpter Christmas Bazaar and ride the Christmas trains.

Free cocoa, coffee or cider add a layer of warmth at this event that is fun for the whole family. sumpter valley sumptervalleyrailroad.org

12 Winter Wonderland Parade ontario ontariochamber.com

Farmers’ Market

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ROUNDUPS

January 2018

February 2018

17-20

3

Eagle Cap Extreme Dog Sled Race The only Yukon Quest and Iditarod qualifier in the state of Oregon, this 200-mile, twelve-dog race brings mushers into the belly of the Eagle Cap Wilderness.

Sleds start at Fergi Ski Area, where the public can gather to cheer on the canines and their humans. joseph eaglecapextreme.com

Anthony Lakes Beach Party Snow white “beaches” set the scene for the festivities. Sail through the tube luge, dive into powder during a volleyball game, cover your snow bibs in barbeque and tan by the bonfire. north powder anthonylakes.com

18 Sumpter Snowmobile Poker Run and Outhouses Races sumpter historicsumpter.com

ONCE IN A LIFETIME

TOTAL ECLIPSE

For approximately two minutes on August 21, a complete solar eclipse will darken a sixty-seven-mile-wide band of Eastern Oregon. An estimated 50,000 people from all over the world will be flocking to the region to witness this once-in-a-lifetime "totality" experience (that is, unless you were alive during the last one of its kind that spanned the entire Continental United States in 1918).

Totality Locations

Complete midday darkness will fall over the towns of Mitchell, John Day, Prairie City, Baker City, Huntington and Ontario— allowing the stars to shine. Though the latitudinal band will run the length of the continental United States, Eastern Oregon will likely be one of the best places to view the eclipse because of its typically cloudless skies and lack of light pollution.

Time is of the Essence

Starts at 9:09 a.m. Totality at 10:24 a.m. Ends at 11:46 a.m. (all Pacific Daylight Time)

High Elevation

At Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, visitors can view the eclipse from mountainous heights amid some of Eastern Oregon’s most beautiful scenery. Food and beverage amenities will be available.

Many communities throughout the path of totality are planning events for the days surrounding the eclipse. For more information on other events, camping, and travel tips, folks should visit traveloregon.com/eclipse

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO J ONI K ABANA , FACING PAGE BOT TOM TIM BISHOP, TOP LEF T J ONI K ABANA , TOP MIDDLE AND TOP LEF T TIM BISHOP

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY pg.22 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. 24 Wheeler County As the home to fossil beds, ancient oceans and the gateway to the John Day River, Wheeler beckons sportsmen as well as sightseers ready to explore its natural riches.

pg. 26 Gilliam County Play on the John Day and Columbia rivers and cycle through Gilliam’s rolling hills with mountain views.

Clockwise from left: Painted Hills National Monument. Cottonwood Canyon. Cycling the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway near Dayville.

Covered wagon information kiosk near Prairie City. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway at Bates State Park.

When you can count hills hued in nature’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 hospitable people. Discover some of the richest fossil beds in the world, Oregon’s newest state park and two scenic bikeways.

pg. 28 Sherman County Perched on the high Columbia Plateau between the Deschutes and John Day rivers, Sherman County is the gateway to the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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30 m

Kam Wah Chung

massive, 1240-ton gold digger can do—and did.

il

Unity

5 6 mi

les

12 3 miles

State Heritage Site: It’s in the town of John Day.

• Sumpter Valley Dredge: Take a tour, and see what a

Baker City

min

From John Day

12 8 miles

Roll back time 100 years or so.

Bates State Park 35

1 hr

es

Destination: Yesterday

Sumpter Valley Dredge

State Heritage Area

Juntura

Burns

• Bates State Park: Prettiest pond anywhere. Historical info on the lumber mill and townsite that once existed here.

2 hrs Pete French 20 min Round Barn

• Kam Wah Chung: A must see! A store, a home, a pharmacy, a temple, all frozen in time.

• 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

2 hrs 15 min

State Heritage Site

Frenchglen Hotel State Heritage Site

Our History...Your Story Commemorating 175 years of pioneer spirit in 2018 Native American homeland. Oregon Trail.

We live our history every day.

VisitEastErnOrEgOn.cOm

I Like It Here

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE Hardcore cyclists long ago discovered that the highways and byways of Eastern Oregon, particularly in John Day country, offered some of the most remote and scenic routes in all of Oregon. That secret was too good to keep. Thanks to attractions such as the John Day Fossil Beds, the Strawberry Wilderness and countless river canyons, the John Day region is a must-see destination for anyone wanting to explore Eastern Oregon’s history-rich landscape. For cyclists, no tour is complete without a stop at Christy Rheu Waldner’s Bike Inn Hostel at Mt. Vernon where no reservation is required, rates are donation based and everyone is welcome.

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

1

See the John Day River Valley.

Participate in a PatrioticHoliday.

Celebrate an old-fashioned Fourth of July in Dayville and Prairie City.

Flags and people wave on parade floats in the morning. Afterward, dig into a pancake breakfast, toss horse shoes, and bid on locally baked pastries, pies and more in a live auction. After the sun sets, find a comfortable spot to enjoy music in the park at dusk, followed by the fireworks show.

3

Take an Inn-toInn Tour.

Spend three or more days riding the Old West Scenic Bikeway.

Pack your panniers and head east. You’ll find plenty to explore and friendly faces as you travel through our region. If you’re looking to pad hard pedaling days with soft sheets, try the Inn-to-Inn tour that includes shuttle support for people wanting to travel ultra light.

>>

Drive east from Mitchell to take in the beauty and expanse of the John Day Valley. When you reach the life-sized covered wagon, six miles east of Prairie City, stop to take in the view.

Here is a place to feel the greatness and the stillness of Eastern Oregon. On your way back, visit the Dewitt Museum in Prairie City.

Exhibits here are chock full of Oregon history.

2

❝ People assume that Eastern Oregon is like the rest of Oregon only with fewer people, but that’s not the case.

Eastern Oregon is desert with rolling hills and large mountains to climb. It is trees, desert flowers and high, dry blue skies. It is, in a word, beautiful. I opened my bike hostel in 2006 to share the beauty of where I live, providing a home away from home that offers healing, health and growth. ❞

Christy Rheu Waldner Raised on a peach and filbert farm in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Christy has always enjoyed small town living. Today she operates the Bike Inn Hostel that sits adjacent to her home in Mt. Vernon, welcoming hundreds of touring cyclists each summer to her cozy Eastern Oregon oasis.

PHOTOS LEF T SEC TION TIM BISHOP

Here, travelers can rest and recharge while sharing in the camaraderie of the road. Rheu Walder also operates a cycle touring company for those who would like some help navigating the many routes and destinations afforded visitors. When she is not immersed in cycling culture, Rheu Waldner serves as a courtappointed family conflict mediator.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Grant County

GRANT COUNTY

VISIT THE KAM WAH CHUNG MUSEUM John Day’s Kam Wah Chung 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. Its shelves of well-preserved herbal and traditional medicines serve as a window into a time when the West was still wild.

SADDLEUPANDEXPLOREBOOMTOWNHISTORY. 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 medicine museum to the picturesque Strawberry Mountains. If you’re looking for adventure without boundaries, Grant County has it in abundance.

CYCLE THE OLD WEST SCENIC BIKEWAY The West was always seen best from a saddle. That’s still true today, though the saddle is now more likely to be perched atop a road bike than a horse. In this case, the Scenic Bike Ride-designated Old West Loop offers bikers a two-to-three-day tour covering 175 paved miles of Grant County’s most scenic and historic sites.

From the John Day Fossil beds to roadside hot springs along the upper John Day river to the Strawberry Mountains, the Old West Loop covers a staggering variety of terrain.

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 central Eastern Oregon. More than 60,000 acres of land are set aside in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, an area that includes Strawberry Peak and Strawberry Lake.

Old West Scenic Bikeway

Strawberry Lake

Hike to Strawberry Lake

>>

Strawberry Lake is about one mile from the Strawberry Loop Hike trailhead, where there are rustic campgrounds for backpackers from July to October, works well as a day trip for families. Along the longer loop around the lake, you’ll pass Strawberry Falls, a photogenic 100-foot waterfall. Bring a fishing rod because the trout-filled lake is a good spot for anglers of all levels.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP TALIA G ALVIN

to stay overnight. The hike, which is open

EXPLORE Grant County

EASTERN OREGON REALTY

1188 BREWING COMPANY, LLC

Grant County’s oldest real estate firm.

Serving Eastern Oregon since 1979.

Welcome to 1188 Brewing Company, Grant County’s first modern day brewery. Nestled in the City of John Day, Oregon and surrounded by beautiful mountains, rivers, forests and ranchlands, the popular 1188 Brewing Company is fast becoming everyone’s favorite gathering place. You are invited to stop by and enjoy a cold pint, or fill a growler or two, including craft beers brewed on site. Enjoy a delightful menu of unique items sure to delight the most discriminating palate and the most robust of appetites. A visit to the brewery pub and restaurant is truly “Time Well Spent” for the entire family.

• 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

141 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-1188 • 1188BREWING.COM

DAYVILLE CAFE

DAYVILLE MERCANTILE INC.

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!

The Dayville Merc opened in 1896 as a general dry goods store, making this store one of the oldest continuously operated stores in Oregon. The Merc sells about 8,000 products, ranging from pasta to power cords, baking soda to blackberry jam and livestock feed to liquor. With the Merc also serving the community as the local liquor store, we have a wide variety to satisfy most needs. Please stop by to take a look at our store and the “Little Town” false fronts. From Memorial Day to Labor Day our staff will be in period clothing on the weekends and willing to pose with you for pictures.

212 W FRANKLIN AVENUE, DAYVILLE, 97825 • (541) 987-2122

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

GRANT COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT

OXBOW TRADE COMPANY

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.

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.

72000 AIRPORT ROAD, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-1151 • gcra.org

THE OUTPOST PIZZA, PUB & GRILL The Outpost occupies one of the sleekest spaces in town: a large building with a log-cabin exterior, a vast entry lobby and a bright, spacious, high-ceiling dining room. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner entrées including creative pizzas, burgers, steaks and specialty salads.

201 W MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-0250 • OUTPOSTPIZZAPUBGRILL.COM

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303 S CANYON BOULEVARD, CANYON CITY, 97820 • (541) 575-2911 OXBOWWAGONSANDCOACHES.COM

HISTORIC HOTEL PRAIRIE Enjoy the best of the old and new at Hotel Prairie, with a beautiful lobby, wine and beer lounge, backyard patio and very comfortable rooms with the best beds. All rooms have a private bath. Located on Prairie City’s quaint main street with antique stores, specialty shops and dining. Hotel Prairie is the perfect base for recreational activities including wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling and fishing.

Museums and geological sights close by.

Feel free to charge your electric vehicle, including Tesla, while you’re having fun or enjoying a good night’s rest. Located on a scenic byway and bikeway.

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

WheelerCounty

TAKE A FOSSILIZED TOUR

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.

Painted Hills

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 ancient flora and fauna.

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

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

PLAY PASTURE GOLF

Oregon Paleo Lands Institute

Tiger Town Brewing

<< Drink Mitchell’s Microbrew This is Oregon, so even in an area where fossils are more common than people and prehistoric ocean beds lie beneath your feet, you can quench your thirst with local craft beer. The newly-opened Tiger Town Brewing in downtown Mitchell takes its name from the moniker that was laid on the once raucous main street when it was lined with saloons and crawling with rough-edged gold miners, cowboys and loggers.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP AND BOT TOM RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

Kinzua Golf Course is the only USGA sanctioned six-hole golf course in the state. A so-called pasture golf course, Kinzua was installed to entertain locals prior to the area mill’s closure in 1978.

There are no staff at Kinzua and play is based on the honor system. The course requests that golfers leave a $5 greens fee in a deposit box outside the clubhouse.

EXPLORE John Day River Territory

WILSON RANCHES RETREAT B&B Welcome to the epic beauty and pioneer hospitality on an authentic working cattle ranch.

The B&B offers six pristine, ranch-style guest rooms in a genuine 1910 Sears Roebuck kit house. Wake up to a hearty family-style breakfast with fifth generation ranchers Phil, Nancy and family. Saddle up for a ride into the hills, hike or mosey along while soaking in the beauty of 9,000 high-desert acres, rich in diverse wildlife. Make us your base for exploring pioneer towns, digging for fossils in Fossil, fishing and rafting the John Day River or roaming the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

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

THE OREGON HOTEL 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.

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

SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Take a walk on the rural side.

Imagine hands-on history in award-winning exhibits: petroglyph rubbings, grain grinding, pioneer dress-up clothes, clothespins on the line and horsepower.

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

WASCO HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST Wasco House B&B features comfortable rooms with queen beds and private bathrooms.

• Close to the Columbia, John Day and Deschutes rivers, wineries and museums • At the gateway to Eastern Oregon Email: info@wascohouse.biz 715 ARMSWORTHY STREET, WASCO, 97065 • (503) 341-4450 • WASCOHOUSE.BIZ

PAINTED HILLS VACATION RENTALS Stay with us in three beautiful European cottages only 8 miles from the Painted Hills. Artists, writers and photographers will be inspired by the beauty and power of the ancient geology. Connect with nature, loved ones and yourself here. Sunset sleeps up to 20 people, Painted Hills sleeps up to 10 people and Hollyhock sleeps up to 4 people.

208-213 SE ROSENBAUM STREET, MITCHELL, 97750 • (541) 462-3921 PAINTEDHILLSVACATION.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

THE CORRALS CAMPGROUND

PORT OF ARLINGTON

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

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

The marina and RV park has the greatest wind and kite surfing in the world!

53461 ARMSTRONG ROAD, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4189

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New beach access in 2017.

Transient boat slips and new fuel dock with both diesel and non-ethanol gasoline, moorage slips available. RV parking, full hook-ups and dry camping, picnic areas and swimming area.

I-84 EXIT 137 & COLUMBIA RIVER MILE 241.3, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 454-2868 PORTOFARLINGTON.COM

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

Gilliam County

EXPERIENCE THE JOHN DAY RIVER

GILLIAM COUNTY

ROLLING HILLS AND PIONEER HERITAGE. Hang a right at Arlington and follow Highway 19 as it climbs some 3,000 feet to the heart of the Columbia Plateau and historic downtown Condon. 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.

