Eastern Oregon Visitor's Guide - 2021

EASTERN OREGON 2021 VISITOR GUIDE

John Day River Territory | Southeast | Northeast | Oregon’s Rugged Country

SILVIES SIMPLY AMAZING SINCE 1883

Where Nature and Magic Meet

Most Awaited Courses in the U.S.

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

Top 10 Resorts

Best Resort Courses in the U.S. #25

Top 100 Best Courses You Can Play Hankins

Top 100 Best Courses You Can Play Craddock

#2

#2

2020

2020

Silvies

Silvies 2019

2017

Best New U.S. Courses Craddock #3

2018

Chef of the Year #1 Silvies Valley Ranch

Hankins 2019

#4

2018

#4 in the World

Silvies 2019

2018

.com

Best New U.S. Courses Hankins

Development of the Year

Best U.S. Golf Course Restaurants

Silvies #2 2018

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

2018

2019

Top 100 Family Resorts

16 Best Long Holes in America #1 Hankins

P.J. KOENIG

Top 20 Golf Destinations in U.S. #9

Silvies 2019

1-800-SILVIES (745-84377) | www.Silvies.us Hankins Course Hole 13

Best New Golf Experience McVeigh’s Gauntlet #1 in U.S.

#3

Silvies 2018

2021

CONTENTS EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

14 - 27

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY Flowing from the high desert to the Columbia River, this region offers watersports, farm trails and plenty of paleontology.

28 - 39

SOUTHEAST As rural and scenic as it gets, southeast Oregon is home to fault block mountains, a wildlife refuge and picturesque river canyons.

40 - 77

NORTHEAST

28

40

Arts, wilderness and miles of backcountry define this remarkable region, also the native home of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce tribe.

OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY A hundred-year-plus-old rodeo resides in this region, also home to vineyards, a casino and signs of the pioneers of the Oregon Trail.

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6 OVERVIEW 102 RESOURCES EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP K’LYNN LANE, MIDDLE LEFT DENNIS FRATES / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

78 - 101

A DESTINATION

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WELCOME TO

EASTERN OREGON WITH FOUR REGIONS—OREGON’S RUGGED COUNTRY, NORTHEAST, SOUTHEAST AND JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY—AND ENDLESS EXPERIENCES, EASTERN OREGON WILL INSPIRE, ENTERTAIN, EXCITE AND CALL FOR YOUR RETURN AGAIN AND AGAIN.

MORE TO

PHOTO TREVOR LYDEN

PLAY

Raft the Owyhee River in Southeast Oregon through rugged canyons, high desert rimrock walls, star-filled night skies and places inaccessible by any road.

6

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

MORE TO

PHOTO BENJAMIN ARIFF

TASTE

Oregon’s Rugged Country is home to the Rocks District AVA, where dozens of wineries have cropped up in the last decade, offering delicious sips with views for days.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

7

MORE TO

PHOTO LEON WERDINGER

TREK

The Eagle Cap Wilderness in the Wallowa Mountains in Northeast Oregon is renowned for rugged hiking and backpacking steeped in incredible scenery.

8

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

MORE TO

PHOTO GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

CRUISE

John Day River Territory is home to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and this amazing road trip drive, the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

9

MORE TO

PHOTO GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

EXPERIENCE

The Pendleton Round-Up has wowed crowds in Oregon’s Rugged Country for over a century each September.

10

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

MORE TO

PHOTO BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

TOUR

The Anthony Lakes region in Northeast Oregon is a recreationalist’s dream, with skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

11

MORE TO

PHOTO K’LYNN LANE

DISCOVER

Cottonwood Canyon State Park is one of Oregon’s largest, set in the John Day River Territory with camping, fishing and a visitors center.

12

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY Discover some of the richest fossil beds in the world, several state parks and two scenic bikeways in this riverine region. Gaze upon hills hued in nature’s most brilliant colors, made from layers of ash and clay laid down over millions of years. Named after one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the country, the John Day River Territory is home to spectacular geography and friendly people.

14

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO INGE JOHNSSON / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

FOSSILS • KITESURFING • FISHING • RAFTING • CYCLING • PALEONTOLOGY • HIKING • RANCH RETREATS • FARM TRAILS

Discover the best of the John Day River Territory region with the three road trip itineraries in this section. See highlights of each road trip on this map, and turn the page to read more about what you’ll discover along the journey.

ARLINGTON BIGGS

Pendleton

CONDON

FOSSIL SPRAY

PRAIRIE CITY

MITCHELL JOHN DAY ROAD TRIP TWO:

Prineville

MITCHELL TO JOHN DAY TO PRAIRIE CITY TASTE: Tiger Town Brewing

Grab a craft brew and some hot wings near the Painted Hills at this local watering hole.

DISCOVER: Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site

An antique apothecary and more, this museum interprets Chinese culture and Oregon’s gold rush.

ROAD TRIP ONE:

BIGGS TO FOSSIL TO SPRAY EXPERIENCE: Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival Fiddles, guitars and foot-stomping good times are had at this annual festival.

TOUR: Wasco Loop

A cycle tour with big skies, open road and river views.

CRUISE: Journey Through Time Scenic Byway Stretching from Biggs all the way to Baker City, see scenic, historic landscapes of Oregon.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

ROAD TRIP THREE:

ARLINGTON TO CONDON PLAY: Windsurfing at the Port of Arlington

The winds are wild on the Columbia River, which makes for perfect sport and play on the water.

TREK: Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Oregon’s second-largest state park offers hiking, camping, horseback riding, fishing and wildlife.

DISCOVER: Gilliam County Historical Museum

Immerse yourself in the region’s past at this historical treasure, like a real trip back in time.

15

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

ROAD TRIP ONE

BIGGS

BIGGS TO FOSSIL TO SPRAY TOUR THROUGH HISTORIC RANCHING COMMUNITIES AND GHOST TOWNS INTO THE HEART OF THE JOHN DAY FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT ON THIS SCENIC TOUR. Biggs perches on the rocky shore of the Columbia River at the crossroads of Highways 84 and 97, serving as a hub for travelers in search of fuel and sustenance. From here, set forth south on the northern end of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, which ultimately winds over 300 miles through some of Eastern Oregon’s most beautiful and ancient lands.

FOSSIL SPRAY

The Palisades in the Clarno Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

WINDY PLAINS AND RIVER CANYONS

SHEEP FARMERS AND GHOST TOWNS

Settled by ranchers and farmers in the late 19th century, today Sherman County is home to miles of rolling wheat fields that paint picturesque vistas across 360 degrees of horizon.

Continue south on the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway to Moro and peruse local history at the Sherman County Historical Museum. More than 15,000 artifacts tell the story of centuries of history, from Native Americans to Oregon Trail pioneers and dry-land wheat farming to conservation. Travel south through the farming communities of Grass Valley and Kent, where historic buildings dot the landscape as the only interruption in miles of open plains.

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The byway begins at Biggs, along the Columbia River, and curves south on US-97 between the canyons of two more major Oregon rivers: the Deschutes and the John Day. The skies here seem huge and the views stretch for miles, with checkerboard wheat fields and undulating golden hills.

Make a stop in the small community of Wasco, the center of Oregon’s wind energy boom, where turbine blades rotating on nearby hills form a dramatic backdrop to the journey. If you’ve brought along your bicycle, ride the gravel roads, pavement and trails in this region, which sometimes hug the rimrock rims of both the Deschutes and the John Day Rivers. Well maintained but lightly trafficked roads make the region a cyclists’ paradise.

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ANCIENT BEASTS AND 32-MILLION-YEAR-OLD LEAVES

Head east to the Clarno Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and take a short hike through the rock spires known as The Palisades. This land was once a lush rainforest, occupied by tiny four-toed horses, huge rhino-like brontotheres, crocodilians and meat-eating creodonts. All that remains of these magnificent beasts are the fossils left behind in these rocks, along with those of the plants that grew here too.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

JACLYN AND AMY MCNEILL

Owners, Dig In Diner, Fossil After meeting in Portland as massage therapists, we decided to purchase a restaurant in Fossil, and we’ve settled down beautifully. Covid brought on unique challenges, but we’ve persevered and are excited to welcome people to visit our town.

We like it here because:

Cattle drive at Wilson Ranches Retreat B&B

Weekly musical entertainment in the summer, a friendly atmosphere and yummy food are just a few great things about Fossil, which happens to have a beautiful natural backdrop.

Don’t miss a stop:

North brings the Columbia River and south brings the John Day River. East brings the Blue Mountains and old ghost towns. Don’t forget to stock up at Fossil Mercantile!

Locals love to visit:

The Blue Basin is a favorite spot for hiking around here. We have more beautiful natural spots in every direction, and the Dig In Diner for great food!

John Day River

PHOTO BOTTOM GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

FOSSIL CENTRAL

The city of Fossil is aptly named, and this little town is rich with history and geology.

Visit the Oregon Paleo Lands Center for maps and travel itineraries for the ancient forests and sea floors of the greater John Day Fossil Beds National Monument area. The City of Fossil Museum is a great spot to soak up more local history, including tales of the rich pine forests that once fueled a logging industry here.

Don’t leave town without visiting the fossil beds behind Wheeler High School, where you can comb through artifacts of ancient flora and fauna—the only fossils in the region that you are free to pick up and take home. The kids will love this reallife treasure hunt.

FIDDLING AND A ROUND-UP

Downtown Fossil boasts the beautiful historic Wheeler County Courthouse.

If it’s summer, it’s time for the Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival, held on the lawn of the courthouse and around town. Kick up your heels and spend a night at Wilson Ranches Retreat B&B, EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

an authentic working cattle ranch offering six ranch-style guest rooms in a genuine 1910 Sears Roebuck kit house. Wake up to a hearty ranch-style breakfast and then saddle up for a ride into the high desert to round up the ranch’s cattle, take a hike, or mosey around the ranch while soaking in the diverse flora and fauna.

Before you leave town, fill the gas tank at Fossil Fill-Up. Maybe hit a few balls at the tiny Kinzua Golf Club, and say hello to the onsite greenskeeper.

AN APPLE A DAY

South of Fossil en route to Spray, you’ll reunite with the John Day River, Oregon’s longest free-flowing river.

You’re in the heart of river country now, with fishing, rafting and lazy days on the water at the ready in this wide-open landscape under endless skies.

Catch some thrills with a white-water river trip, best negotiated with a guide, or for tamer river times, try your hand and luck at bass fishing.

Spray is a charming, small farming town that sits on a scenic bend in the John Day River. Visit the Spray Pioneer Museum, representing life in the 1800s with Indian artifacts, fossils and settlers’ histories. Stay at the River Bend Motel, with riverside views available and peace and quiet, guaranteed. Camp at the Spray riverfront. Catch the Spray Rodeo, the “best small-town rodeo around,” which occurs simultaneously to the annual Spray Half-Marathon.

Spray is the jumping off point for the John Day River Farm Trail, offering over a dozen stops to see the diversity of food, flowers and drink produced around here. Just past Spray in Kimberly, visit Thomas Orchards, Apricot Apiaries and the John Day River Trading Post to sample some of the fruits and flavors of the John Day River Valley.

Another satisfying driving tour is referred to by locals as “The LOOP,” which connects Fossil, Spray and Mitchell as an offshoot to the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

17

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

ROAD TRIP TWO

MITCHELL

MITCHELL TO JOHN DAY TO PRAIRIE CITY

JOHN DAY

PRAIRIE CITY

COLORFUL HILLS, PLENTY OF ANCIENT FOSSILS, SCENIC BIKE TOURS, DESERT HIKES, DELICIOUS FOODS AND LOCALLY CRAFTED BREWS ARE TO BE DISCOVERED ON THIS LEG OF YOUR ROAD TRIP TOUR. Mitchell sits in steep and rolling hills on the east side of the Ochocos, a welcoming outpost surrounded by natural beauty.

Mitchell’s most famous feature is the Painted Hills, one of three units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. The hills are comprised of ash and soil in a myriad of colors from rusted reds to copper to ochre to emerald to create this spectacular photographer’s dream.

The Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

HIKE, SWIM, CAMP, REPEAT

FRESH AIR CREATES BIG APPETITES

In Mitchell, grab wings and craft brew at Tiger Town Brewery, where stouts, porters and ales flow, along with live music and events during high season. Save room for pie at Bridge Creek Café, which also offers burgers and big breakfasts. Painted Hills Pastry makes remarkable French baked goods each day.

18

Painted Hills Vacation Cottages

SLEEPS AND SPOKES

Find a place to lay your head for the night at Painted Hills Vacation Cottages, where the charming cabins are only matched by the well-tended gardens outside. On your bike? The Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway runs through here, and cyclists find plenty of company in the area. Bike tourers and explorers find respite and community at Spoke’n Hostel, just a few miles east of the Painted Hills, where fifteen spacious beds, a full kitchen, community spaces, laundry facilities and creek-front tent camping are on hand. In downtown Mitchell, seek out the beautiful historical Oregon Hotel. Built around 1936, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you see the quaint parlor, small but charming rooms, and shared bath down the hall.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP K’LYNN LANE, INSET ALEX JORDAN

The Painted Hills area offers several trails to sweeping vistas.

Another great place to stretch your legs is at nearby Owen Ranch, where an easy trail leads to a historic ranch house, boasting old orchards and grand cottonwood trees alongside a scenic creek. Views of geological peaks Mitchell Rock and Bailey Rock pop up along this trail. Also nearby is Priest Hole, the swimming hole locals love for hot summer days on the John Day River. Burnt Ranch Recreation Site has its own swimming hole, as well as a campground for outdoor overnighters and adventurers. In town, shop for geological treasures discovered by local rockhounds.

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

ROAD TRIP TWO

SCIENCE IN ACTION

ROAD TRIP RESPITE AND A BITE

Have a picnic across the highway from the visitor center at the historic Cant Ranch. Once the monument headquarters, the ranch is sometimes open as a museum, and is always a lovely spot to see the historic architecture and outbuildings of an old ranch. Don’t miss the view of Sheep Rock from the property.

Grab a meal in Dayville at the Dayville Café, featuring steak and burgers from local Painted Hills Ranch. Nearby is the Dayville Mercantile, opened in 1896, and still an oldfashioned dry goods store with over 8,000 products, and even a bike shop in back for those touring on wheels.

You’re still on the John Day River Farm Trail, so don’t miss more amazing local foods and farms including Bergin’s Organic Seeds, offering heirloom seeds for local growers, Prairie Springs Fish Farm, where they grow fish to stock ponds and lakes, and Happy Hen’s Egg Farm for cage-free eggs and fresh produce.

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Between Mitchell and John Day, you’re surrounded by some of the most significant—and most beautiful—geology in the state. Find headquarters and interpretation for the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument between Kimberly and Dayville at the Thomas Condon Paleontology and Visitor Center, named after the prominent 19th-century Oregon scientist who first recognized the significance of the fossil beds and did the first scientific collection and study of specimens. Colorful murals depicting ancient environments and the plants and animals that lived in them, fossil displays with over 500 specimens, and a fishbowl paleontology laboratory that allow the public to watch scientists actively studying fossils are some of the features that visitors enjoy.

There’s an activity room for the kids and a terrific gift store.

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Dayville Café

PHOTOS TOP AND MIDDLE ALEX JORDAN, BOTTOM JONI KABANA

Sheep Rock and the John Day River

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

GIVE YOURSELF

SOME SPACE FIND IT IN OUR GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITIES

Canyon City, Dale, Dayville, Fox, Granite, John Day, Kimberly, Long Creek, Monument, Mount Vernon, Prairie City, Seneca

North Fork of the John Day River, Kimberly, Oregon Photo credit: Joni Kabana

GRANT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 541 575 0547 | GCOREGONLIVE.COM 301 WEST MAIN ST JOHN DAY, OR 97845

JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

ROAD TRIP TWO

CATCH A FLIGHT, PEDAL YOUR BIKE AND FUEL UP

John Day is the largest town on this road trip tour, and is also home to Grant County Regional Airport, serving both local pilots and visiting travelers. For much slower travel, consider hopping on your bike and touring the Old West Scenic Bikeway, one of Oregon’s scenic bikeways. Grab lunch and a brew at 1188 Brewing Company, John Day’s bustling and popular brewery. All beer is brewed on site, and many menu items are handcrafted from local produce and products.

OLD TIME APOTHECARY

Steeped in history, John Day and the surrounding area was a gold mining region that drew thousands to its boomtowns in the late 1800s. A gem of interpretation about this era is the Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum. This destination remains much as it was nearly a century ago when a thriving community of gold rush-inspired Chinese immigrants called the John Day area home. The Kam Wah Chung store and apothecary was at the center of the community, and today its shelves of well-preserved herbal and traditional medicines serve as a window into history.

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THE MOUNTAINS ARE CALLING

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Take the time to explore the remote and scenic reaches of Grant County. Located east of John Day, the “Strawberries” (as they are affectionately known) are one of the most scenic and accessible mountain ranges in Eastern Oregon. More than 60,000 acres of land is set aside in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, an area that includes Strawberry Peak and Strawberry Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for nearly 400 species of birds along with black bears and California Bighorn Sheep. There are several campgrounds here, and plenty of hiking trails to get you onto these gorgeous peaks.

For the motorcycle lover, join BMW riders in John Day through the Strawberries for the Chief Joseph Rally.

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LITTLE CHARM ON THE PRAIRIE

In Prairie City, enjoy the best of the old and the new at Hotel Prairie, with a beautiful lobby, wine and beer lounge, patio and comfortable rooms with private baths (and even a charging station for your electric car). It’s your perfect base camp along Prairie City’s quaint main street, which offers antique stores, specialty shops and dining.

BIG SKIES, LARGE LUXURY

On scenic Highway 395 south of John Day, visit Canyon City, where you’ll find multiple antique shops, the Painted Sky Art Center, Sels Brewery and the wonderful Grant County Historical Museum. Further south is Silvies Valley Ranch, a one-time working ranch, now modern golf resort that merges luxury and relaxation with an authentic Western ranch experience. Golf the 18-hole reversible course, the same course played two different directions. Feast on delicious and unique dining options, partake in exclusive outdoor experiences, and relax at the spa. A private airstrip is available for those wishing to fly directly on to the property.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP TALIA JEAN, INSET ALEX JORDAN

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Old West Scenic Bikeway

EXPLORE JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY Celebrating 125 Years of Continuous Service One of Oregon’s oldest general stores.

Stop by and see where the Old West still lives.

Open 365 days a year!

ll ach Garyio c e g a t d The S Q Thurs

g BB risket Featurin sages, Texas B , Sau erages.

Sunday Cold bev :00pm e Ic f o y l6 & variet 0am til om 11:0 r f s u Join

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

GRANT COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT

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

72000 AIRPORT ROAD, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-1151 GGRANTCOUNTYOREGON.NET/150/AIRPORT

THE OUTPOST PIZZA, PUB & GRILL

The Outpost occupies one of the sleekest spaces in town: a large building with a logcabin exterior, a vast entry lobby and a bright, spacious, high-ceilinged 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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

EASTERN OREGON REALTY Grant County’s oldest real estate firm.

Serving Eastern Oregon since 1979.

• Experienced agents, satisfied

customers, lasting friendships

• Home warranty for buyer/seller • IRS 1031 tax free exchanges

• Accredited buyer/seller representation • Senior real estate representation

Ranch - Residential - Recreational - Commercial 160 E MAIN STREET, JOHN DAY, 97845 • (541) 575-2121 • EASTERNOREGONREALTY.NET

HOTEL PRAIRIE

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

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

112 FRONT STREET, PRAIRIE CITY, 97869 • (541) 820-4800 • HOTELPRAIRIE.COM

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JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY

ROAD TRIP THREE

ARLINGTON

ARLINGTON TO CONDON DROP FROM THE COLUMBIA RIVER INTO THE HEART OF GILLIAM COUNTY, HOME TO HISTORIC CONDON AND OREGON’S NEWEST STATE PARK, COTTONWOOD CANYON. The town of Arlington is on the Columbia River and Interstate 84, easily accessed from east or west, Portland or Boise. Start your day at Earl Snell Memorial Park on the river in Arlington, where a small beach offers swimming access, picnicking spots, and opportunities for waterfront play and relaxation.

