Blue Mountain Scenic Byway continued...

(Umatilla National Forest)

 

11. UKIAH (91 miles)

Geologists tell us the Ukiah area was once covered by a large lake.  The Indians speak of a "great rumbling" that happened "many moons ago" and the lake vanished as through it had never been there. Indians have been coming to the area for many years to gather wild blue camas root early in the summer, relying on the root as a food source. Originally called Camas Prairie, the name was changed to Ukiah by E. B. Gambee who lived in Ukiah, California prior to Ukiah, Oregon. With just at 250 people, Ukiah still maintains the "small-town, independent" character it did when it was first founded in the late 1800's. The town welcomes visitors and provides receptionists essential services as they enjoy the many outdoor activities readily available in the area:  birding, biking, hiking, hunting and camping.

12.  BRIDGE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA  (95 miles)

The Bridge Creek area began as a way-stop on the first stagecoach route in NE Oregon from Pendleton to the John Day mines.  During the mining excitement of the early 1860's, the packers made such improvements on the trail as constructing pole bridges over the creek, hence the name.  In 1962, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife began buying land as it became available in order to provide a wintering area for elk. Features at this site include: interpretive trail and signing, day use parking and forest information.

13. NORTH FORK JOHN DAY OVERLOOK  (104 miles) 

Along the byway is the spectacular overlook. The pull-off allows you to get out, stretch, and enjoy the view of the area.  looking to the southeast, you can view the North Fork John Day Wilderness and the North Fork John Day River drainage.  If the sky is clear, you may be able to spot the Strawberry Mountains on the Malheur National Forest. To the southeast, you will see Bridge Creek Flats where elk are frequently sighted.

14. WINOM FRAZIER OHV COMPLEX (103 miles)

This OHV complex offers over 140 miles of challenging trails as well as access to scenic views, fishing, hunting and camping. Local volunteers maintain most trails for use from June through September. Two campgrounds, Frazier to the north and Winom to the south, provide campsites, staging areas, day-use areas with shelters and vault toilets.  An Oregon Parks and Recreation Decal is required when riding in this area.

Go Back  Continued...

 

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