Cycling Gilliam County

One of the longest free-flowing rivers in the United States, the John Day begins as a mountain stream and finishes as an iconic desert river, cutting through a massive canyon that seems to defy time and space. 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 is prime. By fall, autumn rains again replenish the river, beckoning a run of wild steelhead that is 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 its own 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.

EXPLORE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CONDON Seated high atop the Columbia Plateau, Condon is the commercial and cultural heart of Gilliam County. Stroll downtown 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. The Gilliam County Historical Museum provides a window into pioneer life. During summer, a concert series and artisan markets bring the city park to life.

Bike-friendly lodging options are available.

<< A slice of life A day of water sports on the Columbia Edge Deli in Arlington. Wind surfers will want to head to the Port of Arlington to set sail. Stand-up paddleboarders can rent a board from Arlington Hardware (lessons also available). Celebrate a day Downtown Condon

Port of Arlington

on the water with a burger and peanut butter milkshake at Pat’s Pheasant Grill.

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PHOTO TOP PHIL CARLSON

River begins with fueling up at River’s

EXPLORE John Day River Territory

THE DRIVE IN The Drive In is a family owned and operated old fashioned drive in located in Condon. Our menu offers a variety of burgers, sandwiches and delicious old fashioned milkshakes made from our classic soft serve ice cream. We are open yearround and offer both indoor and outdoor seating. We are open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday (summer only) 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. We serve breakfast on Friday, Saturday and Sunday 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

433 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-3922

GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Open May through October, Wednesday through Sunday.

Personalized tours available and include: 1884 homestead cabin, 1905 Union Pacific Railroad Depot, old city hall and jail, 1900 country school house and more.

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

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

MELANIE’S SUCH & SUCH Yarn, knitting and crochet notions.

Custom embroidery and garment decoration. Signs and banners.

We carry, caps, sweatshirts, t-shirts, bags, stuffed animals and much more.

Most items can be personalized.

208 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-5715

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

ARLINGTON, OREGON 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.

PO BOX 202, ARLINGTON, 97812 • (541) 626-3426 • VISITARLINGTONOREGON.COM

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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

THE ROUND-UP BAR AND KITCHEN 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.

209 S MAIN STREET, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-5100 • ROUNDUPGRILL.COM

CONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE In Oregon, Condon could be on your way to anywhere. It could also easily be your destination. Condon is “Small Town America” at its best. 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. Breath-taking scenery, peaceful lifestyle, fresh air and friendly neighbors are a few of the luxuries Condon boasts.

Condon and the neighboring communities host a variety of events throughout the year for residents and visitors to enjoy. Visit our website for a list of events.

307 S MAIN STREET, PO BOX 315, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-7777 CONDONCHAMBER.ORG

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JOHN DAY TERRITORY

ShermanCounty

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 nineteenth 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 sixty-mile ride kisses the rim of the Deschutes River above Macks Canyon where railroad barons once waged an epic construction battle 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.

SEE SHERARS FALLS Depending on the time of year, visitors to Sherars Falls may see tribal members perched precipitously above the churning falls, traditional handmade dip nets at the ready. In a tradition older than written history, these members of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are awaiting the return of Chinook salmon on their annual migration to spawning grounds upstream. Pack your fly rod and join the many who have tried to fool a native rainbow trout into striking.

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 but it feels a million miles away.

Abundant wildlife make this a destination for hunters, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts. The canyon is home to Oregon’s largest herd of bighorn sheep. There are also mule deer and pronghorn in the vast canyon lands.

SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Cottonwood Canyon

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE J ONI K ABANA

Wheatfields of Sherman County

A near three minutes of life

slowed down to perfection.

It will never happen in Oregon again.

At least not during your lifetime.

August 21, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Total Solar Eclipse Come early. Stay late. Be prepared.

Please remember it is high fire season. Be careful!

For more information on events, camping, and travel tips in the Path of Totality, please visit: traveloregon.com/eclipse

VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM The Eastern Oregon solar eclipse marketing was made possible in part by a grant from Travel Oregon.

PHOTO DUNC AN G ALVIN, FACING PAGE BOT TOM AND TOP LEF T TALIA G ALVIN, CENTER J EN HOMER, RIGHT LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM RIGHT TIM BISHOP

NORTHEAST pg.34 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. 46 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

Oregon’s northeast corner has many nicknames. Most refer to the extreme landscape—tall mountains, deep canyons, fast rivers and broad, flat valleys. Think mixed forests, lush farmlands and rocky hills covered with sage and bunch grass. Lively towns are a bonus that draw cultural tourists as well as those looking for a little fun at a slower pace.

ranch land that covers much of the Grande Ronde Valley floor. At higher elevations, the Blue Mountains are where the wilderness is a playground.

pg. 52 Wallowa County One of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, the Wallowas are home to the

Clockwise from left: Hiking in the Wallowa Mountains.

Imnaha Store statue. Farm life. Joseph Branch Railriders tour. Memorial Day wagon encampment at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City. Fishing on Wallowa Lake.

state’s largest wilderness area, the Eagle Cap Wilderness.

Deep Native American heritage, ranching culture and a famous art scene are further proof that this area has it all.

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I Like It Here

NORTHEAST

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE Wild Carrot Herbals owner Jody Berry said that, in Enterprise, it feels like anything is possible. For her, the town has a humble quality to it: small town, working class, authentic, playful. She described the people that work with Wild Carrot as quality, joyful human beings. When the Berry family was looking to relocate their topical herbal product wholesale business, there happened to be a beautiful historic 14,000-square-foot building on Main Street known as “The Enterpriser” that was the perfect fit. “Our retail customers believe in shopping locally and seem to have a keen interest in our success,” she said of the Wild Carrot retail clientele.

PHOTO LEF T J ONI K ABANA , BOT TOM CENTER G ARY HALVORSON, BOT TOM RIGHT TIM BISHOP

1

Explore Union County.

A perfect visit to Union County with my nine-yearold includes a morning swim at the Cove Warm Springs Pool followed by a drive on the back road from Cove to adorable Union. Stop at Hometown Hardware for last-minute provisions (they have everything). Camp and hike at beautiful Catherine Creek State Park. Stop at the Elgin Opera House to laugh and sing along during a live theater performance. Sigh.

2

surrounded by natural beauty.

That wildness fans our flames for this place we call home, and that passion and beauty is infused in every jar and bottle of our skin care. ❞

3

See Wallowa Lake from Two Angles.

Take a Day Trip to Baker City.

I often hike the length of the lake’s east moraine and am still in awe of the geological wonder that it is—replete with glacial erratics and stunning lake views. I also swim or kayak the gorgeous, clear waters of Wallowa Lake every chance I can get. That lake brings me great balance. For that, I continue to be so grateful that I live here.

I love the stunning architecture and gold rush boomtown feel of downtown Baker City.

There, we get our big city fix without having to go to a big city: breakfast at the Lone Pine Cafe, delicious beer at Barley Brown’s, a movie at the Eltrym, plus downtown shopping. For true small town charm, drive the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway into the Wallowas and explore quaint Americana in Halfway or explore the ghost town of Cornucopia.

>>

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

❝ Enterprise is a wild place,

Jody Berry Husband and wife team Jody and Michael Berry met while studying organic farming.

That nature-based ethos has led them to source 75 percent of Wild Carrot botanicals locally. The family crafts ingredients from farms and ranches in Wallowa County. “Our products are very place-based and inspired by the beauty and the plant communities that surround us,” said Jody. “We offer simple, clean, plant-based formulas that borrow upon the wisdom of our ancestors.” Wild Carrot sells more than 100 products to about 300 retail locations along the West Coast.

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NORTHEAST

Baker County

BAKER COUNTY

CULTURE AND HERITAGE

MUSEUMS

RICH PIONEER AND GOLD RUSH HERITAGE. Baker County is an adventurer’s paradise. With three Oregon Scenic Byways wrapped by Hells Canyon, the Wallowa and Elkhorn mountains, exploration opportunities are limitless. A number of small towns can serve as basecamps for exploration. 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.

To explore Baker City’s goldboom heyday, drop into the newly refurbished Baker Heritage Museum to find turn-of-the-century mining artifacts and expansive holdings of rare agates, picture jasper and more. At the Eastern Oregon Museum in Haines, nostalgic artifacts await visitors wanting to learn more about the region’s history and industries.

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, carved by wagons nearly 175 years ago.

The BLM-managed 500-acre historic site offers exhibits, interpretive programs, living history demonstrations, special events and workshops, in addition to four miles of hiking trails. Other highlights at the 23,000-squarefoot hilltop facility include a full scale wagon train diorama, a replica gold stamp mill and gold panning demonstration area.

Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Baker Heritage Museum

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Sumpter Valley Railroad

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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.

Restored entirely by volunteers beginning in the 1970s, the five-mile ride from McEwen to the former gold mining town of Sumpter and its towering Sumpter Dredge—a five-story, 1,240-ton behemoth.

This family-friendly ride is a mustexperience snippet of living history.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE TIM BISHOP

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 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.

Crossroads Art Center

Geiser Grand Hotel

Peterson’s Gallery

DOWNTOWN TOUR PHOTO LEF T J ONI K ABANA , RIGHT TOP AND BOT TOM TIM BISHOP

HISTORY COMES TO LIFE HERE ... MAKE IT YOUR STORY, TOO. Barley Brown’s Beer A legend in the craft beer world, Barley Brown’s holds upwards of ninety beer competition medals.

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 Portland as it gets around here: vinyl records crackle and the smell of artisanroasted coffee fills the air. Ingredients are quality and mostly farm fresh. The homemade German rye bread is worth writing home about. Try the chicken fried chicken.

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Geiser Grand Hotel

Crossroads Art Center

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

Sign up for a guided tour on the weekends.

The region’s natural beauty is a draw to creative types. Inside the turn of the century Greek Revival Carnegie Library building, the Crossroads Art Center is a hub for the arts. The venue hosts First Friday art walks, open-studio weekends and nationalscale traveling exhibits.

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

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NORTHEAST

Baker County Hells Canyon

>>

THE DEEPEST RIVER CANYON

Natural Wonder

HELL HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.

Journey from mountaintop down

Discover some of Baker County’s most spectacular scenery along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. The route between Baker City and Hells Canyon meanders through rolling farmlands, with 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 the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, 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, and host numerous small-town festivals including the Hells Canyon Jr. Rodeo, Eagle Valley Days and the Richland Brownlee Panfishing tournament.

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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.

TWO WAYS TO EXPLORE THE CANYON LANDS:

ON A BOAT

WITH A POLE

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

The Snake River zone spreads from the Oregon-Washington border upstream to the Oregon-Idaho border. Some of the best fishing tales come out of this river, where anglers catch the most sought-after game fish in the Pacific Northwest— steelhead. Not to be left out are the sturgeon, bass and catfish in the three reservoirs along the river.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE TIM BISHOP

Jet Boat Tours

to valley floor to reach the deepest

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Theater Programs Oregon Trail Ruts Exhibits Gift Shop Hiking

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

trailtenders.org 541-523-1843

22267 Oregon Highway 86 | Baker City, OR | I-84, Exit 302

Fun, family atmosphere. Cat Skiing. Yurt Rentals.

Summer Mountain Bike Trails.

www.AnthonlyLakes.com

Geiser Grand h

Affordable Luxury

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Incredible food daily; focus on local, handcrafted.

Guest Suites with fireplaces, breathtaking views, cozy robes, room service, in suite massage, horse drawn carriage, DVDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, books, fitness center.

Five distinctive meeting rooms offer an ideal venue for special events to 300 Standing proudly on Main Street since 1889

Romance

888.434.7374 GeiserGrand.com TAKE I-84 TO EXIT 304

HISTORIC BAKER CITY, OREGON

541.523.1889

Baker County

NORTHEAST

Elkhorn Scenic Byway

ELKHORN SCENIC BYWAY HISTORY, NATURE AND A STEAK. 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-of-the-Nineteenth-Century gold rush heritage and even offers a few ghost towns along the way. Meandering through the spectacularly scenic Elkhorn Mountains, attractions include the Sumpter Valley Railroad, the Sumpter Dredge State Park, the ghost town of Granite and Anthony Lakes—a popular ski resort in the winter and hiking destination in the summer. After a day on the byway, end your adventure in the small town of Haines, home of the Eastern Oregon Museum and world famous Haines Steak House.

RANCHING HERITAGE A LONG HISTORY OF GRAZING.

<< Quality Steak It doesn’t get more Eastern Oregon than a dinner at Haines Steak House.

Take your pick of grain-fed beef cuts.

Pine Valley Ranch

Salad is served from a chuck wagon.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE TIM BISHOP

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. Cowboys on cattle drives are a common sight along the county’s back roads and three scenic byways.

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 one of the many regionally made beers on tap at the 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 1000-1700 vertical feet per run. Lunch and snacks included.

WHERE TO STAY The downtowns of Baker City, Union and La Grande are all 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.

SUMMER FUN Anthony Lakes was named after a series of fifteen lakes and marshes in the Elkhorn Range. During summer, snow melt reveals miles of hiking trails and single track 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.

<< BY THE NUMBERS 300 inches average annual snowfall 1,100 acres of lift accessed terrain 21 runs 30 kilometers of groomed and track-set Nordic trails

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PHOTO BOT TOM TIM BISHOP

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

Hells Canyon Adventures

South Entrance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hells Canyon Dam Jet Boat Tours 1 & 2 Day Rafting Trips Fishing Charters Shuttle Services Lodging, RV / Tent Camping

HELLS CANYON ADVENTURES 800-422-3568 / 541-785-3352 www.hellscanyonadventures.com

We named it

Hells Canyon

to scare people away.

Not You. Other People.

HellsCanyonByway.com

EXPLORE Elkhorn Scenic Byway

SODA MOUNTAIN Eastern Oregon’s fullestline independent pet supply store.

We also carry books and gifts.

Open Friday­to Monday, Noon to 6 p.m.

Find us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/sodamountain

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.

