People are sometimes surprised by the variety of things to see and do in Union County. Use this guide to Union County’s attractions and recreational activities when hosting visiting friends and relatives or when planning a vacation in Northeast Oregon. This information is provided by the La Grande/Union County Visitors & Conventions Bureau (also known as Union County Tourism). Give them a call at 541- 963-8588 for additional information or suggestions on planning an itinerary. Need a schedule of events? Ask for the Annual Guide to What’s Happening in Union County, which is updated monthly.

1. ANTHONY LAKES MOUNTAIN RESORT AND RECREATION AREA:

High altitude, beautiful scenery, and dry powder makes the downhill skiing here outstanding. The resort offers full service for winter activities, including rentals, a restaurant, lounge, groomed cross-country trails, and snowboard, lift and snowcat skiing. An extensive network of groomed snowmobile trails can be accessed from the resort. During the summer months, enjoy camping, fishing and picnicking around three high mountain lakes and excellent hiking opportunities through unspoiled mountain wilderness. 541-856-3277 www.anthonylakes.com

2. THE OREGON TRAIL INTERPRETIVE PARK AT BLUE MOUNTAIN CROSSING:

A paved, easily accessible trail meanders alongside some of the best preserved and most scenic traces of the Oregon Trail. Interpretive panels depict the pioneers’ struggle through the tall trees and over the rugged “Blues.” Living history is presented on weekends during the summer. A new exhibit shows a settlement era logging site. Picnic area, hiking trails, restrooms and drinking water. Open May to October. Operated by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest; trail park fee.

3. LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA AND NATURE TRAIL:

One of the largest remaining wetlands in Northeast Oregon. The Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife has developed a 3,208 acre viewing and preservation area for birds and animals. Resident and migrating wildlife of all sizes and types. Nature Trail and photography blinds.

4. WINOM-FRAZIER OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLE TRAIL COMPLEX:

This giant complex of trails is designed for off highway vehicles of all kinds.Trails travel through two national forest and between two wilderness areas. Scenic and uncrowded, the trail is available for hikers and horseback riders as well as motorized off-highway vehicles. Take OR Highway 244 up the beautiful Grande Ronde River and watch for signs.

5. LEHMAN HOT SPRINGS POOL:

Swim and relax in the three pools with varying degrees of naturally heated water. Beautiful forested setting also offers RV sites and cabins for rent. Call 541-427-3015 for information. Take OR Highway 244 about 30 miles up the beautiful Grande Ronde River.

6. MORGAN LAKE:

Pristine lake fishing, picnicking, swimming, camping and non-motorized boating can be enjoyed here, just a short drive through the hills above La Grande. Paved jetties provide wheelchair access. Take C Avenue to Walnut, then follow Morgan Lake Road.

7. CATHERINE CREEK STATE PARK:

Situated on the tree-lined banks of Catherine Creek, this beautiful Oregon State Park is popular for picnicking, camping, hiking, and fishing. A new trail allows hikers to climb through the forest for outstanding mountain-top views. Trailhead access to the Eagle Cap Wilderness is also nearby. 14 miles S.E. of Union on OR Highway 203.

8. HILGARD JUNCTION STATE PARK:

Camp and picnic among the giant cottonwoods along the banks of the Grande Ronde River at a site where pioneers forded the river. Historic information kiosk. Exit 252 off I-84.

9. RED BRIDGE STATE PARK:

This scenic Oregon State Park sits in the pine trees along one of the most beautiful sightseeing routes in Eastern Oregon, OR Highway 244. The park is popular for fishing and picnicking, and has a few campsites, as well. A footbridge spans the Grande Ronde River in the park.

10 EMIGRANT SPRINGS STATE PARK:

Near the summit of the Blue Mountains, Emigrant Springs State Park offers generously spaced camping sites in the midst of giant evergreens. Cabins, tepees, covered wagons, RV and horse camp sites are also available. Interpretive kiosks, restroom facilities complete with showers. Living history presentations and entertainment during the summer.

11. FOREST WARM SPRINGS POOL:

Popular hot springs outdoor swimming pool and picnic area in the picturesque town of Cove, nestled against the base of Mount Fanny. Open summer months, call 541-568-4890.

12. INDIAN ROCK OVERLOOK:

From high atop Mount Emily, the overlook offers a commanding view of the Grande Ronde Valley and distant peaks and provides the perfect setting for a day drive and picnic. Four wheel drive vehicles only.

13. MINAM STATE PARK:

Twelve primitive camp sites on the banks of the beautiful Minam River. Camp, fish, raft, enjoy the majestic scenery. Two miles from OR Highway 82 at Minam.

14. ELGIN OPERA HOUSE:

The beautifully restored, acoustically perfect 1912 Opera House is a great place for movies, plays, live theater and entertainment. Also houses the Elgin Museum. 541-437-3456 for events and tours.

15. SPOUT SPRINGS SKI AREA:

In winter, try downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. Two lifts, a restaurant/ lounge, and night skiing. In the summer hike and mountain bike through the tall timbered scenery of the beautiful Blue Mountains. Call 541-566-0327 for information. From Elgin, take OR Highway 204 toward Tollgate.