North Fork John Day River, Wheeler County Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  From downtown Fossil, take Highway 19 north for about 18 miles. Turn left onto County Road 25 (also known as North Fork John Day Road) and continue on this road for approximately 22 miles. You'll be following the North Fork John Day River as you drive. The road is well-maintained, but be cautious of potential wildlife crossings. There are several scenic pullouts along the way where you can stop to enjoy the river views. As you approach the river, look for signs indicating access points. The main access point will be on your right, with a small parking area.

• Public Transportation

  Currently, public transportation options are limited in Wheeler County. However, you can use a combination of local shuttle services and rideshare apps. Start by contacting the Wheeler County Transit service to check for any available shuttle routes toward the North Fork John Day River area. If no direct service is available, consider arranging for a rideshare (like Uber or Lyft) from Fossil to the river access point. Be prepared for potential waiting times and costs that vary based on the distance and demand.

• Bike

  For the more adventurous, biking to the North Fork John Day River can be a rewarding experience! Start from the town of Fossil and follow the same route as the car directions, using Highway 19 and then County Road 25. Ensure you have a mountain bike as the terrain can be rugged in some areas. It’s about a 40-mile round trip, so plan for a full day of biking. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and don't forget to wear a helmet!