Windsurfers will want to head to the Port of Arlington to set sail. Standup paddleboarders can rent a board from Arlington Hardware. Golfers, don’t miss the nine-hole course at China Creek Golf Course, which boasts a stunning view of the Columbia River.

Port of Arlington

CONDON

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

FIREWORKS AND HULA HOOPS

Turn south at Arlington and climb Highway 19 for 3,000 feet to the heart of the Columbia Plateau and historic Condon.

Condon is a small town with a big heart, demonstrated each year at their booming Fourth of July parade and celebration.

The town turns out for the parade, hula hoop contest, sidewalk chalk art contest, and fireworks display.

Historic Downtown Condon is seated high atop the Columbia Plateau, serving as the commercial and cultural heart of Gilliam County. Stroll historic main street along Oregon Route 19 and browse through popular titles at Powell’s Books. Country Flowers serves more than the name suggests, integrating a boutique and old-fashioned soda fountain. The Condon Motel has 18 comfortable and cozy rooms with all the amenities and even a welcome mat for your pet. The Historic Hotel Condon is a modern stay with a glimpse of the past.

Don’t miss a stop at Gilliam County Historical Museum, which is more like a real-life trip back in time than a visit to a historical society. Visit an authentic one-room schoolhouse and a brothel-turned-barbershop, each over a century old.

The Museum also showcases famous past residents and Nobel Prize winners Linus Pauling and William Murphy, who are celebrated on Nobel Laureate Day each February.

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THE PARK WITH THE MOSTEST

Cruise Highway 206 to 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 rugged and vast from vertical cliffs to deep side canyons and arid, rocky ranges. Boasting abundant wildlife, this a destination for hunters, anglers, horseback riders, campers and wildlife enthusiasts. Also in the park is the 1,500 square foot Experience Center, which serves as a classroom for outdoor education as well as an event space. The Cottonwood Crossing Summer Institute is a weeklong residential field study course for high school students held onsite each summer.

With so much open space for exploring, stargazing, and contemplating the elemental forces that carved this unique landscape, Cottonwood Canyon is a destination not to miss as well as a perfect place to end your John Day River Territory tour.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO LEFT RICHARD HALLMAN, RIGHT K’LYNN LANE

THE ALLURE OF YESTERYEAR

HOTEL

Come. Explore. Stay.

The best of the new and the old… at the foot of the Strawberry Mountains 112 Front Street, Prairie City, OR

541-820-4800

hotelprairie.com

2.5 HOURS FROM PORTLAND

A WORLD AWAY

541-384-4624 || 202 S MAIN ST. CONDON, OR. 97823 || WWW.HOTELCONDON.COM

THE GEM OF EASTERN OREGON

Ride, hike, bike, raft.

Hunt, fish, photograph.

Peace, quiet, fewer faces.

Fresh air, WIDE OPEN SPACES.

Gateway to the Painted Hills + Scenic Bikeway

HIKING, FISHING, ROCKHOUNDING, BIKING, BREATHTAKING SCENERY Lodging - Restaurants - General Store - Fuel | 3 Miles East of the Painted Hills on Hwy 26 www.mitchelloregon.us

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BUY OUR BEER

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Or We’ll Punch YY In The Face! m

brewery • cocktails • family dining • beer garden

Painted Hills Vacation – Cottages & Retreat 3 cozy European Cottages surrounded by magic floral gardens.

Perfect base to explore Eastern Oregon and experience Mother Nature!

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Tiger Town Brewing co.

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mitchell, OrE

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TIGERTOWNBREWING.COM • (541) 462 3663

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• 108 W MAIN STREET, MITCHELL, OR 97750 •

Located in quiet neighborhood in small rural pioneer town close to the famous Painted Hills.

Pet friendly, Wifi, Retreat and Workshop space, peaceful sanctuary!

For reservations and inquiries www.paintedhillsvacation.com info@paintedhills.com, | 541 462 3921

EXPLORE JOHN DAY RIVER TERRITORY SHERMAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Take a walk on the rural side and discover Sherman County’s history with award winning exhibits: the Oregon Trail, A Century of Rural Living, Horse Power Farming and Cultivation, Conservation & Wheat through the Ages. Experience the military pride and patriotism of this county, the famous Sherman County Journal newspaper along with hands on activities, museum store and so much more. Information Visitor Center, Wi-Fi, and bike friendly. Open May through October.

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

GILLIAM COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Located right next to Burns Park in Condon, displaying several historical buildings with furnished period interiors, including an 1884 Homestead, 1905 Railroad Depot, a 1900 Country School house, a 1900’s Barbershop, the old Condon City Hall and Jail, a country church, and finally a large agricultural display building with antique equipment and vehicles. Tours can be customized to fit all ages and special interest for large or small groups. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Open Wednesday thru Sunday 1 to 5pm (pst). Open May 1st through last Sunday in October; Memorial and Labor Day. HIGHWAY 19, BURNS PARK, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4233

WILSON RANCHES RETREAT B&B

RIVER BEND MOTEL

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

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

• Four pristine ranch-style guest rooms in a 1910

Sears Roebuck kit house.

• Wake up to a hearty ranch breakfast.

• Saddle up for a ride into the high desert, hike, or

mosey along while soaking in the diverse flora and fauna.

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

• Your home base for exploring the John Day Fossil

Beds National Monument and Painted Hills.

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

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

HOTEL CONDON

CONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Serving Gilliam, Sherman & Wheeler Counties. Breathtaking scenery, peaceful lifestyle, starlit skies, lively events. Welcome to our region!

311 S. MAIN STREET CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-7777 • CONDONCHAMBER.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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

This historic country hotel was built in 1918 and has been serving discerning travelers to Condon for over 100 years.

Get a great night’s sleep in our clean and spacious guestrooms and wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast. Hotel Condon is 2.5 hours from Portland, 30 minutes from the John Day River, 35 minutes from Cottonwood Canyon State Park, and 1.5 hours from the Painted Hills. Whether you are passing through Condon or looking for a beautiful venue to host an intimate wedding or function; stay in comfort as you explore the rugged beauty of the John Day River Territory.

202 S MAIN ST, CONDON, 97823 • (541) 384-4624 • HOTELCONDON.COM

SPOKE’N HOSTEL

Travelers and explorers find respite and community at Spoke’n Hostel, just a few miles east of the Painted Hills National Monument. Fifteen spacious beds, a full kitchen, shower, WiFi, community spaces, laundry facilities, and creek-front tent camping make Spoke’n the perfect base station for hiking, biking, or sight-seeing the best of Eastern Oregon. Enjoy local cafés, restaurants, and pub, or visit the grocery store for ingredients to make your own meal in our kitchen. Traveling by bicycle? Bring your bike inside and rest up before hitting the trail. Reserve a bed online today!

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

27

SOUTHEAST HOT SPRINGS • BIRD WATCHING • WAGON RUTS • AN ALKALINE DESERT • MOUNTAINS AND GORGES • RIVER CANYONS

28

EOVA_2021_Book.indb 28

PHOTO LARRY GEDDIS / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

From the amazing spectacle of mass avian migrations at the Malheur Refuge to the roiling waters of the Owyhee River canyon to Steens Mountain and its deep glacier-carved gorges, the region is a playground for adventurers and explorers. Grab hiking boots, binoculars and a camera. Bird watchers, hunters, anglers, explorers and hikers will all feel at home in this vast solitude of landscape that has changed little over the last millennia.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

4/19/21 12:34 PM

See the best of the Southeast region with three road trip itineraries. See highlights of each road trip on this map, and turn the page to read more about what you’ll discover along the way on each journey.

ONTARIO VALE

JUNTURA BURNS

CRANE

LESLIE GULCH

JORDAN VALLEY

Frenchglen Rome

Steens Mountain

ALVORD DESERT ROAD TRIP TWO:

FIELDS ROAD TRIP ONE:

BURNS TO FIELDS TO THE ALVORD DESERT TOUR: Gravel Grinder Mountain Bike Race

A bike race highlighting mountainous ascents, teeth-chattering descents, breathtaking vistas, open rangeland, alpine forests, two stream crossings and cattle guard after cattle guard.

EXPERIENCE: Harney County Migratory Bird Fest

Witness thousands of migratory birds as they rest and feed in the open spaces of Oregon’s high desert and enjoy tours and events on this weekend in April.

CRUISE: High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway

CRANE TO JORDAN VALLEY TO THE OWYHEE CANYON AND LESLIE GULCH PLAY: Crane Hot Springs

Visit this developed hot springs with multiple pools and lodging options in the high desert.

CRUISE: Leslie Gulch

This section of the Owyhee canyon is only accessed by a rugged road—come prepared!

ROAD TRIP THREE:

JUNTURA TO VALE TO ONTARIO DISCOVER: Murals of Vale

This 127-mile byway ventures from Burns to Fields, passing by Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Steens Mountain and the Alvord Desert. From desert to mountain, bring a pioneering spirit and enjoy the adventure.

Stroll past twenty-five murals depicting the town’s history as an important stop on the Oregon Trail.

TREK: Wildhorse Lake

TASTE: Tater Tot Festival

Try this short, steep and incredibly scenic hike down the face of the Steens, or hike in one of the dramatic gorges of the Steens.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

A celebration of the mighty tater tot is held in Ontario, its birthplace, each August.

29

SOUTHEAST

ROAD TRIP ONE

BURNS

BURNS TO FIELDS TO THE ALVORD DESERT BURNS, A FRIENDLY WESTERN OUTPOST IN THE CENTER OF THE STATE, IS THE JUMPING OFF POINT FOR YOUR SOUTHEAST OREGON ADVENTURE. Burns sits in the wide-open high desert in the heart of Harney County, Oregon’s largest and least populated county. Here you’ll find hotels, markets and sporting goods. Grab a meal at the steakhouse Pine Room or swing by Steens Mountain Brewing Company, a family-owned nanobrewery where all beer is small-batch brewed with regional heirloom hops. Each beer name is inspired by a must-visit Harney County landmark or event, like the McCoy Creek Scottish Ale. For a taste of culture, visit Gallery 15, with artwork by regional artists, and the Book Parlor, an independent bookstore offering good reads and home décor.

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

30

FIELDS

Ro

un

dB a rn

LAVA, HORSES AND HISTORY

te Pe

rF

re

POPULATION 12

In tiny Frenchglen, book a room at the historic Frenchglen Hotel, established in 1916 and maintaining century-old charm.

Relax on the front porch, and enjoy a communal meal in the dining room. If camping is your cup of tea, choose Page Springs Campground on the Donner und Blitzen River. Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort is nearby, where cabins, tent sites and RV sites welcome guests.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO LARRY GEDDIS / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET AGEFOTOSTOCK / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Take the Diamond Loop to see Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area, a curious array of collapsed craters, lava domes, lava tubes, wrinkled ridges, cones, spires and other formations created 25,000 years ago, when molten basalt billowed up through fissures in the earth and spread across a dry lakebed. Nearby, discover the Peter French Round Barn, the circular 1880s structure built by cattle baron Peter French from stone and juniper, and used for breaking horses in inclement weather. In the tiny community of Diamond, rest your head at the historic Hotel Diamond, built in 1898, which offers comfortable rooms and meals. Alternately, choose Steens Mountain Guest Ranch for an authentic dude ranch experience.

h

Thirty miles south of Burns lies a bird lover’s paradise. The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is a crucial breeding ground and migratory rest stop along the Pacific Flyway. Considered one of the top bird-watching areas in the Pacific Northwest, Malheur teems with resident wildlife and hundreds of migratory species of birds. Start your exploration at the refuge headquarters, with a visitors center, museum and gift store. Then grab your binoculars and a camera to explore the 187,757-acre, federally protected wildlife habitat. Spring and fall are great times to visit. In addition to unparalleled bird watching, enjoy educational opportunities, wildlife viewing, hiking, and regulated fishing and hunting for anyone on their own migration path to this region. In April, catch the Harney County Migratory Bird Fest.

ALVORD DESERT

nc

A BEVY OF BIRDS

Frenchglen

We like it here because:

We love Hines because it’s a wonderful small town to raise kids, that’s off the beaten trail enough to enjoy small town living. We enjoy hunting and exploring all around Eastern Oregon.

Don’t miss a stop:

A few stops a road trip shouldn’t miss would be the Steens Mountains, the Riddle Brother Ranch, and our place, of course! It is totally worth the trip.

Locals love to visit:

Every local should have a favorite hot spring location!

With many just around the corner, be it public or secluded, you should always have a suit with you.

A SLOW CLIMB TO GRANDEUR

From here, set out to Steens Mountain, the largest fault-block mountain in the Northern Great Basin, formed when immense geologic forces pushed the east edge of the mountain up along the edge of the Alvord Desert. The Steens Tour Loop takes travelers up the backside to a

10,000 MILKSHAKES A YEAR

Drive south from Frenchglen to Fields, paralleling Catlow Rim, keeping your eyes open for bighorn sheep and wild horse herds. At Fields, the action is all at Fields Station, which offers burgers and milkshakes by the thousands to hungry desert travelers each year, along with hotel rooms, groceries and fuel.

PLAYA AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE

North of Fields is the incredible Alvord Desert. Here on the expansive, surreal playa, you’re at the bottom of what once was a 200-feet-deep lake that stretched from Steens Mountain to Nevada. Walk out onto the white crusty

ge

nG or tz e Bli

e

We came up to Eastern Oregon from the Rogue Valley in Southern Oregon.

After a few years, we found ourselves in a beautiful historic building that just needed a little love. We ended with a beautiful bed and breakfast that we operate with our three daughters. We couldn’t be happier to be a family run business.

Li tt l

Owners, Hines Pine Mill House, Hines

summit that rises more than a mile above the east-facing landscape, affording dramatic views. From the summit, descend on a short, steep trail to Wildhorse Lake for a dip in the cold and cobalt blue waters.

Hike the twenty-eight-mile Steens Mountain Gorges Loop, which treats hikers to waterfalls and leads to the massive, U-shaped Blitzen and Big Indian gorges that were carved during the last ice age. At Steens’ lower elevations, abundant wildlife draws hunters and anglers to stocked lakes and streams ripe with red-band trout. Summer in the Steens brings wildflower displays in a profusion of color.

il

i

n

HOLLY AND MASON WATSON

N

a Tr ye

surface, drive across the open space where rules allow, or simply take in the impressive expanse with your eyes. The remote Alvord Hot Springs is a chance to soak in a semi-developed pool with a view of the playa.

DESERT WATERS

Pack your fishing rod for nearby Mann Lake where trophy Lahontan cutthroat trout cruise the waters. Mickey Hot Springs is also on the north end of the Alvord; look for its deep pool, clear with near-boiling water, the ground hissing with steam and gurgling mud pots.

These are not waters for soaking or drinking, and don’t expect much water anywhere else in this region—desert climates bring temperature swings and long expanses of scenic highway.

PHOTO TOP RIGHT OREGON NATURAL DESERT ASSOCIATION, BOTTOM ADAM MCKIBBEN

Alvord Desert

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

31

SOUTHEAST

ROAD TRIP TWO

CRANE TO JORDAN VALLEY TO THE OWYHEE CANYON AND LESLIE GULCH HOPSCOTCH THROUGH TINY TOWNS IN THE REMOTE DESERT TO ONE OF THE MOST WILD AND SCENIC GORGES IN THE WEST.

CRANE LESLIE GULCH JORDAN VALLEY Lake Owyhee at Leslie Gulch

Rome

Crane is home to Crystal Crane Hot Springs, an oasis for weary travelers that invites a soak in the natural mineral spring pools under expansive Eastern Oregon skies. Onwards to Rome, you’ll find Rome Station and great milkshakes and tater tots.

Rome was named for the imposing formations of fossil-bearing clay that resemble Roman ruins.

FAMOUS JOURNEYS AND JOURNEYMEN

In Danner, east of Rome, visit the Grave of Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, the son of the French Canadian Interpreter Toussaint Charbonneau and Sacagawea, the Shoshone Guide of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In Jordan Valley, grab a cup of coffee, a home-baked snack or some ice cream and friendly conversation in the historic stone building Rockhouse Coffee.

Northwest of Jordan Valley down a bumpy dirt road is Birch Creek Ranch, a BLM-run Owyhee River gem with twenty-six structures, purchased as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Stake a tent at one of the primitive campsites.

32

WILD, SCENIC AND PROTECTED

On to the Owyhee Canyon and Leslie Gulch, where the river cuts through a remote and rugged canyon. One of the most scenic rivers in the Northwest, the Owyhee begins in the mountains of western Idaho and empties into Oregon’s Owyhee Reservoir, passing by 1,000-foot rhyolite cliffs, 9,000-year-old petroglyphs, fauna and riverside hot springs. In Leslie Gulch, bighorn sheep, mule deer and elk deftly traverse the precious metal-hued volcanic tuff formations. Years of advocacy have kept the area off limits to natural resource development.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BOTTOM MELISSA WHITNEY

Crystal Crane Hot Springs

VISIT. STAY. PLAY.

Ontario

AREA

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

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

SOUTHEAST

ROAD TRIP TWO Owyhee River

34

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP TREVOR LYDEN, BOTTOM LEFT ERIC VALENTINE, BOTTOM RIGHT DANIEL LARSON / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

t u ra

Na

ek

St

a te

A road trip through the Owyhee Canyonlands means rocky, rutted and often muddy roads, and you must bring plenty of your own gas, food e and water. In summer, Cr or prepare for hot weather c Suc and little shade—but plenty of scenery. Multiday whitewater rafting trips are offered by a number of outfitters who guide boats through quiet sections broken up by adrenaline-inducing rapids. Hike Jordan Canyons or Painted Canyon Loop, and camp at Slocum Creek Campground or Succor Creek State Natural Area. End your day on the lower Owyhee River, where you’ll find Oregon’s finest brown trout fishery tucked up against the Idaho border.

l A re a

BYO GOOD TIRES AND EXTRA WATER

3RD WEEKEND OF JUNE BURNS, OREGON 10,000' Elevation Gain 80% Gravel & Natural Surface High Desert | Canyon Lands | Forest

AMERICA’S GNARLIEST SINGLE DAY ENDURANCE GRAVEL GRIND

Malheur Field Station

Located in the heart of the West’s largest bird migration route year-round Lodging and seasonal dining for individuals, families and groups* Educational programs in and about the Northern Great Basin area

All Types Rodeo Events • Weddings • Vendor Expos • Festivals *subject to change due to covid-19

reserve your spot today!

Malheur Field Station 34848 Sodhouse Lane Princeton Oregon 97721 (541) 493-2629 malheurfieldstation.org

HARNEY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

With open spaces, shade trees and always improving facilities the Harney County fairgrounds provides an ideal location for weddings, any type of rodeo event, reunions, vendor expos and fundraising functions. We invite you to come out and experience everything the fairgrounds have to offer.

Camp Sites

• 30 Full Hook Up Camp Sites •100+ Horse Stalls

Harney County Fairgrounds | 69660 S Egan Rd, Burns OR 97720 541-573-6447 | www.harneyfairgrounds.com harneycountyfair@co.harney.or.us

SOUTHEAST

VALE

ROAD TRIP THREE

JUNTURA TO VALE TO ONTARIO

ONTARIO JUNTURA

TRAVEL PART OF THE OREGON TRAIL IN REVERSE AS YOU HEAD EAST TO THE OREGON/IDAHO BORDER, FINDING OUTPOSTS LEFT BEHIND BY THE EMIGRANTS ALONG THE WAY. It’s easy to miss the little town of Juntura as you travel east or west at speeds that would shock pioneers who once crept across this landscape in wagon trains. Ease off the gas as you approach the horseshoe bend on the Malheur River. Grab a

meal at the Oasis Café, and then follow the gravel road under a steel trestle train bridge to the riverside hot springs where a small soaking pool awaits.

Juntura Hot Springs

e

PHOTO TOP JONI KABANA, BOTTOM RIGHT GEORGE OSTERTAG / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Rinehart Stone House

V

al

M

a ur

li

n

CONESTOGAS WERE HERE

In Vale, history is on permanent display. Visit the rustic sandstone Rinehart Stone House, built in 1872 as a wayside stop for weary travelers until the early 1900s. Today, the museum displays interpretative exhibits about the Oregon Trail. Stroll around town to see the many Murals of Vale, depicting Oregon Trail era history. East of town at Keeney Pass Interpretive Site, find vestiges of the ruts left behind by the covered wagons of the Oregon Trail.

