Hines Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Hines, Oregon. Our long-form travel guide offers an in-depth look into this beautiful destination in Eastern Oregon.


Introduction to Hines

Hines is a small and picturesque town located in Eastern Oregon, nested in the heart of Harney County. Surrounded by the beautiful Cascade Mountains, Hines is an ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet. With a population of just over 1,500 people, Hines retains its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Hines

Hines is home to numerous attractions that visitors will enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just want to relax, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Hines. Here are some of the top places to visit in Hines:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Harney County Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history of Harney County, with exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to pioneer and homesteading displays.

  • Grant County Historical Museum: Located nearby, this museum highlights the history of Grant County and Eastern Oregon, with exhibits ranging from fossils to the gold rush.

  • Burns Paiute Tribe Cultural Center & Museum: This museum showcases the culture and heritage of the Burns Paiute Tribe, with exhibits ranging from baskets and beadwork to traditional Paiute clothing.

Natural Attractions of Hines: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 320 species of birds sighted. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

  • Steens Mountain Wilderness Area: This wilderness area features stunning scenery, with jagged peaks, rocky canyons, and alpine lakes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

  • Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area: This natural area is home to a volcanic field that formed around 70,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the craters and lava flows, as well as enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hines

Hines is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking routes available in the area. Here are some of the top trails to explore in the area:

  • Donner und Blitzen River Trail: This 29-mile trail follows the Donner und Blitzen River, offering stunning views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.

  • South Steens Mountain Loop Trail: This 13-mile loop trail offers breathtaking views of the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, with steep drop-offs and stunning alpine meadows.

  • Pueblo Mountain Park Trail: This 4.5-mile trail follows an old wagon road, offering stunning views of the high desert landscape and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Hines: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Hines offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Hines:

  • Stargazing Tours: Hines is a great destination for stargazing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution. Local tour companies offer stargazing tours, which include telescopes and knowledgeable guides.

  • Hot Springs Soaking: If you’re looking to relax, Hines has several nearby hot springs that offer soaking pools and stunning views.

  • Birdwatching Tours: With over 320 species of birds sighted in the area, Hines is a great destination for birdwatching. Local tour companies offer guided birdwatching tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hines

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Hines:

Day 1: Arrival in Hines, check-in to your accommodations, and explore the town.

Day 2: Visit the Harney County Historical Museum and explore downtown Hines.

Day 3: Take a guided hiking or biking tour of the Donner und Blitzen River Trail.

Day 4: Visit the Burns Paiute Tribe Cultural Center & Museum and enjoy a soak in one of the nearby hot springs.

Day 5: Explore the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy some birdwatching.

Day 6: Visit the Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area and take a stargazing tour.

Day 7: Departure from Hines.

Food and Drink Scene of Hines

Hines offers a variety of local dining options for visitors to enjoy. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steak and Potatoes: Hines is known for its delicious steak and potatoes, which are often served with locally grown produce.

  • Rhubarb Pie: Rhubarb grows well in the Hines area, and local restaurants often offer delicious rhubarb pies.

Local Beverages

  • Oregon Wine: Oregon is known for its delicious wine, and Hines is no exception. Try a glass of locally produced pinot noir or chardonnay.

  • Craft Beer: Hines is home to several craft breweries, which offer a variety of handcrafted beers.

Where to Stay in Hines: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hines offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Hines:

  • Benny’s Rod and Gun Lodge: This lodge offers comfortable accommodations and is located near some of the top outdoor attractions in the area.

  • Harney County Inn: This hotel is located in downtown Hines and offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.

  • Juniper Motel: This family-owned motel offers comfortable accommodations and is located near a variety of outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Hines: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hines offers several local products that make for great souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the top options:

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Several local artists create beautiful handmade pottery, which makes for a unique and memorable gift.

  • Local Honey: Hines is home to several local beekeepers, who produce delicious honey in a variety of flavors.

Local Culture and Customs of Hines

Hines has a rich history and culture, influenced by the Native American tribes, cowboys, and homesteaders who have called the area home. Visitors can explore this culture through the local museums and historical sites, as well as by attending local events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Hines

The best time to visit Hines depends on your interests and preferences. Summer months offer perfect hiking and outdoor adventure weather, while fall provides the opportunity to observe bird migration. Winter offers snowshoeing, and stargazing opportunities, and spring brings a lot of blooming wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hines

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Hines:

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.

  • Practice Leave No Trace principles when exploring the outdoors.

  • Support local businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or damage natural resources.

  • Litter or leave trash behind.

  • Ignore posted regulations or closures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hines

Hines is a safe destination for visitors, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions when exploring the outdoors. Come prepared with a map, plenty of water, and appropriate clothing and gear.

Health in Hines

Hines is a small town with a limited number of medical facilities. It’s always a good idea to bring any necessary medications and be prepared for emergencies.

Getting to Hines: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hines is located in a remote area of Eastern Oregon, but there are still several transportation options available:

Airports Near Hines

The nearest airports to Hines are the Roberts Field airport in Redmond and Boise airport in Boise. Rental cars and shuttle services are available at both airports.

Bus Stations Near Hines

The closest bus stations to Hines are located in Burns, about 5 miles away. Several bus lines offer services from and to Burns from various cities in Oregon.

Other Options

Visitors may also choose to drive to Hines, as the destination is accessible by major highways including OR-20, US-395, and US-78.

How to Get Around in Hines

Most of the key attractions in Hines are accessible by foot, but a car is recommended to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Hines: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hines is located in the heart of Eastern Oregon, which offers plenty of destinations to explore. Here are some of the nearby attractions:

  • Crater Lake National Park: Located about 115 miles northwest of Hines, this stunning national park offers pristine alpine scenery and opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.

  • John Day Fossil Beds National Monument: Located about 110 miles northeast of Hines, this national monument offers visitors the chance to explore 40 million years of geological history.

  • The Painted Hills: Located about 60 miles north of Hines, this scenic area features colorful hills and fossils that date back millions of years.

Conclusion

Hines, Oregon, is a hidden gem in Eastern Oregon that offers visitors a rich history, beautiful natural attractions, and unique cultural experiences. With diverse activities and attractions, visitors are sure to find something they love in Hines. Plan your trip today and discover the natural beauty of this beautiful destination!