152 W AUBURN, SUMPTER, 97877 • (541) 894-2213 • SODAMOUNTAIN.ORG

Eastern Oregon ATV Adventures/ The Depot Inn

LYNN BEAN GALLERY • Gifts • Jewelry • Painted ponies • Embroidery clothing • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, April through October • Flea market weekends

EASTERN OREGON ATV ADVENTURES We offer a line of ATV’s for off road adventure through the beautiful trails that Eastern Oregon has to offer. 1/2 or full day rental available. Come ride with us!

179 S MILL STREET, SUMPTER, 97877 INN: (800) 390-2522 • THEDEPOTINN.COM EASTERN OREGON ATV: (541) 519-3704

293 MILL STREET, SUMPTER, 97814 • (310) 944-4843 • LYNNBEAN.COM

CRACKER CREEK MUSEUM OF MINING The Cracker Creek Museum of Mining was formed to preserve, interpret and restore the mining history, which played a major role in the development (and the decline) of Sumpter.

SUMPTER, OREGON 97877 • (541) 894-2377 HISTORICSUMPTER.COM/SUMPTER-OREGON-CCMM.HTML

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

EASTERN OREGON MUSEUM

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

Eastern Oregon Museum provides and maintains the historic collection, protection, preservation and public display of artifacts, pictures and documents relevant to the history of Haines, Baker County and Eastern Oregon. Providing education that fosters an understanding of Haines area pioneers, families and events. Come and let us share this history with you.

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

We will be running a special eclipse train this year on Monday, August 21.

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

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

HAINES, 97833 • (541) 856-3233 • EASTERNOREGONMUSEUM.COM

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EXPLORE Hells Canyon

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

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

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

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

100 MAIN STREET, RICHLAND, 94846 • (541) 893-6176

EAGLE VALLEY RV PARK Conveniently located on Highway 86 on the east edge of Richland, Eagle Valley RV Park is open year ‘round with vacation and full-time spaces available. They also offer outdoor boat and RV storage, airtight storage units, and have a laundromat on site.

You’re just a short drive away from Hewitt-Holcomb park, making it the perfect base camp for fishing and boating on the reservoir. Drive a bit further and you’re on the Snake River! Call 541-893-6161 for more information and reservations.

HALFWAY MOTEL AND RV PARK We are located in downtown Halfway, just minutes away from the Snake River, Eagle Cap Wilderness and Hells Canyon. Enjoy activities such as fishing, hunting, rafting, jet skiing and snowmobiling. Oh, what fun!

40254 HWY 86, RICHLAND, 97870 • (541) 893-6161

160 S MAIN STREET, HALFWAY, 97834 • (541) 742-5722

HALFWAY WHIMSICAL We are a local artist co-operative gallery and gift shop located in Halfway. Come into our store, or become a friend on Facebook and stay updated with new and available art coming into the gallery.

231 GOVER LANE, HALFWAY, 97834 • (541) 742-6040

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

241 S MAIN STREET, HALFWAY, 97834 • 349 FIRST STEET, RICHLAND, 97870 (541) 893-6115 • EAGLETELEPHONE.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

• Restaurant and bar • Open 7 days a week • Breakfast, lunch and dinner • Homemade, hand-pressed

• Major credit cards accepted • Oregon Lottery available • Wi-Fi

pizzas

105 S MAIN STREET, HALFWAY, 97834 • (541) 742-5833

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EXPLORE Baker City

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

Choose from 22 taps at BEERded Dog Growler Fill Station.

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 hand-pressed espresso. Enjoy a selection of truffles, signature bars, drinking chocolate, rich brittles and smooth caramels, all produced on-site from the finest ingredients. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday though Sunday. Located right across the street from the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.

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

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

BAKER HERITAGE MUSEUM

MADHABIT BOUTIQUE

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.

MADhabit is a local, handmade, fair-trade boutique that offers handcrafted home decor items, in-house made jewelry, art, accessories, organic beauty products and more.

Open mid-March through October, 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2480 GROVE STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-9308 BAKERHERITAGEMUSEUM.COM

1798 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97914 • (541) 829-3157

CAMPING ON THE OREGON TRAIL

ADLER HOUSE MUSEUM

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.

Impeccably restored 1889 Italianate Victorian home of philanthropist Leo Adler.

Adler House is open June through September, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Other times by advance reservation.

2305 MAIN STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-9308 BAKERHERITAGEMUSEUM.COM/ADLERHOUSE.HTML

2845 HUGHES LANE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-4824 • MTVIEWRV.COM

THE WISDOM HOUSE Vacation & Event Venue Pioneer Homestead, Circa 1878 Enjoy this historic home located in downtown historic Baker City district.

• Great for large gatherings • Newly remodeled with heat, A/C and free Wi-Fi • Beautifully landscaped yard with ample seating

space • 35 miles from Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort. Call for discounted ski package.

SUMPTER JUNCTION Family Restaurant open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week.

A one-of-a-kind model train can be viewed from all over the dining area.

Breakfast served all day.

2035 2ND STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 403-0592 HISTORICWISDOMHOUSE.COM • VRBO.COM/726034 • AIRBNB.COM/ROOMS/10473484

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

2 SUNRIDGE LANE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-9437

FINDOUTMOREATVISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

EXPLORE Baker City

BELLA MAIN STREET MARKETS 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.

Enjoy a perfectly made cappuccino at the slate bar in our century old building or taste wines from around the world while you discover why BELLA is the best kitchen store ever.

Open every day in historic downtown Baker City and La Grande.

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

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.

EARTH & VINE WINE BAR & ART GALLERY We serve an array of antipasti, salads, flat bread pizzas, fondue for two, sandwiches, wraps hot or cold and homemade soup, along with other great appetizers and fabulous handmade desserts by Sweet Wife Baking. Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with eggs benedict, southwest breakfast burrito or ciabatta homemade quiche and sweet or savory crepes and sushi night once a month. And of course 72 or more different types of wine (import or domestic). We also offer a wine tasting night. (All bottles of wine are available for purchase to go, at a 20% discount.) Plus, 14 types of bottled beer.

2001 WASHINGTON AVE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-1687

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

BIG RIVER RECREATION Rent adventure equipment.

• Paddleboards • Float tubes • Kayaks • Big fun!

2029 WASHINGTON AVENUE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 908-1814

BURNT RIVER RANCH This historic 1,200acre ranch is located in the heart of Eastern Oregon Cattle Country.

BLUE DOOR INN B & B

This is an adventure of a lifetime!

You will be in the heart of Historic Baker City on a tree-lined residential street just 3 blocks from Barley Brown’s.

Begin your day with French press coffee and full breakfast. End your day by the fireplace or relax in your air conditioned room. Innkeeper on site to help you.

DURKEE, 97905 • (541) 877-2000

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

2324 1ST STREET, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 801-7962 • BAKERCITYBLUEDOORINN.COM

EASTERN EASTERNOREGON OREGONVISITORS VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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NORTHEAST

Union County

UNION COUNTY

LA GRANDE

DOWNTOWN

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.

Small city life in La Grande cultivates a robust cultural scene. Start at the Arts East Center at the old Carnegie Library, which hosts frequent events, concerts and art walks.

By day, fill up on locally-roasted coffee and sandwiches, salads, and savory baked goods at Joe & Sugars. For a night on the town, head to local landmark Ten Depot Street, where there is often live music and you can always count on to-die-for prime rib. Get your Hollywood fix at the Historic Granada Theatre, which shows first-run films on three screens.

Save the date for the annual Eastern Oregon Film Festival in October. Started here in 2010, the festival now draws award-winning directors from Sundance to its lineup of indie film screenings.

EASTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY 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 stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s few experimental galleries.

Grande Ronde River

Hot Lake Springs

Native Americans discovered the natural hot springs centuries ago. Oregon Trail pioneers soaked their weary bodies in the mineral-laden water. Then the grand brick building was completed on the hot springâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shore in 1908. Under new ownership after the Manuel family spent thirteen years renovating the historic property, Hot Lake Springs is a cultural masterpiece and restorative oasis. Tour the history center, bronze foundry and gallery; relax at the spa and in the hot springs; and stay in the bed & breakfast.

Eastern Oregon University

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM PHOTOS G ARY HALVORSON

HOT LAKE SPRINGS

Union County

NORTHEAST

Elgin Opera House

ELGIN OPERA HOUSE A RURAL PERFORMING ARTS GEM

>>

Mount Emily Recreation Area

A slice of life

The Mount Emily Recreation Area (MERA) 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, mountain bikes, hiking or horseback riding and even an archery range.

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: plush draperies, box seats, an orchestra pit, elaborate backdrops and rococo dĂŠcor. 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.

EXCURSION TRAIN

PHOTO TOP LEF T TIM BISHOP, TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

WITNESS THE THRILL OF AN OLD WEST HEIST ON THE EAGLE CAP EXCURSION TRAIN. Around the turn of the Twentieth 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 wildly popular robbery-themed outing. Departing from the Elgin Depot, just northeast of La Grande, the ride might also steal your heart, thanks to its scenic course along the Grande Ronde and Wallowa rivers.

In addition to these twice-yearly train robberies, the train hosts a Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Brunch, wine and cheese tasting outtings and 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 ride.

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

Eagle Cap Excursion Train

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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NORTHEAST

Union County

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Historic Downtown Union

>>

Union Hotel

HISTORIC UNION

With a population of just over

CHARM IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS.

2,100, Union has maintained

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 such as juicy steaks and buffalo burgers. At the Union County Historic Museum, see how cowboys and cattle settled the West. Admire rows of antique saddles, vintage rodeo flags and a period livery blacksmith shop. The bank vault was damaged by an explosion during a bungled heist in 1900.

EMBRACE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Picnic, hike, fish or camp along Catherine Creek’s crystalclear 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.

Grande Ronde River Cutting its way through now forested ancient lava 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.

Anglers in the know drift boat fish this river for steelhead and rainbow trout, plus bass.

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atmosphere. Open space, Victorianstyle homes, charming brick buildings and tree-lined streets maintain the town’s historic authenticity. Main Street is now a National Historic District.

ACCESSTHEREGION’S DESTINATIONS. 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 Grande Ronde River century farms, rugged sagecovered range lands 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.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP LEF T J ONI K ABANA , TOP RIGHT G ARY HALVORSON, BOT TOM LEON WERDINGER

Catherine Creek State Park

its rural charm and friendly

ROAD TRIPPER

Rodeo Fun Rodeo is a way of life here. Plan your trip to coincide with these iconic cultural events: The Elgin Stampede (July in Elgin), Eastern Oregon Livestock Show (June in Union) and Union County Fair (August in La Grande).

A Slice of Life

EAGLE CAP EXCURSION TRAIN eaglecaptrainrides.com Following the shores of the beautiful Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers.

2017 Schedule May 14 Mother’s Day Brunch May 27 Two Rivers Bonus June 10 Wine & Chocolates Train June 17 Spring Train Robbery June 18 Father’s Day June 24 Spring Railroader’s Photo Run July 1 I Love America! 2 Veterans’ Trains July 8 Two Rivers July 22 Two Rivers September 2 Two Rivers September 16 Fall Foliage Photo Run September 30 Wine & Cheese Train October 7 Gold Rush Bandits Robbery October 14 Autumn Train Robbery October 21 Brew Train

Book online or contact us today for reservations and travel planning assistance.

800.323.7330 or train@alegretravel.com Based in Elgin, Oregon

EXPLORE La Grande

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

Winter hours | November to Mid-May: Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 3 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.

THE LONGBRANCH BAR & EATS Longbranch is well known for its home style cooking and the most reasonably priced food and drinks in town. We also provide full service Oregon Lottery including Keno, Powerball, and Megabucks. Longbranch has daily breakfast and lunch specials. The full service bar provides a very relaxed environment for socializing.

Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

208 DEPOT STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-9442 • LONGBRANCHBARANDEATS.COM

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

COMMUNITY MERCHANTS A unique place that has a large variety of all local products.

Everything from jewelry and décor to crafts and sewn items. We also carry Union County raised food products including beef, pork, lamb, chicken, cheese, eggs and veggies.

You can also have custom made vinyl decals and stickers made as well as pet tag engraving. Have a sweet tooth? We serve gelato and sorbet that are made in house, as well as a selection of bubble teas.

1210 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 663-0575

UNION COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Whether you’re just passing through or relocating your home or business, you‘ll welcome the warm embrace of the Grande Ronde Valley. With sweeping mountain views, small towns, friendly residents, abundant recreation, and a cultural scene that rivals the big city, Union County is an Eastern Oregon jewel waiting to be discovered.

The Union County Chamber of Commerce exists to promote and support the business environment through membership participation and leadership that fosters economic growth and community involvement.

207 DEPOT ST, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-8588 • UNIONCOUNTYCHAMBER.ORG

BENCHWARMERS PUB & GRILL

EARTH & VINE WINE BAR & ART GALLERY We serve an array of antipasti, salads, flat bread pizzas, fondue for two, sandwiches, wraps hot or cold and homemade soup, along with other great appetizers and fabulous handmade desserts by Sweet Wife Baking. Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with eggs benedict, southwest breakfast burrito, ciabatta homemade quiche, sweet or savory crepes and sushi night once a month. And, of course, 72 or more different types of wine (import or domestic). We also offer a wine tasting night, when all bottles of wine are available for purchase to go, at a 20% discount.

Plus, 14 types of bottled beer.

Benchwarmers Pub & Grill offers tasty appetizers, mouth-watering burgers and full course dinners in historic La Grande.

We serve everything from burgers and sandwiches to pasta and steaks. You can’t beat the great finger food—nachos and spicy buffalo wings—at this popular sports bar. Any time an Eastern Oregon University athletic team wins a home game, we offer 50 cent hot wings until midnight. We have customers travel from Boise, Portland, Seattle and Spokane. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

210 DEPOT STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-9597 BENCHWARMERSPUBANDGRILL.COM

1101 WASHINGTON AVENUE, LA GRANDE , 97850 • (541) 962-8466

SIDE A BREWING AND PUBLIC HOUSE

MOUNTAIN WORKS BICYCLES We sell and service bicycles and skis. We also offer a wide range of sporting goods and clothing for other adventures such as rock climbing, camping and cycling.

Come in, check us out, ask us about the local fun and our vacation rental in Joseph and share an organized adventure or two. Fun and fitness is our passion.