36

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

The Narrows RV Park

Perfect base camp for your exploration of Harney County and Southeast Oregon.

Steps away from Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, the Steens Mountain Recreation Area, The Alvord Desert, The Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge and The Diamond Loop. Our quality amenities go a long way towards making guests feel comfortable, like they’ve found a home-away-from-home.

ners The new ow to ve lo would ! u yo t mee

• 30 Amp and 50 amp pull through and • Full bathrooms with showers back-in sites • Laundry facility • Water & sewer dump and air station • On-site café/bar: Jackalope Bar & Grill • Tent spaces & rustic cabin • Mini-mart with ice, propane, gas & diesel

Reserve your space TODAY! NarrowsRVPark.com | 541-495-2006

Get your money’s worth in Ontario by staying at Quality Inn and Brand New Rodeway Inn & Suites. Our outstanding, pet friendly, hotels offer free hot breakfast, indoor heated pool, and fitness center. Conveniently located off of I-84 a great choice to stop for the night no matter how big your rig is! Just mention “EOVA” to receive 10% off your next stay!

SPECIAL CORPOR ATE RATES EXTEND , ED RATES & STAY GROUP RATES

541.889.9615 139 NE GOODFELLOW STREET, ONTARIO CHOICEHOTELS.COM/OR247 CHOICEHOTELS.COM/OR299

THE

Round Barn

VISITOR CENTER

FAMILY MUSEUM FABULOUS GIFT SHOP WIDE SELECTION OF BOOKS AND TACK

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

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

ROAD TRIP THREE

A CROSS-CULTURAL DESTINATION

Ontario is on the easternmost border of Oregon at the confluence of the Snake, Malheur, Owyhee and Payette rivers.

The Four Rivers Cultural Center documents another kind of convergence: that of cultures. The Center takes visitors on a historic journey, from the native Northern Paiutes to the settlers who came in the 19th century to the Japanese Americans interned in the area during World War II to the migrant workers who keep the fields green in modern times.

The Four Rivers Cultural Center

THE FOUR RIVERS FARM AND GARDEN TRAIL

Garden Gallery

PHOTO MIDDLE DAWN TALBOTT, BOTTOM DENNIS FRATES / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

The I-84 corridor leads east to west through some of the richest landscape in the state of Oregon. In and around Ontario, the Payette, Malheur and Owyhee Rivers join the Snake River in a lush valley of fertile land. Discover The Four Rivers Farm and Garden Trail. Along this route, detour off of the highway to fully experience the rich agriculture and delicious tastes that emerge in Southeastern Oregon.

Begin at the crossroads of Highways 26 and 201, between Ontario and Vale. Explore farms, orchards and farm stands along this journey and meet the growers, ranchers and purveyors of fresh, natural foods on the grounds of the very land they work and nurture.

Visit the multigenerational family farm at Country Corner, and tour Andrews Seed Company for heirloom seeds, nursery plants and gardening supplies. Stop by the unique Garden Gallery for plant and herb starts and local art. Boston Beef House offers Painted Hills beef, raised in the region on family ranches. When in season, don’t miss a visit through the Ontario Farmers Market. Travel this route through Ontario, Vale and Nyssa and visit farmers markets, flower stands, bistros and produce stands.

Farmland near Ontario

38

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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

Our inventory consists of small appliances, cookware, bakeware, linens, tabletop, cutlery, seasonal merchandise, cookbooks, candles, chimes, Northwest food products and chocolates. Stop by to see our fun, but very useful store.

Biggest Little Kitchen Store in Eastern Oregon.

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

THE COUNTRY WASHBOARD

Our self-serve laundromat was built in 2019, brand-new from the ground up. It sits next to the Hines Oregon Post Office and across the street from the Hines City Park.

We feature normal sized and large capacity washers and dryers. All machines run with a special card purchased from a machine on site. Bills,(1’s, 5’s, 10’s or 20’s) are loaded on this card. Operation is simple with clear instructions mounted on the wall by the “card” machine. Free wifi is available to use as you wait.

134 NW CIRCLE DR, HINES, 97738 • (503) 560-0191 • COUNTRYWASHBOARD.WEEBLY.COM

FRENCHGLEN HOTEL

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.

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

HINES PINE MILL HOUSE B&B

We are a Bed and Breakfast set in the historic lumber mill office building of the Edward Hines Lumber Company in Hines Oregon.

Our Inn provides lodging and Events to visitors in the area and our community. We are a proud family of 5 and are proud to bring the historical value of this site back to its original glory. We are open to the public in way of a tradigital Bed and Breakfast as well as a public giftshop and Events.

705 HIGHWAY 20 S, HINES, 97738 • (541) 295-5650 • HINESPINEMILLHOUSE.COM

THE FIELDS STATION

STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS RESORT

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

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

OARD’S GALLERY & MUSEUM

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

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Gas - Diesel - Premium Non Ethanol - Propane - Cafe Grocery - Hotel - RV Park - Tap Beer - Liquor Come and enjoy a world famous milkshake and hamburger!

Owners: Jacob and Jaide Downs

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

BURNS RV PARK

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

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

39

NORTHEAST PHOTO PRISMA BY DUKAS PRESSEAGENTUR GMBH / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

AGRICULTURE • NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE • THE OREGON TRAIL • YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION ALPINE WILDERNESS • FARM TRAILS • GOLD RUSH HISTORY • HISTORIC RAILROADS

Oregon’s Northeast corner has many faces. Most think of the extreme landscape—tall mountains, deep canyons, fast rivers and broad, flat valleys. In between, visit mixed forests, lush farmlands and rocky hills covered with sage and bunchgrass. Lively, art-centric towns draw culture-seeking tourists as well as those looking for fun at a slower pace, with a view. Native American heritage is an important part of this landscape. Winter, summer and months inbetween, outdoor recreation is everywhere you turn. Farm trails and plenty of homegrown foods and flavors abound.

40

EOVA_2021_Book.indb 40

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

4/19/21 12:34 PM

Discover the best of the Northeast region with the three road trip itineraries in this section. See highlights of each road trip on this map, and turn the page to read more about what you’ll discover along the journey.

ELGIN

ENTERPRISE

LA GRANDE JOSEPH Wallowa Mountains

UNION

NORTH POWDER

HALFWAY

HAINES

SUMPTER

BAKER CITY RICHLAND ROAD TRIP TWO:

SUMPTER TO BAKER CITY TO RICHLAND TO HALFWAY ROAD TRIP ONE:

DISCOVER: National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

LA GRANDE TO UNION TO NORTH POWDER TO HAINES

Learn about the pioneers who journeyed to Oregon in covered wagons 175 years ago, and see the ruts they left behind, still visible in the landscape.

TASTE: Union County Farm Trail

CRUISE: Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Farms, produce and more are found along this delicious journey.

TREK: Mount Emily Recreation Area

A nationally acclaimed motorized/non-motorized park with nearly 100 miles of trails, an abundance of birds and wildlife, a world-class archery range and free camping.

TOUR: The Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway

Stretching 134 miles from La Grande to Baker, the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway makes a figure eight, with the city of Union in the middle.

PLAY: Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

A destination for fun and adventure in all seasons, from skiing to mountain biking.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

This byway extends from Baker City to La Grande the scenic way, along the majestic rim of Hells Canyon and through the rugged Wallowa Mountains.

ROAD TRIP THREE:

ELGIN TO ENTERPRISE TO JOSEPH EXPERIENCE: Chief Joseph Days

An annual rodeo and community celebration of Western entertainment.

TASTE: Terminal Gravity Brewing

Visit this iconic Oregon craft brewery and community gathering place.

41

NORTHEAST

LA GRANDE

ROAD TRIP ONE

UNION

LA GRANDE TO UNION TO NORTH POWDER TO HAINES TRAVEL THE BEAUTY OF THE GRANDE RONDE VALLEY, JOURNEY SOUTH THROUGH OREGON TRAIL COUNTRY, AND LAND IN THE TERRITORY OF THE THE ELKHORN RANGE. Named by an early French settler for its dramatic beauty, the city of La Grande lies east of the Blue Mountains and south of Pendleton. The Grande Ronde Valley was a waypoint on the Oregon Trail, and the Grande Ronde river is still a sustaining force for the community. Long before the pioneers, the Nez Perce and other local tribes made this rugged, stunning valley home.

NORTH POWDER HAINES

Grand Ronde River

Eastern Oregon University

A COLLEGE TOWN

LOCAL ARTS AND CRAFTS

Close to downtown La Grande is the Arts Center East, in a converted Carnegie Library, where artists and art enthusiasts find haven, taking in year-round gallery shows as well as classes. The center is a hub for the arts in Northeast Oregon, and a stop on the Art Trail of Northeast Oregon. Nearby is Boylan Studios and Birddog Glass, which share a renovated 1920s service station. Witness the creation of blown glass or take a class in the studio, and then take home a paperweight or ornament for a special souvenir. The blacksmiths at Northwest Skillet Company create artisan cookware from 42

copper and carbon steel. Visitors are welcome to their studio by appointment. At the Potter’s House, watch live kiln firing in action, and then purchase raku and stoneware momentos.

BEEF AND BREW

This is ranching country, so of course beef is on the menu.

The Hines Meat Company offers an old-fashioned meat counter and a window to the cut-room. Find Hines Meat Company’s meats cooked to order at Side A Brewing, which brews craft beer to couple with their delicious menu, featuring a wide variety of locally-sourced produce and baked goods. Mamacita’s International Grill, as the name might imply, offers international flare on their fare, including Wagyu beef. The Landing features a large variety of locally sourced food in a great environment. The Cafe at the Marketplace offers rooftop seating with great views.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP DENNIS FRATES / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Today, with a population of just over 13,000, La Grande, a charming small town, is home to Eastern Oregon’s only four-year university. Explore the Eastern Oregon University campus, including the Nightengale Gallery, featuring yearround exhibits of works made by students and regional artists. See the Italian Renaissance Revival Grand Staircase, which rises five tiers up a hillside. Catch numerous theater performances throughout the year at the McKenzie Theater.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ABOUNDS

La Grande is surrounded by natural beauty and the opportunity to play outdoors. Vast national forests, rivers and mountains make up the city’s backyard. From the waters of the Grande Ronde River to the peaks of the Blue Mountains, it would take a lifetime to explore all of the wild country this region has to offer.

ON THE WATER

Itching to do some fishing? Visit the La Grande shop Alpine Archery and Fly for the hottest flies and current information on local waters. Head to the Grande Ronde River for more than twenty miles of waters perfect for fishing. The river is famous for white water rafting and kayaking, too—grab gear and a guide at Oregon Whitewater Adventures.

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Just north of La Grande is Mount Emily Recreation Area, a nationally acclaimed motorized/non-motorized park with nearly 100 miles of trails, an abundance of birds and wildlife, a world-class archery range and free camping at Fox Hill Campground. In the warmer months, enjoy hiking, backpacking and mountain biking. Winter months bring backcountry skiing or snowshoeing. All year, enjoy all-terrain vehicle activities including snowmobiling, four-wheeling and dual sport biking.

Morgan Lake is just to the west of La Grande, located atop a mountain and perfect for rainbow trout fishing, camping, picnicking, paddle-boarding and gentle nature walks. South of town is Ladd Marsh Viewing Area, boasting over 6,000 acres of wetlands and uplands for viewing and wildlife preservation. The annual Bird Festival in March offers a week of activities for novice to expert birders. Ladd Marsh offers some areas for game hunting as well, in season.

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NATURAL AREAS IN ALL DIRECTIONS

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A TWO WHEELED TOUR

The Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway stretches 134 miles from La Grande to Baker, making a figure eight, with the city of Union in the middle. Remote open road, fragrant sage in the air and wide-open skies define this cyclist’s dream route, which passes by clear streams, serene farmlands and sweeping sagebrush rangelands.

SOAK IT UP, HOT SPRINGS STYLE

After a day of exploring, hiking or cycling, kick up your feet and relax at The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs, south of La Grande. A gathering place for its natural hot waters for hundreds of years, the property has recently been renovated to include modern lodging, five lakeside soaking pools, natural beauty in every direction, and plans for onsite pubs and restaurants. Nearby is the Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, which offers RV and tent sites, yurts for rent, and two mineral soaking pools of its own.

PHOTO TOP ERIC VALENTINE, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

Rafting the Grande Ronde River

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP ONE

ON TO UNION

The smell of fresh mountain air is abundant in Union County. Continue your journey between La Grande and Union by immersing yourself in the bounty of this rich agricultural region. The Union County Farm Trail offers fresh, healthy food, charming animals, friendly farmers and beautiful scenery.

UNION COUNTY FARM TRAIL

Charming Cove is just off the beaten path, on Highway 237. Attend the Eastern Oregon Beer Festival on the fourth Saturday in June, followed by the Union County Farm Trail Farm Crawl, held the fourth Sunday in June. The people of Cove grow apples, prunes, cherries and berries, and the town is home to Nella Mae’s Farmstand, where you can grab some of each.

Call in advance to visit the Grande Ronde Goat Dairy to experience a working dairy farm. The Platz Family Farm offers fresh produce from tomatoes to strawberries to corn. Cat’s Paw Farm in Union hand-crafts goat milk soaps, yarn and fiber products and provides chicken eggs, duck eggs, and meat chickens. Explore the farm loop on four wheels or two and bring along cash, as many farm stands are self-serve. The La Grande Farmers Market is another seasonal delight come summertime.

A NOD TO THE PAST

LORI SHIELDS AND JAN MARRS Co-owners, Almosta Farm, Cove

Born and raised in Western Oregon, we now raise Nigerian Dwarf goats and sell farm products including eggs, goats milk, honey, bee’s wax and produce. We did not want the hectic lifestyle or the weather of the west side of the state and found Northeast Oregon the perfect spot to raise our family.

We like it here because:

The friendly, small town atmosphere, and the great outdoors. We love everything from hiking the Minam River and catching glimpses of local wildlife, to foraging for huckleberries and wild mushrooms.

In Union, the Union County Museum is a glimpse of life into the rugged West. Meet the pioneers who explored, logged, chased bandits, drove cattle, plowed soil, dug for gold, sold calico and made this place home. The Historic Union Hotel is a vintage 1921 hostelry with rooms themed to various historic figures. Explore the historic building or relax in the parlor with other travelers.

Don’t miss a stop:

A SCENIC 18 HOLES

The Cook Memorial Library, Art Center East, and hiking the Minam River all come to mind as places that locals know best.

Union is home to Buffalo Peak Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole, inland links-style course owned and operated by the county. With spectacular vistas of three mountain ranges and the majestic Grande Ronde Valley, it’s a round of golf you won’t forget.

Locals love to visit:

Historic Union Hotel

PHOTO BOTTOM LEFT JONI KABANA, RIGHT LEON WERDINGER

Grande Ronde Goat Dairy

Visitors should definitely stop by the Tamastslikt Cultural Center in Pendleton, Side A Brewery, and The Oregon Trail sites, where you can see the ruts from the old wagons!

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Come Experience

THE RUGGED BEAUTY OF EASTERN OREGON

From the Heaven of the Eagle Caps, to the heat of Hells Canyon, it's like stepping back in time, the perfect adventure get-away. Enjoy luxury accommodations, great food and welcoming staff.

THE MAIN PLACE

PINE VALLEY LODGE

CORNUCOPIA LODGE

Halfway’s newest hot spot!

Lounge • Grill • Cafe Affordable Lodging

Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate, Let us spoil you!

Ride, Relax, Explore.

Oregon’s undiscovered gem.

Gateway to the Eagle Cap Wilderness

(541) 742-6246 146 Main Street, Halfway, Oregon

(541) 742-2027 | pvlodge.com 163 N Main Street, Halfway, Oregon

(541) 742-4500 | cornucopialodge.com 56994 Queen Mine Road, Halfway, Oregon

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

NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP ONE Anthony Lake and the Elkhorn Mountains

NORTH POWDER AND ANTHONY LAKES

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, nineteen miles west of North Powder, is a destination for fun and adventure in all seasons. Winter brings everything from alpine and Nordic skiing to snowshoeing, yurt camping and snowmobiling. With thousands of acres of lift-accessed terrain, 900 vertical feet of downhill and thirty kilometers of groomed Nordic trails, this is a ski outing not to be missed.

Anthony Lakes ski area boasts the highest base in Oregon at 7,100 feet. Light, dry powder is the norm, lines are short and the parking lot is rarely packed. Beginners will appreciate the magic carpet and the family-friendly atmosphere. More advanced riders will revel in 80 percent intermediate and expert terrain. Everyone will appreciate the majestic beauty of the mountains and forest.

BACKCOUNTRY SNOW CAT TOURS

Book a Snow Cat Tour through the resort for a full or half day of powder skiing in the surrounding backcountry. The cat carries up to twelve people. Access 2,000 acres of steeps, bowls and glades, covering 1,000 to 1,700 vertical feet per run.

Lunch and snacks are included in this guide-led adventure.

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LODGE LIFE

The full-service lodge at Anthony Lakes includes a café, bar, retail shop and rental shop. Order a regional microbrew and locally sourced foods at Starbottle Saloon.

During the winter season, the lodge is open from Thursday through Monday. Every Thursday, lift tickets are half price.

In the summer, the Starbottle is open Friday to Sunday.

SUMMER AT ANTHONY LAKES

During the summer and shoulder seasons, Anthony Lakes is a wonderland for mountain biking, hiking and backpacking. The guides at Range Tour & Shuttle Co., near Baker City, are singletrack experts who work in partnership with the Forest Service, BLM and the resort to cultivate the best trails. Pedal payoffs include panoramic views of Hoffer Lakes, Anthony Lake (yes, there is an actual lake), and Lee’s and Lakes Lookout peaks. The Broadway Flow downhill mountain bike trail is the resort’s newest treasure, with three miles of downhill and banked turns, with options for all riders. In March, don’t miss the Snow Blast, one of the largest fireworks displays in Eastern Oregon.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET LEON WERDINGER

WINTER AT ANTHONY LAKES

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South of Union where Highway 237 intersects with Interstate 84, you’ll find North Powder, the access point for the Elkhorn Mountains and year-round outdoor adventure. The Anthony Lakes area to the west of this small town comprises fifteen lakes and marshes nestled in and around the mountain peaks of the Elkhorn Mountains.

Churchill School in Baker City, OR

an Old School that is a Hub for Art, Music, Recreation and Lodging

Churchill School was built in 1925 Now it’s the place for Live Music, Art Studios, A Bike Hostel, The Homeroom #36, The Haunted Studios Every Weekend in October and More.

www.ChurchillBaker.com

for Lodging, Events, Art Studios and more

NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP ONE

STAY CLOSE TO THE ANTHONY LAKES ACTION

If you can’t bear to leave the powder or the mountain bike trails at Anthony Lakes Resort 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.

A RESPITE IN HAINES

Haines, the “biggest little town in Oregon,” sits just north of Baker City. In July, visit the Haines Stampede Rodeo, with rodeo royalty, cowboy breakfast and a beer garden. Fourth of July fireworks are on the docket, too. In August, attend the demolition derby. The Eastern Oregon Museum is located in the historic Haines High School Gymnasium and includes the the historic Union Pacific Train Depot. Interpreting the city’s mining, farm and ranch, and boomtown history, the museum also hosts a popular annual quilt show.

Anthony Lakes Resort

ROAD TRIP DINING

Located in the city of Haines where there is “whiskey in the water and gold in the streets,” the Haines Steak House is known for its famous slow cooked, tender and delicious prime rib and cast iron branded steaks. You can’t visit cattle country without enjoying a great steak here, near the beautiful Elkhorn Mountain Range en route to Baker City.

Haines Steak House

PHOTOS MIDDLE AND BOTTOM BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

Haines Stampede Rodeo

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

A scenic 18 hole golf course located in Historic Baker City, Oregon.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Cart & Club Rentals | Lessons available Restaurant | Bar | Event Space & more

Affordable Luxury

QuailRidgeBakerCity.com

(541) 523-2358

YOUR OUTDOOR RESOURCE IN DOWNTOWN BAKER CITY

Geiser Grand Your basecamp to explore the wonders of eastern Oregon!

