destination ne oregon

, dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon thE obsErvEr, APril 2012SUMMER 2012 EDITION

Things to see and do in Union

and Wallowa Counties

“With a special look at

summer activities.”

, dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon thE obsErvEr, APril 2012

, dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon thE obsErvEr | bAKEr CitY hErALd, APriL 2012

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What draws visitors to Northeast Oregon? Let’s see ... perhaps it’s the mountains. Or maybe the lakes and rivers, or parks,

or art scene.The reasons number too many to list here, so

hopefully you’ll take the time to explore.Of course, "explore" is an adventure in itself,

depending on if you take a scenic drive in a vehicle or cover the same miles on a bicycle.

And if you come in the winter, there’s no need to huddle inside with hot cocoa (although you can do that too). The Anthony Lakes Recreation and Ski Area boasts the best powder and the shortest lift

lines.So welcome to our part of the

world. We hope you stay awhile and discover why we love it so much.

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Northeast Oregon: We hope you love it as much as we do

Destination Northeast Oregon is a special publication of The Observer.

Copyright The Observer April 2012

www.lagrandeobserver.com

Inside• Outdoor Adventure 2• Swim, Golf 10• Wilderness 11• Birding 12• Winter Recreation 14• Local History 16• EOU 19• Hells Canyon Byway 20• Excursion Train 36• Art Scene 38• Agriculture 40• Calendars 44• Rodeos 46

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The beauty and recreation of this place draw visitors, who sometimes decide they like it enough to stay.

Explore for yourself and see what adventures you can find. But please be prepared — find a map, take supplies, tell someone your route.

Whether you’re in search of birds, fish, or a nice trail to hike, check the next few pages for suggestions on outdoor hot spots.

It's our nature

Recreation Information• Wallowa-Whitman National Forest: www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w• Oregon State Parks: www.oregonstateparks.org

The Observer

thE obsErvEr | bAKEr CitY hErALd, APriL 2012 dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon, PAGE 3

Need more information?

Check out these helpful websites:

www.visitlagrande.com www.eaglecaptrain.com www.hellscanyonbyway.com www.visitbaker.com www.wallowacountychamber.com

And be sure to stop by the Union County Chamber of Commerce

Visitors Center at 207 Depot St., La Grande

Distances from La Grande to ...

Portland 250 miles

Eugene 372 miles

Bend 293 miles

Medford 535 miles

Boise 171 miles

Spokane 255 miles

Tri Cities 120 miles

Salt Lake 508 miles

Baker City 45 miles

Enterprise 60 miles

Wallowa Lake 69 miles

Pendleton 47 miles

Friday, July 27-Sunday, July 29

Potter's HouseGallery, Gift Boutique

and More!

1012 Adams Ave., La Grande541-962-7171

541-963-0100

1710Adams Ave.,

La Grande

Corner of 6th & Penn, La Grande541-963-5351

328 N. Main St., Union

541-562-6031

“Worthwhile Goods for Home and Garden”

REPURPOSED!


The Observer

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Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area and Nature Trail

A viewing platform enhances the birdwatching at the Peach Road nature trail and auto tour. To get to the viewpoint, follow Foothill Road south from La Grande, or exit 268 off I-84, southeast of La Grande. See page 12.

Mount Emily Recreation Areawww.mtemily.org

Union County recently purchased nearly 3,700 acres on the face of Mount Emily, La Grande’s most prominent landmark, for management of recreation and natural resources. Hiking, biking, horseback riding and ATV trails are available, with more recreation facilities planned. Trails are easily accessed from staging areas near the Union County Fairgrounds on the north end of

La Grande.

Morgan LakeFind fishing, picnicking, swim-

ming, camping and non-motor-ized boating just a short drive through the hills above La Grande. Paved jetties provide wheelchair access. From La

Grande’s C Avenue turn left on Walnut Street, head five miles up Morgan Lake Road.

Anthony Lakes Recreation Areawww.anthonylakes.com

Pristine and quiet, this high-mountain lake is surrounded by granite peaks that sparkle in the sun. In summer, enjoy camping, fishing, picnick-ing and excellent hiking through unspoiled mountain wilderness. The lake is wonderful for kayaks, canoes and rafts and is popular for fly fishing and angling. Exit 285 off I-84 at North Powder, turn west toward mountains and follow signs 20 miles.

Bird Track Spring Campground and Nature Trail

Giant pine and cottonwood trees and grassy areas highlight the 22 tent/trailer camp spots. There are restrooms but no potable water source. A nature trail wanders through the woods at riverside and is great for bird watching. West of La Grande on I-84, take Starkey Exit 252 and go 4.5 miles on Highway 244. Ask for a nature trail guide at the visitor center or Forest Service office.

An early-morning birding adventure.

Birding, fishing, hiking


The Observer

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Winom-Frazier off-Highway Vehicle Trail Complex

This giant complex of trails near Ukiah on Highway 244. is designed for off-highway vehicles of all kinds. Trails travel through two national for-ests and between two wilderness areas. A trail map is available at the Forest Service office or the visi-tor center.

Catherine Creek State Park

www.oregonstateparks.comSituated on the tree-lined banks of Catherine

Creek, this park is popular for picnicking, camp-ing, hiking and fishing. A trail allows hikers to climb through the forest for outstanding views. Trailhead access to the Eagle Cap Wilderness is alos nearby. This park is located 14 miles south-east of Union on Highway 203.

Jubilee Lake Campground509-522-6290

This USFS campground with 51 primitive sites surrounds Jubilee Lake, which is open to non-motorized boating and activities. Located 35 miles northwest of Elgin on Highway 204.

Looking Glass Fish Hatchery541-437-9723

Located 20 miles north of Elgin at Palmer Junction. Tour this ODFW operation, and pack a lunch to picnic at the hatchery or other scenic spots along the way.

Indian Rock Overlook509-522-6290

High atop Mount Emily, this overlook offers a view of the Grande Ronde Valley. Four-wheel drive vehicles only. 15 miles north of La Grande on Fox Hill Road.

OutdoorsTrails, parks, campgrounds

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Wallowa Lakewww.wallowalake.net

Wallowa Lake is about 70 miles from La Grande on Highway 82, near Joseph. It was shaped by glaciers that covered this region sever-al times. At six miles in length, the lake is a play-ground to waterskiers, jet skiers, paddleboaters and anglers. On-shore are go-carts and miniature golf, as well as a tramway that takes visitors to the summit of 8,300-foot Mount Howard. Two miles of hiking trails at the top provide incredible views.

Amenities: lodging, RV park, restaurants, con-vience groceries, boat launch, state park and campground. No gas. Many services are open sea-sonally.

Hilgard Junction State ParkCamp and picnic among the giant cotton-

woods along the banks of the Grande Ronde River, at a site where pioneers forded the river. Historic information kiosk. Located eight miles west of La Grande, Exit 252 off I-84.

Minam State ParkFeatures 12 primitive campsites on the banks

of the Wallowa River. Camp, fish, raft and enjoy the scenery. Located two miles north of Highway 82 at Minam, midway between Elgin and Wallowa.

Red Bridge State Parkwww.oregonstateparks.com

This scenic park sits in the pine trees along the Upper Grande Ronde River. Popular for fishing and picnicking, it has a few campsites as well. Take Exit 252 off I-84, then go eight miles on Highway 244.

Emigrant Springs State Park

www.oregonstateparks.comNear the summit of the Blue Mountains,

Emigrant Springs is between La Grande and Pendleton, at Exit 234 off I-84. The park offers campsites in the midst of giant evergreens. Cabins, teepees, covered wag-ons, RV and horse camp sites are also available. There are interpretive kiosks, living histo-ry presentations and restroom facilities complete with show-ers.

Oregon State Parkswww.oregonstateparks.org

Some state parks charge a day-use fee, which is $5.

Or, you can purchase a 12-month ($30) or 24-month pass ($50) at most major state park offices, over the phone by calling 800-551-6949, or from vendors all over the state. The pass is trans-ferable among vehicles.

