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Day Hike - John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Trail hikes and off-trail exploratory hikes for winter season photography, between snowfalls, in the Painted Hills. A short-notice or spontaneous winter trip recommended for snow-accented Painted Hills.

Linda Moore Linda Moore
February 27, 2017
  • Road suitable for all vehicles

  • Trail conditions fair to good, with few muddy spots.   Some off-trail exploratory hikes in flats, fair to good conditions, with a few narrow soft gulley crossings.

Mostly sunny with few clouds on Saturday provided fine lighting for sunrise to sunset photo hikes, and overcast sky on Sunday  allowed photo opportunities for mid-range and closer images.  Comfortable cool day temps 20s-40s, with no precip during weekend.    Lots of fresh mammal signs, but no sightings.   A few birds sighted or calling.   An early blooming yellow lomatium (parsley) was abundant, and foliage emerging for later wildflowers in spring.  Variety of accommodations available Mitchell area including a couple motels, city park camping, B&B, and the Spoke'n Hostel (our choice this trip).