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

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Located in the heart of downtown La Grande, Side A Brewing and Public House offers craft beer brewed on site and a gastropub style menu using local ingredients. Side A is La Grande’s only craft brewpub, featuring outdoor seating in the back-alley beer garden. Side A is located in the historic La Grande Firehouse, sharing the space with the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum, which is open to the public during business hours. Centrally-located in downtown, Side A Brewpub is within a short walk to Eastern Oregon University or shopping in downtown La Grande.

1405 WASHINGTON AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 962-8466 • SIDEABEER.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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EXPLORE Union County

LG BREWSKIS Located on Main Street in an 1870s timber building on the Registry of Historic Places, it’s a must for beer and wine lovers.

Extensive selection of Pacific NW microbrews and wines. We have a small menu for food and daily specials. Whether a regular or out of town guest, everyone is greeted like an old friend from our quaint staff. LG BREWSKIS has a proud tradition of entertainment that have become local favorites. Pool, shuffleboard and more, so come out and play. You’ll be glad you came.

267 S MAIN STREET, UNION, 97883 • (541) 562-6286 • LGBREWSKIS.COM

WILLOW CREEK HORSE B&B Wake up someplace different... play somewhere new.

Our farm B&B caters to travelers and vacationers passing through to other destinations, exploring Northeast Oregon, or just seeking some rest and tranquility. No horse? Bring your mountain bike, hiking boots or a good book, binoculars and bottle of wine.

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 • HISTORICUNIONHOTEL.COM

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.

Country breakfast, kitchen, Wi-Fi, maps and attractions, tips for fun and safety.

65159 COURTNEY LANE, SUMMERVILLE, 97876 • (541) 534-4780 • (541) 910-2486 WILLOWCREEKHORSEBNB.COM

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

GRANDE HOT SPRINGS RV RESORT

• 100 pull-thru RV sites • 15 tent sites • 1 yurt • 1 Airstream cabin • Hot springs and heated pool/spa

• Beautiful, quiet location • Just 8 miles to La Grande 65182 HOT LAKE LANE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-5253 GRANDEHOTSPRINGS.COM

HOT LAKE SPRINGS B&B Whether you are interested in wildlife, history, art, great food, spa treatments or taking some time out from the rat race, Hot Lake Springs has something for everyone. Our complex includes: bed & breakfast, bronze casting tours, American history center, fine art galleries, gift shop, crystal theatre, honor garden and mineral soaks.

66172 HWY 203, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-4685 • HOTLAKESPRINGS.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, UNION, LA GRANDE • (541) 963-8588 UNIONCOUNTYCHAMBER.ORG

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

BUFFALO PEAK GOLF COURSE The Way Golf Was Meant to Be. Golfers who have discovered Northeast Oregon’s challenging 18-hole, inland links-style course 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) 952-5527 • BUFFALOPEAKGOLF.COM

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NORTHEAST

WallowaCounty

WALLOWA COUNTY

WILDERNESS ENTRY POINTS

LOSTINE Up the east fork of the Lostine Canyon, Tin Pan Trailhead provides access to Lakes Basin and any number of backcountry trips. Stop for provisions (and art) at M. Crow, a historic general store in Lostine.

NATURALBEAUTYFROMNATIONALFOREST TO GRASSLAND. 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 literally 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 where you can stand and watch lipstick-red kokanee salmon spawning in autumn.

During summer, hikers can stake a tent in a state park campsite at the trailhead or take their pack into the backcountry for a multiday adventure.

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Into the Wild “The jagged, white-granite peaks, sparkling lakes, and wildflower-covered meadows of the Wallowa Mountains make this range one of the most beautiful in the nation.

In fact, there is so much glorious scenery here that a lifetime would be inadequate to see all of its glories.”

Wallowa Mountains

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

- Douglas Lorain, 100 Classic Hikes in Oregon

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PHOTO LEF T LEON WERDINGER, RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

Wallowa Lake

WallowaCounty

NORTHEAST

ZUMWALT PRAIRIE An ideal day in this part of Wallowa County would entail a drive through the Preserve and down 3,000 feet of elevation to the town of Imnaha. Though only ten miles, the drive on gravel roads will take about an hour. Cold beer and chicken gizzards are waiting (along with plenty of rattlesnake lore) at the Imnaha Store & Tavern.

Continue east to Hat Point, which takes another hour but will take your breath away in return. This far eastern overlook is said to be the first place in Oregon warmed by the sun each day. At 6,982 feet elevation, Hat Point tops the Oregon rim of Hells Canyon, 5,600 feet above the Snake River that runs in view below. For an extra lofty view of the canyon and the Seven Devils mountains beyond, climb ninety steps up one of Oregon’s tallest fire lookout towers to survey the scene.

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Zumwalt Prairie

Take to the Prairie Zumwalt Prairie is a massive nature sanctuary and North America’s largest remaining grassland of its type, hosting incredible concentrations of wildlife. Take binoculars on a driving tour, or enter the lottery for an elk tag during hunting season.

MINAM The forty-six-mile flow of the Minam River, from Blue Lake to its confluence with the Wallowa River, constitutes one of the two largest rivers in the state that is considered nearly pristine. Anglers, grab your rods—the river has been described as second to none for habitat and fish population (think steelhead).

Minam River Lodge

REMOTE RETREAT

MINAM RIVER LODGE

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PHOTO DAVID RENWALD BOT TOM TALIA G ALVIN

As a kid, Barnes Ellis stayed at the Minam River Lodge. “I thought it was one of the most beautiful and unique places in the state,” said the founder of Portland-based Baker Ellis Asset Management, who recently bought the hike-in/fly-in wilderness lodge and has completely revamped it.

Getting Here The only motorized access to this remote Eagle Cap Wilderness destination is via charter aircraft from Enterprise. By trail, Minam Lodge is an eight-and-a-halfmile hike or horseback ride from Moss Springs. Hikers will find the lodge to be a great basecamp for exploring some of the hundreds of miles of accessible trails.

Materials to build the original, mid-TwentiethCentury-era lodge and cabins were hauled in by mule and lumber was milled on site.

Old-world craftsmanship is apparent in the new lodge and cabins include many of the original materials, transformed for sustainability and energy-efficiency.

Dozens of local tradespeople have worked on the project, from planning and building to flora analysis and artisan work.

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Mark Howell of Elgin fabricated the steel fireplace. All the furniture for the project was built by Liz Holoubek of Kagu Studio in Portland using native species of fir and oak.

Minam River Lodge is a place to experience the wilderness in comfort, away from internet and cell service. 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 Ellis.

Guests can lounge in the wood-fired hot tub, ride horses, eat gourmet, locally-sourced meals at the communal dining tables, sit on the riverbank and look out east toward a spectacular view. Book weddings and retreats in the historic pole barn.

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NORTHEAST

WallowaCounty

Joseph

CATTLERANCHES,AHISTORYOFTIMBERANDANARTISTICPRESENT. 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 westernthemed casts 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 Bee-Crow-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. Rumage the eclectic jewelry gold mine at To Zion. Shop women’s wears at Tempting Teal Boutique, where you can also buy 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

AN HISTORIC HOTEL RENEWAL The rooms of the 1910 Jennings Hotel overlook Joseph’s Main Street and the Wallowa Mountains beyond. On your way up to your room, you may run into an artist from the residency program that owner Greg Hennes integrated into his vision when restoring the property.

The aesthetically-inclined entrepreneur enlisted locals and Portland makers to renovate the space, resulting in breathtakingly well-appointed rooms.

Details include a communal kitchen and Scandinavian-style sauna.

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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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

Jennings Hotel

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PHOTO BOT TOM TALIA G ALVIN

JOSEPH

WallowaCounty

OPEN AIR RAIL TOUR

NORTHEAST

CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS

JOSEPH BRANCH RAILRIDERS Riding the rails is no longer the predominant mode of transportation in Eastern Oregon, but an open-air, pedal-powered tour with Joseph Branch Railriders gives life to six miles of railroad tracks running between Joseph and Enterprise that lay dormant for years. The two-hour excursion glides along the rail line via a “railrider.” The spellbinding scenery along the route is easy to appreciate as the track-hugging wheels guide the way through tree stands and open pastures.

Deer and eagles are commonly spotted going about their daily routines. En route to Enterprise, the gentle grade is entirely downhill. You’ll only slightly feel the 1.5 percent incline on the return trip, though tour operator Kim Metlen is ready to nudge the railrider along with a gas-powered assist should legs become spent.

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 all the horses that will be trying to throw cowboys off their backs 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 72nd 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 powwow, parades of the kid and grand varieties, dances, a golf tournament and a cowboy church service.

PHOTO LEF T LEON WERDINGER

Dance the nights away in the Thunder Room (for drinking age adults only; there is a teen dance at the community center). Don’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.

<< Ride the Rails, al Fresco Joseph Branch Railriders

Take in the grandeur of one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon as you ride between Enterprise and Joseph.

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NORTHEAST

WallowaCounty

WALLOWA LAKE AN ALPINE-THEMED VILLAGE LIES AT THE GATEWAY TO ONE OF THE 7 WONDERS OF OREGON. 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.

Local Nostalgia A group of local investors came together last year, raising enough to buy 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 will hold a conservation easement, to leave the site as visitors have enjoyed it for decades. The large, rustic lodge (with a fine dining restaurant) and cabins are located within walking distance to attractions in the family-friendly village.

AT THE HEAD OF THE LAKE

• A walkable, Alpine-themed village is

complete with eateries, gift shops, minigolf courses, lodging, dining, a horseback outfitter, bumper boats and go-carts. The Bavarian influence culminates annually in September with Alpenfest.

• Boat rentals (paddle and motor) and an-

gling expertise are on offer at Wallowa Lake Marina, near Wallowa Lake State Park and its huge campground.

Wallowa Lake

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-anda-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 Grille.

<< Vali’s Alpine Restaurant Every foodie dreams of finding that tiny, atmospheric restaurant with superb food in an unexpected place. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Vali’s is that gem at Wallowa Lake. Now a second-generation establishment, the owners serve one traditional Hungarian dish each night, Wednesday through Sunday, by reservation only. Bonus tip: follow the sweet scent to Vali’s Eagle Cap Wilderness

Vali’s

on Friday and Saturday mornings (9-11 a.m.) for love letter-worthy doughnuts.

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM PHOTOS TALIA G ALVIN

• Ascend, gondola style, on the Wallowa Lake

A Gathering Place for the Arts

Joseph, Oregon www.josephy.org

Art Shop, Exhibits, Classes, Concerts, Library of Western History & Culture

17 S. Main St., Joseph OR 97846 phone: 541-231-2977 phinneygallery@gmail.com phinneygallery.com

Most people just assume we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make

beer, wine and spirits out this way.

While weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re waiting for them to figure it out, what can we get you?

visiteasternoregon.com

NORTHEAST

WallowaCounty

ENTERPRISE

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CENTRALLY LOCATED IN WALLOWA COUNTY, THIS TOWN HAS HEART.Atop the Rim

Authentically crafted tipis look reminiscent

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.

Enterprise is one of Oregon’s only small towns with the bulk of its businesses located off the main motorway.

of another time against the backdrop of Chief Joseph Canyon. Inside, though, the digs at Rim Rock Inn are designed for modern guests. Book a luxury suite or vintage trailer, if one of those options is more your speed.

Warm sunset hues continue into the night around a fire pit, with the crackle of the campfire as the soundtrack. Eat well with locally sourced, scratch-made meals.

Chief Joseph Canyon

Enterprise Courthouse

1

DOWNTOWN

The historic O.K. Theatre has a new life as a music venue, bringing in acts such as the band Joseph (named after the Wallowa County town and a sentimental place for the band of sisters).

Favorite Finds on Main Antiques is a treasure trove. Shop for botanical products at Wild Carrot Herbals. Fuel up at Red Rooster Cafe, Gypsy Java or Stockmans Restaurant & Lounge.

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2

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. 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

Across the street from The Bookloft, blankets and lawn chairs dot the lawn surrounding the gazebo every Thursday during summer for the Courthouse Concert Series, hosted by local arts advocates at the Wallowa Valley Music Alliance. Come early to shop the weekly farmers’ market for local produce and artisan goods.

4

BRONZE

Joseph is known as the bronze capital, but Parks Bronze & TW Bronze foundries are in Enterprise. Visit both the foundries for tours and gallery gazing. Learn about fabrication; marvel at the magnificent detail that emerges when a cast is turned into a finished piece of art.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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MUSTS

As you head out of town toward Joseph, two stops are a must. Grab a beer and a meal at Terminal Gravity Brewing, where locals and visitors intersect over great beer. A bit farther down the highway, culturallyminded travelers will be enchanted by Sunrise Iron, the largest collection of pioneer relics anywhere in the Pacific Northwest.

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PHOTO RIGHT J ONI K ABANA

GET YOUR TURN SIGNAL READY

Promoting the expansion of deliciousness in Wallowa County

Welcome to THE INDIAN LODGE MOTEL

Indian Lodge Motel & East Street Cottages

Walking Distance to Downtown Joseph ~ 1 Mile to Wallowa Lake

201 South Main, Joseph, Oregon | (541) 432-2651 IndianLodgeMotel.com JosephOregonLodging.com

East Street Cottages Open Mon- Sat. Join us for Third Thursdays from 5-9!

www.dandelionwines.com 541- 398-8582 112 W Main St. Enterprise, OR 97828

Find us on

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

Multi-Day Trips • World Class Whitewater • Fresh Local Food • Family Owned & Operated

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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NORTHEAST OREGON

Wallowa County Events 2017 OREGON MOUNTAIN

CRUISE

MOUNTAIN HIGH BRONCS & BULLS

JOSEPH, OR

ENTERPRISE, OR

oregonmountaincruise.com

mountainhighrodeo.com

SHAKE THE LAKE

SUMMER

JOSEPH, OR

ENTERPRISE, OR

wallowacountychamber.org

myenterpriseoregon.com

SUMMER FISHTRAP

CELEBRATION

FIREWORKS

FEST

TAMKALIKS

JOSEPH, OR

WALLOWA, OR

fishtrap.org

wallowanezperce.org

CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS RODEO

MAXVILLE

HERITAGE GATHERING

JOSEPH, OR

MAXVILLE, OR

chiefjosephdays.com

maxvillheritage.org

MAIN STREET

WALLOWA COUNTY

SHOW & SHINE

THUNDER RUN

ENTERPRISE, OR

ENTERPRISE, OR

mainstreetshowandshine.com

wcthunderrun.com

DRAGONS IN

JUNIPER JAM

THE WALLOWAS

MUSIC FESTIVAL

JOSEPH, OR

ENTERPRISE, OR

dragonsinthewallowas.com

juniperjam.com

HELLS CANYON

WALLOWA VALLEY

MULE DAYS

FESTIVAL OF ARTS

ENTERPRISE, OR

JOSEPH, OR

hellscanyonmuledays.com

wallowavalleyarts.org

OREGON’S

EAGLE CAP

ALPENFEST

EXTREME

WALLOWA LAKE, OR

JOSEPH, OR

oregonalpenfest.com

eaglecapextreme.com

www.wallowacountychamber.com

EXPLORE Enterprise

SUGAR TIME BAKERY Sugar Time Bakery provides cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, scones, pies, cheesecakes and numerous other sweets. Many a local wedding guest have had the pleasure of partaking in a delicious array of cakes, cupcakes and sometimes even pies. Local restaurants proudly offer items made by Sugar Time Bakery. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

106 W MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-0362 • SUGARTIME-BAKERY.COM

ALPINE MEADOWS GOLF COURSE 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.