The Observer


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EVENTS:Celebrate Spring Benefit Ride April 28-29, 2012 La Grande

Century Ride of Century, CROC May 26, 2012 Pendleton3 Rivers Race June 2, 2012 La Grande

Baker City Race Classic June 29, 2012 - July 1, 2012 Baker CityXTerra Solstice Triathalon July 21, 2012 La Grande

Red to Red Mountain Bike Race March, 2013 EchoAnthony Lakes Winter Triathlon March 16, 2013 Anthony Lakes Ski Resort

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Pilcher Creek ReservoirCamp, picnic, fish and watch wildlife at this

beautiful, quiet reservoir with view of the Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains. Primitive facilities. Take Exit 285 off I-84 at North Powder, then follow signs.

Wolf Creek Reservoir509-522-6290

A great place for fishing, camping, waterski-ing and boating in a picturesque setting at the base of the Blue Mountains. Primitive facilities. Take the Wolf Creek Exit 282 from I-84 near North Powder. Follow signs west.

Thief Valley Reservoir509-522-6290

Situated in the heart of cattle country, this

reservoir is a premier spot for spring fishing and windsurfing. Primitive facilities. From Union, drive south on Highway 237 to Telocaset. Cross railroad and follow Medical Springs Road for five miles.

The Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains dominates the Baker County skyline.

Baker County Tourism

BONUSBaker City is on the Hells Canyon

Byway. See pages 24-25 for a map of the route, and information

about stops along the way.

Looking for a day trip? We have ideasDay Trip One

WALK: Stretch your legs with a walking tour. Choose the historic homes in one of La

Grande’s oldest neighbor-hoods, or the trees and land-scaping downtown. Self-guided walking tour maps are available at the visitor center, 207 Depot St. Be sure to visit the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum on the corner of Elm Street and Washington Avenue. While there, see the

community’s vintage fire engines and exhibits.DRIVE: While at the visitor center, be sure to

pick up a guide to The Grande Tour, a state-designated driving tour route that helps you explore the history and magnificently diverse landscape of Union County. Start by traveling along the historic Oregon Trail to the view-point overlooking Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area. The marsh hosts birds of many feathers. Next, stop by Hot Lake Springs for a tour of the bronze foundry and historic spa.

Continued on Page 35


La Grande Office541-663-9000

Baker City Office541-523-7390

Richland Office541-893-3115

Visit us at www.johnjhoward.com

1216 Adams Ave., La Grande541-663-WINE

Always OPEN ’til 7 pm2023 Main St., Baker City

541-523-7490

UNION COUNTY MUSEUM


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Hot day? Go jump in a pool.The Observer

Forest Cove Warm Springs Pool541-568-4890

Relax or exercise in the popular naturally heated outdoor pool and picnic area in Cove, across the valley from La Grande.

Veterans Memorial Pool401 Palmer St., La Grande

541-962-1347This indoor public pool offers a variety of

swimming activities, plus a separate kids pool.

Buffalo Peak Golf Course541-562-5527 • 866-202-5950

www.buffalopeakgolf.comThis scenic 18-hole, public golf course in

Union is located on a hill-side overlooking the Grande Ronde Valley. The course offers challenging links-style play for all levels of golfers. Take Highway 203 southeast of La Grande to Union or Highway 237 from North Powder, turn east on Fulton Street. Green

fees are $17 for nine holes on weekdays, $20 on weekends, and $27 for 18 holes on week-days and $31 weekends.

La Grande Country Club Golf Course541-963-4241

www.lagrandecountryclub.comThe La Grande Country Club welcomes vis-

itors during daily open play times. The coun-try club is a nine-hole course with a mature landscape, in a country setting. The club-house provides refreshments, food and an event room. Power and hand carts are avail-able. Green fees are $25 for 9 holes and $40 for 18. Call for available tee times.

Alpine Meadows Golf Course541-426-3246

www.alpinemeadowsgolfcourse.comLocated in Enterprise, this nine-hole

course features a view of the Wallowa Mountains.

Green fees are $18 for nine holes, $28 for 18. Call for tee times.

See Page 11


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Outdoors

The Observer

Riverside Greens Miniature Golf Course541-963-7361

Play miniature golf on a fun, professionally designed course. Open Wednesday through Sunday, June, July and August; Friday through Sunday, May, September and October. Call for hours and to make party arrangements. Fruitdale Lane, next to Riverside Park on the north end of town.

Rock Climbing541-962-3808

A growing sport in Northeast Oregon. Test your skills at the climbing wall in Quinn Coliseum on

the campus of Eastern Oregon University. Call for available hours.

La Grande SK8 Park and Pioneer Park

Oak Street and Palmer541-962-1352

This regulation skateboard park is an excellent facility for skate-boarders. Pioneer Park also has a busy ball field, playground, pavil-ion and public swimming pool. Call for pavilion reservations.

If you want to really escape the ordinary, head for the Eagle Cap Wilderness. As Oregon’s largest wilderness, its 500 miles

of trails wend through premier backpacking country. In the fall, hunters stalk big game. In winter, snowshoers, skiers and snowboarders delight in the powder of its semi-arid climate and high elevations.

Set aside by the U.S. Forest Service in 1930, Eagle Cap is still so secluded many Oregonians have yet to discover its charms. In its 580 square miles, hikers and horseback riders can find soli-tude amidst an abundance of wildlife including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coy-otes, black bear and cougar. The Forest Service district offices have detailed trail maps and

advice on little-used areas. Trailheads can be accessed from all sides of

the wilderness and as close as 25 miles from La Grande. Most trailheads are open by June, but be prepared for inclement weather and snow drifts far into summer in the highest areas.

Want Wilderness? We've got it

InformationLa Grande district office, US Forest Service541-963-7186

Continued from Page 10


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The Observer

The Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area has more than 200 species of birds, 40 species of mammals and 10 species of

reptiles and amphibians that either visit or live in the marsh, which takes up 6,000 pristine acres on the Grande Ronde Valley floor.

The wetlands, managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, is among the largest of its kind in Northeast Oregon. Thousands of ducks, geese, swans and shore birds stop to feed and rest at the marsh dur-ing spring and fall migrations. Bald eagles often spend the fall and winter at Ladd Marsh. In the summer nesting season, more than 2,000 ducks and 400 Canada geese are produced annually. Avocets, grebes, black-necked stilts, sandhill cranes and many raptors use Ladd

Marsh to raise their young. On the ground, mule deer and Rocky Mountain elk can often be seen browsing and grazing.

The 400-acre Tule Lake Nature Area provides an entry point for bird-watchers. Tule Lake features a mile-long hiking trail as well as a mile-long auto tour. Tule Lake is open each day from a half-hour before dawn to a half-hour past sunset. Photography blinds can be reserved as well. Neither firearms nor dogs are allowed in the nature area.

The Ladd Marsh Birdathon takes place the second full weekend in May. The family-oriented birdathon lets you explore the whole wildlife area, even places normally closed to the public.

Birdwatching at Ladd MarshInformationLocated off Highway 203 between La Grande and Union.

541-963-4954


Enjoy the Casual Elegance

Dining Room Hours: Mon-Sat 4 pm to 10 pm

Bar Hours: Monday-Thursday 4 pm to 10:30 pm

Friday 4 pm to 11 pmSaturday 5 pm to 11 pm

Steak • Seafood • Pasta • Burgers • Salads

Housed in a historic brick building in downtown La Grande, Ten Depot offers a dining experience to fi t any budget.

Live Music most Tuesdays & Thursdays

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541-962-0909 ~ 1-800-276-6873www.lagranderendezvousrvresort.com

[email protected]

RendezvousRV Resort


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Anthony Lakes Recreation and Ski

Areawww.anthonylakes.com

541-856-3277Pristine and quiet, this

beautiful high mountain lake offers camping, fish-ing, hiking and picnicking in the summer. Trails lead to close lakes, or you can link up to the Elkhorn Crest Trail. In winter, Anthony Lakes Ski Area’s 7,100-foot base elevation provides powder snow that draws skiers and snow-boarders from near and far.

To get there, take Exit 285 off I-84 at North Powder, turn west toward the mountains and follow signs 20 miles.

Spout Springs Ski Area

www.skispoutsprings.com

541-566-0327This area is located between Elgin and Weston on Highway 204. In winter, ski downhill and Nordic, snowboard, snowshoe and ride snow-mobiles. Features two lifts, a restaurant/lounge

and night skiing. In summer, hike and moun-tain bike through the Blue Mountains.