Guest Suites with cozy robes, room service fitness center, fireplaces, breathtaking views

BIKES | SKIS SERVICE INFO & MORE

Great Food and Good Spirits daily locally sourced, from scratch Craft Cocktails in 1889 Bar Special Event Rooms up to 300 people FEATURING: Specialized Giant / Liv Scott Devinci Dakine Smith Rossignol ...and more 1828 Main Street Downtown Baker City, Oregon

(541) 523 - 1668

TheTrailheadBakerCity.com

Western Heritage Gift Shop Standing proudly on Main Street since 1889

541.523.1889 GeiserGrand.com

Historic Baker city, oregon

NORTHEAST

HALFWAY

ROAD TRIP TWO

RICHLAND SUMPTER

BAKER CITY

Sumpter Valley Railroad

SUMPTER TO BAKER CITY TO RICHLAND TO HALFWAY GOLD MINING HISTORY, BOOMTOWN STORIES AND THE MOST SPECTACULAR VIEWS INTO THE DEEPEST CANYON IN OREGON DEFINE THIS ROAD TRIP THERE’S GOLD IN THE HILLS

PHOTO TOP BAKER COUNTY TOURISM, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

Sumpter was founded as a gold rush town. This little place perched on the edge of the Blue Mountains exudes historical charm and has plenty of stories to tell of times gone past.

Visit the Sumpter area to experience 150-year-old history, rugged scenery, a flea market, ghost towns and remote and meandering trails through the woods.

ALL ABOARD!

A gold rush boom town called for a railroad, and so the railroad came. The Sumpter Valley Railroad was built to transport logs to the sawmill in Baker City. Today, experience the scenic Sumpter Valley via a ride for the whole family on the historic steam railroad. Open weekends in summer, the train rumbles through the scenic Wild West landscape just like it did a century ago.

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Sumpter Trading Post

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

HELLS CANYON ADVENTURES

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

BOOK THE YELLOW BOAT 800-422-3568

HELLSCANYONADVENTURES.COM

EASTERN OREGON POWDER AWAITS...

Baker Heritage Museum

FULL SERVICE DAY LODGE ALPINE & NORDIC YURT RENTALS CAT TRIPS

Open mid-March through October

...………. . .Featured Exhibits…………...

*Extraordinary Women of Baker County *Ranching *Wildlife *1900 Baker City *Rock & Mineral Exhibit

*Chinese Culture *Transportation *Wildlife *Wally Byam

Grove & Campbell, across from city park www.bakerheritagemuseum.com 541-523-9308

Adler House Museum Step into the past in this 1881 Italianate home of the Adler family.

Every room has original furnishings.

2305 Main Street Open Fridays & Saturdays mid-May to mid-September 541-523-9308

MOUNTAIN BIKING, HIKING, CAMPING & YEAR-ROUND FAMILY FUN!

AnthonyLakes.com

ROAD TRIP TWO

DIG UP THE PAST

Dredging for gold was one way the precious metal was extracted, and one of Sumpter Valley’s three original historic dredges still stands to this day. One of the nation’s oldest gold dredges and an important link to Oregon’s pioneering past, the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area is open to visitors in summer. Stop by the dredge, take a tour, walk the trails, and mine for gold. Visit the interpretive center and gift shop to learn more about this valley’s rich, golden history.

CRUISE ALONG TOWARDS BAKER

The Elkhorn Scenic Byway is one of the three Scenic Byways that connect in downtown Baker City. The byway offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s rich turn-ofthe-19th-century gold rush heritage and even offers a few ghost towns. Meandering through the spectacular Elkhorn Mountains, attractions include the Sumpter Valley Railroad, Sumpter Dredge State Park, the ghost town of Granite and Anthony Lakes Resort.

PEDAL INTO THE MOUNTAINS

Sumpter’s Flea Market is a legendary summer tradition.

Comb the streets for treasures sold by vendors, from antiques to jewelry to art. Book a room at The Depot Inn, conveniently located in the heart of downtown historic Sumpter.

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SUMMER SHOPPING SPREE

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Hiking and

Riding old gravel roads via bike is all the rage in the mountain biking community, and there are plenty of those around here in the old gold mining hills. Find trail systems at Phillips Lake near Sumpter for mountain biking, gravel riding and hiking.

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PHOTO BOTTOM GREG VAUGHN / VWPICS / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

NORTHEAST

Sumpter Valley Dredge

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Discover

SOME OF OREGON’S BEST

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN

Baker County

.

TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM

Ski

THE BEST POWDER IN OREGON WITHOUT

THE CROWDS IN

Baker County

.

PHOTO BY ALYSSA HENRY

TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM

ROAD TRIP TWO

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NORTHEAST

Ba Downtown Baker City

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A DOWNTOWN TOUR

Baker’s history and one-time wealth left behind glorious historic buildings.

Take a self-guided architectural tour with stops at charming businesses along the way. Begin at the fully restored grande dame of Baker City’s glitzy past and the cornerstone of downtown—the Geiser Grand Hotel.

Architectural details include a threestory cupola, ornate stained-glass ceilings, cavernous wine cellars, Victorian-style suites and upscale cuisine. Sign up for a guided tour on the weekends, or book a room for the night and see if the hotel is really haunted, as rumored.

Continue wandering downtown to discover the flavors of Baker City. A legendary craft brewery, Barley Brown’s Brewing Company’s beer competition medal holdings have reached triple digits. The taproom and brewpub both serve tasty food and more beers than you have fingers and toes to count them on. Start with the Pallet Jack IPA, which tops many “best” lists. At the award winning Glacier 45 Distillery, sip their hand crafted spirits including vodka, bourbon and gin.

Visit Copper Belt Winery’s tasting room on Main Street to sip on the products of the only winery on the Oregon side of the Snake River Valley AVA. There’s always beer on tap if wine tasting isn’t for you. Rain Barrel Ciderworks uses time-honored techniques to showcase the varietal flavors of fresh, sharp apples to make a refreshing local cider.

The light-filled gallery of upscale art and gourmet chocolate at Peterson’s Gallery and Chocolatier provides a true sensory delight. More local art can be found at Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, Churchill School and White House Art & Design. At BELLA Main Street Markets, seek out versatile and innovative kitchen items, wine, chocolate, fine linens and greeting cards, and is also home of the famous locally brewed Ruby D Tonic.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTOS TOP LEFT AND RIGHT ALEX JORDAN, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

Americana is at its finest in historic Baker City, voted one of Rand McNally’s six most beautiful small towns in America three years in a row. Baker City was a gold rush boom town in its own right, once known throughout the West as the “Metropolis of Eastern Oregon” and the “Queen City of the Inland Empire.”

A series of gold-mining booms in the late 1800s inundated the fair city with capital, and the quality of the 100-plus downtown structures on the National Historic Register reflect that influx. As a result, Baker City is home to one of the largest and most well-preserved historic districts in Oregon.

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FLAVORS OF MALT, BARLEY, GRAPES, APPLES AND CHOCOLATE

Geiser Grand Hotel

HISTORIC BAKER CITY

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Explore

MORE THAN 500 MILES OF

SNOWMOBILE TRAILS IN

Baker County

.

TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM

Indulge

YOUR INNER ARTIST AND MEET A

FEW OF OUR FAVORITES IN

Upcoming Events

FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH First Friday Art Walk

Baker City

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AUGUST 6TH

The Little Big Show BAKER CITY

BAKER CITY

TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM

AUGUST 12-15

We Like ‘em Short Film Festival BAKER CITY

NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP TWO

OF PIONEERS AND WAGON TRAINS

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Just east of Baker City, visit with pioneers at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center before taking a stroll in the original ruts of the Oregon Trail, first carved by wagons 175 years ago. The BLM-managed 500acre historic site offers exhibits, interpretive programs, living history and workshops, in addition to four miles of hiking trails.

Other highlights at the 23,000-square-foot hilltop facility include a full-scale wagon train diorama, a replica gold stamp mill and a gold panning demonstration area for the enjoyment of tourists and locals alike.

MODERN ARTS

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

RANCHER FOR A DAY

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

Baker City’s First Friday Art Walk

Cycling enthusiasts find plenty of backroads to explore, including the Hells Canyon, Journey Through Time, and Elkhorn Scenic byways and the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway. Cycling events include the Baker City Cycling Classic the last weekend of June each year. The event brings hundreds of road cyclists to the region to ride and race on scenic roads. Soaking up the history and beauty of the region doesn’t hurt either. If motorcycles are more your style, don’t miss the Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally, an official Harley-Davidson event which descends upon Baker City each July.

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

CYCLE TOUR TIME

Baker City Cycling Classic

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Upcoming Events

Saddle up

JUNE 19-20

FOR SOME OF THE BEST

RODEO ACTION IN

Oregon

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Hells Canyon Junior Rodeo HALFWAY

JULY 3-4

Haines Stampede

JULY 10-11

Haines Junior Stampede

JULY 16-17

Challenge of Campions Tour - Baker City Bronc and Bull Riding

SEPTEMBER 4-6

Baker County Fair and Panhandle Rodeo HALFWAY

SEPTEMBER 25-26

Last Hoorah Ranch Rodeo HAINES

TRAVELBAKERCOUNTY.COM

THE ELGIN OPERA HOUSE presents

OperaHouse.com for dates, times & details.

Visit Elgin e d Or red tickets online or at 541-663-6324 April 2021 Watch at Home

May 2021

The Boar, The Proposal, and Swan Song

Nov/Dec 2021

The Musical

IN A L ANDSCAPE: Classical Music in the Wild is a non-profit, outdoor concer t series where America’s most stunning landscapes replace the traditional concer t hall. We bring a 9-foot Steinway grand piano on a flatbed trailer for classical music concer ts that connect people to national parks, urban greenspaces, working ranches, farms, and historical sites. View our 2021 summer schedule at INAL ANDSCAPE.ORG.

Thank you to our Sponsors

SEE YOU OUT IN THE WILD!

La Grande Paint and Glass, Riverside Greens, Koza Family Dental, Community Bank, Elkhorn Media

Become a Member or Subscribe Today! Visit INALANDSCAPE.ORG for more info.

NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP TWO

INTO THE DEEPEST CANYON

Hells Canyon is tucked into the northeast corner of Oregon, and is defined by “dramatic” and “deep.” A glimpse of and a tour through North America’s deepest river canyon are not to be missed.

The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway encircles the Wallowa Mountains. The route extends from Baker City to La Grande around the back way, along the rim of Hells Canyon and through the rugged Wallowa Range. The 208-mile route is only open June to October in its entirety, and covers some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.

Meandering through rolling farmlands—showcasing sweeping views of the Wallowa and Elkhorn mountains—and following the winding Powder River before reaching the bottom of Hells Canyon, the route is about as dramatic as it gets.

MOUNTAIN TOWNS UNITE

experts at Hells Canyon Adventures, 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 aboard a whitewater tour with Hells Canyon Outfitters, which also offers fishing experiences.

Enjoy a day of fishing with spectacular views, like the one just below the Hells Canyon Dam on the Snake River.

IN SEARCH OF A VISTA

If getting down into the canyon isn’t an option, seek out one of three viewpoints worth the drive: the Buckhorn Overlook, Hat Point and Hells Canyon Overlook. Bring the camera and a sack lunch and enjoy a meal with one of the best views you’ll ever see.

Halfway Whimsical

PHOTO BOTTOM WITOLD SKRYPCZAK / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

The small towns of Halfway and Richland are jumping off points and home bases for the southern end of Hells Canyon.

Each offers a variety of lodging choices, restaurants, and other amenities. Enjoy the Halfway Whimsical artists’ co-op for local arts and the Main Place for burgers and beer. These two towns are home to numerous festivals including the Hells Canyon Jr. Rodeo, Eagle Valley Days, PineFest and the Richland Brownlee Panfishing tournament. 2021 is the 100th anniversary of the Baker County Fair and Panhandle Rodeo, held Labor Day weekend in Halfway.

JET BOAT OR WHITE WATER, ON THE RIVER WE GO

Line up a jet boat tour or rafting trip along the Snake River.

Explore the deepest river gorge in North America with the Black Point Overlook, Hells Canyon

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

EXPLORE BAKER CITY 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

DISCOVER THE OREGON TRAIL

Take a trip back in time and discover the extraordinary stories of bold pioneers who traveled 2,500 miles across largely uncharted territory in pursuit of a better life. Living history demonstrations, interpretive exhibits, and multimedia presentations bring their stories to life, as well as those of the miners and settlers who chose to make eastern Oregon their home. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center also offers historic wagon ruts, 4 miles of trails in a sagebrush ecosystem, and workings of a historic gold mine dating to the 1890s.

22267 OREGON HWY 86, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-1843 • OREGONTRAIL.BLM.GOV

FRIENDS OF THE SUMPTER VALLEY DREDGE

SUMPTER VALLEY RAILROAD

Sumpter Valley Dredge is one of the nation’s oldest gold dredges and an important link to Oregon’s pioneering past and development.

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

Photo courtesy of Oregon State Parks

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

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

Open daily May 1 – Oct 31. Interpretive Center open daily Mon-Thurs 10am - 4pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm, park open 8am-7pm.

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

BELLA MAIN STREET MARKET 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.

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

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

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 541-8936176 for rates and reservations.

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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

Please go to our web site for information and reservations at SumpterValleyRailroad.org.

(541) 894-2268 • SUMPTERVALLEYRAILROAD.ORG

CROSSROADS CARNEGIE ART CENTER

Enjoy Baker City’s Community Art Center housed in the restored 1909 Carnegie Library in the heart of Baker City Downtown. New art shows featuring local and regional artwork opening each month on First Friday.

Come join us when you can! Representing over 100 local artists, support local arts and culture-Search our shows and shop online at www.crossroads-arts.org 2020 AUBURN AVE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-5369 • CROSSROADS-ARTS.ORG

PETERSON’S CHOCOLATES

Peterson’s Chocolates offers a variety of handcrafted chocolates and confections in our beautifully renovated, historic store front. Relax at our comfortable chocolate bar while sipping on a mocha, latte or cappuccino made from handpressed espresso. Enjoy a selection of truffles, signature bars, drinking chocolate, rich brittles and smooth caramels, all produced on-site from the finest ingredients. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday though Sunday. Located right across the street from the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.

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

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NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP THREE ELGIN

ELGIN TO ENTERPRISE TO JOSEPH

ENTERPRISE

ROLL INTO THE WILD AND RUGGED WALLOWAS WITH A SCENIC TOUR THROUGH SMALL TOWNS LOADED WITH BEAUTY, ARTS AND ADVENTURE ON THIS ROAD TRIP.

JOSEPH Eagle Cap Excursion Train

Elgin Opera House

Located along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, Elgin sits in Indian Valley, nestled against a backdrop of mountains—the Wallowas to the east and the Blues to the west, with the Grande Ronde River flowing through.

ON THE TRACKS TO ADVENTURE

TURN OF THE CENTURY ENTERTAINMENT

The Elgin Opera House, a historic theater built in 1911, features live concerts and performances all year round. The beautifully restored, acoustically perfect theater is Elgin’s pride and joy, with exhibits interpreting history, too. The living west is also on display at The Elgin Stampede, with four days of PRCA rodeo action held alongside all kinds of related community event each summer.

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LODGE, HORSE, RIVER: MAGICAL WEEKEND

East of Elgin, in the small town of Minam, visit the Minam Store for retail food shopping, to book a fishing or a guided rafting trip, or to visit AK’s Provisions, a food truck that offers from-scratch, made-to-order food.

Pack out of Minam and into the wilderness with Del Sol Wilderness Adventures. Horseback riders are in the company of folks who’ve spent thirty years training horses and trekking the Minam and Snake River trails. The Minam River Lodge is an escape for the wilderness lover. Fly, hike or ride in to rustic luxury in the wilderness. Old-world craftsmanship is apparent in the modern lodge, and cabins include many original materials used to build the retreat in the mid-20th century.

Guests can lounge in the wood-fired hot tub, ride horses and eat delicious meals crafted from locally-sourced ingredients.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP LEON WERDINGER

A roadless stretch of track between Elgin and Minam is home to the Eagle Cap Excursion Train. Hop aboard this serene ride as the train passes through a spectacular scenic landscape as it follows the Grande Ronde River downstream, then turns up the Wild and Scenic Wallowa River. Some rides are themed, including the train robberies, with bandits on horses robbing the train. Others are simply intended to enjoy the landscape.

MOUNTAIN VIEW MOTEL & RV PARK

come stay at

THE INDIAN LODGE MOTEL A 16 unit motel with a beautiful view of the Wallowa Mountains. We are located on the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway in Joseph Oregon and just a little over a mile from Wallowa Lake. Our quaint vintage Classic Motor lodge was built by the famous actor Walter Brennan. It is an easy walk to all the shops, galleries and restaurants, as well as the beautiful Bronze Art Walk along Joseph’s Main Street.

201 SOUTH MAIN, JOSEPH, OREGON (541) 432-2651 | INDIANLODGEMOTEL.COM Nestled at the foot of the breathtaking Wallowa Mountains, the Mountain View Motel & RV Park is ranked among the best places to stay near Joseph, Oregon.

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• AAA Inspector’s Best of Housekeeping Award Rated #1 of 4 Joseph Hotels by Trip Advisor since 2017

https://www.mtviewmotel-rvpark.com 83450 JOSEPH HWY, JOSEPH, OR 97846 BOOK DIRECT AT 541-432-2982

Gear up for Adventure!

Stock up on all your food and river essentials for your raft and fishing trip at the Minam Store. We specialize in guided fly fishing trips on the Wallowa, Grande Ronde, Lower Salmon River, and Snake River through Hells Canyon, and sell a full selection of fly fishing gear. We also offer raft rentals and vehicle shuttles. Onsite, eat at Andrae’s Kitchen offering breakfast and lunch from their food truck with outdoor patio seating nearby.

Book the Wine & Food trip featured in Food and Wine Magazine, with multi-course dinners riverside each night with local Walla Walla wine for the finishing touch. Some people describe our trip as “glamping,” we just call it a great river trip with the best food, wine, and camping gear you will find on a river.

Guided FLY FISHING | Guided RAFTING TRIPS | Raft RENTALS & SHUTTLE 541-437-1111 • MINAMSTORE.COM

| WINE & FOOD TRIP

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ROAD TRIP THREE

ON THE TRAIL OF CHIEF JOSEPH

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

The Blonde Strawberry in Wallowa serves breakfast, coffee and specialty drinks, as well as made-to-order cakes and pies. Fill up on provisions before your grand wilderness adventure to come.

THE WILDERNESS AWAITS

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. Exposed granite peaks and ridges all provide an endless opportunity for any type of outdoor recreation, whether it’s hunting, biking, water skiing, horse riding, hiking, camping, fishing, scenic drives and so much more. The biodiversity of landscape is vast, and all of it is wild and remote. Much of Wallowa County’s land is federally protected, and thus, pristine.

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Grab lunch in Lostine at the M. Crow & Company General Store, where pizza, beer, and groceries are available in a historic building. Stop for one last espresso or latte at the Blue Banana before heading into the Lostine Canyon to Two Pan Trailhead, which provides access to Lakes Basin and is en route to any number of backcountry trips into the WallowaWhitman National Forest.

If you’ve brought your mountain bike along, locate the Redmont and Wagon Road Trail Network. Cyclists may choose from several loops, ranging from seven to more than 20 miles long, through heavily forested mountainous terrain.

Breaks in the trees along the trail reveal views of the Wallowa and Seven Devils mountain ranges.

PHOTO TOP PHILIP SCALIA / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

Eagle Cap Wilderness

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP THREE

A WORTHY ENTERPRISE

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-ofthe-art hospital, Enterprise is the hub for getting things done in the county.

Wallowa County Courthouse

A VICTORIAN GATHERING PLACE

Built in 1909 and 1910 using locally quarried stone, the Wallowa County Courthouse is a massive structure in the high Victorian style. The building is the seat of government and houses offices, but it is a community gathering place too.

Every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. during the summer season, blankets and lawn chairs dot the lawn of the courthouse for the Courthouse Concert Series.

Bring a picnic and relax with the entire family—this event is fun for all ages. Also in the vicinity is the O.K. Theatre, built in 1919 and now with a new life as a music venue, bringing in big acts and hosting live music and theatre performances.

