Whether you are long time
Oregon resident, or are planning a visit to the area, there are many places worth
exploring. The Oregon Coast, Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood and Crater Lake
are all well-known natural wonders which have captured the imagination and
hearts of many a traveler. But have you heard of Oregon’sPainted Hills? These are a spectacular
site located within the John Day Fossil Beds Monument National Park in East/Central
Oregon.
History comes alive with
these colorfully layered mountains of earth. Hues ranging from reds to yellows,
golds, blacks and browns fill the expanse of this geological wonder. What’s
more these colors are enhanced by shades of green and lovely colorful flowers
during the spring. A veritable rainbow is waiting for anyone who passes by.
The Painted Hills were
formed over millions of years, including a time when the area was an ancient
flood plain. Each color highlights a different geological era of flora and
fauna, and the vast number of fossils found here have made this region one of
the most acclaimed places for paleontologists to study.
The John Day Fossil Beds Monument Park
includes not only the Painted Hills but two other main areas, The Claro Unit
and Sheep Rock Unit, both with their own unique landscapes and fossil remains.
Any science buff or naturalist is bound to find a treasure trove of exploration
here. This part of Oregon is truly one of Nature’s best classrooms when it
comes to learning about our ancient past.
You can also take a step
back in time to when the wild west was still being tamed with local museums
such as the KamWah Chung State Heritage Site, where you can see first-hand where locals were
treated with Chinese medicine and techniques one hundred years ago. The site is
located in the town of John Day, not far from the Monument Park and Painted Hills.
With the interpretive center and museum, the past influences of the local
culture come to life.
One of the best ways to
travel to this part of the state is via
Beyond stepping back in
time with vistas of the Painted hills and old ghost towns, there are also
recreational activities to enjoy in this part of Oregon. One of the most
exciting and popular ones being river rafting, a perfect way to stay cool in
the heat of summer. There are also thousands of miles of trails for hiking,
cycling or horseback riding. Those seeking a winter getaway have plenty of
choices, such as skiing and snowmobiling to snow shoeing throughout the region.
There are a variety of
local culinary treats to enjoy, from wine and beer to locally grown organic
foods and artisan cafes, each small town has its own taste offerings. Located
close to the Painted Hills in Mitchell, Oregon, you will find the Historic
Oregon Hotel B&B, built originally in the 1800s, another excellent way to
take a step back in time. There are also vacation rental properties available around
the region.
If you are looking to experience a uniquely getaway,
spend some time around one of Oregon’s 7 Wonders, the Painted Hills, you will
be glad you did. The
agents of C.P. Trips are here to help you plan a vacation full of
transformative memories. Enjoy a worry-free journey with the support and care
of a local Travel Professional*. Visit our website, cptrips.com to explore the
latest in travel ideas, promotions and more. Call us at (503) 658-5646 or email
us at cptrips@aol.com today- Keep Calm and
Travel On.
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