Meacham Divide Nordic Ski AreaNordic ski in the hear of the Blue Mountains on 25 kilometers of ski trails groomed with diagonal and skate lanes. On the Umatilla National Forest, the ski area is operated by vol-unteers through a private/public partnership. Located 17 miles west of La Grande off I-84 at Exit 243.

Snow

The Observer

Snowboarders descend at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort.

Much Fun


Real Estate Team

2106 Island Ave.La Grande, OR 97850

(541) 963-1000(866) 963-8800

Ethical, Educated & Dedicated to

Our Community!

Scan this with your cell phone for more information!

For information on*Property Searches *Local Demographics *Lender Information*Listing Videos *Buyer Information *Seller Information*List of our Brokers *Community Blog *Relocation Information

Visit Our Website

www.lagranderealestateteam.com

RE/MAX Real Estate Team continues to lead the market in a multitude of ways,

fi nishing 2011 as the #1 Real Estate Company in Union County for closed volume per the RMLS


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Elgin Opera House541-437-2014

www.elginoperahouse.comHistorically the center for community

entertainment, the opera house, built in 1912, is again a great place to enjoy live musi-cal theater and concerts, movies and family entertainment. The historic structure has been undergoing substantial renovation in preparation for its 100th anniversary year in 2012.

Take Highway 82 to Elgin, 20 miles north of La Grande.

Eastern Oregon Fire Museum541-963-8588

Housed downtown in La Grande’s historic fire sta-tion, which was in use from 1899 to 2002, the museum features vintage and antique fire trucks and apparatus. Three trucks are beautifully restored to their original condition. Exhibits

include photos of some of the region’s most spectacular fires, early firefighting equipment and clothing. 102 Elm St., downtown La Grande. Open weekdays, 9 to 5, plus Saturdays from May through October, 9 to 3.

Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing

509-963-7186A paved, easily accessible trail follows some

of the best preserved and most scenic traces of the Oregon Trail. Interpretive panels depict the pioneers’ struggle through the tall trees a nd over the rugged Blues. Settlement era logging exhibit. Picnic area, hiking trails, restrooms and drinking water. Open Memorial Weekend through Labor Day. Operated by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest; trail park fee. Exit 248 off I-84 just 14 miles west of La Grande. Follow signs two miles to park.

See

The Observer

Charles Wesley Andrews took this photograph of Elgin in the 1930s. He was standing at the corner of Albany and North Eighth Avenue looking south. This photo was part of a DVD presentation celebrating the Elgin Opera House's centennial celebration in September.

Historical Highlights


www.ci.richland.wa.us 800-254-5824

Stay and Play

La Grande’s downtown Historic District, a Main Street community, is undergoing a revival and restoration. You will want plenty of time to

explore the variety of shops, restaurants and galleries. Time your visit for the third Thursday of the month and take part in the Third Thursday Art Walk.

The rural communities of Elgin, Island City and Union are home to a selection of specialty shops and antique stores, each offering items unique to the taste of the owner. Allow room in your car to take home something special.

Large or small, every community has its festivals and special events. In La Grande, enjoy music at Max Square every Thursday evening and the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings through late October and Tuesday evenings from mid-June through September. For information, visit the market website, www.lagrandefarmersmarket.org

In Wallowa County, be sure to check out all the won-derful specialty stores in Joseph, including several gal-leries.

And Enterprise, like La Grande, is a Main Street city.

Historic Districts


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Union County Museum541-562-6003

www.unioncountymuseum.orgThis acclaimed museum includes Cowboys

Then & Now, featuring the history of cow-boys and cattle in America, plus Hollywood cowboys and a place where kids can try on cowboy gear. New exhibits include the Agriculture, Timber & Transportation build-ing and the Livery Station, with a blacksmith shop and pioneer cabin. Other exhibits highlight the rich natural and cultural histo-ry of the Grande Ronde Valley and sur-rounding communities. Visit the mining cave, learn about American Indian life in the area, and see how settlers lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is situated on Main Street in Union’s National Historic District and is open Mother’s Day through mid-October.

From Interstate 84, take Highway 203 16 miles from La Grande or Highway 237 about 15 miles from North Powder to Union.

Union Victorian Cemetery541-562-5212

Established in 1862, this scenic cemetery is the oldest monument cemetery in Northeast Oregon and is still in use. For a unique per-spective on the area’s history, pick up a guide to some of the most fascinating and heart-wrenching stories behind the monu-ments and graves.

To arrange a guided tour for a group, send an e-mail to [email protected] or call. Take Fulton Road east from Main Street in Union.

Gangloff ParkThis hillside park offers a

view of La Grande and the Grande Ronde Valley, and is a great place for a spring picnic. A paved nature trail provides wheelchair access. The park has been restored

to pre-settlement and settlement era vegeta-tion and has an Oregon Historical Marker. Highway 30 (Adams Ave.).

Historic Homes Walking Tours800-848-9969

Take a walking tour of La Grande’s histor-ic homes and landscaping. Wear sturdy walk-ing shoes as you explore the shaded streets of the city’s west hills. A written guide explains the style and history of chosen homes along the tour. Pick up a guide at the chamber office and visitor center, 207 Depot St.

Hot Lake Springs Restoration Project

541-963-4685www.hotlakesprings.com

Acclaimed bronze artist David Manuel, one of the founders of the thriving art com-munity in Joseph, has moved his studio, foundry and museum collection to the his-toric Hot Lake Springs Resort, which is under restoration.

Manuel is known for his realistic figurative work and the meticulous research that goes into his historical subjects. Watch the artist at work, visit the gallery, tour the foundry and check out the progress on the restora-tion of the historic hotel. The resort’s restau-rant has opened and nightly accommoda-tions are available.

From La Grande, take Highway 203 south toward Union 5 miles to Hot Lake Springs Resort on the right side of the road. Also at Hot Lake Springs, visit the studio of water-color painter Ann Yoder.

Lions Birnie ParkA former rest and staging area for Oregon

Trail pioneers, the park has a covered picnic area, playground and pioneer memorial art installation. Restrooms are available.

Sixth Street and C Avenue, La Grande.

Historical HighlightsContinued from Page 16


The arms of Eastern Oregon University reach

far and wide.As the only four-year

public institution in Eastern Oregon, EOU serves an area roughly the size of Pennsylvania. As a result, the school plays a vital role in the social, economic and cultural life of the region.

EOU prides itself in serving Eastern Oregon, and beyond.

The enrollment of about 4,000 students — with about half those on campus and half online — makes for small class sizes and gives students a chance to interact with their professors.

The liberal arts school has earned awards

and national praise, including being named one of the top four western public liberal arts colleges by U.S. News and World Report.

EOU offers its students a broad array of programs and activities, including intercolle-giate athletics.

EducationOur University

The Observer

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2209 Adams Ave. Like us on Facebook

Open Daily 11amTakeout Available - 541-962-7858

A Neighborhood Place for Family & Friends

2 Pool Tables ~ 12 TV’s ~ 3 Big Screens ~ All Lottery


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Byway Facts• One of three All-American

Roads in Oregon and one of 31 in

the nation

• 218 miles and goes through 11 towns

A very scenic drive The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway lets you

leave the fast pace and fenced-in views of Interstate 84 and follow the contours of the land into slower times and wilder places. Journey from river’s edge to mountaintop and down to valley floor. Have lunch overlooking a wild and scenic river; share a canyon road with a cat-tle drive. Pass through lush valleys, rimmed by the snow-tipped Wallowa Mountains. Savor the scent of pine on the fresh mountain air and enjoy panoramic views of rugged basalt cliffs and grassy open ridges.

Stand next to the majestic Snake River as it begins its tumbling course through North America’s deepest can-yon, or ride the rapids on a raft or jetboat.

Baker County Tourism

BYWAY MAPPages 24-25


133 Hwy 82, Lostine, OR 541-569-2285

Open Year 'Round for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open daily 9am-7pmSunday 9am-4pm

Closed Tues. & Weds.