LOCAL BITES

Grab a beer and a meal at Terminal Gravity Brewing, where locals and visitors intersect over award-winning beer at an iconic Oregon craft brewery. Fuel up with a meal at local restaurants Red Rooster Cafe, Heavenly’s or La Laguna.

Satisfy your sweet tooth or grab lunch from the offerings at Sugar Time Bakery.

Terminal Gravity Brewing

FOUNDRY TOUR

Two mainstay bronze foundries are in Enterprise: Parks Bronze and TW Bronze. Call for information about visiting both foundries for tours and gallery gazing. Learn about the dozen-step fabrication process and marvel at the magnificent detail that emerges when a cast is turned into a finished sculpture. Statues from both foundries are on display throughout the country and the world.

Wild Carrot Herbals

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

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PHOTO TOP ALEX JORDAN, OTHERS TALIA JEAN

Favorite Finds on Main Antiques is a treasure trove. At Red Rose Boutique you will find a variety of apparel, gifts, and more. Shop for botanical beauty products at Wild Carrot Herbals, where items are very place-based and inspired by the beauty and the plant communities of the region. At the Bookloft and Skylight Gallery, the hand-carved screen door is a portal to literary bliss and art admiration. This pint-sized bookstore, coffee shop and gallery of local artists’ works is a worthy stop.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

EXPLORE ENTERPRISE AND MORE BUSINESS NAME BUSINESS F NAME

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66098 GOLF COURSE ROAD, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3246 GOLFALPINEMEADOWS.COM 2845 HUGHES LANE, BAKER CITY, 97814 • (541) 523-4824 • MTVIEWRV.COM

SUGAR TIME BAKERY • • • • • • •

Breakfast Brunch Lunch Adult Beverages Decadent Desserts Catering Wedding Dessert Specialists

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

MINAM RIVER LODGE

Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s spectacular Eagle Cap Wilderness, the Minam River Lodge offers a unique escape in one of the state’s most beautiful natural areas. This former beloved hunting lodge has been completely rebuilt as a cozy wilderness hideaway, far from civilization or roads. Guests can reach us by a pleasant 8.5-mile hike, a horseback ride that we can help you arrange, or a quick charter flight to our private grass airstrip from the nearby town of Enterprise.

Stroll from the magnificently crafted Lodge down to the wild and scenic Minam River, which has the rare distinction of being considered nearly pristine. Explore one of the many scenic hiking trails in the area. Catch a glimpse of amazing wildlife from bald eagles to spawning salmon. Or just kick back and enjoy great wilderness cuisine featuring the bounty of our own garden.

(541) 508-1373 • MINAM-LODGE.COM

THE BOOKLOFT & SKYLIGHT GALLERY & COFFEE BAR We carry books for all ages and interests and specialize in Wallowa County history.

Our art gallery features a variety of selections from local photographers, potters, glass blowers, fiber artists, jewelers and other unique offerings.

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

EAGLE’S VIEW INN & SUITES

Located atop the hill above Enterprise with a spectacular view of the Wallowa Mountains. Well-appointed rooms, and a pool and spa will welcome you.

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

FAVORITE FINDS ON MAIN ANTIQUES

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

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

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NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP THREE The Wallowa Valley Barn Tour

Barking Mad Farm Bed and Breakfast

FARM ANTIQUES

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

FARM STAYS AND ROOMS WITH A VIEW

The working farm setting at Barking Mad Farm Bed and Breakfast couldn’t be more idyllic; grazing buffalo, uninterrupted mountain views, adorable farm animals, a gourmet breakfast and a wraparound porch with an uninterrupted view of the Wallowa Mountains await you here.

Eagle’s View Inn & Suites is located atop the hill above Enterprise with a spectacular view of the Wallowa Mountains.

Well-appointed rooms and a pool and spa will welcome you.

Set on two acres just north of Joseph is The Depot, a unique farm stay with lodging options ranging from a vintage train caboose, camper trailer or yurt. Enjoy a morning brew from the onsite coffeeshop with a view of the mountains.

SWING, CRANK OR PADDLE

Wildlife roam the course at Alpine Meadows Golf Course, a 9-hole public course offering a challenge with views of the Wallowas. At the Joseph Branch Railriders, one-of-a-kind pedal-powered vehicles allow riders to journey the Historic Joseph Branch Railroad between Enterprise and Joseph or Minam and Wallowa. You can also rent a clear-bottom kayak from JO Paddle to paddle around Wallowa Lake.

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WALLOWA VALLEY BARN TOUR

In the early 2000s, the Wallowa Valley Photo Club published two barn books to celebrate the iconic structures. The excursion has been revived, with a brochure detailing thirty-plus barns and historic sites on a self-guided tour. The Wallowa Valley Barn Tour includes a bike route and an early pioneer account of the county’s north end settlements, Flora and Troy. However you approach the tour, it’s guaranteed to be rugged, nostalgic and full of beautiful views.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Artisans of Wallowa County

JOSEPHY CENTER FOR ARTS AND CULTURE

STEWART JONES DESIGNS

39th Annual Wallowa Valley Festival of Arts.

September 16-19.

En Plein Air commotion & art reception. The Big Night Opening Reception. Quick Draw Competition. Silent Auction.

Summer Arts Classic Concert. Live Music - Awards - Art Classes - Art Demos

Relocating to rual Joseph, Stewart will continue to offer custom jewelry design, as well as redesign of existing pieces and expert repairs. His new studio is located one half mile off Hwy 82. Swiss rose engine lathe tours will continue to be available. Culture Trip’s website designated Stewart Jones one of the 8 Most Notable Artists of Joseph. Text or phone for an appointment and directions.

541 4320505 | JOSEPHY.ORG

541 7867159 | STEWARTJONESDESIGNS.COM

PHINNEY GALLERY OF FINE ART

KELLY’S GALLERY & BARN BOUTIQUE

A haven for artistic expression and a favored destination for discerning art collectors. At the Phinney Gallery, our visitors will enjoy a varied display of creations from some of the finest artists in the Northwest with reputations that extend far beyond. Please feel welcome to contact the experienced staff or stop in to enjoy.

In business for over 25 years, sophisticated and fun, Kelly’s Gallery offers something special for both the seasoned collector and new art enthusiasts alike! Beautiful one of a kind works, like the original scratchboard in color shown above by artist Debra Otterstein, aka The Feather Artist, affordable gifts and friendly customer service! Call us today or visit our website.

541 2312977 | PHINNEYGALLERY.COM

541 3982328 | KELLYSGALLERYATJOSEPH.COM

A FULL LIST OF ARTISANS CAN BE FOUND AT WALLOWACOUNTYCHAMBER.COM/ARTS

ROAD TRIP THREE

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Valley Bronze Gallery

Chief Joseph bronze sculpture

OREGON’S ARTSIEST TOWN

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

ON THE ARTS TRAIL

Learn more about Joseph’s art-centric approach to life at the Josephy Center, and its Library of Western History and Culture, a gathering place for arts. The 68

Center hosts regular art exhibits, artist lectures, musical performances, films, art classes and workshops. In September, don’t miss the Annual Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts.

The Northeast Oregon Arts Trail is a collective of arts centers, galleries, theaters and public art spotlighting a vibrant range of artistic mediums and cultural events region wide. Travelers can cover the entire 225-mile scenic route in less than five hours, but advocates recommend that folks slow down and take it section-by-section.

One of the nation’s leading sculpture communities has evolved here. Joseph is named Oregon’s first designated Art & Culture town. The beginning of this venture was quite an accident. Glen Anderson, a retired businessman, got a great deal on an empty building.

A few local sculptors suggested that a bronze foundry would be to their great convenience. Persuaded by the possibilities, Valley Bronze of Oregon was born, initiating a world-class collective for artistic bronze casting.

The namesake gallery accompanies several other top-notch galleries in town, including Aspen Grove, the Josephy Center, Kelly’s Gallery & Barn Boutique, David Brunkow Photography, Lamb Trading Company and the Phinney Gallery of Fine Art. Within short walking distance art lovers will enjoy a wide range of art, including bronze sculpture, original oils, watercolors, pastels, fine art photography and exquisite jewelry.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO LEFT ELLEN MORRIS BISHOP, BOTTOM RIGHT LEON WERDINGER

A HISTORY CAST IN BRONZE

EXPLORE JOSEPH BUSINESS NAME

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

BUSINESS NAME

KOKANEE INN

Kokanee Inn offers eclectic and modern bed and breakfast accommodations.

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

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Exhibits | Classes | Concerts| Festival of Arts | Lectures | Library of Western History & Culture | Art Shop - Specializing in Local Artists

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

KOKANEE INN BIKE RENTAL

Mountain bike rentals - enjoy the back roads, trails, and views of the Wallowa Mountains.

Our Fuji Adventure 27.5 bikes are available in 3 sizes; and fee based shuttle to the Lake and other popular destinations.” Reserve online or call.

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

403 N. MAIN ST., JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-0505 • JOSEPHY.ORG

BRONZE ANTLER BED & BREAKFAST • • • • • •

Full breakfast daily En-suite bath in every room Walking distance to downtown Joseph Complimentary electric car charging Outdoor sitting areas and bocce court Fully restored Arts & Crafts Home

309 S MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-0230 • BRONZEANTLER.COM

THE OUTLAW RESTAURANT

Must order prior to arrival; see website for details.

The Outlaw is a family-friendly restaurant located on Main Street, providing a warm and friendly atmosphere for families and friends. We also offer a perfect setting for small or large groups to enjoy quality food and drink. The Outlaw offers comfort food such as burgers, fajitas, and chicken fried steaks. We are well known for our salads; served with a large selection of dressing. Enjoy a frosty beer as well as our popular Long Island iced teas served cowboy style in a frozen boot mug in the saloon or the dining room. There is also a wonderful outdoor patio with a beautiful view of the mountains.

(541) 406-0831 • WWW.GWCPROVISIONS.COM

108 N. MAIN, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-4321 • THEOUTLAWRESTAURANT.COM

GENUINE WALLOWA COUNTY PROVISIONS

Want to sample the bounty of Wallowa County? Order locally grown food, and we will bring it to your cabin or campsite! We carry: Stangel Bison Ranch • Hawkins Sisters Ranch • Prairie Creek Farm • And many more!

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP THREE

THE FLAVORS OF JOSEPH

CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS

Launched in 1946, Chief Joseph Days has grown to become one of the largest community rodeos in the Northwest. The event more than doubles the population of Wallowa County for the week. The festivities include a Nez Perce encampment and pow wow, parades for children and adults, dances, a golf tournament and a cowboy church service. Six days of Western entertainment are kicked off each year by a bucking horse stampede, which runs right down Main Street in Joseph.

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

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Cap a day in this charming town by relaxing at the Outlaw Restaurant and Saloon. This family-friendly establishment is done up in western decor, with outdoor seating that reveals an outstanding view of Chief Joseph, the mountain peak in the Wallowa Range, from the deck. The Dog Spot features a globe-trotting rotating menu. Feel free to have your furry companion join you at an outside table. The Blythe Cricket is a bistro featuring omelettes, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and Old Town Café offers hearty homestyle breakfast and lunch. Visit long-time local favorite, the Cheyenne Cafe, for an old-fashioned breakfast or lunch. Embers Brewhouse offers 17 rotating micro-brews on tap along with pizza and wings.

Your meal at Embers can be enjoyed outside with a view of the mountains and occasional live music in the summer.

At Arrowhead Chocolates, see chocolatiers work their magic where the air smells of Stumptown coffee and sweets. Stein Distillery opened its doors in 2009, pioneering handcrafted micro-distilled spirits in Eastern Oregon. Every step is done by hand, from grain growth to harvest to fermenting, distilling, filtering and bottling. Visit their tasting room on Main Street in Joseph to try award-winning rum, vodka, cordials, whiskey and bourbon. Cocktails and flights are on hand, as well, from the spirited rhubarb lemonade to the whiskey mule.

The Dog Spot

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTOS LEFT AND BOTTOM TALIA JEAN

Arrowhead Chocolates

EXPLORE WALLOWA COUNTY EVENTS MAIN STREET SHOW & SHINE

Friday the participants will be cruising down to Imnaha Store & Tavern for lunch. Friday evening there will be music in Warde Park. Saturday morning the Enterprise Elks Lodge will be serving breakfast on Main Street. Saturday from 9am to 3pm cars will be lined up on Main Street in Enterprise for a Show & Shine. Awards, made by local artisans, will be given out on Saturday at 2:30pm. After the awards there will be a cruise by the local Senior Centers. So come join us for a fun filled weekend in beautiful Wallowa County. Spectators are free. To join the fun register your vehicle now.

311 WEST MAIN STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-2100 MAINSTREETSHOWANDSHINE.COM

SUMMER FISHTRAP 2021

Join us for the 34th Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers, July 12-17, 2021, featuring weeklong workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, children’s literature, essay, and special workshops just for youth. Daily readings are free and open to the public. Visit fishtrap.org to learn more.

400 EAST GRANT STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3623 • FISHTRAP.ORG

WALLOWA COUNTY FAIR

Located in Enterprise, you won’t find a better place to host your events than on our grounds. From family gatherings to major events, our indoor and outdoor meeting places are sure to fit your needs - and you’ll be pleased by our rates!

Don’t miss our COUNTY FAIR Aug. 6-14, 2021 and our new event FAIR LIGHTS in December.

Thanks to our friends at Thompson Auto Supply and Favorite Finds on Main for sponsoring our ad.

668 NW FIRST STREET, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-4097 CO.WALLOWA.OR.US/COMMUNITY-SERVICES/COUNTY-FAIR/

WALLOWA MOUNTAIN CRUISE

August 27 and 28th, 2021. Party for cruisers on the 27th. Cruise Show is on MAIN STREET Joseph Oregon from 9am to 3pm on August 28th. For 31 years our town has been blessed with the incredible “Oregon Mountain Cruise”. We would like to thank the Garrett’s, The Tuschhoff Family and all the dedicated volunteers who organized this wonderful show for three decades. The Wallowa Mountain Cruise is still happening in beautiful Joseph, Oregon. Everyone is loving the August weather in Wallowa County.

JOESPH, 97846 • (503) 781-5545 • WALLOWAMOUNTAINCRUISE.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

COME TO CHIEF JOSEPH DAYS!

Join us and celebrate 75 years of Chief Joseph Days Rodeo July 27-August 1 in scenic Joseph! Enjoy four nights of award-winning PRCA rodeo, plus music and dancing at the Thunder Room. Nez Perce Friendship Feast, Grande Parade on Main St., outdoor fun at Wallowa Lake and more!

Check website and facebook for Covid updates. Come feel the thunder, buy your tickets today!

401 N. MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-1015 • CHIEFJOSEPHDAYS.COM

OREGON’S ALPENFEST

Enjoy a glorious autumn vacation exploring the wonderful Wallowas with all their outdoor and art-related attractions. Climax? Oregon’s Alpenfest featuring Mollie B & SqueezeBox September 23-26. Have a rousing good time with hearty German cuisine, artisan beers, Alpine folk dancers, alphorns, accordionists, Swiss yodeling, shopping at the Alpine Fair and free polka lessons. Recording artists Mollie Busta and her husband Ted Lange are International Polka Association Hall of Famers. With their band, they provide an exuberant, entertaining show.

HARLEY TUCKER RODEO GROUNDS, 405 W. WALLOWA AVE., JOSEPH 97846 • (541) 426-2577 OREGONALPENFEST.COM

BACK COUNTRY BASH

Back Country Bash is a weekend of Americana/ Red Dirt music set in the breathtaking town of Joseph, Oregon during August 6th and 7th. With two full nights of music, 6 bands, onsite camping, vendors, and an After Party Breakfast all hosted at the Harley Tucker Memorial Rodeo Grounds, this is one festival you don’t want to miss!

Hike, shop, or take a dip in Wallowa Lake by day and then dance in the arena to some of the biggest names in Red Dirt Music by night.

It’s why we say….COME FOR THE MUSIC, STAY FOR THE ADVENTURE!

401 N. MAIN STREET, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-1015 • BACKCOUNTRYBASHJOSEPH.COM

HELLS CANYON MULE DAYS

IT’S OUR 41ST!!! Let the Good Times and Family Fun Begin!!! ­­­Hells Canyon Mule Days will be celebrating Mules and Muleskinners on the weekend after Labor Day, September 10-11-12.

Mule events for all ages & skill level. Artisans & Western Gear Exhibitors, Cowboy Poetry, NonMotorized Parade, Pit B-B-Q Dinner, PT Mule Sale, Cowboy Church, and D.O. Cook-Off. Saturday night concert with Dave Stamey at the historic OK Theatre in downtown Enterprise.

P. O. BOX 50, ENTERPRISE, 97828 • (541) 426-3271 • HELLSCANYONMULEDAYS.COM

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ROAD TRIP THREE

WALLOWA LAKE FOR BEAUTY, HISTORY AND LODGING

Wallowa Lake Lodge

PHOTO BOTTOM ALEX JORDAN

A mile south of Joseph is Wallowa Lake, known for natural beauty, rich history as a sacred Native American homeland and present-day site for recreation and adventure. Carved by glaciers, 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 forest as the largest concentration of 9,000-foot peaks in the state.

At the south end of Wallowa Lake, the historic Wallowa Lake Lodge, built in 1922, is a nostalgia-inducing building located at the head of the lake on eight forested acres adjacent to Wallowa Lake State Park. At the Wallowa Lake Marina, enjoy your time on the water by renting a boat, kayak, paddleboard or canoe. Local investors worked with the Nez Perce Tribe, which now holds a conservation easement, to leave the site as visitors have enjoyed it for decades. The large, rustic lodge, fine dining restaurant and cabins are located within walking distance to attractions in the family-friendly village, which offers lodging, eateries, gift shops, dining, a horseback outfitter, kayak tours, SUP rentals and go-carts. Eagle Cap Chalets are another terrific lodging option, with more familyfriendly amenities to enjoy, from mini-golf to mountain berry milkshakes. Want to stay in your very own home-away-from home right on the water? See the beautiful homes on offer from Wallowa Lake Vacation Rentals or book your cozy cabin with Wallowa Lake Resort. At Mt. Pines Adventure Golf in the Matterhorn Village, enjoy a premier 18-hole miniature golf course among the pine trees.

The Bavarian influence culminates at the lake annually in September with Oregon’s Alpenfest. Make a reservation at Vali’s, a second-generation establishment serving Hungarian dishes. Ascend, gondola style, on the Wallowa Lake Tramway—the steepest gondola in the country (cabin cars glide nearly 4,000 vertical feet up the flank of Mt. Howard).

Explore two-and-a-half miles of easy trails from the 8,150foot summit, where you can see all the way to Idaho’s Seven Devils on a clear day. Take a breather at Summit Grill, which offers table service dining with drop dead views.

Wallowa Lake Tramway

Wallowa Lake

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

EXPLORE WALLOWA LAKE BUSINESS NAME

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

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

• Exceptional customer service • Stand up paddle board and kayak rentals • Pet friendly/lake front homes/private homes • CSA travel and damage insurance • Concierge service • Gift certificates

We genuinely care about your trip. Book your fun today!

Contact Chad & Cindi Aschenbrenner

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

EAGLE CAP CHALETS

Located halfway between Wallowa Lake and the hiking trailhead, you can be at the center of all the summer fun at Wallowa Lake! The tramway, go carts, pack station and restaurants are within easy walking distance. Enjoy one of our famous mountain berry shakes at the snack shack or a smoothie or latte in the coffee shop.

Browse the local handcrafted items in our gift shop. Relax by the pool and hot tub.

Take a swing at our historic and challenging mini-golf course.

We have been extensively remodeling all our units. This summer we are pleased to present our newly remodeled chalet (motel) rooms! All our units have air conditioning. All our condos and most of our cabins have full kitchens and fireplaces. Some of our units are pet friendly. Give us a call to find out what is available for you!

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

WALLOWA LAKE TRAMWAY

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

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

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

GLACIER RIDGE BAR, GRILL

We are pleased to welcome you to the Glacier Ridge Bar, Grill and General Store at Wallowa Lake. We offer friendly service in a setting that let’s you appreciate the magic of the Wallowas that people come from far and wide to experience. Our family owned and operated facilities have been recently remodeled, with a refurbished kitchen and exciting new menus for drinks and meals. We offer BLD, a full bar, large wine selection, and local microbrew beers on tap. Our daily specials range from smoked tri-tip to grilled mahi.

