You may not have heard much about Grant County Oregon. It’s a vast, sparsely populated expanse of rolling high desert landscapes, sprawling over 4,500 square miles, with towering mountain peaks and pristine wilderness areas. While Grant County may not be a household name to the average traveler, this hidden gem tucked away in the rugged, remote reaches of eastern Oregon is teeming with natural wonders and outdoor adventures that simply can not be found anywhere else.

The county is rich in history and stunning geologic formations. Visit the world-renowned John Day Fossil Beds National Monument to explore a treasure trove of ancient geological and paleontological wonders, and catch a unique glimpse into a lost world from millions of years ago. The Interpretive center gives you the opportunity to explore dioramas depicting the Age of Mammals and ancient history of the area, view actual fossils, and learn about the distinct layers of rock revealing the gradual transitions between ancient ecosystems. Wander the network of seven hiking trails in the Sheep Rock Unit of the Fossil Beds, ranging from 0.25 miles to 3.25 miles in length, that take you through stunning geologic marvels.

The Kam Wah Chung Museum and State Heritage Site in John Day, offers a fascinating look into a little know historic era, exploring the Chinese experience in the Old West and Oregons own gold rush era. Built in 1865 as a trading post, this remarkable time capsule became home to two Chinese immigrants. For over 60 years the building was a social, medical, and religious center for the county’s Chinese community.

Arch Rock is an eroded remnant of massive volcanic tuff flows, now known as the Clarion formation, which spread over the eastern Oregon landscape for 15 million years during the Eocene epoch. The scenic arch and several small rock-shelters eroded into the outcrop, allow visitors a place to see fascinating geological features. Interpretive signs along the trail explain how this “tropical paradise” was altered by the Ice Age and the volcanos that eventually followed.

Containing the only isolated stand of Alaska yellow cedar east of the Cascades in the United States, the Cedar Grove Botanical Area covers about 26 acres, located off Fields Peak Road between Mt. Vernon and Dayville on Forest Road 2150.

The Humongous Fungus is a group of at least five separate individual Armillaria ostoyae genets that reside in the mountains east of Prairie City in the northeastern portion of the Malheur National Forest. Several of these genets, a genetically unique individual organism, are very large, including the largest known fungus genet in the world.

The Strawberry Wilderness is a federally-designated wilderness area encompassing over 182,000 acres of untamed natural beauty, from jagged granite peaks and U-shaped glacial valleys to alpine meadows supporting a diverse array of wildlife including black bears, elk, and the elusive wolverine.

In Grant county, the opportunity for outdoor adventures are abundant and as different as the seasons. There’s camping, fishing, hiking trails, cycling (whether bicycle or motorcycle), bird and wildlife watching, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, scenic drives, and stargazing. Explore alpine lakes, forest peaks, pine forests and geological features. Wander through the small towns, enjoy a locally brewed beer or a slice of fresh baked pie. 

Grant County has a variety of options for lodging. Anywhere from a luxury guest retreat & destination spa to any number of hotels, motels, B&Bs, vacation rentals, over 50 Airbnb, and RV Sites that should fit your needs.

The uniqueness of Grant County’s winter awaits you. Get ready to unplug and breathe deeply. It’s a magical time of year and you don’t want to miss it.