Taste amazing homemade country-style entrees paired with some of the fi nest North-west wines and microbrews.Stay the night in one of our fully-outfi tted tipis.

• 125 miles long.• One mile deep.

The deepest point, at 8,000 feet, is measured from the peak of He Devil Mountain, part of Idaho’s Seven Devil’s Range.

• 215,000-acre wil-derness is enclosed within a National Recreation Area of more than 1,000 square miles of canyons, forests and mountains — an area larger than Hong Kong or Rhode Island.

Hells Canyon Facts

TimeAlthough the route can be driven

in as little as 5 hours, the Byway is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

The route of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a loop that encircles the Wallowa Mountains, intersecting with Interstate 84 at La Grande and Baker City. Small towns, scattered along the drive, offer visitor services. The entire route is on a paved high-way. Plan ahead — you’ll find stretch-es of more than 80 miles without gas and with few services. A segment of the Byway between Joseph and Halfway closes with snow in winter, but allows access to winter recreation areas.

The Byway:


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Visitor Services and Amenities

The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway travels through 11 communities. Each offers a variety of shopping, dining and lodging opportunities.

RecreationThis byway is an outdoor

enthusiast’s playground. You can ride a tramway to the top of the mountain, fish in cold clear rivers, hike through dramatic canyon country or alpine forests. In winter, downhill or cross-country ski, or ride a snow mobile on a section of the byway that closes to automo-biles for winter (FS Road 39).

Motorcycle rallyYears ago, brothers Steve

and Eric Folkestad discov-ered that the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a natural tour route for motorcycles.

This year’s annual Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally — the motto is "To Hell We Ride!" —

happens June 8-11.

For informa-tion, visit the web-site www.hellscan-yonrally.com.

More Informationwww.hellscanyonbyway.com

800-848-9969

541-963-8588

The Hells Canyon Byway tours rural Northeast Oregon.


Where to GO• Hells Canyon Scenic Byway:

North and then south on Highway 82 from La Grande to Joseph; east on Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) to the junction of Forest Road 39 (Wallowa Mountain Loop Road); south on Forest Road 39 to its junction with Highway 86; west on Highway 86 to Baker City.

• Good backroads: Island City to Elgin via Hunter Road; Highway 350 to Imnaha; Forest Road 39 to Imnaha via the Upper Imnaha River Road.

• Hells Canyon Overlook: Approximately 43 miles southeast of Joseph off Forest Road 39 (Wallowa Mountain Loop Road) and a well-marked access road.

• National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center: Five miles east of Baker City off Highway 86.

Travel Savvy• You can drive the byway in

about four hours, but to really enjoy it, you need a few days. We recommend you reserve lodging accommodations prior to your trip.

• Before starting out, take notice of the travel times as well as mileage between stops and keep your fuel tank as full as possible.

• If you plan to hike, ski, snowmobile or otherwise explore off the main byway routes, pick up detailed maps and additional information.

• Be prepared for tempera-tures that vary as much as 50 degrees as the day wears on.

• Remember to take along your camera, batteries, binocu-lars, a picnic or snack foods, plant and wildlife guides, first aid kit, drinking water, blanket and jackets.


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1. Elgin• Elgin Electric

2. Wallowa• Blonde Strawberry• Little Bear

3. Lostine• M Crow & Company

4. Enterprise• Hells Canyon Mule• Bee Charmed• Thompson Auto Parts• Bowlby Bash•Rimrock Inn

5. Joseph• Mad Mary & Co.• Bronze Antler Bed• Calderas• Cattle Country Quilts• Indigo Gallery

6.Wallowa Lake• Glacier Grill• Vali's Alpine• Matterhorn

7 Halfway• Halfway Motel

8. La Grande• Quail Run


THE BOOKLOFTAcross from the courthouse in Enterprise

107 E. Main St. • 426-3351Hours 9:30-5:30 M-F, 10:00-4:00 Sat.

Always open at www.bookloftoregon.com

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Who to contact

Union County Chamber of Commerce800-848-9969www.visitlagrande.com

Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce800-585-4121www.wallowacountychamber.com

Wallowa Mountain Visitors Center541-426-5546.

Baker County Chamber of Commerce888-523-5855www.visitbaker.com

Hells Canyon Scenic Bywaywww.hellscanyonbyway.com

Hells Canyon National Recreation Areawww.fs.fed.us/hellscanyon www.fs.fed.us/hellscanyon/things_to_see_

and_do/snake_river

Oregon State Parks800-551-6949www.oregon.stateparks.org

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest541-523-6391www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w

Eastern Oregon Visitor’s Association800-332-1843www.eova.com

Towns and Country

Grande Ronde Valley to Wallowa Valley, 84 miles via

Highway 82 and county road 350. Allow two hours for travel, and another one or two hours for stops. Beginning in the patchwork farmlands of the broad Grande Ronde Valley, the first leg of the byway follows numerous rivers through ever-higher valleys to the glacier-carved Wallowa Mountains. Each small town along the way offers character and a combina-tion of services.

Sometimes visible from the highway, the Eagle Cap Excursion Train runs on sections of the his-toric Joseph Branch railroad.

La Grande and Island City

Established 1865. Population 13,085 and 1,065. Elevation

2,788 feet above sea level.Lodging, RV parks, restaurants,

shopping, groceries and gas. From La Grande and Island City, take Highway 82 east. La Grande was established at an important rest stop along the historic Oregon Trail. A variety of travel

services, specialty shops and proxim-ity to varied ter-rain make La Grande a popular base for all types of outdoor recre-ation.

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Call for reservationsHomemade donuts served Saturday

and Sunday mornings 9-1159811 Wallowa Lake Hwy, Joseph

541-432-5691

Halfway Motel & RV Park

(541) 742-5722

MOTEL-26 Rooms: A/C, Nonsmoking, Satellite TV, In-Room Coffee, Private Bath

Wi-Fi Available

RV PARK-15 Full Hook-Up Spaces:

Restrooms & Laundry, Phone

2400 Adams Ave.La Grande

541-963-3400

[email protected]

www.quailruninn.net

Watch birds and wildlife at nearby Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, climb aboard antique fire trucks at the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum downtown, and enjoy concerts, plays and cultural events at Eastern Oregon University. Walking tours highlight the com-munity’s historic homes, urban forest and commercial historic district. Crops thrive in the val-ley’s deep, rich soil — look for orchards and fields of mint, alfal-fa, wheat, barley, sugar beets, seed potatoes and turf grass seed.

Imbler

Established 1922. Population 295. Elevation 2,732 feet

above sea level. Cafes, groceries and gas. Pastoral Imbler’s farming heritage is deeply rooted. Known as the "Grass Seed Capital of the World." Numerous Century Farms in the area have been operated by the same families for more than 100 years. The community and Mount Harris, to the east, were named for early settlers.

Elgin

Established 1891. Population 1,705. Elevation 2,670 feet

above sea level. Lodging, RV Park, restaurants, groceries and gas.

The former location of Fort Baker and a trading area since the 1880s, Elgin is a gateway to out-standing outdoor recreation in the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman national forests. Home to cattle, grain and hay producers as well as mill and timber workers, this community hosts the Elgin Stampede PRCA Rodeo each July. The restored Elgin Opera House presents movies, concerts and live theater.

The Grande Ronde River flows through town, providing opportu-nities to raft, fish and enjoy the scenery.


Minam

Lodging, store, boat launch and state park.

The Minam and Wallowa rivers meet here and flow into the Grande Ronde River a few miles downstream. Segments of all three rivers have earned Wild and Scenic designation. The rivers offer excellent steelhead fishing, rafting and year-round wild-life viewing. In winter, watch for bald eagles and other raptors. From here, the Byway climbs through a series of valleys toward the Wallowa Mountains. Use cau-tion: you’ll be sharing the road with log trucks, horse trailers and cattle trucks.

Wallowa

Established 1899. Population 890. Elevation 2,923 feet above sea level. Lodging, cafes,

groceries and gas. "Wa-Lo-wah" shares its Nez Perce name with the mountains, lake, river and valley you’re now entering. The Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce knew the area for its great fishing — Wallowa is the name of the tripod used to sup-port their fish nets. The band gathers here for TamKaLiks, an annual Friendship Feast and Pow Wow each July. Residents depend on the land for

farming, ranching, logging and milling.The Wallowa Union Railroad and Eagle Cap Excursion Train are headquar-tered here.

