Contemplate rich scenery, wildlife, historic landmarks, and enjoy seven campgrounds, a breathtaking view of the Elkhorn Mountains, hiking, and boating.
The Elkhorn Mountains are the backdrop for this diverse and beautiful 106-mile loop through rich scenery with historic landmarks, wildlife, and recreation abounding. Starting at Route Seven in Baker City, where pioneers on the Oregon Trail once stopped, this entirely paved path traces the history of eastern Oregon from the gold mining towns of the mid-1800s to the trails, lakes, and wildlife areas of today.
This scenery-filled trip takes you past Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Boundary and Red Bridge Crossing to the Mason Dam Picnic Area, where you can try your angling skills in the Powder River. Continue on Route Seven to the Mowich Loop Wildlife Viewing Area to marvel at the diverse wildlife, including a variety of Whitetail Deer and birds. From there, you will pass the historic South Shore Campgrounds and the Gold Mining Overlook, which is one of seven campgrounds you can hit along this loop. Stop off at the Sumpter Valley Railroad near the end of Route Seven to take a ride on a restored portion of the original run. This scenic byway route leaves Route Seven at Sumpter Junction and continues north on Route 410, winding you through the historic towns of Sumpter and Bourne and leading you to a breathtaking vista of the Elkhorn Mountains. During the winter months, stop off at Snowpark and Blue Springs Summit at 5,864 feet above sea level for a little snowboarding.
Route 410 continues on to the North Fork John Day Campground, where you hop on Forest Road 73 past several peaceful trail heads, which lead to several more campgrounds and a variety of lakes in the area until you reach Elkhorn Summit. At 7,392 feet, you are at the highest peak of the panoramic byway overlooking the magnificent Grande Ronde River. End this spectacular drive at the ranching community of Baker Valley, and don’t forget to bring your 10-gallon hat. The route takes you back to the Post Office Square at Baker City. Whether it’s boating, exploring, hiking, or just enjoying nature, this gorgeous scenic byway will not leave you disappointed.
Starting Point:
Baker City, OR
Distance of Drive:
106-mile loop
Must Eat:
Main Event
1929 Main Street, Baker City, OR 97814
Phone: 541/523-6988
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
This drive has something to offer all year around, but summer is the preferred season to avoid Oregon’s wet climate.
Points of Interest on Drive:
Mowich Loop Wildlife Viewing Area
Elkhorn Mountains
Elkhorn Summit
Baker Valley Overlook
Gold Mining Overlook
Tagged with: best time:summer • mountains • Oregon
Filed under: Best Road Trips