Oregon Travel Council | Page 101

For more information, contact: Baker City Chamber of Commerce 490 Campbell St. Baker City, Oregon 97814 (541) 523-5855 or 1-888-523-5855 www.visitbaker.com JOSEPH Surrounded by the breathtaking Wallowa mountains, Joseph is often referred to as the "Little Switzerland of America." Rich in history, art, recreation and agriculture, this charming town is for the outdoor enthusiast, the art connoisseur, the historian. It is also a shopper's paradise, with specialty shops and galleries, world class fine art & foundries, local clothing, baked goods, chocolates, wines, and coffees. The landscape is second to none and beckons to the bicyclist, the motorcycle rider, the photographer, the horse lover, the hunter, the one who loves to fish... all those who appreciate the great outdoors. Joseph hosts several signature events throughout the year, as well as town art walks, tastings, music events and more. For more information, contact: Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce 309 S River St, Enterprise, OR 97828 (541) 426-4622 www.wallowacountychamber.com LA GRANDE Originally called Brownsville, the city east of the Blue Mountains in Union County was incorporated in 1865 and today is home to about 13,000 people. The area experienced rapid growth in the 1860s and 70s because of the region’s many gold mines and agricultural capabilities. La Grande is close to plenty of camping, hiking, backpacking, and skiing spots. Just west of the city is one of the largest hot springs resorts in the Northwest. ONTARIO With over 11,000 residents, Ontario is the largest city in far eastern Oregon. This region, known as the Western Treasure Valley, was built on the cultivation of potatoes, sugar beets, and onions. Ontario boasts a cultural center and museum that traces the area’s settlement history by the Northern Paiutes and Basque, Japanese American, Hispanic and European-American immigrants. For more information, contact: Ontario Chamber of Commerce 876 S. W. 4th Ave. Ontario, Oregon 97914 (541) 889-8012 or 866-989-8012 ontariochamber.com VALE This community, about 12 miles west of the Idaho border, was the first stop on the Oregon Trail. Today, it’s home to about 2,000 people. Vale hosts an annual 4thof July rodeo and parade and is an excellent starting point to a number of hunting and outdoor recreation areas. Numerous historical attractions, including the first permanent building in Malheur County, The Rinehart Stone House built in 1872, are among the town’s points of interest. WALLOWA In the heart of Hells Canyon Scenic Byway in the majestic Wallowa Mountains is beautiful Wallowa, Oregon. Hunt, fish, and hike in the stunning alpine country or the rugged Hells Canyon country of Eagle Cap, Oregon’s largest wilderness. View wildlife or go boating in the pristine waters of Wallowa Lake, or simply enjoy breathtaking views. With abundant recreational and cultural activities, Wallowa is a must-see for any traveler to the area. FACT AT 7,900 FEET, HELLS CANYON IS THE DEEPEST RIVER GORGE IN NORTH AMERICA REGION 9: NORTHEAST BAKER CITY Incorporated in 1874, Baker City experienced its first major growth spurt in 1884 when the Oregon Short Line Railroad came to town. Today, it has a population of just over 10,000 people. Among the town’s several annual events are the Miners’ Jubilee on the third weekend in July and the annual Elkhorn Classic bicycle race which is based out of the city. Several historical buildings and the Oregon Trail Regional Museum are well worth a look. MILTON-FREEWATER Affectionately referred to as “Muggy Frogwater” by locals, this city’s roots date back to the 1860s. The city boasts the Muggy Frogwater Country Classic Festival, an annual August event that features entertainment for all ages. For more information, contact: Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce 157 S Columbia Milton-Freewater, Oregon 97862 (541) 938-5563 www.mfchamber.com WWW.OREGONTRAVELCOUNCIL.COM 99