Drop in and enjoy our unique location . We look forward to your visit!

72784 MARINA LN, JOSEPH, 97846 • (541) 432-9292 • GLACIERRIDGEBARGRILL.COM

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NORTHEAST

ROAD TRIP THREE

View of Wallowa Lake from East Moraine Trail

WALLOWA LAKE WILDERNESS OPPORTUNITIES

The Wallowa Lake Pack Station supports adventure seekers in a variety of ways. The station offers horseback rides in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, gear drop services for backpackers, deluxe pack and wilderness trip options. Winding Waters River Expeditions delivers white water rafting and fly fishing trips on the Snake River through Hells Canyon and Grande Ronde.

The Chief Joseph Trail, the Aneroid Lake (East Fork) Trail, and the West Fork Trail are the three main paths into wilderness from the Wallowa Lake area. Three other popular trails, Chief Joseph, BC Falls and Ice Lake branch from the West Fork Trail.

Each provides the opportunity to day hike, trail run, horseback or backpack to one’s own ability. Easily reached vistas, wildflowers, and stunning mountain views are readily available for the casual hiker from this busy trailhead. The East Moraine Hike is your chance for the best views of Wallowa Lake and the Wallowa Mountains in a day hike. North of the lake, visit the burial site of Old Chief Joseph, father of the leader of the Wallowa band of the Nez Perce Tribe.

AND SOME CULTURE TOO

Circle back to Joseph and take in these three cultural gems. The Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center collects, preserves, and interprets the history of the logging community of Maxville.

At the Wallowa County Museum, view items of historical significance from Wallowa County’s past.

At Wallowology Natural History Discover Center, participants are invited to discover Eastern Oregon’s lands and waters through exhibits, workshops and presentations by scientists, artists and others.

PHOTO RIGHT LEON WERDINGER, INSET DORLING KINDERSLEY LTD / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Wallowa County Museum

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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Excursion Train

THE LANDING H OT E L

AND

DINING

Beside the Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers

eaglecaptrainrides.com

Themes include Bandits, Fall Colors and the new Two Rivers - Two Towns Book online or contact us for planning assistance.

Elgin, Oregon

SEE WHAT’S POSSIBLE THE EASTERN EDGE eou.edu OREGON’S RURAL UNIVERSITY

541.437.3652

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

Come eat, drink and find happy.

Open Daily 7am-9pm Breakfast 7:30am-10:30am Dinner 5pm-8pm

1501 ADAMS AVE, LA GRANDE • (541) 663–1501 LAGRANDELANDINGHOTEL.COM

EXPLORE UNION COUNTY

Travel the Seasons. Passport to Endless Adventures.

A Lifetime of Memories.

- VisitUnionCounty.org - 541.963.8588 THE CITY OF UNION

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

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

WILLOW CREEK HORSE B&B

We offer an eastern Oregon fullservice bed and breakfast for you and your horses. Whether you are looking for new places to trail ride, camp or hike, or are just passing through, we can put you up in comfort and safety. Mountain trail riding begins when the snow is gone, in June.

Accommodations have been made to our services to prevent spread of the coronavirus. In addition to indoor rooms, we have areas for your RV or living-space horse trailer. Relax after your day ride and enjoy the comfort of a real bed, yours or mine!

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

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Beautiful Historic Union OR Home of Buffalo Peak Golf Course, the Cowboy’s Now and Then Museum, the Historic Union Hotel and just minutes away from the Great Outdoors!

Hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, hunting, great food and great people!!

Get away and enjoy beauty beyond compare in NE Oregon. Celebrate America’s birthday with us on July 4th! WHERE ADVENTURE BEGINS! (541) 786-1492 • UNIONCHAMBER@EONI.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, Pioneer Cabin, the General Store and so much more. See the website for special events.

Test your knowledge of the cowboy code of conduct!

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

EXPLORE LA GRANDE NATURE’S PANTRY

Leading our community to vibrant health through nutrition, supplementation, service, education and healthy lifestyle choices since 1986. Natural Foods, Vitamins and Supplements, Organic Produce, Bulk Foods, Juice Bar and Deli, Great Service & Expertise, Nutrition Consultations, Online Shopping.

Your health is our mission because you are worth it!

1907 4TH ST, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 963-7955 • NATURESPANTRY.LIFE

COOK MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Located in the heart of the La Grande Commercial Historic District, Cook Memorial Library creates an engaged community where curiosity is cultivated, literacy flourishes, and democratic ideals thrive. What began as a simple reading room in 1912 has grown to include a vast catalog of traditional materials along with the latest digital media, research & educational tools, and community programs. Residents & visitors alike will find services that include public-use computers, free WiFi, in-library & remote printing, programs for all ages, a Little Free Library, a Little Free Food Pantry, and much more.

2006 FOURTH ST, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 962-1339 • COOKMEMORIALLIBRARY.ORG

#EOFF2021 : FILM FESTIVAL

October 21-23 in downtown La Grande, Oregon.

The Twelfth Annual Eastern Oregon Film Festival will feature the unveiling of the recently restored Liberty Theater as the festival’s premiere cinema venue.

Additional screenings, conversations, and afterparies throughout the weekend take place at HQ, a downtown creative space, Eastern Oregon University and other partnering venues. The festival features 40+ Independent Films, three nights of afterparties featuring regional musicians, community conversations, filmmaker panels, as well as group explorations of the cinematic landscapes & seasons of our region. Program, pass & ticket information found online. EOFF’s office is open daily for production inquiry, program development, and community engagement.

112 DEPOT STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 612-0551 • EOFILMFEST.COM

THE POTTER’S HOUSE GALLERY

The Potter’s Gift House & Gallery provides a unique experience in extraordinary decorating, lifestyle, art and hospitality.

Based in La Grande, Oregon, The Potter’s Gift House is the home and studio of Bob Jensen, a retired art teacher. Bob is a potter and water colorist who turned his passion into a business. His wife Judy is the creative mind behind all of the up-cycled furniture pieces filling the gallery. Located at the corner of 6th and Penn in La Grande.

1601 6TH STREET, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 910-0550 • THEPOTTERSHOUSEGALLERY.COM

BIRDDOG GLASS

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

702 ADAMS AVENUE, LA GRANDE, 97850 • (541) 605-0279

HINES MEAT COMPANY

Hines Meat Company now proudly serves Eastern Oregon in two locations, Pendleton and LaGrande. Find the very best for your everyday and special occasions in our old fashioned meat market. The very best meat cut daily by our butchers. And you’re sure to enjoy the “candy shop for adults” of all in-house smoked meats of pepperoni, jerky, landjaeger, and much more of house-made everything.

Join us every Friday at noon for House smoked BBQ of brisket, ribs, tritip, smoked chicken, and more. If you’re in need of custom cutting services for domestic or wild game, be sure to call our LaGrande store!

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

MOUNT EMILY RECREATION AREA

BELLA MERCANTILE

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

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

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

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

MEETMERA.ORG

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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

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OREGON’ S RUGGED COUNTRY AGRICULTURE • NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE • WINE • WHISKEY • RODEO • CASINO • OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Oregon’s Rugged Country celebrates agriculture, outdoor adventure and a rich history. Follow a food trail to see fertile farms that produce everything from wheat to watermelons. The Rocks District AVA grows some of the best grapes in the Northwest, and hops for craft brews and grains for spirits also spring from this soil. In Pendleton, a rich Native American heritage meets cowboy and ranching culture, and wool and whiskey have grown to commended brands. Did we mention a nationally acclaimed rodeo? Umatilla National Forest is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground.

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PHOTO JONI KABANA

Miles of rolling hills call for cyclists and riverfront adventure along the Columbia River.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

4/19/21 12:36 PM

Discover the best of the Oregon’s Rugged Country region with the three road trip itineraries in this section. See highlights of each road trip on this map, and turn the page to read more about what you’ll discover along the journey.

IRRIGON BOARDMAN

MILTONFREEWATER

HERMISTON

ECHO PENDLETON

HEPPNER

ROAD TRIP ONE:

UKIAH

BOARDMAN TO IRRIGON TO HERMISTON TO ECHO DISCOVER: The Oregon Trail Ruts

TREK: McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge

EXPERIENCE: SAGE Center Harvest Festival and Winter Market

PLAY: Milton-Freewater Drive-In Movie Theater

ROAD TRIP TWO:

ROAD TRIP THREE:

PENDLETON TO MILTON-FREEWATER

HEPPNER TO UKIAH

TOUR: Century Ride of the Centuries

CRUISE: Blue Mountain Scenic Byway

TASTE: Plateau Restaurant

DISCOVER: Morrow County Courthouse

Near Echo, find ruts left behind by covered wagons at Fort Henrietta Park where the trail crossed the Umatilla River. Echo Meadows reveals ruts by way of an interpretive sign and trail.

The SAGE Center hosts an annual event, the Harvest Festival, with music, refreshments and crafts.

Cyclists listen up—this one-day ride up Cabbage Hill is a challenging out-andback ride that explores the rolling hills of the Umatilla basin in May. Plateau Restaurant at the Wildhorse Casino offers Northwest fare with sweeping views of the Blue Mountains.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Hunt, drive, hike and observe abundant wildlife and scenic beauty at this refuge south of Pendleton, which offers habitat for rare and endangered species and is a haven for breeding and migratory birds.

This classic drive-in theatre has been in operation for six decades and is open late spring through October.

Leading through ranching communities up into the forests and wilderness areas of the Blue Mountains, this designated scenic byway is a road trip extraordinaire.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture, design and craftsmanship, the courthouse survived the great Heppner flood of 1903.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP ONE IRRIGON

BOARDMAN TO IRRIGON TO HERMISTON TO ECHO

HERMISTON BOARDMAN

JOURNEY FROM THE BANKS OF THE COLUMBIA RIVER TO THE RICH AGRICULTURAL LAND OF THE UMATILLA RIVER BASIN ON THIS TOUR, WHICH TAKES IN SCENERY GALORE AND PLENTY OF LOCAL TASTES AND SIPS FROM WINE TO WATERMELONS.

ECHO

Boardman sits on the mighty Columbia River, home to a significant port on this major waterway. Start your day at the Port of Morrow for a self-guided tour of the busy industrial area. For a scenic stroll, find the Port of Morrow Riverfront Center to walk the Boardman Marina Walking Path. At the marina, take a dip in the protected swimming area, picnic in the park, play disc golf at the Sailboard Beach Disc Golf Course, or let the kids romp at the playground. In the summer, catch the annual Walleye Fishing Tournament or the come-one-come-all July 4th community celebration and parade.

Boardman Marina

EAT (LOCAL), DRINK (LOCAL) AND BE HAPPY (LIKE A LOCAL)

This is rich agricultural country, so it’s no surprise to discover incredible local foods and drinks around Boardman. Visit Burnt Field Brewing and Pizza for a craft brew and a brick-oven-baked slice. Ordnance Brewing makes beers with grain grown right near the taproom.

The classic stop C&D Drive-In and Bakery stands out by the tall vintage sign out front that declares: “Eat!” For more than four decades, C&D has been serving baked goods, deli sandwiches, fresh baked pizza and lots of burger options including a fresh and tasty elk burger.

Looking for fresh hashbrowns and all the breakfast fare to go with them? Hit the Sunrise at Boardman Café. For a longer stay in Boardman, grab lunch or book a cabin at the River Lodge, Cabins, and Grill, with rooms right on the Columbia River waterfront.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AT THE SAGE CENTER

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SAGE Center

SWING A CLUB, SPOT A BIRD

Don’t leave the area without partaking in a little more recreation. The Marker 40 Golf Club in Boardman is a public course known for its friendly atmosphere and fun course.

Between Boardman and Irrigon, take a tour of the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge and McCormach Slough. Here, stop to see mule deer, burrowing owls, herons and many more birds on this vast preserve that includes almost every habitat type found in the Columbia Basin. Stretch your legs before continuing on your road trip adventure.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP ALEX JORDAN

The pride and joy of Boardman is the Sustainable Agriculture and Energy (SAGE) Center, a visitor’s center opened in 2013 by the Port of Morrow. SAGE provides free educational tours to students and provides visitors the opportunity to experience this region’s agricultural, industrial and transportation heritage and future. Soar over Morrow County to explore some of the best farmland in the country on a simulated hot air balloon ride. Watch a potato turn into curly fries. Try your hand at milking a cow or driving a tractor. Browse the gift shop and finish your visit with a scoop of delicious Tillamook ice cream. The SAGE Center hosts an annual event, the Harvest Festival, in October with foods, crafts and activities.

WATERMELON FESTIVALS AND MORE

The communities of Irrigon and Hermiston are an agricultural dream, known specifically for growing one very large fruit—the watermelon.

Each town has a summer festival devoted to that very delicious piece of produce. Watch, or join, a watermelon eating contest if you’re in town.

Hermiston is home to Purple Ridge Lavender, Vazza Farms (famous for honey) and K&K Blueberries, among other agricultural delights. Veg Out brings many local flavors and farm products together in salads, wraps and soups at their small but friendly downtown restaurant.

Neighbor Dudes Tap House is a friendly Hermiston joint brought to you by the same folks as Ordnance Brewing. This is where the locals meet up, to enjoy plenty of local brews on tap.

HATS OFF TO NATURE AND HISTORY

Between the two cities is Umatilla, home to the McNary Dam. Visit the Umatilla Museum to learn of the rich history of the region, including the construction of the dam in 1947. Visit McNary Beach to glimpse the dam and walk the Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail, a sixmile gravel trail to Hat Rock State Park great for hiking, walking, cycling and horseback riding. Hat Rock was the first distinctive landmark passed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition on their journey down the Columbia. The park is a desert oasis surrounded by rolling sagebrush hills and outcroppings of basalt, with boat ramp access to the river, which is noted for walleye, sturgeon, and other fish. Waterskiing, jetskiing, swimming, and boating are popular here, as well as picnicking and nature trails. Up for a round of golf? The Big River Golf Course is an 18-hole course situated along the beautiful Columbia River.

FARM-TO-TABLE IN HERMISTON

On your way into Hermiston, stop at Bellinger Farms, a fourth-generation farm offering fresh produce and a farm to table restaurant called The Gathering Place, renowned for a delicious seasonal menu. In Hermiston, grab lunch at Nookie’s, a favorite eatery paired with Hermiston Brewing Company for no-frills vibes and custom craft beers. Laid-back pub Hale’s Restaurant and mother-and-daughter run Delish Bistro are two more refreshment options—grab a waffle cone full of house-made gelato at the latter before you head south to Echo.

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Hat Rock State Park

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PHOTO BOTTOM DAVID JENSEN, INSET JONI KABANA

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP ONE

Downtown Echo

Downtown Echo boasts the Echo Bank Building & Historical Museum, constructed in 1920 in the Roman Classical style of the 20th century with an exterior glazed terra cotta and brick and an interior featuring marble flooring and iron-banking teller’s cages. Peek inside for exhibits on history and heritage.

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Echo Historical Museum

It’s amazing to consider that evidence remains of the pioneers who came by wagon train in the late 1800s. There are several places around here to see the ruts made by the wheels of the covered wagons that traveled The Oregon Trail. Near Echo, find ruts at Fort Henrietta Park where the trail crossed the Umatilla River. Echo Meadows reveals ruts by way of an interpretive sign and trail. At Stanfield Rest Area, read about the struggles encountered by pioneers on the long journey west.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTOS THIS PAGE JONI KABANA

IMPRESSIONS OF OREGON’S PIONEERS

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Perched with a birds-eye view of the Columbia River to the north and the Umatilla River to the east, the community of Echo is a cutting-edge farming community that has focused significant— and successful—effort on growing wine grapes. Sip at Echo Ridge Cellars, a family-run business that produces 1,000 cases of cabernet franc and sauvignon, syrah and merlot each year, which can be enjoyed within the newly repurposed lap-wood grain elevator as their tasting room. Next visit Sno Road Winery at their tasting room in a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Echo, where they pour wine made from grapes grown on their historic Echo West Ranch outside of town.

From the winery, access the 25 miles of Red 2 Red Bike Trails, where mountain bikers traverse a steep sagebrush landscape on the hillside along agricultural fields and vineyards above the Umatilla River. If golf is more your style, take a swing at the challenging yet scenic nine-hole municipal Echo Hills Golf Course, where inexpensive rates and easy access add to the attractions of the rolling course.

By bike or by car, don’t miss River to Hills Farm Loop.

This 60-mile loop follows segments of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Oregon Trail, traveling through the communities of Boardman to Hermiston, to Echo and back through to Heppner to give you an up-close-andpersonal view of agriculture, along with tastes of spirits, pickles, wine, watermelon and smells of lavender. Irrigon, Umatilla, Hermiston and Echo sit along this farm tour.

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WINE AND DINE TIME

RUGGED COUNTRY

MILTON-FREEWATER

ROAD TRIP TWO

PENDLETON TO MILTON-FREEWATER A HISTORIC RODEO, A CULTURAL CENTER DEVOTED TO THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION, A FAMOUS WHISKY, AND ONE OF THE NEWEST VITICULTURAL AREAS IN THE UNITED STATES ROUND OUT THIS ROAD TRIP.

PENDLETON

Pendleton epitomizes the wild west, with an authentic western frontier downtown and events and destinations celebrating the history of Native Americans and pioneers alike. Begin your Pendleton experience underground with a Pendleton Underground Tour, which takes guests into a network of rooms and passageways of Pendleton’s red-light district. Learn about local Chinese immigrants and their role in building Eastern Oregon, and hear true tales of brothels, bootlegging and gambling.

Knowledgeable historians lead these tours, which have been featured on television and radio shows around the world.

Pendleton Woolen Mills

Pendleton Round-Up

OVER A CENTURY AND COUNTING

What began in 1910 as a small gathering of local cowboys has grown into one of the largest and most revered rodeos in the country. Each year, the Pendleton Round-Up kicks off with the Dress-Up Parade and ends with crowning rodeo champions. One of the specialty events is the Happy Canyon Indian Pageant, a nightly theater production about Native Americans with roots in the region, and the formation of Pendleton. Year-round, visit the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame, a museum devoted to the rodeo and its legacy.

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TRAINS, CAMPS AND SIGNS OF THE PAST

Also downtown is the Heritage Station Museum, located in a 1909 Train Depot, featuring a one-room schoolhouse, homestead cabin and barn, windmill and a train caboose.

See exhibits on the Oregon Trail and the search for “Umatilla Gold”—wheat, that is. For another glimpse of the past, journey to the corner of First Street and Frazier to Emigrant Camp, where pioneers on the Oregon Trail made temporary base camp as they gathered supplies before carrying on to the Willamette Valley.

On the east end of Pendleton sits the Pendleton Woolen Mills. Founded in 1863, the Pendleton mills have made their mark with beautiful color and original patterns for nearly 160 years.

Visit the Woolen Mill Store for the largest selection of jacquard blankets and array of Pendleton wool fabrics, remnants and mill ends, as well as tours offered during weekdays.

For more local artisanship, visit the Pendleton Center for the Arts in a beautifully restored 1916 Carnegie Library building overlooking the Umatilla River. Inside, browse the galleries, shop for finely crafted wearable and functional art, enroll in a free or low-cost class, or take in a live music, literary arts or dance event.

Regional works are for sale—take home a very special souvenir of a work of art made by an Eastern Oregon resident.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO RIGHT KATYA PALLADINA / STOCKIMO / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

AN ARTIST’S TOUCH

DAILY FLIGHTS FROM PORTLAND TO PENDLETON

FLIGHTS STARTING AT

$59

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

It’s not hard to make a memory last a lifetime just do something unforgettable.

hellscanyonbyway.com

ROAD TRIP TWO

FRUITS OF OUR LABORS

There’s tons to see and taste on the Whisky and Rocks Farm Loop. Wine, fruit, cider, cheese, beer, berries, whiskey and more are all to be discovered along this route offering the best of the Milton-Freewater and Pendleton bounty. Take your time on the tour and drink in the tastes to be savored.