The byway continues along the bubbling Wallowa and Lostine riv-ers.

Lostine

Established 1903. Population 250. Elevation 3,200 feet above sea level. At this tiny turn-

of-the century town, visit secondhand stores or rest a while on a wooden bench in front of the combination sporting goods, grocery and dry goods store. Lostine comes alive during the town’s big Fourth of July Flea Market. Numerous Forest Service roads in the vicinity provide access to year-round recreation in the Eagle Cap Wilderness.

Enterprise

Established 1889. Population 1,975. Elevation 3,757 feet above sea level. Restaurants, lodg-

ing, groceries and gas.The largest of the Wallowa Valley communities,

Enterprise offers an array of shops, accommoda-tions and back country and river outfitters. The Wallowa Mountains are in full view as you contin-ue through rolling ranch lands.

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Lots of Treasures to choose from...

“Where memories are made”100 W. Main. Enterprise, OR 541-462-3693 Wendy Stewart - Owner

But as for me I will always have hope. I will praise you more and more. Psalms 71:14

[email protected]

The Observer


Chief Joseph days RodeoJuly 25-28, 2012

Joseph, Oregon

Located in a tranquil rural setting in Wallowa County, between Enterprise and Joseph. The majestic Wallowa Mountains make a

beautiful backdrop for the occasion and photography

~ Weddings ~ Anniversaries ~ Birthdays ~ Class Reunions~ Family Reunions ~ Office Parties ~ Company Retreats, Parties, Picnics, Etc.

~ Waterfalls ~ Gazebo ~ Patio Area ~Outdoor Dance Floor~ Groomed Lawn and Flower Gardens ~ Abundance of Shade and Parking

~ Rates vary according to size and length of celebration.

~ www.mountainsplendorweddinggarden.com (website will be completed soon) ~ [email protected]


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Wallowa Mountains Visitor Center

The Wallowa Mountains Visitor Center has temporarily relocated to Joseph Elementary

School, 201 E. Second St. The center is a must stop for byway travelers. Get current information on road conditions, campgrounds and recreation facilities from travel-savvy staff. Hours are 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Phone 541-426-4978 during business hours.

Joseph

Established 1887. Population 1,125. Elevation 4,191 feet above sea level. Lodging, restau-

rants, shopping, galleries, museum, groceries and gas. Named for young Chief Joseph of the Nez

Perce Tribe, this town is a flour-ishing art community with a national reputation for its quali-ty bronze foundries and galler-ies. The summer is full of events from art and music festivals to the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo. Most galleries and shops are open year-round, as are muse-ums with Indian artifacts and

early history collections. Continue on Highway 82

to Wallowa Lake or proceed on the byway route: at the north edge of Joseph, turn east (between the gas station and grocery store) onto Highway 350.

Wallowa Lake

Lodging, RV park, restaurants, convenience groceries, boat launch, state park and camp-

ground. No gas. Many services are open seasonally. Wallowa Lake was shaped by glaciers that covered this region several times. The 2,000-foot-thick Bennett Glacier scoured the West Fork of the Wallowa River for almost 20 miles, creating Wallowa Lake and leaving examples of lateral and terminal moraines around the lake. Mule deer wander in the vicinity year round. At six miles in length, Wallowa Lake draws waterskiers, jet skiers paddle-boaters and anglers.

Go-carts and miniature golf are on shore, and a tramway offers a ride to the 8,300-foot summit of Mount Howard where wo miles of hiking trails at the top provide views into three states. This area was part of the ancestral homelands of the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce. Return to Joseph and take Road 350 east. From Joseph, travel on Highway 350 for eight miles to the junction with Forest Road 39, also known as the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road.

Wallowa Lake

The Observer


Wallowa Mountain Loop

Forty-five miles of winding road on steep side slopes. Parts of the road were washed out in

June 2010, but rebuilding commenced in late sum-mer and paving will occur this year. Allow about 2 hours. No gas, no services. Water at some camp-grounds. The road is open to vehicles June to October. In winter the route is groomed for snow-mobile travel and Nordic skiing.

The Wallowa Loop offers exceptional views of the Wallowa and Seven Devils mountains. It crosses sev-eral river drainages, including the Imnaha where Snake River Chinook salmon and bull trout spawn. Along the way are numerous trailheads and camp-grounds as well as the Canal Fire burn, where a lightning-caused fire burned 23,000 acres in 1989. The road narrows to 1 1/2 lanes for about 11 miles along Gumboot Creek.

A motorcyclist pauses at the Hells Canyon

Overlook.

The Observer

Along the Byway

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Hells Canyon and the Snake River

Follow Highway 86 from the junction of the Forest Road 39

to the Snake River and on to Hells Canyon Dam. The river is designat-ed Wild and Scenic below the dam. You looked down into the canyon from the overlook. Now see the imposing canyon walls from water’s edge up. Services at Pine, Oxbow and at river’s edge include lodging, dining, groceries, gas and shuttle service. Recreational opportunities include rafting, jetboat-ing, camp-ing, fishing and hiking in the nation’s deepest river gorge.

Pine Valley to Baker Valley

Seventy-nine miles on paved Highway 86. Allow 1 1/2

hours for travel and one to two hours at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and other stops. Pastoral views and mining history are highlights of this byway seg-ment. Gold strikes brought the first settlers here in the late 1800s. Mines employed large numbers of people, including many Chinese laborers. Further along the route fol-low the Powder River upstream through rolling sagebrush-covered plateaus. Virtue Flat, near Baker City, is the site of a popu-lar off-highway vehicle trail complex.

Halfway

Established 1909. Population 355. Elevation 2,663 feet above sea level. Lodging, restau-

rants, shops, groceries and gas. (If traveling from Baker to La Grande it’s the last gas until reaching Joseph.) Halfway earned its name as the midway point between the town of Pine and the gold mines of Cornucopia.

Gateway to wilderness- and riv-er-based recreation in summer, Halfway is a popular winter desti-

nation for snowmobilers. A vast network of groomed trails connects hundreds of miles of sce-nic back country. As you leave Halfway, watch for the marker for the Tim Goodall Wagon Train route of 1862 and the visitor information kiosk near milepost 52. The USFS Pine District office provides additional information.

Richland

Established 1917. Population 150. Elevation 2,213 feet above sea level. Lodging, cafes,

groceries and gas. Named in 1897 for the rich soil settlers found here, the area still supports farmers and ranchers and now hosts the fishing and boat-ing enthusiasts who recreate on the popular near-by Brownlee and Oxbow reservoirs. Look for the Hole-In-The-Wall-Landslide. The 1984 landslide covered the road and temporarily dammed the Powder River.

Baker City Herald

Brownlee Reservoir is a summer destination for boaters and anglers. For current water levels, check www.idahopower.com.


La Grande Celtic Festival and Highland Games

August 25th-26th, 2012August 24th-25th, 2013(Always the 4th Weekend in August)

Union County Fairgrounds-La Grande

Celtic Society of Eastern Oregon, Inc.

[email protected] • www.eocelts.com • www.facebook.com/neoregoncelts

P.O. Box 3236, La Grande, Oregon 97850 • 541-975-3952

BUFFALO PEAK GOLF COURSEThe Way Golf Was Meant to Be

Golfers who have discovered northeast Oregon’s challenging 18-hole inland links-style course at Union are raving about

this “GEM” and the spectacular vistas of three mountain ranges and the majestic Grande Ronde Valley.

Sign up for our e-specials at www.buffalopeakgolf.com and receive a free round of golf.

Let our Professional Staff help with all your golf needs.

Need instruction? Your best golf is just a phone call

or e-mail away!


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National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center Flagstaff Hill, five miles east of I-84

on Highway 86. Marvel at the courage and hardships of pio-neers on their 2,000-mile trek to the promised land of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, still 300 miles away. Extensive interactive exhib-its and dioramas, seasonal living-history performances and inter-pretive/educational programs in an indoor theater. Special events scheduled year-round. Open

daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. winter, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. sum-mer.