66098 GOLF COURSE ROAD, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3246 GOLFALPINEMEADOWS.COM

1910 HISTORIC ENTERPRISE HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST Historic home with five guest rooms, all with private baths and incredible Eagle Cap Wilderness views. Find beautiful sunsets, quiet—away from the rush of life—and fresh clean mountain air. Minutes away from incredible hikes into the wilderness areas. Enjoy biking on quiet roads with no traffic, swimming in the pure waters of Wallowa lake and having dinner at Terminal Gravity. Wallowa County is a must for your summer adventure.

508 1ST SOUTH STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-4238 ENTERPRISEHOUSEBNB.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

RED ROOSTER CAFE

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.

This quaint café is located downtown on Main Street. It is family owned and operated with Kim being the on-site chef.

The menu has great variety, and is made from real, scratch-made food and mostly organic ingredients. Freshly baked café bread is served with most breakfasts and nothing comes from a box. We grind are own wheat, which is blended into our pancakes just like Grandma used to make. Kim also bakes huge cinnamon rolls, which you can take on your drive home. The Red Rooster is where the food is fresh and the smiles are free. Come dine with us!

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

309 W MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-2233 RED-ROOSTER-CAFE.COM

FAVORITE FINDS ON MAIN ANTIQUES

THE BOOKLOFT & SKYLIGHT GALLERY & COFFEE BAR We carry books for all ages and interests and feature Wallowa County history. Our art gallery features a variety of selections from local photographers, potters, glass blowers, fiber artists, jewelers and other unique offerings.

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

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DANDELION WINES “Promoting the expansion of deliciousness in Wallowa County.” World wines, regional wines, craft beers and ciders and non-alcoholic offerings, too. We also have a delicious selection of cheeses, charcuterie, olives and chocolates for your picnic or entertaining needs.

Check out our bar ware, vintage glassware, picnic ware, locally made pottery and hand blown glassware. Join us for our Third Thursday event every month from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. to taste wine, enjoy good nibbles and great company. Open Monday through Saturday.

112 W MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 398-8582 DANDELIONWINES.COM

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EXPLORE Joseph

COWBOY RIVERFRONT RETREAT The retreat features comfortable sleeping options for up to six. A king bed and queen bed, plus a queen futon if needed. The sleeping area includes a private bath with shower. Kitchenette is equipped for snacks for light meals, with a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker and dining table. A Webber Grill is available at guest’s disposal. Our large, comfortable lounge area has satellite TV, Wi-Fi, collector books, playing cards and board games for your relaxation. The expansive deck and outdoor patio overlook the soothing river with access from the deck to the bank for the fishing enthusiasts.

810 RUSSELL LANE, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 398-0333 COWBOYRIVERFRONTRETREAT.COM

JOSEPH BRANCH RAILRIDERS Dare to pedal a four wheeled railrider on the rail road.

A must do event! Enjoy the open space, majestic Wallowa mountains, free flowing Wallowa River, birds and critters. Unplug, refresh, enjoy.

Choose from a two hour or half day excursions. Open Thursday through Monday from May 20 to October 9 in 2017. Innovative and unique activity for families and groups. Purchase tickets and gift certificates online. More information at jbrailriders.com.

“COME JOIN THE ADVENTURE!” 304 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 910-0089 • JBRAILRIDERS.COM

BRONZE ANTLER BED & BREAKFAST 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

MOUNTAIN VIEW MOTEL & RV PARK Year-round lodging and RV camping. Mountain views, pet friendly, smoke free, Wi-Fi, Dish TV and decks with BBQ. Rooms for up to four, kitchenettes for five.

83450 JOSEPH HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (866) 262-9891 • MTVIEWMOTEL-RVPARK.COM

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THE “BUNKHOUSE” AT COWBOY RIVERFRONT RETREAT The most amazing overlooking the river, yet a world away. The Bunkhouse is the newest addition to our beloved Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, a 5 Star Air B&B Reviewed Property.

It’s a quaint space that sleeps two, with small private deck space. Leaving the door open to listen to the water babble is welcome respite. There is a faux fireplace for convenience and ambiance, a large TV, a record player and Keurig. The custom 4 poster bed is simply to die for. This space works splendidly for single travelers as well.

Take an invigorating 2 mile hike or quick bike ride to town, or simply lay in bed all day and read. Wi-Fi accompanies your ability to create the perfect get a way.

810 RUSSELL LANE, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 398-0333 COWBOYRIVERFRONTRETREAT.COM

ASPEN GROVE GALLERY Joseph’s longest running art gallery with custom framing. More than 27 years of customer service.

Original paintings and sculptures. Locally and nationally-known artists.

Greenwich Workshop dealer. Open Monday through Saturday. 10 a.m.

- 5:30 p.m., Sundays by appointment. Off-season hours: 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

602 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-9555 • ASPENGROVEGALLERY.COM

WALLOWOLOGY NATURAL HISTORY DISCOVERY CENTER 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, workshops, and evening presentations by scientists, artists and others.

Exhibits | Presentations | Workshops | Outings | Family Activities 508 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 94846 • (541) 263-1663 • WALLOWOLOGY.ORG

SPORTS CORRAL The Sports Corral is and has been a family owned business since 1976. The Snooks are proud to call Wallowa County their home. Larry and Shirley along with their son Brad and his wife Vikki have worked hard to provide affordable, name brand products and services to Wallowa County residents and beyond.

Stop in and say “hi” to the Sports Corral crew!

401 N MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-4363 • SPORTSCORRAL.COM

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EXPLORE VillageatWallowaLake

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

VALI’S ALPINE RESTAURANT Vali’s, a specialty Hungarian and American restaurant, has been a historic Wallowa Lake favorite for more than 40 years. A full dinner schedule and doughnuts are available Memorial Day to Labor Day. Please call for spring and fall hours or check the website.

RV PARK AT THE RIVER Located on the upper Wallowa River just six miles south of Joseph.

Centrally located in the Village at Wallowa Lake, we offer full hook up RV sites, dry camping on the river, Riverside Conference Room and our Cabin in the Park (sleeps 10). Come join the adventure and fun of the wilderness: wildlife, boating, hiking, fishing, shopping, tram, great restaurants and the majestic mountains. Grab your chair and sit by the river with your favorite book. Walk-ins welcome but reservations are suggested.

Contact: rv@parkattheriver.com

59811 WALLOWA LAKE HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-5691 • VALISRESTAURANT.COM

59888 WALLOWA LAKE HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-8800 • PARKATTHERIVER.COM

WALLOWA LAKE & FLYING ARROW RESORTS

WALLOWA LAKE VACATION RENTALS

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, restaurants and miles of hiking trails.

Dogs welcome in many cabins.

Have Fun—We Take Care of the Rest.

• Exceptional customer service • Stand-up paddleboard and paddle rentals • Pet friendly • Lake front homes • Private homes • Concierge service • Gift certificates We genuinely care about your trip. Book your fun today!

Contact Chad & Cindi Aschenbrenner

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

MATTERHORN VILLAGE Nestled in the pines at the end of beautiful Wallowa Lake is the Matterhorn Village. Our Matterhorn Gift Shop offers unique gifts and souvenirs.

Scoops Ice Cream Shop serves ice cream and beverages. Our 18-hole premier miniature golf course, Mt. Pines Adventure Golf, is fun for the whole family and our Candyshack offers an assortment of sweet treats.

A Truly Unique Experience for Everyone.

59950 WALLOWA LAKE HWY, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-4071 THEMATTERHORNVILLAGE.COM

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(800) 709-2039 • (541) 426-2039 • WALLOWALAKEVACATIONRENTALS.COM

EAGLE CAP CHALETS Be at the center of all the summer fun at Wallowa Lake. Enjoy a mountain berry shake at the snack shack or a smoothie in the coffee shop. Relax by the pool and hot tub. Take a swing at our challenging mini-golf course.

Cabins, condos and chalet rooms to suit your needs.

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

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PHOTO THIS PAGE J ONI K ABANA , FACING PAGE ALL PHOTOS TIM BISHOP

Harney County

SOUTHEAST pg.68 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 Wildlife Refuge and 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. 72 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. This unyielding

Clockwise from left: Frenchglen. Sheep farm outside of Burns. Blitzen Valley Overlook on the Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway.

Downey Woodpecker at Idlewild Campground in Harney County.

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

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

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UNASHAMED & FREE

Harney County Birding

MigratoryBirdFestival.com ANNUALLY IN APRIL Harney County Chamber of Commerce | 541.573.2636 | HarneyCounty.com

I Like It Here

SOUTHEAST

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

1

Traverse Steens Mountain by car.

If you can only do one thing while staying with us, we highly recommend that you drive the Steens Loop Tour Route. Starting on the south side of the mountain, drive north toward higher elevation. You’ll see the magnitude of the mountain best if you approach it from that angle, getting the visual contrast of the 10,000-foot mountain beyond the desert and dramatic views of the gorges.

2

Drive into the refuge.

We recommend that people drive down the Center Patrol road—right through the heart of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, which is just a few miles from our place. The road is an ideal route to take if you want to see all of the activity but don’t have an entire day to spend exploring the refuge on foot. Spring is a great time to see migratory birds in the air. If you can plan your trip around the Harney County Migratory Bird Festival in April, do.

3

See the Diamond Craters and Pete French Round Barn.

It’s not in our backyard per se, but I enjoy visiting the Diamond Craters.

These craters are the most diverse museum of basaltic volcanic flow in the United States.

Continue on to the historic Pete French Round Barn, which stands in the heart of Harney County. The more than century-old barn is an architectural novelty and one of the few remaining structures from that time.

❝ We just absolutely love the area.

There is a lot to do here. It’s beautiful and we like the remoteness. To do this you have to like being in the middle of nowhere. The last I heard the population in our little town was 11. You really have to like that kind of solitude to live here. ❞

>>

Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort offers nine cabins as well as RV camping and tenting at the base of Steens Mountain, which makes it the perfect launch point for exploring the vast wilderness at its backdoor. Owners Debbie and Mark Webb bought the property in 2010, relocating from Idaho where they operated a similar business. It was the beauty of the area and a lifelong connection that Mark and his family had forged during annual summer visits to Steens Mountain that convinced them to make the leap.

Mark and Debbie Mark and Debbie Webb know what it takes to run a full-service destination campground. After buying a fixer-upper campground in Weiser, Idaho and running it for more than fifteen years, the couple saw an opportunity in Frenchglen’s Steens Mountain Resort. They purchased the property in 2010 and set immediately to work, cleaning up the tent areas, modernizing the older cabins and upgrading aging facilities. Today the resort serves as a gateway for explorers embarking on Steens Mountain excursions.

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SOUTHEAST

Harney County

HARNEY COUNTY

EASTERN OREGON’S VAST DESERT, SAGE AND GRASSLANDS. Home to the Malheur 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.

Less than two hours east of Bend, Burns is your jumping off point, 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 exploration. To the west of the mountain the Malheur refuge teems with activity from resident wildlife and the scores of birds that make an annual migratory stop.

HOT SPRINGS

Alvord Desert

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

Frenchglen

MALHEUR WILDLIFE REFUGE The Grand Central Station of migratory birds, this abundant wetland 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 Malheur Refuge as part of their epic annual migration.

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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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PHOTO TOP LEF T TALIA G ALVIN, TOP RIGHT J ONI K ABANA , BOT TOM TIM BISHOP

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-foot-long lake that stretched from Steens Mountain to Nevada. When you visit, pack your fishing rod for nearby Mann Lake, where trophy Lahontan cut-throat trout cruise the waters.

Harney County

SOUTHEAST

American Avocet

NORTHERN GREAT BASIN AIR TRAFFIC IS HEAVY OUT HERE. While cars may be few and far between, the airways are busy above the Northern Great Basin. The Malheur National WIldlife Refuge—a crucial stop along the Pacific Flyway—offers resting, breeding and nesting habitat for hundreds of migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors will want to bring binoculars and your best camera lens to the 187,757-acre, federally protected wildlife habitat in the Harney Basin. This site is considered to be of particular importance in the Northern Great Basin, as 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, and regulated fishing and hunting await anyone on their own migration path to this region.

Malheur Refuge

EXPLORE STEENS

PHOTO TOP RIGHT TIM BISHOP, BOT TOM TALIA G ALVIN

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. Abundant wildlife draws hunters and anglers who take to stocked lakes and streams ripe with red-band trout. A series of four gorges provide endless opportunities for exploration.

Steens Mountain

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 at every turn 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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EXPLORE Harney County

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, sight-seeing 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.

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.

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

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

RORY & RYAN INNS Come stay with us and enjoy our friendly customer service and wonderful amenities.

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.

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.

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

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

BURNS RV PARK

FIGARO’S PIZZA

Enjoy our quiet and shaded back-in sites with plenty of lawn area, big rig pull thru and two rustic cabins. Wi-Fi, cable TV, store and RV supplies, propane, dump station, laundry, showers/RR, dog friendly, picnic tables, fire rings 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, AAA and Military. Visa/MC accepted.