PENDLETON’S DELICIOUS DELIGHTS

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With so many local farms, it’s no surprise Pendleton has amazing culinary options. Visit Barhyte Specialty Foods, a family operation with 30 years’ history creating delicious mustard, marinades, sauces and hard seltzers. The Great Pacific Wine and Coffee Company has an extensive food menu, wine and beer selection, and full espresso bar, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Opening in 2006, Hamley’s Steakhouse & Saloon became a mainstay in downtown Pendleton. The Western-style restaurant is a step back in time with great food. Virgil’s at CIMMIYOTTI’S has been a Pendleton tradition since 1959.

Famous for steaks, red velvet wallpaper, horseshoe curved booths, and classic drinks from the bar, this iconic restaurant delivers impeccable food and legendary service.

A PINT OR A DRAM

Pop into Prodigal Son Brewing for a taste of local brew.

Three hometown locals opened this brewhouse—the first in Pendleton—in 2007. The from-scratch kitchen crafts a menu chock full of local products, from meats to cheeses to baked goods. Down the street the Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery makes spirits from local grains, showcasing the agricultural history and pride of farming in the area. The farmerowned distillery mills grain on-site and connects visitors to the agricultural legacy of the area by way of high-quality spirits.

CASINO FUN BUILT ON TRIBAL HISTORY OF GAMING

Wildhorse Resort & Casino is the largest resort in Eastern Oregon with a casino, more than 300 hotel rooms, a cineplex, a sports bar, restaurants, a bowling alley, RV park and events center. The resort also hosts an annual Pow Wow in July.

With sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and an upscale yet comfortable ambience, Plateau Restaurant at the Wildhorse Casino offers Northwest fare featuring the best cuts of meat and freshest ingredients, along with regional wines and cocktail creations. Don’t miss a round of golf at Wildhorse Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course featuring pristine greens amid dramatic natural landscape and rolling wheat fields.

Next door is Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, built by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation to preserve the culture and history of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes and present their story to the world. The state-of-the-art facility showcases regional tribal history, the tribes’ present-day affairs and plans for the future through interactive exhibits, Coyote Theater, events, programs and quarterly exhibitions on timely topics. Shopping at The Museum Store and dining at Kinship Café round out the visit.

Nearby, shop for indigenous art at the gallery at Crow’s Shadow, a nonprofit contemporary printmaking studio on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

PHOTO INSET JONI KABANA

RUGGED COUNTRY

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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

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

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

THES E TR ANQUI L FOOT HILLS

teemed with life.

Tribal members from the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes could at one time be seen hunting, fishing, building lodges, digging roots, collecting tule reeds, catching wild horses, and setting up camps all over the foothills of the Blue Mountains.

Looks different to you now, doesn’t it?

FIRST FRIDAYS ARE FREE! Exhibits, Museum Store, Kinship Café Open Tuesday-Saturday I-84 east, Exit 216 | Pendleton, OR | www.tamastslikt.org | 541.429.7700

RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP TWO Blue Mountain Scenic Bikeway

A WILDLIFE HAVEN

VROOM

Motorcycle enthusiasts adore Oregon’s smaller highways and the amazing scenery that goes with them, alongside light traffic and friendly people and businesses along the way. Every third weekend in July, Pendleton Bike Week hosts its annual Rally & Races with the support of local businesses and surrounding communities welcoming all motorcycle enthusiasts.

CLIP IN

Bicyclists are equally enchanted with this landscape. The rolling and waving wheat fields of Umatilla County and the glorious peaks of the Blue Mountains provide a peaceful and stunning backdrop to a ride. Enjoy an easy loop 88

east of Pendleton or explore the rolling fields around Athena and Helix. Take in the breathless views and challenge of the Cabbage Hill Climb.

The climb is celebrated annually at the Century Ride of the Centuries, a oneday ride up Cabbage Hill. The out-andback ride starting from and returning to the Pendleton Chamber of Commerce parking lot explores the rolling hills of the Umatilla Basin on this challenging day in late May.

TRAILS AND GREENS

Unpaved trails for the cyclist or hiker are found at Pendleton Adventure Trails Recreation Area, just northwest of Pendleton. A variety of easy-tomoderate trails for runners, hikers, and mountain bikers are here, with a southfacing exposure that offers plenty of year-round sunshine.

Seven miles south of Pendleton on Highway 395 is the Birch Creek Golf Course, owned and operated by the Umatilla Tribes. Enjoy 18-holes of golf, practice facilities, a full bar and restaurant, and newly remodeled banquet room.

CLIFF AND JUDY BRACHER Owners, Bracher Farms, Helix

We came back to Judy’s fourth generation family farm in 1972 after spending some time in Europe with the U.S. Army. Our farm was homesteaded in 1884, and we now run it with the help of our adult children who have now become the fifth generation to work this land.

We like it here because:

We love living with four distinct seasons so we can enjoy everything Oregon has to offer; springtime blooms, hunting and fishing, water sports, harvest festivals and rodeos, and even snowsports on the Blue Mountains.

Don’t miss a stop:

Roadtrippers usually love the Pendleton Woolen Mills, Cimmiyotti’s Steak House, and Tamustilik, the Umatilla Tribal Cultural Center.

Locals love to visit:

Where do we start! We love drinks at Echo wineries and Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery. The Pendleton Underground Tours are always fun, and we love visiting the small historic communities that dot the region.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP RUSS ROCCA

South of Pendleton, nestled between the plains and the mountains, McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge is habitat for rare and endangered species and a haven for breeding and migratory birds.

There’s something for everyone: hunt, drive, hike and observe the abundant wildlife and scenic beauty at this important protective site.

Come work up an appetite hiking the trails, fighting the fish, or kayaking the rivers. Then feast on some local cuisine. Relax at the Marina and RV Park or one of the local hotels.

Spend time with your family soaking up the sun at one of our parks. And plan now to be here in June for our annual Umatilla Landing Days festival.

Sponsored by the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce and City of Umatilla

Visit our websites at www.umatilla-city.org, umatillaorchamber.org www.umatillalandingdays.org

RAE’S DAYZ DINER

If you want homecooked food then this is the place! We offer breakfast just like Grandma used to make. From scratch Biscuits & Gravy, to many other yummy breakfasts. If you want a taste of home this is the place to go! Nestled right in the heart of Umatilla come one down and join our family of friends!

1226 6TH STREET, UMATILLA, 97882 • (541) 922-2309

ECONO LODGE UMATILLA

Overlooking the picturesque Columbia River, the Econo Lodge is the comfortable, affordable choice when visiting northern Oregon. We’re just minutes from Hermiston, the Tri-Cities area, Wildhorse Resort and Casino, McNary Dam, and you’ll find a great selection of dining nearby. After a day filled with fun and adventure, our spacious guest rooms offer all the comforts of home. You can share photos with friends and family with free, secure Wi-Fi, catch your favorite shows or watch the big game on satellite TV, or turn out the lights for a restful night’s sleep.

For a great stay at a great price, make your reservation at Econo Lodge Umatilla.

1481 6TH STREET, UMATILLA, 97882 • (541) 922-3236 • CHOICEHOTELS.COM

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

COLUMBIA HARVEST FOODS

You will feel all the comforts of home at Columbia Harvest Foods.We are a family owned and operated business since 1992. We pride ourselves on presenting the cleanest store in town and providing the BEST, one-onone, customer service in the area.

Full service Bakery and Deli. A wide selection of local wines as well as some of the Northwest’s finest Micro-Brews. We always strive to provide you with the freshest meats and produce. So from our family to yours, remember; We Honestly Care!

1411 6TH ST, UMATILLA, 97882 • (541) 922-3001 • HARVESTFOODSNW.COM

EVANGELINE GIFT SHOP

Evangeline Gifts offers items for any occasion. We support local creators and offer gifts created in Umatilla County as well as traditional gifts.

With our family-friendly location, we support others in our process.

Our building is shared with Fruteria Piqui and Lite ‘Em Up BBQ, so it’s a perfect place to come for a meal and explore the ever-changing inventory. We look forward to continuing to grow with you.

1201 6TH STREET, UMATILLA, 97882 • EVANGELINEGIFTS.COM

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RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP TWO

AN OLD TERROIR NAMED NEW

Milton-Freewater sits at the northern Oregon border, a small town of the Walla Walla Valley, which extends south from Washington state. This fertile land is not only excellent for growing produce, but also fabulous terroir for wine grapes. One of the nation’s newest American Viticulture Areas, the Rocks District AVA was designated here in February 2015. Predicated on one soil series and one landform, the terroir consists of riverbed rocks that give the wines a characteristic flavor profile, particularly noticeable in syrah.

Tero Estates

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Milton-Freewater is home to many wineries. Start your day of sipping at the historic Watermill Building to taste the fruits of Watermill Winery, founded in 2005 by commercial apple growers who had been farming in the Walla Walla Valley for more than a century and pledged to grow wine grapes using sustainable and wildlife-safe farming practices. Visit Spofford Station, an historic grain farming site, to try bold wines that reflect the earthy wash of thousands of years of basalt, ash and mineral.

Rotie Cellars, Tero Estates and Cayuse Vineyards sit on the west end of Milton-Freewater. Try a glass 90

of Tero Estate’s love letter-worthy cabernet sauvignon, regularly scored above 90 points by Wine Enthusiast.

Cayuse Vineyards produces critically lauded biodynamic wines including syrah, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Rotie Cellars pays homage to the wines of the Rhône Valley, and each year, a new vintage of the northern and southern red and white blends is released.

On to Zerba Cellars on the north end of Milton-Freewater, a log cabin tasting room that could pass as a pioneer homestead. Inside, taste award-winning wines grown on three estate vineyards.

Nearby, at Castillo de Feliciana Vineyard & Winery, Spanish-style wine is served at a lovely little tasting room with plenty of scenic outdoor seating.

Los Rocosos Vineyards is another outstanding stop for wine and views.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO RIGHT DANITA DELIMONT / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

A VINTNER’S HEAVEN

WALLA WALLA CHEESE COMPANY

The Heritage Station Museum is located in Pendleton Oregon's historic 1909 train depot and is the product of the hard work and dedication of the Umatilla County Historical Society.

Artisan cheese from local cows!

The Museum is excited to announce the completion of its new exhibit: Umatilla Gold: History of Wheat in Umatilla County. This stunning exhibit tells the story of the impact wheat has played in Umatilla County from early days to today.

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

For the most updated information, visit: heritagestationmuseum.org 108 SW Frazer Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801 | (541) 276-0012

NEW RIVERFRONT

CABINS

your next escape.

Stay on the river in Boardman, Oregon.

Small town vibes. Full-service amenities. riverlodgeandgrill.com | (541) 481.6800

RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP TWO

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DRAGON’S BREW, BLUE CIDER AND LAVENDER CHOCOLATE

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Outpost Farm Stand

serves as a museum dedicated to the history of MiltonFreewater. Not far away is the Milton-Freewater Drive-In Movie Theater. This classic drive-in theatre has been in operation for six decades and is open late spring through October.

CAMPOUT IN THE FAMOUS BLUES

Before you leave the area, travel southeast of MiltonFreewater into the legendary Blue Mountains. Find camping spots at Harris Park or Umatilla Forks Campground. Visit the Outpost, a farm stand located as you ascend out of the town of Weston up into the Blue Mountains. Stop in for fresh produce and homemade baked goods. The Alpine Outpost is located near the summit of the Blue Mountains in the little hamlet of Tollgate. A restaurant, bakery, coffee house and small store greet the traveler and adventurer.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO TOP TALIA JEAN, OTHERS JONI KABANA

It’s not just about wine in Milton-Freewater. Find small-batch craft brews at Dragon’s Gate Brewery, a farmhouse brewery that focuses on estate-grown hops and spring water tapped from a deep natural spring onsite. Set on a 10-acre farm amongst orchards, vineyards, and fields of wheat, Dragon’s Gate Brewery brews farmhouse and Belgian style ales steeped in tradition. Downtown at Blue Mountain Cider, taste premiere cider made from apples grown right here.

The Freewater Cider Company challenges conventional practices by fermenting whole apples on skins to enhance the aromatics and flavors, and then oak barrel aging the drinks.

Petits Noirs Fine Chocolates creates chocolates inspired by locally grown herbs and spices, with flavors such as anise, lavender, rosemary, clove, and violet. Chocolate goes great with wine, and so does cheese. Grab some gouda, havarti or cheddar at The Walla Walla Cheese Company. The Umapine Creamery in the small community of Umapine west of MiltonFreewater produces more delightful cheeses, crafted from the milk of their very own cows.

For local heritage and history, visit Frazier Farmstead Museum. This charming, scenic home and farm built in 1892

chocolatier | boutique | sommelier

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

CAFE

Open daily 8am

SALOON

Open daily 4pm

™

ARTISAN CHOCOLATES & VINO BISTRO

STEAKHOUSE Open daily 5pm

C or ne r of C our t & Main, Pe ndl e ton, O regon W W W. H A M L E Y. C O M Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 03374.TT.11.20

clothing gifts jewelry boots hats saddles

Indulgence awaits.

“The most Authentic Western Store in America” - True West Magazine

(541) 429-5110 363 South Main Street, Pendleton, OR 97801

C or ne r of C our t & Main, Pe ndl e ton, O regon W W W. H A M L E Y. C O M Management reserves all rights to alter, suspend or withdraw promotions/offers at any time. 03373.TT.11.20

RUGGED COUNTRY

ROAD TRIP THREE

HEPPNER

HEPPNER TO UKIAH THE ROLLING PLAINS OF SOUTHERN RUGGED COUNTRY DELIVER FASCINATING HISTORY, A SPARKLING RESERVOIR, CYCLING, CAMPING AND A WEE TOUCH OF IRISH CULTURE TO BOOT. Heppner sits 50 miles south of the Columbia River in the rolling hills of Rugged Country. Nearly destroyed by a flood in 1903, the town prides itself on historic buildings like the county courthouse, which survived the flood, as well as a very charming downtown and equally friendly people.

UKIAH

Morrow County Courthouse

OOOS AND AHHS

Threading from the Columbia south through Heppner and Ukiah and extending to the John Day Wilderness, the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway is a road trip extraordinaire.

Leading through ranching communities up into the forests and wilderness areas of the Blue Mountains, this designated scenic byway defines this Rugged Country region.

HISTORY ON DISPLAY

A FAMOUS FLOOD SURVIVOR

The Morrow County Courthouse is one of the oldest courthouses in Oregon that is still in use today. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture, design and craftsmanship, its features include a hip roof, a central entrance pavilion and a domed cupola with clock faces on three sides. The courthouse site is elevated above much of the rest of Heppner, which saved it from the great flood of 1903, just three months after the courthouse was completed.

Rolling hills in Heppner

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO BOTTOM JONI KABANA

Start your Heppner tour at the Morrow County Museum.

Displaying photographs and artifacts dating back to the 19th century, exhibits range from those depicting agricultural history to a close look at the Native American presence in the county and from the history of rural medical care to the story of the devastating Heppner Flood.

Nearby is the Agricultural Equipment Museum, where visitors gain insight into the evolution of farm machinery.

Check out a snapshot of the town’s heritage at the mural on Riverside Street, depicting local life from days gone by. Follow Heppner’s “Talking Rocks”—bronze interpretive signs installed on basalt platforms—to learn more about this wonderful town and its rich history.

CLIMB, DIVE AND STEP INTO INFINITE

fun

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

- Featuring -

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

311 N . OL SON ROAD, BOA R D M A N , OR EGON ( B Y SA GE C E N T E R )

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

M O NDAY - T HURSDAY 5 : 3 0 A M - 9 PM | FR ID AY 6 A M - 9 P M SAT 9 AM - 9 PM | SU N D AY 1 2 PM - 7 PM

LIVE • WORK • PLAY With new houses being built every day, incentive programs for home buyers and business owners, and tons of recreational opportunities, Boardman is the perfect town to live, work, and play in!

101 Olson Rd. • PO Box 1 • Boardman, OR 97818 (541) 481-3014 • boardmanchamber.org

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

Open Daily 7 AM to 7 PM

9-Hole | 1,803 Yards | 31 Par 78873 Toms Camp Road, Boardman www.marker40gc.com www.facebook.com/marker40gc The SAGE Center is temporarily closed to the public to limit the spread of COVID-19. As numbers continue to drop in Oregon, we are considering how we can safely reopen. Follow us on Facebook or check our website for more information about opening. We look forward to seeing visitors again!

Visit us online at www.visitsage.com www.facebook.com/SAGECenterOR

101 OLSON ROAD WWW.VISIT

BOARDMAN, OR EXIT 164 .COM 541.481.7243

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ROAD TRIP THREE

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Stroll by the Gilliam and Bisbee Building in Heppner, originally built to serve as the town’s hardware store in 1919. Restored in 2020, this lovely and historic structure can be rented out for overnight stays and events of all kinds. More lodging options in Heppner can be found at the charming Northwestern Motel and RV Park, offering both travel trailer sites and rooms. Don’t be surprised if you find the longtime owner Alvin Liu behind the counter himself when you visit for an overnight stay.

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RUGGED COUNTRY

SWIM, FISH, BOAT

Willow Creek flows from the lofty peaks of the nearby Blue Mountains and eventually into the Columbia River.

Near Heppner, the creek fills the Willow Creek Reservoir and Water Park, a 125-acre lake that is home to trout, bass and catfish. This is a popular spot for anglers and others who wish to cool off on a hot summer’s day with a leisurely afternoon by the water. Alternatively, dip in the swimming pools at Willow Creek Water Park in Heppner. There’s nothing better on a hot, dry Eastern Oregon summer day than a refreshing respite by a lake, pool or river.

TOP OF THE MORNING TO YE

Visitors are often surprised to happen along Heppner during the Wee Bit O’Ireland Celebration, always held the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day. Celebrating the Irish community that is integral to some of Heppner’s earliest settlers, the event boasts events such as the Sheep Dog Trials, Irish Coffee Hour, Great Green Parade, the welly toss and Cruz-In. As they say in Heppner, you may not be Irish when you come, but you’ll be Irish when you leave!

Willow Creek Reservoir

As you pass through the large sections of wilderness between the towns of Heppner and Ukiah, you are surrounded by bountiful opportunity for outdoor recreation. Horseback riders can traverse through hundreds of miles of trails in the Umatilla National Forest during warmer months.

Mount your trusty steed and head out on the Alder Creek Trail, the Willow Creek Trail or the Blue Mountain Trail for back-country horseback riding fun and adventure.

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PHOTO TOP JONI KABANA, BOTTOM LEON WERDINGER

IN THE SADDLE

Umatilla National Forest

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Enjoy a Tour of

Umatilla County & beyond

Columbia River

Milton-Freewater

730 395

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WASHINGTON OREGON

Hermiston Echo

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Pendleton 395

WATERMILL WINERY

BENNETT GARDENS

Watermill wines are estate grown and handcrafted in the Rocks District and Walla Walla Valley AVAs. Come visit to enjoy the fruits of our labor and experience our love of the land. Vineyard and winery tours available by appointment. Visit our website for our current hours.

The gardens are a hidden gem, with colors, textures and trees for refreshing shade.

KRISanthemums studio is located in the gardens where the seasonal uniqueness is harvested and delivered locally in designs.

Schedule an event, a tour or order flowers or photography time in the gardens.

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

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

BLUE MOUNTAIN CIDER

ECHO RIDGE CELLARS

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

Enjoy flights, tasters, pints, growler fills, and bottles of our estate grown hard ciders plus a few rotating local microbrews. Visit our website for our current hours.

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

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

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

ZERBA CELLARS

K & K BLUEBERRIES

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.

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

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

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

WILD RABBIT FARMS

LOS ROCOSOS VINEYARD

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

Los Rocosos is a boutique vineyard and winery located in the Rocks District of Milton Freewater, Oregon, famed for it’s unique terrior of prehistoric basalt cobble. The wines offered reflect minerality and depth not found in any other winegrowing region in the Nation.

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

84038 eastside rd, milton freewater · (541) 306-1290 · losrocosos.com

FREEWATER CIDER COMPANY

UMAPINE CREAMERY

The Freewater Cider Company challenges conventional practices by fermenting whole apples on their skins to enhance the aromatics and flavors. Our ciders are dry and oak barrel aged to integrate tannins and enrich the mouth feel. We use no artificial flavors, colors or added sugars. Just apples.

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

Schedule a farm tour and cheese tasting.

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

Made fresh here, from our family to yours.

