Painted Hills, Umpqua Valley Travel Guide

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Explore the stunning geological wonder of Painted Hills in Oregon, where nature's vibrant colors tell the story of Earth's history.

Painted Hills, located in Oregon, is a breathtaking natural wonder featuring stunning multi-colored hills. A must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike, it offers a unique glimpse into the Earth's geological history.

A brief summary to Painted Hills

Oregon, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Painted Hills.

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Explore Painted Hills on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Painted Hills, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you're traveling by car, start from the center of Umpqua Valley. Take OR-138 E towards Roseburg. Continue on OR-138 E for approximately 40 miles until you reach the junction with US-97 N. Merge onto US-97 N and continue for about 52 miles. Take the exit for OR-26 E towards Madras. Follow OR-26 E for about 30 miles until you reach the Painted Hills entrance. Look for the signs directing you to Painted Hills, which will be on your right.
Public Transportation and Car

If you're using public transportation, take a bus from Roseburg to The Dalles via the Columbia Gorge Express. Once you arrive in The Dalles, you will need to rent a car or use a rideshare service to reach Painted Hills. From The Dalles, head south on US-97 for about 36 miles, then take the exit for OR-26 E towards Madras. Follow OR-26 E for approximately 30 miles until you see the signs for Painted Hills on your right.
Carpool or Rideshare

If you prefer a carpool or rideshare option, consider using apps like Uber or Lyft from your location in Umpqua Valley. Input 'Painted Hills, Oregon' as your destination. Depending on traffic, this could cost anywhere from $50 to $80 each way. Ensure your driver is familiar with the area, as the Painted Hills are located off OR-26 E, and they'll need to navigate to the entrance.

Discover more about Painted Hills

Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon, is a geological marvel that showcases vibrant, multi-colored hills that appear to be painted with rich hues of red, orange, and yellow. This extraordinary landscape was formed over millions of years through a combination of volcanic activity and erosion, revealing layers of sediment that tell the story of ancient ecosystems. Visitors can explore a variety of trails that wind through the hills, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to witness the unique geological formations up close. Each season brings a different palette of colors, making it a photographer's paradise, where every visit can yield new and stunning images. The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances the colors and casts beautiful shadows across the hills. In addition to the striking beauty of the hills, the area is rich in fossil history, with the opportunity to learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this region. Interpretive signs along the trails provide valuable insights into the geology and ecology of the area, making your visit both educational and awe-inspiring. Whether you are hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenery, Painted Hills is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking to experience the stunning beauty of the Oregon landscape.