Discover the Vibrant Colors of John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit
Explore the stunning Painted Hills Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, where vibrant colors and ancient landscapes await your discovery.
Experience the stunning beauty of the Painted Hills Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, where vibrant colors and unique geological formations await. This breathtaking natural reserve is a must-visit for any nature lover or adventure seeker.
A brief summary to John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Painted Hills Unit
- 37375 Bear Creek Rd, Mitchell, Oregon, 97750, US
- +1541-987-2333
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to see the hills illuminated in their most vivid colors.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Don't forget your camera! The unique landscapes provide fantastic photo opportunities.
- Check the visitor center hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
Getting There
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Car
If you are in Painted Hills, head southwest on Painted Hills Road. After approximately 3 miles, turn right onto OR-26 W. Continue on OR-26 for about 9 miles until you reach the junction with Bear Creek Road. Turn left onto Bear Creek Road and follow it for about 5 miles. The Painted Hills Unit entrance will be on your right at 37375 Bear Creek Rd, Mitchell, OR 97750.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are quite limited in this remote area. If you are starting from a nearby town, such as Mitchell, you can take a local shuttle service or a taxi to reach the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Painted Hills Unit. Ensure to arrange for return transportation in advance as public transport is not frequent. Check local listings for taxi services or shuttle providers.
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Biking
For the more adventurous, biking to the Painted Hills Unit is an option. Start from Painted Hills and follow the same route as cars: take Painted Hills Road to OR-26 W, then Bear Creek Road. Be prepared for some elevation changes and ensure you have sufficient water and supplies, as this route can be physically demanding.
Discover more about John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Painted Hills Unit
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Spoke'n Hostel & Praise Assembly
12.9 km
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Wheeler County Trading Co
13.3 km
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Little Pine Lodge & Souvenir Shop
13.3 km
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The Oregon Hotel
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Washington Family Ranch - A Young Life Camp
26.3 km
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Ochoco Mountains
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Barnhouse Campground
33.0 km
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John Day River
34.2 km
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Oregon Paleo Lands Institute
37.7 km
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Wheeler County Fairgrounds RV Park
37.8 km
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Fossil Mercantile Company
37.9 km
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City of Fossil
38.0 km
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Steins Pillar
39.8 km
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Cathedral Rock - John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
48.6 km
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Cant Ranch
50.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Painted Hills
1.2 km
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Painted Hills Overlook
1.3 km
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Painted Cove Trail
1.6 km
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Painted Hills and John Day Fossil Beds
3.2 km
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John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
3.2 km
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Priest Hole Recreation Site
8.9 km
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John Day National Monument - Clarno Unit
30.6 km
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Ochoco National Forest
33.5 km
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Ochoco National Forest & Crooked River National Grassland
36.6 km
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Wheeler County Fairgrounds
37.9 km
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Fossil Museum
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Steins Pillar Trailhead
41.3 km
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Thomas Condon Visitor Center
49.9 km
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John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Sheep Rock Unit
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Blue Basin Overlook Trail
51.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted Hills Vacation - Cottages & Retreat
13.4 km
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Bargain Boutique
37.9 km
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KC's Country Value
37.9 km
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Lone Elk Marketplace
41.5 km
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Post General Store
58.9 km
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Bi-Mart Membership Discount Stores
59.7 km
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Wilco Farm Store
59.8 km
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Clothes Encounters Consignment
61.2 km
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Bayberry Lane
61.3 km
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HEADBANGERS
61.3 km
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Sweet Willow & Co
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Outpost
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Antique Alley
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The Outpost
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Smith Rock State Park Welcome Center
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tiger Town Brewing Co.
13.2 km
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The Royal Stag
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The Waterhole Tavern
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Wild Winds Station
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Desert Inn Sports Bar and Grill
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Smith Rock Parking
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Smith Rock Hideout
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Sandbagger Saloon
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Over The Edge Taphouse
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Clock Tower Pub
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Bottoms Up Bar & Grill
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The Moontower
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General Duffy's Waterhole
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Double J Saloon
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Wayfarer Club
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