525 n. elizabeth street, milton-freewater · (509) 499-7368 · freewatercider.com

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

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

ROAD TRIP THREE

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH BIKES

See the rolling hills of the Umatilla National Forest to the wide fields of wheat below all by bike on the annual summertime group ride the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway. Sponsored by the Heppner Chamber, the scenic loop of approximately 108 miles follows a section of the Oregon Trail, beginning and ending in Heppner with the half-way point at Ukiah. The route initially follows the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway east through the Blue Mountains to Highway 395. It then travels north from forest to rangelands to Nye Junction, and west to Heppner. Stunning views and tough climbs define this iconic event.

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South of Heppner find more than 9,000 acres to explore via allterrain vehicle at the Morrow-Grant Counties OHV Park. During spring and summer, there are a variety of campgrounds to choose from; stop for a meal at the Landing Lodge inside the park, an American-style restaurant. Nearby, camping and hunting enthusiasts will also enjoy Anson Wright Park.

SUMMER CAMP

Find camping north of Ukiah at Cutsforth Park, a popular stop along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, with trails to explore for hikers and horseback riders. Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and frogs chirping and croaking at Penland Lake Campground, where fishing, boating and picnicking are popular.

TACOS, RIBS, ICE CREAM AND A HIKE

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You’re rolling into Ukiah, an agricultural hamlet with pleasant surprises. At the Ukiah Thicket Cafe & Bar, taco Tuesday and prime rib Saturday are serious business. Rhodes Supply is a general store with everything from groceries and cold drinks to ice cream. The Dale Store south of town is a fun little grocery and fuel stop, with ice cream too. After your scoop, head south to Desolation Creek for a wilderness hike and more sightseeing.

Desolation Creek, Umatilla National Forest

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EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO BOTTOM GEORGE OSTERTAG / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET KRISTI CASON

RUGGED COUNTRY

EXPLORE PENDLETON 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.

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

HINES MEAT COMPANY

Hines Meat Company now proudly serves Eastern Oregon in two locations, Pendleton and LaGrande. Find the very best for your everyday and special occasions in our old fashioned meat market. The very best meat cut daily by our butchers. And you’re sure to enjoy the “candy shop for adults” of all in-house smoked meats of pepperoni, jerky, landjaeger, and much more of house-made everything.

Join us every Friday at noon for House smoked BBQ of brisket, ribs, tritip, smoked chicken, and more. If you’re in need of custom cutting services for domestic or wild game, be sure to call our LaGrande store!

1210 SW DORION AVENUE, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 304-2400

HAMLEY STEAKHOUSE & SALOON

PENDLETON UNDERGROUND TOURS

Hamley Café open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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

Hamley Saloon open 4 p.m.

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

Hamley Steakhouse dinner starting at 5 p.m.

Where friends and family meet.

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.

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

THE GREAT PACIFIC

Located in a Masonic Temple built in 1887, The Great Pacific has been a mainstay for inclusive community gathering for over 40 years. Check out classic GP fare such as locally-roasted coffee, bagels, grilled sandwiches, uniquely fresh salads, and Naples-style pizza. Browse over 100 beers and 300 wines, or dive into our array of traditional and modern cocktails.

Hang out, soak up the ambiance, and maybe catch some live music. We are proud to be transitioning into second generation ownership and we look forward to carrying on our tradition of cherishing our past while always seeking progress.

403 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 276-1350 • GREATPACIFIC.BIZ

OMG! BURGERS & BREW

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

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

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

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

NEW YORK CLOTHIER

In the heart of Pendleton’s Historic District, New York Clothier distinguishably sits on the corner of the St. George Plaza (ca 1900).

A modern haberdashery, New York Clothier is an American designer and shirt maker of the exclusive labels Old School Shirt Makers New York and Ponderosa Jacks. New York Clothier offers hand-crafted shirts, bow ties, knitwear, curated lifestyle goods and is committed to manufacturing in the USA and has since its inception in 2007. Its main focus is to offer a masculine statement, rooted in American style both updated and traditional. Open Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon 380 S MAIN STREET, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 304-5438 • NEWYORKCLOTHIER.COM

A PIECE OF PENDLETON

A Piece Of Pendleton is owned and operated by the non-profit Pendleton Underground Tours.

We are located at at 369 S Main St in downtown Pendleton, Oregon We offer space for local artist and businesses to sell their locally made products. We currently have over 80 talented vendors.

369 S MAIN ST, PENDLETON, 97801 • (541) 379-1215

99

EXPLORE MORROW JOIN THE FUN EVERY MARCH!

“A WEEHEPPNER BIT O’IRELAND” OREGON

EXPERIENCE THE FLAVORS

OF HEPPNER

DURING ST. PATRICK’S WEEKEND AND ALL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

SAVE THE

DATES!

40TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATION March 11-13, 2022

For more information, go to

HEPPNERCHAMBER.COM

For details call: 541-676-5536 or Email: heppnerchamber@gmail.com Event is made possible with funding from Morrow County Unified Recreation District

BUSINESS NAME

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

Breaking Grounds Coffee

Heppner Market Fresh

Bucknum’s Bar and Grill

Quality Concessions

Elks Lodge (members only)

Tacos Hometown

Gateway Cafe

Two Old Hags

Happy Pappy’s Catering

Upper Place Concessions

TREO BIKE TOURS

You won’t see many motor carriages as you ride through Oregon’s Old West territory.

What you will see is breathtaking scenery, panoramic vistas, historic homesteads and ghost towns, rock formations, swimming holes, rolling wheat fields, desert, farm and forest land.

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

WILLOW CREEK RV PARK AND CAMPGROUND

Enjoy fishing, boating, camping and a lake view at Willow Creek Park and RV Campground. Located on the Willow Creek Reservoir off the Blue Mountain Byway, our scenic park is open March 10th through December 1st.

The RV park has 23 spaces available with no minimum stay. All have 50-60 ft pullthroughs, 2 sites are back-ins, and there is tent camping available. Partial and full hook-ups are designed to be compatible with large, modern motor homes.

THE FARMER’S CUP

Reserve online today at www.willowcreekpd.com

Stop by The Farmer’s Cup for farm-fresh food, produce and specialty espresso beverages.

We take pride in our gorgeous dahlias, delicious melons and produce, grown in the huge garden next to little red barn espresso and farm stand. Watch Facebook for fun monthly events and our seasonal weekly farmers’ market, with multiple local growers!

68965 WILLOW CREEK RD, HEPPNER, 97836 • (541) 371-1456 • WILLOWCREEKPD.COM

450 LAUREL LANE, BOARDMAN, 97818 • (541) 514-1601

100

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Exploring SOMETHING WORTH

Camping

g

in Bikin

Mounta

Scenic Parks

Hat Rock State Park

Kaya

king

FaceBook: UMatiLLa coUnty toUrisM

instagraM:

@UMatiLLacoUntytoUrisM

Ruby D quinine Tonic

1188 Brewing Company

Brewed and bottled in Baker City, OR using exotic spices, organic herbs and citrus zest. Ruby D Tonics contain real quinine and no added sugars or preservatives. Add sparkling water for the best Tonic you’ve ever tasted, a perfect addition to enhance quality fine spirits or for non-alcoholic drinks that are quenching and flavorful!

(541) 519-7015 | RUBYDTONICS@GMAIL.COM | @RUBYDTONICS

The only brewery in a 70 mile radius! Our focus is all about craft & local whenever possible – craft beer, food, cocktails, bakery items & artwork. Our beer is rotated through on a regular basis with new ones coming out often. We are a family friendly, full service restaurant open for breakfast, lunch & dinner 7 days/week with outdoor seating and space for dogs.

Order online or on the Toast Takeout app.

141 E MAIN ST, JOHN DAY, OR 541-575-1188 | 1188BREWING.COM

RESOURCES VISITOR AND INFORMATION CENTERS LOCAL EXPERTS MAKE EXCELLENT RESOURCES. CONTACT ONE OF THESE INFORMATION HUBS IN ADVANCE TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP, OR STOP IN WHILE YOU’RE ON THE ROAD. Arlington Community Chamber of Commerce 541-626-3426

visitarlingtonoregon.com Baker County Tourism 800-523-1235

travelbakercounty.com Oregon Welcome Center and Boardman Chamber of Commerce 101 Olson Rd, Boardman 541-481-3014

visitsage.com boardmanchamber.org City of Condon

Condon Chamber of Commerce

John Day River Territory

Port of Arlington

condonchamber.org

info@johndayriverterritory.com johndayriverterritory.com

portofarlington.com

Eastern Oregon Visitors Association

Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Chief Joseph Days

Sherman County

visiteasternoregon.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @easternoregon

chiefjosephdays.com

co.sherman.or.us

311 S Main St, Condon 541-384-7777

800-332-1843

Grant County Chamber of Commerce

301 W Main St, John Day 800-769-5664

gcoregonlive.com

128 S Main St, Condon 541-384-2711

Gilliam County Tourism

City of Fossil – Oregon Paleo Lands Institute

Harney County Chamber of Commerce

paleolands.org

harneycounty.com

cityofcondon.com

333 W Fourth St, Fossil 541-763-4480

City of Echo

20 S Bonanza St, Echo 541-376-8411

echo-oregon.com

City of Mitchell mitchelloregon.us City of Rufus

304 W Second St, Suite 100, Rufus 541-739-2321

cityofrufus.com

541-384-3767

co.gilliam.or.us

484 N Broadway, Burns 541-573-2636

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway 800-523-1235

hellscanyonbyway.com

541-432-1015

500 Court St, Moro 541-565-3416

Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce

Travel Pendleton & Pendleton Chamber of Commerce

100 Cline Ave, Umatilla 541-922-4825

251 SW Ninth St, Ontario 541-889-8012

umatilla-city.org

ontariochamber.com

Umatilla County Tourism 541-276-7111

Oregon Paleo Lands Institute

umatillacounty.net

333 Fourth St, Fossil 541-763-4480

paleolands.org

Union County Chamber

Oregon Parks & Recreation Dept.

800-551-6949

oregonstateparks.org

Road Conditions: 511

Hermiston Chamber of Commerce

tripcheck.com

hermistonchamber.com

(At Pendleton Chamber of Commerce) 800-547-8911

541-869-2529

Umatilla Chamber of Commerce

Ontario Chamber of Commerce

heppnerchamber.com

Huntington Chamber

travelpendleton.com

mfchamber.com

Heppner Chamber of Commerce

541-567-6151

501 S Main St, Pendleton 541-276-7411

157 S Columbia St, MiltonFreewater 541-938-5563

Oregon Tourism Information traveloregon.com

541-676-5536

100 Port Island Rd, Arlington 541-454-2868

541-763-2191

800-977-6368

Oregon’s Rugged Country

207 Depot St, La Grande 541-963-8588

unioncountychamber.org Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce

309 S River St, Suite B, Enterprise 541-426-4622

wallowacountychamber.com Wallowa Mountains Visitor Center 201 E Second St, Joseph 541-763-4328

fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman

PHOTO BAKER COUNTY TOURISM

visithuntingtonor.org

102

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

Guided FLY FISHING | Guided RAFTING TRIPS | Raft RENTALS & SHUTTLE

Find Your Way Home

with the longest-running real estate brokerage in

wallowa County

Commercial • Residential • Land/Lots • Farm/Ranch Property Management (Commercial & Residential – Preserving & Increasing the Value of Your Investment) 309 s river st, enterprise, or 97828 | wallowamountainproperties.com 541-426-3026 or toll-free 800-537-7082 RESIDENTIAL – FARM/RANCH – RECREATION – COMMERCIAL – LAND/LOTS – PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Guided FLY FISHING | Guided RAFTING TRIPS | Raft RENTALS & SHUTTLE

Frontier Freedom

WITH THE OLDEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY IN HARNEY COUNTY

Serving Oregon’s Frontier Region Since 1960

707 Ponderosa Village, Burns, OR 97720 (541) 573-7206 | office@jettblackburn.com | www.jettblackburn.com

RESOURCES TAKE CARE OUT THERE EXPLORING THE EXPANSES OF EASTERN OREGON IS A GRAND ADVENTURE, BUT IT’S EVEN MORE REWARDING WHEN YOU’RE WELL PREPARED. KEEP YOURSELF SAFE AND THE LANDSCAPE UNHARMED WITH THESE TIPS FROM THE FOLKS OF TRAVEL OREGON AND TAKECAREOUTTHERE.ORG. The Painted Hills

Plan Ahead Prepare before you head out, consider what you want to see and experience, your group’s physical abilities and what’s realistic to do in the time you have. Can you visit off peak to avoid crowds?

Be Ready Check conditions. Pack your Ten Essentials. Got the right shoes for the terrain? Water? Cell phone? You may not always have coverage, so take a picture of the trail map or bring one with you. Consider hiring a guide.

Don’t Forget Let someone know where you’re headed and when you plan to be back. Tuck some cash in your pocket for park fees (that help maintain Oregon’s natural spaces).

104

CARE

CONNECT

Be Respectful If you spot wildlife, use your zoom lens and observe from afar. Share trails with others. Know who manages the land you access and what the rules and regulations are. Get permission before entering private property.

Say Hello Greet fellow adventurers and spark a conversation. Check in at a visitor center, ranger station and/or local business to learn from the locals, grab a map and gather local insight.

Make Smart Choices Know your limits and when to stop for the day. Follow the signs; they’re there to tell you important stuff like how to avoid injuries and not get lost.

Keep It Natural Stay on designated trails and areas to protect the landscape. Don’t take anything home but your trash—and please, please take your trash with you.

Make wildfire prevention a top priority.

Enjoy Yourself Experiencing the quiet, awe-inspiring beauty of nature can not only uplift your spirits, it can improve your health. Think of Oregon’s vast outdoors as your place to relax and recharge.

Spread Goodwill Share your knowledge with others if it’s helpful. Support the community—eat, drink, shop and stay local. Stop by cultural centers to learn our history and relationship to place.

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO ALEX JORDAN

PREPARE

“HOW TO” EASTERN OREGON WILD RIVERS

Swift currents, undertows, and whirlpools are common in our waterways. Wear life vests and supervise children.

RATTLESNAKE COUNTRY

re

ek

Tra i

l

This is rattlesnake season—be careful. Avoid basalt rock slides, tall grass and heavy underbrush where snakes may shelter out of the heat. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes.

Rattlesnakes can swim, so be careful about grabbing what looks like a stick or branch in the John Day River.

e

C

r Hu

UNPLUG AND BRING A MAP

While most of our communities do have cell phone service, you may not get coverage throughout the area. Do not rely on your GPS or phone map for accurate directions. Know where you’re going, and bring along a paper map.

ric

an

PREPARE FOR SUN AND HOT TEMPERATURES

Temps can reach over 100 degrees in summer, and inland destinations especially could be scorching. Pack hats, sunscreen, ice water or whatever you can to help beat the heat.

FUEL UP

Given long distances between gas stations and unpredictable station hours, make sure you calculate your fuel needs wisely.

PACK PROVISIONS

There are a limited number of restaurants in some of Oregon’s beautiful, remote places. Make sure you have picnic supplies, snacks, water and anything else that will help you stay happy if you can’t find a meal.

CARRY SOME CASH

While most services in Oregon take credit cards, there are places in rural areas that only take cash.

DON’T TRESPASS

Many public buildings and private properties are not able to accommodate visitors. Watch for signs and don’t trespass.

WILDFIRE PREVENTION

July through October is peak wildfire season in Oregon, so please be vigilant about extinguishing and disposing of cigarettes. Know fire risks and respect fire restrictions, including campfire bans. Avoid parking or driving on dry grass, as your vehicle can spark a wildfire. To help us prevent wildfires and protect our natural landscapes, be responsible and report wildfires immediately by dialing 911.

PHOTO ALEX JORDAN

EASTERN OREGON WEATHER In general, Eastern Oregon is cold and dry in the winter and hot and dry in the summer. Temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains year-round, and even hot summer desert nights are cooler than you might expect. On the other hand, those wide-open skies mean lots of sun exposure.

Always pack layers of clothing, warm jackets, sun hats and sunscreen, and plenty of water and food when you head out into Eastern Oregon.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES 100°F 90°F

JUNE 18 76°F

80°F

100°F 90°F

SEPT 15 76°F

80°F

70°F

70°F

60°F

FEB 22 43°F

50°F 40°F

45°F

20°F

NOV 18 43°F

50°F 40°F

30°F

26°F

25°F

10°F

60°F 50°F JAN 1 40°F 32°F 30°F 18°F

0°F

20°F 10°F 0°F

JAN EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

JULY 31 87°F

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC 105

RESOURCES GETTING HERE

BY PLANE

Many visitors fly into the major airports in Portland, Oregon, Seattle, Washington and Boise, Idaho to access Eastern Oregon. From one of those cities, take a connecting flight to the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in Pendleton, Oregon.

BY CAR

Driving through the expanses of Eastern Oregon can be one of the easiest ways to get around. Car rentals are available at the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, as well as in cities like La Grande, Hermiston, Island City, Baker City, Enterprise and Joseph. For up to date information, including road conditions, closures and weather throughout Oregon see tripcheck.com. Gas up before you head out!

BY TRAIN

Trains in Eastern Oregon don’t really serve a travel/transport purpose anymore, but there are a few really cool “for fun” train rides available in the region. Visit the Sumpter Valley Railroad (p. 50) or the Eagle Cap Excursion Train (p. 60).

BY BUS

Eastern Oregon is well connected both to the rest of the state and to the rest of their region through bus stations that dot the area. Most major cities in the region offer bus transit, and most will offer service directly from other nearby popular areas like Bend and Portland from the west and Boise from the east. Pendleton, La Grande, Baker City, Dayville and more all offer public transit that connects the region.

BY BIKE

Biking through Eastern Oregon will push and reward cyclers with steep climbs, rolling hills, and a picturesque, natural backdrop. There are four scenic bikeways in the region: the Painted Hills, the Blue Mountains, the Old West and the Grand Tour Scenic Bikeways. Each of these rides lay claim to a section of Oregon that holds unique beauty that visitors won’t find anywhere else. Along the way, these rides take cyclers through friendly towns like La Grande, Union, John Day and more. Be sure to stop for a bit and sample the incredible tastes and experiences each town has to offer!

Burns

Baker City

Pendleton

La Grande

John Day

Joseph

Ontario

285 mi 5 hours

307 mi 4 hr 46 min

213 mi 3 hr 16 min

265 mi 4 hr 15 min

275 mi 4 hr 59 min

333 mi 5 hr 39 min

379 mi 6 hr 6 min

Bend, Oregon

131 mi 2 hours 11 min

231 mi 4 hr 34 min

242 mi 4 hr 8 min

294 mi 5 hr 6 min

151 mi 2 hr 58 min

363 mi 6 hr 30 min

260 mi 4 hr 26 min

Boise, Idaho

188 mi 3 hours 6 min

128 mi 2 hr

222 mi 3 hr 26 min

172 mi 2 hr 41 min

189 mi 3 hr 20 min

240 mi 4 hr 3 min

56 mi 54 min

Seattle, Washington

447 mi 7 hr 41 min

368 mi 5 hr 52 min

237 mi 4 hr 22 min

325 mi 5 hr 22 min

396 mi 6 hr 50 min

360 mi 6 hr 32 min

439 mi 7 hr 10 min

Portland, Oregon

For travel information and current road conditions throughout Oregon, see tripcheck.com 106

EASTERN OREGON VISITOR GUIDE

PHOTO BENJAMIN ARIFF

DRIVE TIME TO DESTINATION CITIES IN EASTERN OREGON

Clay in Motion is a family owned and operated pottery studio. We create over 60 items in 9 patterns including The Original Handwarmer Mug (left or right handed). All of our pottery is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.

When you browse through our gift shop sipping coffee from Espresso in Motion, you will discover beautiful hand blown glass, jewelry, wall art, raku lamps, designer scarves, leather bags, garden art and so much more!

Open Every Day New Items Arriving Daily!

85301 Hwy 11 Milton Freewater, OR 541-938-3316

WOV E N IN THE

NO RT HW E ST Iconic American style, including wool blankets, shirts, jackets & so much more.

Pendleton Store (Blanket Outlet & Mill) 1307 SE Court Place, Pendleton 541-276-6911

Bend Outlet Store 61334 S Hwy 97, Suite 200, Bend 541-383-7142

www.pendleton-usa.com