“ ‘A stones throw away’ from the 3 John Day fossils areas. All 3 had awesome sights to see and the travel between the areas breath taking. You need 2 days to best see all 3 and this hotel has the perfect location.”
John Day Fossil Beds- 3 UNITS
45 min drive from HC to Clarno Unit
1.5 hr drive from HC to Painted Hills Unit
1.5 hr drive from HC to Sheep Rock Unit
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is broken into three units and includes the Thomas Condon Paleontology Museum. Visit all three units to experience magnificent and varied geology, view over 60,000 fossil specimens, and learn about 50 million years of the Age of Mammals. The Painted Hills Unit is the most popular with plenty of picturesque hiking trails and photo ops at every turn. The colors in the ancient soil change dramatically depending on moisture levels and light refraction. Our favorite spot within the 3 units is the hike through Blue Basin- like stepping out of this world!
condon, OR
2 min drive or 10 min walk from HC to all destinations in town
Condon has a long and storied past from first nation territory to the free range cattle ranches and wheat fields of today. Learn more at the Gilliam County Museum open May- October. Be sure to book your stay early to experience Condon’s Fabulous Fourth of July, the most popular event of the year! Grab lunch, coffee, and a souvenir at The Condon Local. In fair weather enjoy the community pool or one of our three nearby golf courses; the Condon Municipal Golf Course, Kinzua Hills Golf Club, or China Creek Golf Course in Arlington.
Cottonwood Canyon State park
8,000+ acres of State Park. Enjoy hiking, biking, and equestrian trails as well as fishing, boating, hunting, and camping. Reservable picnic shelter and day use area. Lone Tree Campground offers solar powered cabins, potable water and toilets.
Raft & Fish the John Day River
30-45 minutes drive from HC
The John Day river is the second longest free flowing river in the U.S. Fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are all available in designated areas. Rafting and kayaking are popular when the river is right; May through early July. For expert shuttle service and outfitting contact these providers.
Biking and Cycling
80-99 miles from HC to the Old West Scenic Bikeway
Welcome to nirvana for biking enthusiasts! Out here the open road feels endless with sage steppe views in every direction. Make the long trek to the Old West Scenic Bikeway past Kimberly or forge your own path.