North Eastern Oregon Scenic Drives
Looking for a fun, romantic weekend in Oregon? Why not explore the North Eastern corner, and take one of Oregon scenic drives along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. This unique region boasts majestic natural beauty in five rivers, three national forests, and the beautiful Lake Wallowa.
Directions:
- Begin in Union, Oregon
- Take OR 203-N (6 miles)
- Left at Hot Lake Lane (almost 3 miles)
- Right at Pierce Road, then left at Foothill road to merge onto I-84 W to La Grande (almost 9 miles)
- Take exit 261 for OR 82-E toward La Grande City Center. Stay on OR 82-E to Joseph (about 70 miles)
- Head east on OR 350-E (8 miles)
- Slight right onto Wallowa Mountain Loop; it will become Nat for Dev Road 39 (52 miles)
- Slight right at OR 86-W to Baker City (62 miles)
Begin your getaway weekend after work on Friday with a romantic evening at the historic Union Hotel just outside of La Grande, at the feet of the Blue Mountains. This quiet hotel of old-fashioned charm and friendly service, sitting on a creek and surrounded by a lovely park isolated from the hustle of modern life, lends itself to intimacy. After a hearty meal in the hotel restaurant, a couple can relax in the sitting room next to the fireplace, playing card games and conversing with other guests, or sneak upstairs to one of the cozy themed bedrooms. The Northwest Room, which offers a large Jacuzzi tub, is especially nice.
On Saturday morning, head into La Grande for coffee, a pastry, and a little art-viewing at the Coffee Lounge in the Edge Gallery before following Highway 82 East to Lake Wallowa and the tiny town of Joseph. The drive is just over eighty miles (about 2 hours without stopping), with plenty of places to take a break and admire the view. Stop in one of the towns along the road to enjoy some local flavor for lunch.
Upon your arrival in Joseph, check into one of the many bed n’ breakfasts (be sure to make reservations before you leave home); the Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast is especially nice. Once you are settled, head down to the water and rent a canoe or paddle boat for an afternoon of splashing and floating under the sun. Another fun activity is to take a ride and admire the scenery on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train or the Wallowa Lake Tramway.
For dinner, enjoy fresh local cuisine at Calderas Restuarant on North Lake Street–and do not pass up their popular melt-in-your-mouth Lava Cake for dessert! You will be ready for a good night’s sleep at your bed and breakfast.
On Sunday morning after breakfast, bid your hostess farewell and continue south on 39, then west on 86 to Baker City; the drive is 124 miles (about four hours without stopping). An afternoon in this cute, historic city is the perfect way to conclude your romantic weekend together. Meander through downtown, following the route of the walking tour (info at www.historicbakercity.com) which includes a good look at over 100 historic buildings, complete with entertaining historical tidbits. Highlights of the tour include the Geiser Grand Hotel built in 1889, and the St. Francis Cathedral completed in 1908. Be sure to share a sundae at Charley’s Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street (extra whipped cream and two cherries!) before continuing along your way.
After this casual weekend of romantic exploration along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, on of the premier Oregon scenic byways, you will return home feeling relaxed and refreshed, a little closer to your sweetheart, and ready to tackle the work week ahead of you. Bon Voyage!