Baker City

Established 1874. Population 10,160. Elevation 3,499 feet above sea level.

Restaurants, lodging, RV parks, shopping, grocer-ies and gas. Baker City sits along the Powder River between the dramatic Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa Mountains. Victorian architecture dominates the commercial and resi-dential buildings of the downtown National Historic District. Restored buildings include the Geiser Grand Hotel. Also visit the Baker Heritage Museum.

Baker City Herald

History comes alive at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. On Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, costumed interpreters provide a glimpse of what life was like on the Oregon Trail. For information, call 541-523-1843.


Day Trips

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Continue to the historic town of Union. Victorian homes and charming brick storefronts give the small community its flavor. On Main Street, the Union County Museum is the home of the acclaimed Cowboys Then & Now Collection, previously housed in Portland and now situated in the scenic heart of cattle country. Eighteen holes of golf awaits at the challenging Buffalo Peak Golf Course in Union.

Continue the drive to Cove, where you can tour the Gilstrap Brothers Winery. Call 541-568-4646 for hours. Near the winery, visit the Tom Dimond Art Glass Studio, 541-568-4397, and watch the artist create beautiful glass works. Take a dip in the Forest Cove Warm Springs pool, an outdoor pool with a picnic area in Cove. Head back to La Grande. Play miniature golf at Riverside Greens, next door to Riverside Park. The professionally designed course offers great mini-golf fun and is the perfect setting for a party. Or, try out the beautiful nine-hole course at the La Grande Country Club in Island City. It has open play times daily for visitors.

Day Trip Two Go wild! Large game, songbirds or waterfowl:

just passing through or year-round resident, the list of wildlife to be seen in Union County seems endless.

Start with a hike on the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area nature trail, south of La Grande on Peach Road, a mile off Highway 203 between La Grande and Union. Then, drive up the beautiful Grande Ronde River for another great way to enjoy nature. Pack a lunch. Hilgard and Red Bridge State Parks, and national forest campgrounds are great for picnics and camping. A hike on the Bird Track Spring Nature Trail is a birdwatch-er’s dream. The scenic wonders of the upper Grande Ronde River are popular with motorcy-clists and touring bicyclists, as well as those tour-ing by car. The huge Winom-Frazier Off-Highway Vehicle Trail Complex is nearby for hiking, biking, horseback riding or ATVing. Find a camp spot in the woods and sleep under the stars, or return to La Grande for a comfortable bed and a delicious meal.

Day Trips, continued:


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Eagle Cap Excursion Train

Take a train ride through one of Oregon’s most dramatic and beautiful landscapes. Follow tumbling rivers in rugged canyons

where basalt cliffs hug the track and mountains tower above. Many trips have featured entertain-ment or guest experts on area and railroad history or fish and wildlife. Car hosts point out features and help you spot wildlife along the way.

The trips depart from Elgin at the western end of the line and journey directly into the roadless canyons of the Grande Ronde River and the Wild & Scenic Wallowa River. A box lunch is served on the train. Highlights are the dramatic rock outcroppings and high ridges that hug the track and the sparkling water.

The trip is 34.6 rail miles and takes about 3.5 hours.See Page 37

InformationThe Eagle Cap Excursion Train operates on the Wallowa Union Railroad, historically known as the 100-year-old Joseph Branch.

www.eaglecaptrain.com

Reservations: • 541-963-9000• 800-323-7330

And new this year: a steam engine


� STEAKS� SEAFOOD

� PULLED PORK

� SALADS� SANDWICHES� SMOKED RIBS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKFeaturing All Day BreakfastBANQUET FACILITIES TO 50 PEOPLE

Quality Food • Family PricesBest Salad Bar in Town • Beer & Wine

10% Discount when you show your room key

FAMILY RESTAURANT

New in 2012 is The Blue Goose, a 1915 Baldwin steam engine with a Hollywood movie history, which will headline new Blue Goose Steam

Excursions, departing from Elgin and Joseph. The train will also add open-air cars and a caboose. Cars

can be reserved for groups and train charters are available. Elgin’s new train depot is scheduled to be completed and in service by mid-summer of 2012. Steam and diesel trains rides depart from Elgin or Joseph, and vary in length and equipment.

The steam engine will run from late July through the fall.When both trains are in use, the one used for trips will

depend on the date, place of departure, the number of pas-sengers and whether there are special events or other trains running the line. Visit www.eaglecaptrain.com for the 2012 schedule and additional news.

A second opportunity for riding the rails can be found less than 30 minutes west of Baker City, about 75 miles from La Grande, on the Sumpter Valley Railroad. Pulled by steam powered engines, the train crosses the valley on a narrow-gauge track, passing through fascinating mine tail-ings to the historic town of Sumpter. Go to www.sumpterval-leyrailroad.com or call 866-894-2268 for information.

Baker City Herald

Sumpter Valley Railroad's rail yard, located 23 miles south of Baker City.

The Blue Goose

Two Steam Trains

Steam Trains

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Union County Art and Culture Center1006 Penn Ave., La Grande

541-624-2800La Grande’s former public library, an historic

Carnegie building, has become a centerpiece for the Union County art scene. The building is now the Union County Art and Culture Center.

The center features a gallery and has plenty of space for classes, including exercise offerings. Classes for kids and adults range from photogra-phy and watercolor painting to pottery.

Eastern Oregon University541-962-3667

Eastern’s award-winning drama, music and art departments provide a wide variety of concerts in McKenzie and Schwarz theatres, including perfor-mances by the resident Grande Ronde Symphony Orchestra and the EOU choral department. Well known and original plays are scheduled through-out the year and art shows are featured in the Nightingale Gallery during the school year. Call for performance dates and gallery hours.

Third Thursday Art WalkThe third Thursday of every month, shops and

galleries in downtown La Grande extend their hours into the evening to showcase local artists and musicians.

Elgin Opera House541-437-2014

The opera house features live theate, concerts, movies and family entertainment. Take Highway 82 to Elgin, 20 miles north of La Grande.

Grande Ronde Studio TourThe Grande Ronde Valley’s self-guided tour of

several art studios is Sept. 15-16. Or call for an appointment to visit throughout the summer. Information is available at the visitor center, 207 Depot, or call 541-624-2800 or 541-963-5351

ArtsEastSixth Street and L Avenue, La

Grande541-663-2787

ArtsEast is the home of Eastern Oregon Regional Arts Council. The council has been serving Eastern Oregon artists, arts orga-nizations and communities since

1977. ArtsEast coordinates arts education/outreach programs to regional schools and communities and hosts visual arts exhibitions and performance series.

The Potter’s House541-963-5351

www.thepottershousegallery.comVisit the studio, gallery and gift boutique of pop-

ular local potter Bob Jensen. Learn how he makes his unique style of pottery and raku, a traditional Japanese method of firing pots.

David Manuel Studio, gallery and bronze foundry

541-963-4685www.hotlakesprings.com

Visit the popular resident bronze artist’s foundry, art gallery and a cluster of art studios at Hot Lake Springs. Tour the restoration of the landmark his-toric resort and discover the history of Northeast Oregon’s famous landmark. Located on Highway 203, between La Grande and Union.

Arts for All

The Observer


(541) 963-3432

Truck StopFull Service Restaurant & Lounge

On Ca

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16 Regional Centers in Oregon 9 Degrees entirely online 24 Bachelor’s degrees 3 Master’s programs

800-452-8639 | [email protected]

The University that WORKS

WITH YOU

Small school ATTENTION

Great school VALUE

EXPERIENCEExtraordinary school

411 Fir StreetOpen Everyday1-800-963-9602

HOBBYHABIT

Rockets Trains Golf Disc NERF

METAL DETECTORS R/C Cars

LEGO SCIENCE Crafts PuzzlesM

odels R/C Planes

Games

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Agriculture is at the heart of Northeast Oregon’s history and the culture is thriv-ing today. Sprawling cattle ranches and

productive farms preserve the wide open spaces and create the patchwork quilt that covers the Grande Ronde Valley. Mint, alfalfa, grass seed, cherries, apples, peaches, potatoes, sugar beets and a variety of grains make up most of the crops grown in the valley’s relatively mild climate and rich soil. You will smell a minty freshness in the air in August during harvest.

