As you can see, when I say eastern Oregon I do not mean Bend as some travel bloggers do. I mean further east as in closer to Idaho than the coast. Not many people think of beautiful conifer forests, waterfalls, hot springs, fossil beds, historic sites, roaming elk herds, nor majestic mountain lakes when they think about true eastern Oregon. In fact, I would say not many people outside of the few who live here spend much time thinking about eastern Oregon if they think about it at all. This seems to be particularly true when people are making their travel plans, and that is perhaps the best part about it out here. If you dare to go against the grain (and do a little bit of roughin’ it) there are numerous trails with brilliant views, and historic structures of some form awaiting your discovery year-round with little to no crowds. Read on to learn more about the eastern Oregon I bet you STILL don’t know!
Did you know about the National Forests and other public lands in eastern Oregon with miles of all types of trails?
Hike, bike, backpack, ride a horse or ATV, maybe even Nordic ski! It’s all here depending on the time of year.
If you prefer to have a more relaxing visit you can simply camp along a lake, river, or visit a hot spring.
Did you know that eastern Oregon also has one of the most renowned fossil beds in the USA?
They have discovered such unusual fossils like those of ancient, small mammals.
Did you know eastern Oregon had its own gold rush?
Asian immigrants were participants, and there are even a few active claims still.
Did you know eastern Oregon has fire look outs that are still in operation during the summer?
Their often rugged roads end in some of the best views perfect for romantic sunrises or sunsets and dark sky photography. You can probably stop by and have a chat with the look out too!
Did you know. . .I purposely did not give you a lot of specific details?
What good is an adventure if you don’t get to put in the effort to discover it for yourself?! I myself have been disappointed by going to places travel bloggers have already given nearly every detail away about. Putting in the time and effort to find these and other hidden gems out here is one of the reasons I fell so in love with it that I now live out here. I have a continual sense of excitement about the next beautiful creek or historic remnants I may find on my next outing. I do not want to potentially ruin that sense of excitement for you. Come out and discover it further for yourself! I will give you a hint though: having a vehicle, particularly one for rough dirt roads, is a good idea.
I hope you enjoy whatever your next adventure is! I must admit I hope it is out here.