At Figaro’s Pizza, we believe it means that all of our pizzas should be created fresh to order, using the highest quality ingredients.

When you choose Figaro’s Pizza, you are choosing a locally owned and operated business, giving back to our local community and schools.

Family. Friends. Community. Serving pizza, sandwiches and salad bar.

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

HWY 20/395, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 573-5500 • FIGAROS.COM

ROBIN’S CLOSET A unique boutique providing high fashion to the wilds of Eastern Oregon.

• • • • • • •

JAG KUT from the Kloth Habitat Tribal Lysse WigWam Alfred Dunner

Excellent variety of gift items. robinscloset2015@gmail.com 534 HWY 20 N, HINES, 97738 • (541) 573-5050 • BESTWESTERN.COM

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

408 N BROADWAY AVENUE, BURNS, 97720 • (541) 589-0978

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

THE

Round Barn

VISITOR CENTER

Picture yourself here.

FAMILY MUSEUM FABULOUS GIFT SHOP WIDE SELECTION OF BOOKS AND TACK

Open Daily March 1 - January 3

ɅɅɅ˷ȶȯɀȼȳɇȲȶ˷ȱȽȻΎ̗Ύ̴̳̰˹̴̶̲˹̷̳̰̳Ύ̗Ύȶɀ˲ȶȯɀȼȳɇȲȶ˷ȱȽȻ

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.

Crystal Crane Hot Springs 541.493.2312

Unique Soak Experience

Lodging RV Camping Fuel Snacks Café Crane Café

Store & Fuel 541.493.2068

HOTEL DIAMOND

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

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

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

SOUTHEAST

MalheurCounty

MALHEUR COUNTY

BIRCH CREEK RANCH

SPARSEPOPULATIONMEETSDESERTEXPANSES. 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 geoligic 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 (allowing federal agencies to buy selected lands in order to protect remarkable rivers). 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 Nineteenth Century to the Japanese Americans interned in the area during World War II.

WHITE HORSE SALOON

Birch Creek Ranch

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

The state line between Oregon and Nevada runs right through this saloon in McDermitt. On the Oregon side of the bar, there is no sales tax. On the Nevada side you can play the slots. There are plans to restore the historic building that was once an inn.

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PHOTO TOP AND BOT TOM RIGHT G ARY HALVORSON

FOUR RIVERS CULTURAL CENTER

MalheurCounty

SOUTHEAST

Owyhee River

RAFT OREGON’S GRAND CANYON

Leslie Gulch

THE OWYHEE WAS NAMED THE “LAST GREAT UNAPPRECIATED RIVER” BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC. 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 white 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 thousand-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

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 • Business center • On-site restaurant and lounge • Banquet room available with on-site catering services

• Comfortable family-friendly dining

• Enjoy our full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu

• Open daily at 6 a.m.

• Spirits, local wine and craft beer available

• On-site catering available

1249 TAPADERA AVENUE, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-8621 CHOICEHOTELS.COM/HOTELS/OR174

1249 TAPADERA AVENUE, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3941 COUNTRYKITCHENRESTAURANTS.COM

OREGON TRAIL HOBBIES

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES

We Sell Serious Fun

Ontario’s newest hotel

R/C cars and planes, toys, art supplies, metal detectors, drones, trains, home decor, greeting cards and collectibles available.

• Free express start breakfast

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE $5 OFF ANY $30 PURCHASE.

bar

• Indoor pool/whirlpool • 24-hour fitness center • Free Wi-Fi • Suites & hot tub suites • 24-hour business and information center

212 SE 10TH STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-7100 HIEXPRESS.COM/ONTARIOOR

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.

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.

443 SW 1ST STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3616

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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275 NE 12TH STREET, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-6617

SECOND & VINE BISTRO Beautifully restored historic home in downtown Ontario offering extensive selection of regional wines and craft beer.

We have a rotating seasonal menu and serve farm to table European inspired fare with plates to share. Stop by to enjoy our artistic garden patio and large gas firepit or play one of our yard games on the lawn. We also offer custom gift baskets, wine and beer artwork and gift certificates for special occasions.

Check us out on Facebook: Second and Vine Bistro 288 SW 2ND AVENUE, ONTARIO, 97914 • (541) 889-3394 • SECONDANDVINE.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE 2017

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Visit. Explore. Play.

Find your piece of the outdoors in one of Idaho Power’s many parks and wildlife management areas.

For park locations and recreation information call 1-800-422-3143 or visit us at:

www.idahopower.com/recreation

Stay with us – 3 wonderful European Cottages

8 miles from Painted Hills. Artists, painters, writers, photographers will be inspired by the wild beauty & power of ancient geology of Eastern Oregon. Connect with nature, loved ones & yourself.

Sunset up to 20 Painted Hills up to 10 Hollyhock up to 4

www.paintedhillsvacation.com

For Inquiries and Reservations go to info@paintedhillsvacation.com or call: (541) 462-3921

HOW FRCC SERVES OUR COMMUNITY The Meyer McLean Theater is our most loved feature. Able to seat 535, it is always alive with community theater, concerts, Community Theatre The Harano Gallery is a free art gallery that features a monthly rotation of local and national artists. Check our calendar!

Free Art Gallery

WWII relics, internment barracks and a full size Japanese Tea House are just some of the stunning treasures you will find.

Diorama Museum Hikaru Mizu Japanese Garden is the only Japanese Garden for over 400 miles.

One Acre & ADA accessible pathways welcome all.

Japanese Garden

676 SW 5th Ave Ontario, Or 97914 541-889-8191 www.4rcc.com

A GEM IN THE VALLEY

By Summer Tilley

Four Rivers Cultural Center is an 80,000 square foot event facility that houses a one acre Japanese Garden, 13,000 square foot diorama museum, free rotating art gallery and open stage theater. Located in Ontario, Oregon, FRCC strives to bring their community together to experience Art, Culture, and History. This unique facility is alive with a broad program of music, humanities, civic discourse, educational, art & theatre and local and world cultural events. Four Rivers is a place to experience unique heritages, histories, and perspectives that make the Western Treasure Valley a vibrant and thriving place. ((The Western Treasure Valley has diverse demographics, home to the highest concentration of Basque Americans, 40% Hispanic and the second highest population of Japanese Americans in Oregon per capita.)

A robust event calendar keeps locals and visitors During the summer months a FREE garden concert series "Live After 5 in the Garden" has Ontario citizens out in force every other Wednesday starting in June and running through September.

The museum features the history of Japanese Americans from our area.

For a full event, calendar visit 4rcc.com or find us on Facebook.

PHOTO THIS PAGE J ONI K ABANA , FACING PAGE TOP CENTR J ONI K ABANA

Umatilla County

RUGGED COUNTRY pg.80 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.

Clockwise from left: Pendleton Round-Up. Pendleton Bike Week. Echo Ridge Cellars. Century Ride of the Centuries. Junior Rodeo at Pendleton Round-Up.

pg. 94 Morrow County Golf courses, state parks and more hidden gems are waiting to be discovered in Morrow County, where a cluster of small towns form a strong community of agriculture. Historic districts showcase life in the region and a new museum highlights the connections between agriculture and technology.

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Pendleton lore is so rich that major wool and whiskey brands bear its name. In Umatilla County, visitors will find a great depth of Native American culture and heritage, plus longstanding traditions such as the Pendleton Round-Up—all set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains. This “Rugged Country” also has a reputation for agriculture. Farmers ply fertile soil to produce everything from wheat to watermelons. Craft libations makers are gravitating here To brew, distill and ferment local bounty. Making its mark in the world of wine with national accolades, Rugged Country’s Rocks District AVA is growing some of the best grapes in the Northwest.

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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;

DISTILLERY Purveyors of fine spirits hand crafted from locally grown grain. Come visit us for free tastings, distillery tours, and take home a bottle or two.

DRINK OREGON

OREGON GRAIN GROWERS BRAND DISTILLERY 511 SE COURT AVE | 541-276-0070 | PENDLETON, ORE

I Like It Here

RUGGED COUNTRY

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

I LIKE IT HERE

❝ I enjoy living in and exploring

Wool has been a part of Pendleton since the town was settled in the late 1800s, and Cunningham Sheep Co. dates back to those beginnings, when the farm and ranch began raising purebred Rambouillet sheep. In the 1920s, the farm found new owners and continued to sell to Pendleton Woolen Mills. Cunningham is still a family-owned and -operated company based in Pendleton, now with its fourth generation of owners and operators. Steve Corey knows the people and region well, as he grew up working on the ranch. Years later, he came back to help run the business along with the rest of his family. Today, Cunningham operates a diversified ranching business, with wheat, sheep, cattle, timber and recreational hunting and fishing.

1

Explore the Blue Mountains.

Fall is my favorite time of year in Pendleton, and our area is a wonderful place to experience the outdoors.

As a family, we recreate outside of Pendleton in the Blue Mountains, which are part of the Umatilla, Malheur and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests. The North Fork Umatilla River, part of a 20,000-acre wilderness area, is a popular place to fish. There are streams that have native trout and spawning steelhead. The area also supports a wildlife population for hunting.

Hikers and horseback riders will find miles of trails that open up in early spring.

2

3

The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute is a great place to explore the history of the local Native American tribes (Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla) in the region. Tamástslikt is located on the Umatilla Indian Reservation three miles east of Pendleton. I currently serve as the chair of the board for Tamástslikt. It’s a fascinating museum filled with interactive exhibits.

Last year, I really liked the exhibit featuring Jackson Sundown and the Happy Canyon Night Show, which is part of the Pendleton Round-Up week.

Downtown Pendleton has no shortage of locally-owned restaurants. We like to eat at Virgil’s at Cimmiyotti’s and Hamley Steakhouse. You’ll find locally raised beef on the menus if you are looking for a steak, as well other traditional American ranch food that the whole family will enjoy.

Both restaurants opened in downtown Pendleton with new owners within the last decade, but have long been mainstay places to eat for locals and visitors alike, adding to the Old West charm of the town.

Visit the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

Eatattheselocal restaurants.

>>

YOU MIGHT LIKE TO...

Pendleton. The region has four distinct seasons. The people are friendly. The region is a great place for raising a family.

Outdoor and indoor recreational opportunities are plentiful and always available. This region is the real West. ❞

Steve Corey Steve Corey and his two siblings were born and raised in Pendleton. Next to his senior photo in the high school yearbook, Steve wrote that he wanted to be an attorney and a rancher. After getting his bachelor’s degree from Yale University and his law degree from Stanford University, Steve made both dreams a reality. He opened a law practice in Pendleton in addition to continuing ranching involvement with the family business, Cunningham Sheep Co. Steve’s wife Susan also grew up in Pendleton and was a Pendleton Round-Up rodeo

PHOTOS BOT TOM J ONI K ABANA

queen, a title their daughter Megan later held as well. In 2016, the couple received the Al and Pat Reser Civic Leadership Award from the Reser family and governor of Oregon, a recognition of their years of community involvement.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

UMATILLA COUNTY

TAMÁSTSLIKT CULTURAL INSTITUTE

EXPERIENCE THE WEST.

Though Umatilla County may be best-known as the home of the more than one-hundred-year-old Pendleton Round-Up held each September, the region has plenty more to explore year round.

With historic and cultural centers, wineries and breweries and a scenic bikeway route, Umatilla County is a destination with a growing community that hasn't lost its Old West charm.

A COMMUNITY OF MAKERS, FROM TEXTILE TO LEATHER.

It took ten years for the vision of the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute to be fully realized. Beginning in 1993, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation presented an idea for a cultural museum that would show regional tribal history, present day life and plans for the future. The museum now sees thousands of visitors each year, and offers an immersive education on the noble history and culture of local the indigenous peoples. Exhibits use audio and visual narratives, resulting in an engaging experience.

PENDLETON'S UNDERGROUND TOURS Tour the underground network in Pendleton for an exceptional historical account of the region's lesser-known past. Learn about local Chinese immigrants and their role in building Eastern Oregon—tales of brothels, bootlegging and gambling are guaranteed.

HERITAGE STATION MUSEUM Since 1988, the Heritage Station Museum in Pendleton has displayed how Umatilla County evolved into what it is today.

With a restored cabin, train caboose and schoolhouse, the Heritage Station Museum shows visitors what homesteading life was like in Pendleton in the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth centuries.

Pendleton Round-Up

Pendleton Woolen Mills

<< Pendleton Woolen Mills Pendleton Woolen Mills' blankets are For more than one hundred years, Pendleton Woolen Mills has been producing the wool blankets and woolen clothing in its mills in Oregon and Washington—some of the few remaining wool mills in the United States. Tour the blanket mill in Pendleton to see how these iconic fabrics are made.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE J ONI K ABANA

ubiquitous in Oregon and around the country.

Umatilla County

RUGGED COUNTRY

PENDLETON ROUND-UP AN OREGON TRADITION FOR MORE THAN 100 YEARS.

Pendleton Round-Up

MOTORCYCLE TOURISM WHEN WE SAY "TWO WHEELS SPOKEN HERE," WE MEAN MORE THAN JUST BICYCLES.

What began in 1910 as a small gathering of local cowboys has grown into one of the largest rodeos in the country. Each year, the Pendleton Round-Up brings thousands of people to Eastern Oregon. The weekend kicks off with the Dress-Up Parade through downtown Pendleton and ends with crowning the rodeo champions. One of the specialty events of the Round-Up is the Happy Canyon Indian Pageant, a nightly reenactment telling the story of the Native Americans who lived in the region that includes background on the formation of Pendleton.

DON'T MISS THESE ANNUAL EVENTS:

Pendleton Whisky Music Fest Held in July, the festival brings top music acts to Pendleton for a day of live music and fun. Zac Brown Band headlined the inaugural festival last year.

Umatilla County Fair This year marks the 105th anniversary of the Umatilla County Fair, held annually in Hermiston in August. The fair includes 4-H shows, a carnival and nighttime concerts, and is held in conjunction with the Farm-City Pro Rodeo.