Grapes are one of the area’s newest crops, tak-ing advantage of the sunny slopes above the town of Cove. Gilstrap Brothers Winery makes wine from their own grapes as well as grapes from other growers. Cattle ranching converts grass from less productive ground into protein that nourishes and flavors the world.

The cowboy lifestyle is alive and well, with young ranchers taking over multi-generation family businesses. Eastern Oregon is truly cattle country. As you drive the back roads, you might encounter a cattle drive. Please drive slowly, use caution and let the riders help you through the herd. Honking the horn won’t help! So relax, and

enjoy being in the center of an Old West experi-ence with a future. Learn all about cowboys and ranching at the Cowboys Then & Now Exhibit at the Union County Museum in Union. This won-derful exhibit traces the history of cattle in North America, from Columbus to modern ranching.

Agri-Tourism

Agri-tourism provides an outstanding opportunity for people to connect with nature and the origin of the food they

often take for granted. It also offers an excellent chance for agriculturists to educate the public about modern farming and ranching practices and the role agriculturists play in protecting the envi-ronment, providing habitat for wildlife and main-taining the wide open spaces and beautiful land-scapes.

See

Our Agriculture

Major cropsMint, alfalfa, grass seed, cherries, apples, peaches, potatoes, sugar beets, grains and grapes for wine. And cattle.


203 Willow StreetLa Grande, OR541-963-4500

10101 W First StreetIsland City, OR

541-963-7140

1116 Adams Ave.La Grande, OR541-963-5907

1903 4th StreetLa Grande, OR

541-963-0917

1704-1/2 Adams Ave.La Grande, OR

541-963-5733

2003 4th StreetLa Grande, OR

541-963-6223

Comfort Food / Espresso1009 Adams Ave., La Grande

541-624-5600

Nell's -N- Out Sub Shop

Island City Market & Deli

211 S. Main St. Union, OR541-562-9010

1502 S. Ave.La Grande

541-963-8171

Naturally Good Sweets & Breads1113 Adams Ave., La Grande, OR

541-963-5413www.kneadsbakery.com

(Next to Red Cross Drug)

2104 Island Ave.La Grande

541-963-2327


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OSU AGRICULTURE RESEARCH CENTERThe OSU Eastern Oregon Agriculture Research

Center in Union consists of a lab on 600 acres of farm ground in Union and approximately 2,000 acres of forested land called the Hall Ranch, 12 miles southeast of Union on Highway 203. Research focuses on the compatibility of livestock with forested range ecosystems and on economic sustainability, with particular emphasis on alterna-

tive winter management and reproductive efficiency. Tours are available if you call in advance, 541-562-5129. 327 South 10th, Union

Locally Grown; Nationally Known

During summer and fall, farm stands and tours can be found throughout the Grande Ronde

Valley. The Stargazer Perennials Nursery and Farm

stand at 69611 Summerville Road (about 2.5 miles north of Summerville) is a destination for garden-ers and fresh-produce lovers from Northeast Oregon, Idaho and Southeast Washington. The nursery is a nationwide supplier of hardy, locally-grown pesticide-free perennials, shrubs, herbs and other ornamental plants and gardening products, some of which have been planted in the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. Stargazer Perennials is open every day, 9 to 5, March through October. 541-786-1791, www.stargazerpe-rennials.com.

Guest housing in a farm setting is available at Joshua's Country Store & Inn near Union, at North Powder and along the upper Grande Ronde River. Go to the chamber’s tourism website, www.visitlagrande.com/lodging for the list.

La Grande’s popular Farmers Market begins May 21, 9

a.m. to noon, and continues every Saturday until Oct. 22, downtown at Max Square. Get there early for the best selection of fresh locally grown produce. Music at the Market is part of the market every Saturday.

From mid-June through September, there is also a Tuesday market, 4 to 6 p.m.

In Wallowa County, a farmers market is held every Thursday evening at the courthouse in Enterprise through the summer and early fall. Joseph holds one on Saturdays.

The popular Courthouse Concert Series accompanies the Thursday markets at the courthouse square in Enterprise.

Farmers Markets: Taste the bounty

La Grande: Starts May 199 a.m.-noon Saturdays and 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays at Max Square

Cove: Starts June 7, noon-6 p.m. Thursdays at Ascension School Campus

Wallowa: Thursday evenings at the Enterprise courthouse

Continued from Page 40

Markets

www.lagrandefarmersmarket.org


Rejoice in the Lord always! The Lord is near! Phil. 4: 4&5

CHURCH OF CHRIST

2107 Gekeler Lane, La Grande P.O. Box 260 541-805-5070

Sunday School 9:30 amSunday Worship 10:45 amSunday Evening 6:00 pmWednesday Night Life Groups: 7:00 pm

Call for locationPreacher: Doug Edmonds

541-805-5070

First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ)

901 Penn Avenue963-2623

web: firstchristianlagrande.orgWorship 10:00 a.m.Sunday School 8:45

~Join us at The Lord’s Table~

CrossroadsCommunity

Church601 Jefferson Ave.

La Grande(541) 963-4342

Sunday Worship 10:00 amWednesday Night 6:15 pmKingdom Kids - Youth in Action“...where you can begin again”

UNION UNITED

METHODIST CHURCH

Hwy. 237, Union, ORJOIN US...

Catch the Spirit!

Worship: 11:00541-562-5748 (Sue)

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SERVICES

La Grande - Our Lady of the Valley - 1002 L Ave. Saturday 5:00 pm Mass Sunday 7:00 am & 9:30 am Mass Sunday 3:00 pm Traditional Latin Mass 2nd & last Sunday 11:00 am Spanish Mass Weekday 8:00 am Mass Union - Sacred Heart - 340 South 10th Ave. Sunday 8:00 am Mass Wednesday 6:00 pm MassElgin - Saint Mary’s - 12th and Alder Sunday 11:00 am Mass Thursday 6:00 pm MassNorth Powder - Saint Anthony’s - 500 E St. Sunday 6:00 pm Mass Tuesday 6:00 pm Mass

GRACE BIBLE CHURCH

1114 Y Avenue, La Grande(Corner of “Y” Avenue and N. Birch Street)

(541) 663-06109 am Sunday School

11 am Worship

Exalting GodEdifying Believers

Evangelizing UnbelieversSolus Christus; Sola Scriptura; Sola Gratia;

Sola Fide; Soli Deo Gloria

Passionately Pursuing the Presence of God3008 Cove Ave ~ 541.963.9132

SERVICE TIMES Sun: 1st Service 9:00 am 2nd Service 12:00 Noon

Wed: Evening Service 7:00 pm 1st & 3rd Wed. of every month Home meetings 2nd & 4th Wed of every month

Thur: The Stand Youth Group 7:00 pm


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April9 — Children’s Choir Festival, 6 p.m., EOU19 — Cowoby Poetry Week event, 1 p.m., La Grande City Library19 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande20 — Arts for All, Riveria Activity Center21 — La Grande Main Street 5K stroll and 10K run, www.lagrandemainstreet.org28 — Celebrate Spring Benefit Ride for the Mount Emily Safe Center, 9 a.m., Riverside Park, La Grande, www.neorcyclists.org

May11-12 — Spring Pow Wow and Friendship Feast, www.eou.edu/powwow17 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande17 — Titanic the Musical, McKenzie Theater, EOU, www.eou.edu/theater18-20 — Ladd Marsh Birdathon, 541-963-4954, www.eou.edu/~kantell/FOLMHome.htm18 — Ag and Timber Twilight Parade, Adams Avenue, La Grande18 — Blue Mt. Hootenanny Wine and Food Festival, www.thehootenanny.us

June1 — Hog Wild Days, Island City2 — Three Rivers Race, Pioneer Park, La Grande. This bike/walk/run benefits Shelter from the Storm4-10 — Eastern Oregon Livestock Show, Union, easternoregonlivestockshow.com21 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande29 — EOU Biennial Show

July4 — La Grande Community Fireworks, EOU’s Community Stadium, 7 p.m.

