John Day Fossil Beds National Monument – Painted Hills Unit
Located nine miles northwest of Mitchell, Oregon and seventy-five miles east of Bend, the Painted Hills are a unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. They are named after the colorful layers of its hills, which correspond to various geologic eras. The Painted Hills are a spectacular sight best seen in the late afternoon sun, which illuminates the vibrantly colored layers of soil. Yellow, gold, black, and red soil layers are all present in the park. Differing light and moisture levels can impact the appearance of the beautiful colors and hues of the soil.
The Painted Hills are also known for the rich plant and animal fossil records that have been extremely well preserved in the terrain. Fossil records of ancient rhinoceros and horses dating back fifty million years have been found in the park. The fossils of varying species demonstrate the dramatic climatic changes that have shaped the region over time.
The Painted Hills can be visited year-round. They are in a remote, arid region of Eastern Oregon with summer temperatures that often reach above ninety degrees. Average daytime temperatures in the winter are typically in the thirties with occasional snow. In the spring, typically in May and June, wildflowers abound. Outdoor exhibits, hiking trails, and a picnic area are available for visitors.
To get to the Painted Hills, if coming from the west in Madras, Oregon, take Highway 26 east through Prineville and the Ochoco National Forest. Just before the small town of Mitchell, take a left at the signs for the Painted Hills, which are located nine miles from Highway 26. If coming from the east in Baker City, Oregon, take Highway 7 west for approximately fifty miles and then connect with Highway 26 westbound. Mitchell is approximately one hundred miles to the west. Along the way, you will pass through the beautiful Strawberry Mountains and Blue Mountains along the John Day River and the towns of Prairie City, John Day, and Mount Vernon, before arriving in Mitchell.
The other two units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are Sheep Rock, which is northwest of Dayville, Oregon, and Clarno, which is twenty miles west of appropriately named Fossil, Oregon.
See great photos of the Painted Hills and more on my website: http://oregonphotoblog.freehostia.com.
By Jason F. Nelson