PHOTO TOP J ONI K ABABA , BOT TOM RIGHT DE VON BALE T

Pendleton Bike Week

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. “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.” Two years ago, he started a similar event in Pendleton. 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 is hosted each July. Last year, 14,000 riders poured through the gates. This year, they expect to double that number. “There’s a lot of discovery in these small towns,” he said.

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Century Ride of the Centuries Each Memorial Day, hundreds of cyclists arrive in Pendleton for Century Ride of the Centuries. Cyclists tour through the rolling hills of the Blue

Mountains and the wide-open fields of wheat with rest stops in quaint small towns in Eastern Oregon.

ECHO Red 2 Red Echo Red 2 Red is a popular crosscountry mountain bike race held in Echo each year in March. Put mountain biking skills to the tests on private trails through the vineyards and cliffs of Eastern Oregon.

Milton-Freewater Rocks!

The second annual Milton Freewater ROCKS! festival will highlight the region's AVA and the rapidly growing wine industry. Held in August, this three-day, family-friendly event will have live music, local food, drink vendors and activities that the entire family can enjoy.

Echo Red 2 Red

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RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

Umatilla National Forest

BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTURY SCENIC BIKEWAY EXPLORE THE REGION BY BIKE. In Rugged Country, the landscape changes quickly, from the rolling hills of the Umatilla National Forest to the wide fields of wheat that flank the highways. See it all by bike and you won’t miss the details that make the region an emerging destination. The Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway follows a section of what travelers took on the Oregon Trail, 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.

Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway

BY THE NUMBERS

UKIAH

HEPPNER

108 miles in the full loop

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.

Heppner, which is located in Morrow County, is the start and end to the scenic bikeway loop. The town of around 1,000 people 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.

8,211 feet total elevation gain 2 Number of days it takes the average rider to complete the loop.

2011 The year the bikeway was added to Oregon’s official list of scenic bikeways.

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PHOTO TOP TIM BISHOP

RIDE THE LOOP

Umatilla County

A BLOSSOMING WINE REGION

RUGGED COUNTRY

Delmas Wines

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 a new American Viticulture Area (AVA).

Officially designated 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.”

THIS IS BURGEONING WINE COUNTRY AT ITS FINEST. Echo Ridge Cellars

ECHO RIDGE CELLARS Echo Ridge Cellars has a commitment to sustainability in winemaking. The winery was converted from an old onion storage facility and the recently opened tasting room was beautifully renovated from an old grain elevator on the same site.

SNO ROAD WINERY The tasting room for Sno Road Winery is located in downtown Echo.

Wednesday through Saturday, the tasting room pours wine made from grapes grown on an historic ranch outside of town.

PHOTO BOT TOM J ONI K ABABA

WATERMILL WINERY AND BLUE MOUNTAIN CIDER COMPANY Get your fill of wine and cider at sister companies Watermill Winery and Blue Mountain Cider Company in MiltonFreewater. Both have tasting rooms open year-round and serve a variety of wine and cider produced with classic Pacific Northwest ingredients.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

Umatilla National Forest

Umatilla River

Hat Rock State Park

GET OFF THE GRID. It’s easy to find solitude in the mountains and rivers of Eastern Oregon. A favorite region for hikers, hunters, horseback riders and more, Umatilla County offers a variety of recreation year round. In the spring and summer, hiking and fishing abound in the hills and rivers of the Umatilla National Forest. In the winter, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers will find miles of wilderness to explore. Whether you have deep outdoor expertise or are just looking for solitude in nature, you’ll find it here.

1

HUNTING & FISHING

For anglers, an abundance of fishing can be found on the Umatilla and Columbia rivers. The upper Umatilla has rainbow trout, and steelhead and salmon can be found on the lower part of the river.

In the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area, visitors can find herds of elk and more wild animals in the spring, summer and fall.

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ATV

Less than twenty miles east of Ukiah, the Winom-Frazier 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 Winom-Frazier.

E A ST E R N OR EGON V ISITOR GUIDE 2017

HIKING 3 SNOWMOBILING 4 & CROSS-

COUNTRY SKIING

Four Corners Sno-Park in the Umatilla National Forest is the winter destination for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There aren’t any groomed or marked trails, but the area is open for exploring.

Hikers, backpackers and horseback riders can traverse through hundreds of miles of trails ranging in difficulty in the Umatilla National Forest. Less than ten miles south of Pendleton, the McKay Creek Wildlife Refuge offers perfect hiking for families.

The area is also a favorite for birders looking to spot rare species. East of Umatilla, Hat Rock State Park also has hiking trails that are great for families.

The park also has a lake popular for fishing and swimming.

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PHOTO LEF T AND TOP RIGHT LEON WERDINGER, BOT TOM RIGHT OREGON S TATE ARCHIVES

OUTDOORS

Women’s • Men’s • Blanket Outlet USA-made blankets, iconic wool shirts & more 1307 SE Court Place, Pendleton | 541.276.6911 Monday - Friday 8am-6pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm FREE MILL TOURS Monday - Friday 9am, 11am, 1:30pm & 3pm

pendleton-usa.com

SEPTEMBER

13-16 2 0 1 7

PENDLETON, OREGON

™

BUY TICKETS NOW!

pendletonroundup.com 8 0 0 - 4 5 - R O D E O

GIFT AND SOUVENIR STORE Official hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, home goods, gifts, and souvenirs for men, women, and children.

Shop online at

leterbuck.com 1114 COURT AVENUE • PENDLETON, OREGON 97801 • HOURS: M-F 8:30– 5 SAT 10-4

Umatilla County

RUGGED COUNTRY Hamley's Saddle Shop

HANDCRAFTED BOOT, SADDLE AND HAT MAKER ROW.

Petits Noirs Fine Chocolates

The chocolates made at Petits Noirs Fine Chocolates are the perfect treat to pair with wine produced in the region. The shop is run by two seasoned chocolatiers who brought their vast knowledge of fine chcolate to Miton-Freewater.

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and hat maker down the street. It all has a nice synergy.”

It wouldn’t be a trip to Rugged Country without a stop at Hamley & Co., one of the oldest shops in Pendleton. The saddlery opened in 1904 and is still known for its quality, handcrafted saddles as well as other western-style goods and apparel. Quality boots in custom stirrups wouldn’t be complete without a hat to tip. Montana Peaks came on the maker scene in 2009. Stapleman said that he appreciates the culture and town that supports these handmade goods. “Each building in the historic downtown is unique,” he said. “There’s a culture of craftsmen in this town.”

PENDLETON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

CROW'S SHADOW INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS

Pendleton Center for the Arts strives to make art accessible to everyone, whether you’re interested in seeing works produced in the region or if you want a space to create your own masterpiece.

Rotating exhibits of Pendleton artists may inspire shopping in the gallery’s craft and gift shop.

Located on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla reservation just outside of Pendleton, Crow's Shadow is a nonprofit, contemporary printmaking studio that fosters indigenous art. Admire (and purchase) fine art prints made by acclaimed artists at the onsite print gallery from Monday through Friday.

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In 1999, Richard Stapleman became interested in boot making. When he couldn’t afford to go to school to learn the craft, he bought books on the subject and taught himself. In 2003, he started Stapleman’s Boot Company from his home, and nine years later opened a storefront in downtown Pendleton. Stapleman works with clients to design custom boots for every need. Each shoe takes him forty to sixty hours to craft. Also on the street are Montana Peaks Hat Co. and Hamley and Co. saddlery.

“Pendleton has a thriving tourist industry,” said Stapleman.

“It’s not really a surprise to [tourists] when they get here and there’s a bootmaker next to the custom saddle maker

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RUGGED COUNTRY

Umatilla County

BREWERY BOOM 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 of three of them had grown up together in Pendleton, and returned to follow their passion for craft beer, naming their brewery Prodigal Son. Opened in 2007, it was the first craft brewery in Pendleton. There were some initial skeptics but after six and a half years, Guenther said the brewery feels like part of the community. “We don’t really have a niche,” Guenther said of their beers. “In a small town you have to cover everything.” The brewery also has an expansive menu, filled with pub food made in Pacific Northwest style. Since Prodigal Son opened, more craft breweries are popping up in the region, including Dragon’s Gate Brewery in Milton-Freewater.

RESTAURANTS

VIRGIL’S AT CIMMIYOTTI’S Virgil’s at Cimmiyotti’s is one of Pendleton’s great comeback stories. Well-loved by the community for decades, the restaurant fell into disrepair and closed in 2005. Four years later, the restaurant was revitalized and today is one of the town’s best fine dining restaurants.

PCB & BISTRO Pendleton Coffee Bean & Bistro serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Guests come not only for the bistro-style food, but also for one of the best cups of coffee in town.

The atmosphere is chic, but comfortable for families as well.

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 lunch and dinner spot in Hermiston.

Hal’s Hamburgers has been a favorite for travelers and locals alike for decades. The small, faded blue building on the outside of town makes some of the best burgers and milkshakes in the region.

DELISH BISTRO Hamley's Steak House

Prodigal Son

Delish Bistro

In Hermiston, Delish Bistro serves everything from teriyaki chicken to macaroni and cheese to crab burgers, satisfying any craving. The real treats are the housemade gelato and wafflecones. In the summer, the outdoor patio provides a charming place to eat.

HAMLEY'S STEAKHOUSE After opening in 2006, Hamley's Steakhouse quickly became a mainstay restaurant in downtown Pendleton. The Western-style restaurant is truly a step back in time to the beginnings of the town, filled with historic details as well as great food.

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PHOTO TOP AND BOT TOM LEF T J ONI K ABANA , PHOTO BOT TOM RIGHT COURTES Y DELISH BIS TRO

HAL’S HAMBURGERS

What was old is new again.

FIRST FRIDAYS ARE FREE! I-84, Exit 216 www.tamastslikt.org 541-429-7700 Exhibits, Museum Store Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Kinship Café 11am-2pm

upcoming 2017

JUNE 23-24

Umatilla Landing Days

umatillaoregonchamber.org umatilla

JUNE 24

Lavender Festival

purpleridgelavender.com hermiston

EVENTS ma rk yo ars ur calend

JUNE 30 – JULY 2 POW WOW

ctuir.org pendleton / wildhorse resort & casino

JULY 4

4th of July Celebration Our vast county starts at the Columbia river and winds its way through rich agriculture laden fields, proud small towns and finishes up in the beauty of the Blue Mountains. This unique landscape gives the visitor a rich experience in many outdoor adventures from hiking parts of the Oregon & Lewis and Clark trails, snow sports, cycling, fishing, hunting and boating just to mention a few. Take a stroll though historic downtown Pendleton, home of the world famous Pendleton Round-Up. Stop in at one of the many farmers markets and try a famed Hermiston watermelon, or sit back with a spectacular view of the countryside while you enjoy a glass of wine from one of our many wineries.

We are proud of our heritage, culture and way of life. We are connected to the soil through generations. Let us share our story with you. And with any luck, you’ll have a story of your own written with the memories of your time in Umatilla County.

MARCH 4

MAY 27-29

echored2red.com echo

cyclependleton.com/events pendleton

Red to Red

MARCH 11

Wildhorse Resort & Casino Anniversary Fireworks wildhorseresort.com pendleton / wildhorse resort & casino

MAY 5-7

Spring Release Weekend

wallawallawine.com/#eventshome county wide

Century Ride of the Centuries

MAY 27

cityofstanfield.com stanfield

JULY 7-9

Athena Caledonian Games

hermistonchamber.com hermiston

JULY 15

Pendleton Whisky Music Festival

pendletonwhiskymusicfest.com pendleton

JULY 21-22

Brews by the Blues

AUGUST 8-12

Pioneer Days

Umatilla County Fair

westonchamberofcommerce.com weston

co.umatilla.or.us/fair hermiston

JUNE 2-4

AUGUST 9-12

Old Iron Days

MAY 12-13

heritagestationmuseum.org pendleton

farmcityprorodeo.com hermiston

cattlebarons.net pendleton

JUNE 23-24

AUGUST 18-20

MAY 21

hodakadays.org athena

tamastslikt.org pendleton / tamastslikt

holiday barrell tasting

athena caledonian games

Wheatstock Music Festival wheatstock.org helix

SEPTEMBER 2 Kidz Pow Wow

tamastslikt.org pendleton / tamastslikt

SEPTEMBER 13-16 Pendleton Round-Up

pendletonroundup.com pendleton

happycanyon.com pendleton

Fun Fest

JUNE 3-4

Annual Mammoth Cup

AUGUST 19

JULY 8

helixrodeo.org helix

Hodaka Days

cityofpilotrock.org/ communitydays pilot rock

SEPTEMBER 13-16

Farm-City Pro Rodeo

Cattle Baron’s Weekend

Community Days/Reunion Weekend

athenacaledoniangames.org athena

mfchamber.com/brews-by-theblues milton-freewater

Heart of the Country Rodeo

AUGUST 18-20

The ROCKS Festival of Milton-Freewater mfchamber.com/ miltonfreewaterrocks milton-freewater

milton-freewater frazier farmstead

Happy Canyon Pageant & Night Show

OCTOBER 28

Columbia River Power Dam Run (5K, 10K, 15K & ½ Marathon) columbiarivermarathon.com hermiston

OCTOBER 28

Umatilla Co. Potato Show westonoregon.com weston

NOVEMBER 3-5

Fall Release Weekend wallawallawine.com home county wide

/#events-

DECEMBER 1-3

Holiday Barrell Tasting

wallawallawine.com/#eventshome county wide

Umatilla County Tourism UmatillaCountyTourism VisitUmatillaCo

columbia river

echo golf course

EXPLORE Pendleton

HAMLEY STEAKHOUSE & SALOON

HERITAGE STATION MUSEUM

Happy Hour 4 p.m - 6 p.m

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.

Hamley Steakhouse dinner starting at 5 p.m.

Where friends and family meet.

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

Hamley Café open 8 a.m - 4 p.m.

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

Hamley Saloon open 4 p.m.

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

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

RAINBOW CAFE Down-home cooking, delicious cuisine. Stop-in and enjoy a wonderful meal. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in one of America’s most historic establishments since 1883.

Open daily. Monday through Saturday 6am - 2am, Sunday 6am - Midnight. Breakfast, Daily Lunch Specials. Dinner served from 4pm. Video Poker available.