4 — Imbler Fourth of July4 — Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, Riveria Activity Center12 — Elgin Stampede, www.elginstampeders.com13-15 — Grande Ronde-a-view Car Show, www.timbercruisers-carclub.com/carshow.html13 — La Grande Crazy Days19 — Third Thursday Art Walk,

5-8 p.m., La Grande20 — Starkey Motorcycle Campout and BBQ, www.starkeystation.com28 — Huckleberry Festival, North Powder

August1-4 — Union County Fair, La Grande4 — Legacy Ford Buckout, Mavericks Arena11 — Grassroots Festival, Union16 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande17-19 — Victory Motorcycle Campout, www.star-keystation.com18 — Cove Cherry Fair and Arts Festival25 — Celtic Festival & Clan Gathering of Eastern Oregon, www.eocelts.com, Pioneer Park

Union County calendar

The Observer


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September15 — Grande Ronde Studio Tour20 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande21 — Hells Canyon Relay (a team relay race along the Hells Canyon Byway that starts in Baker City and ends in La Grande) www.hellscanyonrelay.com

October18 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m.,

La Grande

November3 — Season’s Faire, Nightingale Gallery at EOU, www.eou.edu/art15 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande22 — Turkey Trot

December20 — Third Thursday Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., La Grande

Union County calendar, cont.

Wallowa County calendarApril

28 — Wallowa Valley Youth Arts Festival, Joseph Community Center, 10 a.m.

May12 — 5th-annual Mothers Day Art Walk, Joseph

June1 — Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts begins, Joseph8 — 20th-annual Wallowa Mountain Quilt Show, Joseph High School9 — Blue Mountain Fiddle Show, Cloverleaf Hall, Enterprise9 — Oregon Mountain Cruise Car Show, Joseph, www.oregonmountaincruise.com15 — Mountain High Broncs and Bulls, Wallowa County fairgrounds, Enterprise16 — Flora School Days23 — Amy Hafer Race for Awareness, 8 a.m., Enterprise, 541-426-191329 — 8th-annual Watershed Festival, Wallowa County Fairgrounds, Enterprise

July4 — Wallowa Old-Time Fourth of July4 — Lostine Flea Market4 — Shake the Lake Fourth of July fireworks, 9 p.m. Wallowa Lake7 — Joseph Mountain Music Festival, 10 a.m.9 — Summer Fishtrap9 — 7th-annual Wallowa Fiddle Tunes workshop14 — Bowlby Bash, Enterprise14 — Sage Brush Quilt Shop Hop20 — Tamkaliks Celebration, Wallowa

24 — Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, through July 29

August4 — Wallowa County Fair4 — Sunrise Iron Antique Tractor Show, Enterprise11 — Bronze, Blues and Brews, noon, Joseph17 — 6th-annual Bronze Bike Rendezvous, Joseph18 — Maxville Gathering, Wallowa18 — Stock Growers Dinner and Ranch Rodeo, Cynthia Warnock, 541-426-4521

September1 — Juniper Jam, 11 a.m., Enterprise7 — Hells Canyon Mule Days, Enterprise15 — Wallowa Lake State Park Triathlon, Joseph and Wallowa Lake, 541-432-885521 — Hells Canyon Relay27 — Alpenfest at Wallowa Lake, Joseph and Enterprise, www.oregonalpenfest.com29 — Paint the Town (watch plein air artists paint at various sites, Joseph

October6 — 16th-annual Nez Perce Art Show, Wallowa Lake

November17 — 17th-annual Healthy Futures dinner and auction, 541-426-191323 — Joseph Holiday Bazaar (two weekends)23 — Jingle Through Joseph lighted parade, 5 p.m.30 — Handcrafters Guild Holiday Bazaar, Enterprise

December7 — Enterprise Winterfest Parade and Santa and Mrs. Claus, 541-426-3025.


The Observer

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Rodeos

There is no better place for rodeo fans than Northeast Oregon.

Eastern Oregon Livestock Show and PRCA Rodeo

June 7-10The Eastern Oregon Livestock Show &

PRCA Rodeo leads off the season, promis-ing lots of top competitors, rodeo stock and beautiful horses. All of the action is up close and heart-pounding! Between rodeo events, pari-mutuel horse racing takes place on a track that circles the arena. The 4H and FFA livestock show begins earlier in the week and culminates with an auction Saturday morning. A big parade Friday afternoon sets the stage for the rodeo action. A carnival adds to the fun and the burgers served at the conces-sion stand are highly anticipated by the locals.

Mountain High Bronc & BullsJune 15-16

The Mountain High Broncs & Bulls rodeo in Enterprise has become a popular event in the past few years.

Elgin Stampede PRCA RodeoJuly 12-15

The Elgin Stampede PRCA Rodeo, the pride and joy of its northern Union County hometown, is July 7-10, 2011. The Stampede goes beyond broncs and roping. It offers a cross-country horse race, parade, dances and family activities. An evening event, the Stampede has atmosphere all its own.

Chief Joseph Days & Nez Perce EncampmentJuly 25-28

The last big rodeo of the season in Northeast Oregon is the famous Chief Joseph Days Rodeo & Nez Perce Encampment in Joseph, the fourth weekend in July (July 27-30, 2011). One of the biggest and most acclaimed rodeos in the Northwest, Chief Joseph Days also has the most picturesque setting of any rodeo, anywhere.

Pendleton Roundup & Happy CanyonSeptember 12-15

Eastern Oregon’s most famous rodeo, the Pendleton Roundup & Happy Canyon Pageant celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010.


Golden Harvest

541-963-3288

Chinese & American Family Restaurant

Healthy, delicious Chinese Cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere.

We do not use MSG in any of our dishesOpen Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm

Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am-8:30pm

Voted one of America’s

Top 100 Specialty Chinese Restaurants!

ML - 832, 61123NMLS - 181746, 61123, 2550

Construction RateWalking distance to all downtown restaurants

Cozy Cottage Style Rooms

Across the street from SafewayMonthly & Weekly Rates • "Lowest rates in town"

2116 Adams Ave., La Grande, OR

• Pet Friendly• Cable/HBOwww.moonmotellagrande.com



51 S 7th Ave.Elgin, OR

541-437-2441877-769-7600

ORchard Motel

For Reservations call or email(541) 742-5722

Email: [email protected]

Matterhorn Swiss Village59950 Wallowa Lake Hwy.

Joseph, OR541-432-4071

541-963-2724


10 Depot Street, La Grande, OR541-963-8766

www.tendepotstreet.com

2208 Adams Ave., La Grande, OR541-963-9692

Restaurant

Restaurant

214 GreenwoodLa Grande, OR541-963-3288

83471 Lewiston Hwy.Enterprise, OR541-828-7769

63276 Hwy. 30La Grande, OR541-963-3432

1802 Adams Ave.La Grande, OR

www.lafi estalagrande.com541-963-3474

59811 Wallowa Lk HwyJoseph, OR

541-432-5691

2310 Island Ave. La Grande, OR541-963-72772209 Adams Ave.

La Grande, OR541-962-7858

Flying Travel Plaza

Call-in orders welcomeWallowa, Oregon

(541) 886-3161Summer Hours: Sun-Wed. 11-9, Thurs-Sat. 11-10

Little Bear Drive-In

Open Monday-Saturday 7am-3pm

Downtown Wallowa in the old hardware stove

541-886-2309

300 N Lake Joseph OR541-432-0585

www.calderasofj oseph.com

Family Mexican Restaurant & Lounge

Vali's Alpine Resturant

RIMROCKINN

Incredible food daily: focus on local, organic,

handcra� ed. Guest Suites with

breathtaking views, cozy robes, room

service, � replaces, wireless, DVDs, books and in-suite massage. Fitness center and horse drawn carriage. Standing proudly

on Main Street since 1889.

Take a Virtual Tour atGeiserGrand.com

888.434.7374take I-84 to exit 304

Historic Baker City, Oregon541.523.1889

Affordable LuxuryRomance

Take a Virtual Tour atGeiserGrand.com

888.434.7374take I-84 to exit 304

Historic Baker City, Oregon

thE obsErvEr, APril 2012 dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon, PAGE 3

, dEstinAtion n.E. orEGon thE obsErvEr, APril 2012

destination ne oregon

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