About
218 Miles of wonder
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is a 218-mile designated road that loops through northeastern Oregon, connecting Baker County, Wallowa County, and Union County through dramatic canyon country, forested mountain passes, ranchlands, and small historic towns. The route includes sweeping views of Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, along with access to lakes, trailheads, overlooks, and remote recreation areas.
As one of only four All-American roads in Oregon (and one of only 37 in the entire country), the Byway is a truly unique gem worth experiencing.
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 cattle drive.
Details
Getting There
Follow OR-86 east toward Halfway and Oxbow, following signed byway markers. The full loop continues north through mountain forest roads to Joseph, then west toward La Grande before reconnecting with Interstate 84.
Seasons
Spring through Fall. Be sure to check road closure information.
FR-39 between Halfway and Joseph is closed during winter months. Even so, a partial drive along the route from Baker City through Halfway and Oxbow offers incredible scenic beauty and the chance to stop through welcoming small communities no matter the time of year.
For those looking for a longer drive when FR-39 is closed, extend your trip by crossing the Snake at Oxbow and continuing along Idaho State Highway 71 to Cambridge and beyond.
other considerations
Stretches 80+ miles without fuel, limited cell service, snow closures, or wildfire conditions
Unless familiar with the byway country, please stay on the byway proper or the identified side trips. Do not rely only on GPS generated driving instructions as they may lead to little traveled roads or roads that are not suitable for passenger vehicles or closed seasonally.
helpful links
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