209 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-4120 RAINBOWCAFEPENDLETON.COM

108 SW FRAZER AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-0012 HERITAGESTATIONMUSEUM.ORG

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

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

ALEXANDER’S CHOCOLATE

EMPIRE ICE CREAM CO.

Fine European chocolaterie and vino bistro.

French-style chocolate truffles made onsite.

European drinking chocolate. Single-origin and grand cru chocolates. Full wine-tasting bar, estate and libraried wines from local Oregon and regional vintners. Mediterranean bistro menu.

European espresso (Switzerland). Owned and operated by certified chocolatiers trained in the French Academy.

Located inside Alexander’s Chocolate Shop.

Artisan handcrafted gourmet ice cream and Italian gelato. Made on site. Scooped ice cream, milkshakes, malts, delicious baked goods including chocolate dipped cookies, Greek baklava, Italian cannoli, coconut macaroons, English toffee, almond roca and other items.

363 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 429-5110 ALEXANDERS-CHOCOLATE-CLASSICS.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM

363 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 429-5110

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Explore

Umatilla County

Breweries & Wineries 125

12

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Columbia River Boardman

Milton-Freewater MiltonFreewater

730 395

WASHINGTON OREGON

Hermiston Echo

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Pendleton 395

ECHO RIDGE CELLARS

ORDNANCE BREWING

Our tasting room boasts an outdoor patio with live music performances - accommodated by an outstanding selection of wine. Across town is the family owned and operated 60-acre vineyard where their fruit is sourced.

Farmer owned, we are inspired by wide open spaces. We brew distinct, honest and simply enjoyable beer. Join us for quality, diverse styles and an oasis in a beer desert.

551 N. Thielsen Street, Echo · (541) 376-8100 · echoridgecellars.com

405 N. Olson Road, Boardman · (541) 481-2231

BLUE MOUNTAIN CIDER & WATERMILL WINERY

HERMISTON BREWING CO. & NOOKIES RESTAURANT

Serving hand crafted, estate grown wine and hard cider, 11-5 Tuesday through Saturday and by appointment. Come enjoy the fruits of our labor and experience our love for the land.

Full restaurant & brewery located in downtown Hermiston, Oregon. Over 16+ handcrafted brews served on tap daily.

235 E. Broadway Ave, Milton-Freewater · (541) 938-5575 · watermillwinery.com

125 North 1st Street, Hermiston · (541) 289-7414 · hermistonbrewingcompany.com

ZERBA CELLARS

SNO ROAD WINERY

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.

The Jewel of Eastern Oregon - Historic Downtown Echo - Taste our award-winning wines! Wed-Thurs 11-6pm, Friday 11-8:30pm, Saturday 12-4pm

85530 Hwy 11, Milton-Freewater · (541) 938-9463 · zerbacellars.com

THE PRODIGAL SON BREWERY & PUB

111 West Main, Echo · (541) 376-0421 · piercyfamilyvineyards.com

SPOFFORD STATION WINERY

Craft beers - From-scratch cooking - Full bar Family friendly

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!

230 SE Court Avenue, Pendleton (541) 276-6090 · prodigalsonbrewery.com

85131 Elliot Road, Milton-Freewater (509) 301-5148 · myvinette.mobi/spofford-station

Sponsored by Umatilla County Tourism • co.umatilla.or.us

EXPLORE Pendleton & 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

ROOSTERS RESTAURANT SUNDOWN GRILL & BAR-B-Q Former chef and owner of Raphael’s is now serving his signature dishes and grill favorites in a casual dining atmosphere in Pendleton. Join us for handcrafted, award-winning cocktails, grill and BBQ favorites, mouthwatering desserts and the best happy hour in town.

233 SE 4TH STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-8500

FRAZIER FARMSTEAD MUSEUM Frazier Farmstead Museum is a six-acre site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was settled in 1868 by community founder W.S. Frazier and continuously occupied by his family for 115 years. The house contains items central to turn-of-the19th-Century life and a display of early Milton-Freewater history. The site also includes a 1918 barn, the historic 1856 McCoy Cabin and several other buildings that help display the ins and outs of life on a working farm. The museum is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through December and by appointment.

1403 CHESTNUT STREET, MILTON-FREEWATER, 97862 • (541) 938-4636 FRAZIERFARMSTEADMUSEUM.ORG

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 winery.

20 S BONANZA STREET, P.O. BOX 9, ECHO, 97826 • (541) 376-8411 ECHO-OREGON.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM

Roosters is proud to be locally owned and operated. Established in 1996, our success rests firmly on our dedication to hand crafted comfort food and our commitment to providing superior service to locals and travelers alike.

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner • Legendary chicken noodle soup • Gluten-free options • RV parking

• Free beverage refills to go • Ice cream henhouse for kids • Table top coloring • Free Wi-Fi

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

PCB & BISTRO Local favorite, offering classic dishes such as shrimp diablo. The PCB & Bistro offers the only dry aged steak in town and the freshest seafood. The coffee-crusted rib-eye and the day boat scallops are not to be missed.

Also serving superb breakfast fare and signature burgers. Guests favorites are the duck hash and the angus burger!

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner 241 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 379-3663

HERITAGE STATION MUSEUM

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.

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

108 SW FRAZER AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-0012 HERITAGESTATIONMUSEUM.ORG

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RUGGED COUNTRY

Morrow County

MORROW COUNTY

A RAPIDLY GROWING AGRICULTURAL HUB. 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.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVENTURE AWAIT.

OUTDOORS Willow Creek flows from the Blue Mountains and eventually into the Columbia River. Near Heppner (in central Morrow County), the creek fills the namesake reservoir, which 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. Camping and hunting enthusiasts will enjoy Anson Wright Park as well as Cutsforth Park, both within an hour's drive of 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 go fishing.

FORESTS AND PARKS 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. The area has campgrounds for tents or RVs. With more than 9,000 acres to explore via all-terrain vehicle, hiking, biking or horseback riding, the Morrow-Grant County 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

<< Cycling Tours Enjoy rolling hills, open range, forestland and rivers along low-traffic routes—including paved and gravel road rides— with TREO Bike Tours, which offers fully supported tours with hearty meals and comfortable Willow Creek Reservoir

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Annual Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway Ride

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lodging. Check out the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway annual ride the third weekend in September.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM

PHOTO BOT TOM LEF T G ARY HALVORSON

There are two public courses for golfers to play in Morrow County. 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.

Boardman Marina

Morrow County

RUGGED COUNTRY

SAGE CENTER

SAGE Center

CELEBRATIONS

MORROW COUNTY HARVEST FESTIVAL Each year on the first Saturday in October the SAGE Center and Morrow County Chamber of Commerce throw a harvest festival, which hosts vendors selling locally made food, crafts and clothing. Free activities include horse and buggy rides, pumpkin painting and a photo booth.

JULY 4TH Celebrations are kicked off in Boardman with a pancake breakfast and festive parade.

The day culminates at Boardman Marina Park with food, vendors, games and live music. The evening ends with a fireworks show over the Columbia River.

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. Today, SAGE provides free educational tours for more than 4,000 students annually, and provides visitors from all over the world with an upclose look at sustainable agriculture and technology advancements. Interactive exhibits showcase the process of getting food from the farm to your table. “There’s nothing else like this in the region,” said manager Kalie Davis. SAGE is the only interactive center focused on agriculture in the Pacific Northwest. Davis also said that SAGE shows how much organizations in the region work together, especially in regards to sustainability. The Center has been compared to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry due to its hands-on learning experiences. “The best part about the Center is that it’s not just engaging but interactive,” said Davis. “We have a real hands-on experience here.”

HISTORICAL DISCOVERY

Morrow Courthouse

MUSEUMS The Morrow County Museum in Heppner is a rural living museum displaying photographs and artifacts dating back to the Nineteenth Century, when the area was settled post-Oregon Trail. At the Agricultural Equipment Museum, gain a window into farm machinery. Check out the mural on Riverside Street.

HISTORIC COURTHOUSE Finished in 1903 and 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.

FIND OUT MORE AT V I SITE ASTE R NOR EGON.COM

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EXPLORE Morrow County

BLUE MOUNTAIN CENTURY SCENIC BIKEWAY One of the best bicycle rides in all of Oregon. This 108-mile ride is a scenic loop starting and ending in Heppner.

The route is remote but rich in history. It follows the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway east through the Umatilla National Forest to Highway 395, near Ukiah. It then travels north from forest to rangeland before heading west along Highway 74 through more of Eastern Oregon’s rolling hills back to Heppner. This ride affords spectacular and expansive views of grasslands and range and wheat country, contrasting with lush forested landscapes. Come and participate in our annual ride the third weekend of September.

133 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-5536 • HEPPNERCHAMBER.COM

GATEWAY CAFE Come join us for steak, seafood, pork chops, pasta, teriyaki, gourmet burgesr, desserts and much more. Make us your next food destination.

Open every Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to close.

(541) 676-6000 168 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-6000

WEE BIT O’ IRELAND Join us for a great weekend every March in Heppner for "Wee Bit O’ Ireland” St. Patrick’s Celebration. Always held the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day (for 2017, March 16-19), you will find lots of activities and events to keep you busy. Enjoy the great Irish community and start a new tradition in coming back again and again. Sheep Dog Trials, KUMA Coffee Hour, CEILI, Cruz-In, Great Green Parade, the Welly Toss, and activities for children and adults. Join us for Saturday night’s main entertainment: The Gothard Sisters. You don’t have to be Irish when you come, but you’ll be Irish when you leave!

133 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-5536 • HEPPNERCHAMBER.COM

MURRAY’S DRUG & COUNTRY ROSE Offering quality professional pharmaceutical services and friendly “home-town” service.

We also offer a full floral shop, espresso bar and lunch counter, liquor, décor gifts and more.

Serving Morrow and Gilliam counties since 1959.

217 N MAIN STREET, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 676-9158 • MURRAYSDRUG.COM

BOARDMAN PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT

RIVER LODGE AND GRILL

Slide into Summer!

Treat yourself to superb service and roomy accommodations as well as a prime location near Marina Park, the Sage Center, the Columbia River and the Pendleton Round-Up.

Open in June, 2017. Drop by Boardman Pool & Recreation Center and enjoy our 2-story slide into our indoor swimming pool. Or try out our Vortex Pool! Or test your climbing skills on the extraordinary 38’ wide by 27’ tall Climbing Wall.

The 2-court gymnasium is ready for your pickup game of basketball or volleyball. Good health starts in the Weights & Cardio Room. Sign up for classes in the Aerobics Room. Or drop by our 140-acre day-use and campground location on the Columbia River and walk or bike our 3+ mile paved walking trail. It’s Better in Boardman!

311 N. OLSON RD., BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 481-7217 • BOARDMANMARINAPARK.COM

Make this weekend a great getaway!

Enjoy breakfast as you watch barges and river cruise sternwheelers silently float by, or dinner and refreshments lit by a fiery sunset over the river. Enjoy a meal where you can truly, completely relax, miles away from the commonplace burdens of day-to-day life.

6 MARINE DRIVE, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (888) 988-2009 RIVERLODGEANDGRILL.COM

WILLOW CREEK RV PARK Come and relax, go fishing, boating, swimming, camping and enjoy the scenery of Willow Creek RV Park, created by the Willow Creek Dam in 1983. The Willow Lake Park and RV Campground is located on the lake approximately a half mile up Willow Creek Road from the junction with Highway 207. The park elevation is approximately 2,200 feet. The park is open from March 15 through December 1.

The RV park has 23 spaces. All have 50 to 60 foot pull-throughs and two sites that are back ends. Some sites contain electricity, sewer and water. Some sites contain only water and electricity. There are tent sites available.

Amenities include restrooms with showers, BBQ pits, picnic tables and Wi-Fi. There is a boat ramp just around the corner at the Willow Creek Marina. This recreational area is on the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway.

EBIT FACIMO TE • VOLORENTI AUT VOLORRUPTA • VENDITIIS

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68965 WILLOW CREEK ROAD, HEPPNER, • (541) 676-5576 • WILLOWCREEKPD.COM

FIND OUT MORE AT VISITEASTERNOREGON.COM

V

isit any time of the year…

The town of Boardman is nestled in the ‘Rugged Country’ of northeastern Oregon.

Boardman Chamber of Commerce ~ (541) 481-3014 101 Olson Road ~ P.O. Box 101 Boardman, OR 97818 info@boardmanchamber.org ~ www.boardmanchamber.org

Bordered on the shores of the scenic Columbia River, Boardman is home to over 3,400 residents and a diverse economic sector led by a strong agri-business industry.

Boardman is located in north Morrow County and is the county’s center for industry and residential living.

Come see why Boardman is an appealing place to live and work - we think you will like what you see!

RESOURCES

LOCAL EXPERTS MAKE EXCELLENT RESOURCES. CONTACT ONE OF THESE INFORMATION HUBS TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP. Arlington Chamber of Commerce PO Box 202 Arlington, OR 97812 541-626-3426 visitarlingtonoregon.com

Gilliam County Tourism PO Box 427 Condon, OR 97823 541-384-3767 co.gilliam.or.us

Baker County Tourism 800-523-1235 basecampbaker.com

Harney County Chamber of Commerce 484 N Broadway Burns, OR 97720 541-573-2636 harneycounty.com

Boardman Chamber of Commerce 101 Olson Rd Boardman, OR 97818 541-481-3014 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

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway 800-848-9969 hellscanyonbyway.com

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 pendletonchamber.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

Condon Chamber of Commerce 307 S Main St Condon, OR 97823 541-384-7777 condonchamber.org

Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce 157 S Columbia St Milton-Freewater, OR 97862 541-938-5563 mfchamber.com

Eastern Oregon Visitors Association 800-332-1843 visiteasternoregon.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram #easternoregon

Ontario Chamber of Commerce 251 SW Ninth St Ontario, OR 97914 541-889-8012 ontariochamber.com

Grant County Chamber of Commerce 301 W Main St John Day, OR 97845 800-769-5664 gcoregonlive.com

Oregon Paleo Lands Institute 333 Fourth St Fossil, OR 97830 541-763-4480 paleolands.org

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Oregon Parks & Recreation Dept.

800-551-6949 oregonstateparks.org

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

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