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Posted: Jun 14, 2009 11:00 PM
Updated: Jun 15, 2009 10:30 PM

Driving Today: Legendary Drives



Oregon #2
Elkhorn Drive

The Elkhorn Mountains are the backdrop for this beautiful and diverse 106-mile loop through rich scenery with wildlife, historic landmarks, and recreation abounding. Starting at Rte. 7 in Baker City, where pioneers on the Oregon Trail once stopped, this entirely paved route traces the history of eastern Oregon from the gold mining towns of the mid-1800s to the lakes, trails and wildlife areas of today.

This scenery-filled drive takes you past Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Boundary and Red Bridge Crossing to the Mason Dam Picnic Area, where you can test your angling skills in the Powder River. Continue on Rte. 7 to the Mowich Loop Wildlife Viewing Area to marvel at the diverse wildlife, including a variety of birds and whitetail deer. From there you will pass the historic Gold Mining Overlook and the South Shore Campgrounds, which is one of seven campgrounds you can hit along this loop. Stop off at the Sumpter Valley Railroad near the end of Rte. 7 to take a ride on a restored section of the original run. This scenic byway route leaves Rte. 7 at Sumpter Junction and continues north on Rte. 410, winding you through the historic towns of Sumpter and Bourne and leading you to a breathtaking view of the Elkhorn Mountains. During the winter months, stop off at Blue Springs Summit and Snowpark at 5,864 feet above sea level for a little snowboarding.

Rte. 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 a variety of lakes in the area and several more campgrounds, until you reach Elkhorn Summit. At 7,392 feet, you are at the highest point of the scenic byway overlooking the magnificent Grande Ronde River. Finish this spectacular drive at the ranching community of Baker Valley, and don't forget to bring your ten-gallon hat. The route leads you back to the Post Office Square at Baker City. Whether it's hiking, boating, exploring 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:
Elkhorn Mountains
Mowich Loop Wildlife Viewing Area
Gold Mining Overlook
Elkhorn Summit
Baker Valley Overlook

See also: Oregon #1,