Eastern Oregon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around in Eastern Oregon. Plan your trip today!


If you’re looking for adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of the Old West, look no further than Eastern Oregon. This region is home to stunning natural wonders such as high desert landscapes, deep canyons, and towering mountains, as well as fascinating cultural attractions like museums and historical landmarks.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through all the essential information you need to plan a memorable trip to Eastern Oregon. From the best places to visit to the top things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and much more, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon is a vast region covering more than 60,000 square miles. It’s bordered by the Cascade Range to the west, Idaho to the east, and California and Nevada to the south. The region is sparsely populated with about 20% of the state’s population and is known for its wide-open spaces, unique plant and animal life, and rugged beauty.

The landscape features everything from grassy prairies to sagebrush-covered plains, from snow-capped peaks to deep canyons. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, coyotes, pronghorns, and even the occasional mountain lion.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon is packed with attractions, both natural and man-made. Here are some of the best places to visit in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tamástslikt Cultural Institute (Pendleton)
  • National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (Baker City)
  • Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site (John Day)

Natural Attractions of Eastern Oregon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (Baker City)
  • Steens Mountain (Frenchglen)
  • Wallowa Lake Tramway (Joseph)

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of hiking and biking trails to suit all skill levels. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Painted Hills Overlook Trail (Mitchell)
  • Misery Ridge Trail (Smith Rock State Park)
  • The North Umpqua Trail (near Diamond Lake)

Best Things to Do in Eastern Oregon: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other fun activities to experience in Eastern Oregon. Here are a few ideas:

  • Fish for trout in the Wallowa River
  • Go on a hot air balloon ride over the high desert
  • Take a horseback riding tour in the Blue Mountains

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Oregon

If you’re looking to spend a week in Eastern Oregon, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and visit the Baker Heritage Museum
2 Hike the Eagle Cap Wilderness (Joseph)
3 Visit the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton
4 Go river rafting on the Grande Ronde River (La Grande)
5 Take a scenic drive through Steens Mountain Wilderness Area
6 Explore the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
7 Relax and soak in the hot springs in Burns

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon is not just about outdoor adventure, but also about fantastic food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oregon truffles
  • Lamb burgers
  • Marionberry pie

Local Beverages

  • Craft beers from local breweries like Barley Brown’s in Baker City
  • Wine from local vineyards such as Willow Creek Winery near Heppner

Where to Stay in Eastern Oregon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Oregon offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to rustic cabins. Here are some of our top picks:

  • DiamondStone Guest Lodges (near Sunriver)
  • The Jennings Hotel (Joseph)
  • The Round Barn Stable of Memories (Redmond)

What to Buy in Eastern Oregon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Eastern Oregon by purchasing some of the region’s local products and souvenirs. Here are some unique items to look for:

  • Handmade pottery from The Potter’s House in Joseph
  • Woven wool blankets from Pendleton Woolen Mills
  • Local honey from Bee Thankful in John Day

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by Native American tribes, pioneers, and settlers. The region is famous for its rodeos, powwows, and other Western-themed events. It’s important to respect local traditions and customs, especially in sensitive areas like sacred Native American sites.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Oregon

The best time to visit Eastern Oregon depends on what you’re looking for. Summer is the peak season, with warm temperatures and long days perfect for outdoor activities. Fall is a beautiful time to visit with the changing colors of the leaves and cooler temperatures. Winter is the best time for skiing and snowboarding and spring is ideal for wildflower viewing and waterfalls.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Oregon

Here are some basic do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Eastern Oregon:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Pack appropriate gear depending on the season and activity
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind
  • Ignore safety signs or guidelines
  • Approach wildlife too closely

Safety and Health

Every destination comes with its own set of safety and health concerns. Here are a few things to keep in mind while traveling in Eastern Oregon:

Safety in Eastern Oregon

  • Always wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays
  • Stay aware of your surroundings while hiking or camping in bear country
  • Drive with caution on rural roads, as wildlife can be unpredictable

Health in Eastern Oregon

  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, as the high desert climate can be very dry
  • Watch out for ticks while hiking or camping, as they can carry diseases like Lyme disease
  • Seek medical attention promptly if you develop symptoms like fever, chills, or headaches

Getting to Eastern Oregon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Eastern Oregon is easy, whether you’re arriving by plane, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Eastern Oregon

  • Portland International Airport (PDX)
  • Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM)
  • Boise Airport (BOI)

Bus Stations Near Eastern Oregon

  • Greyhound (services Baker City, Ontario, and La Grande)
  • Northwest Point Express (services Bend and Redmond)

Other Options

  • Drive: Eastern Oregon is easily accessible by car, and there are several scenic drives to enjoy in the region.
  • Amtrak: The Amtrak station in Portland offers connections to several cities in Eastern Oregon.

How to Get Around in Eastern Oregon

Renting a car is the best way to get around Northeastern Oregon, as public transportation options are limited. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can consider booking a tour or joining an organized group trip.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Oregon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eastern Oregon is just the beginning of all the incredible destinations to explore in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some nearby spots to consider visiting:

  • Crater Lake National Park (Klamath Falls)
  • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (Hood River)
  • McCall (Idaho)

Conclusion

Eastern Oregon is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a true taste of the Old West. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or just a chance to relax and unwind, this region has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your next trip to Eastern Oregon, and get ready to experience all the magic of this stunning destination.



    Baker City
    Boardman
    Burns
    Enterprise
    Fossil
    Hermiston
    Hines
    Huntington
    John Day
    Joseph
    La Grande
    Lakeview
    Pendleton