Official websites use .gov
A .gov
website belongs to an official government organization in the
United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock
(
) or https:// means you've safely
connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only
on official, secure websites.
Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mt Crossing
Experience the Oregon Trail as the pioneers did! Some of the best-preserved traces of the Historic Oregon Trail await you on this forested ridge. Walk among stately Ponderosa pines that still bear the scars made by passing wagons over 150 years ago. Meander on a gentle footpath next to wagon-wide depressions. Enjoy the sweeping view that met the emigrant’s eyes so long ago. Choose a Discovery Trail and literally walk in the footsteps of the pioneers.
The Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing is a combination interpretive trail and picnic area. Facilities include large parking areas, paved accessible trails, drinking water restrooms and interpretation panels. Living history re-enactments are periodically available on holidays. The site may be staffed on weekends or holidays.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | Open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, on Thursdays through Mondays, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | This site is not reservable. |
| Area Amenities: |
|
| Fees: | $5/vehicle/day, or Northwest Forest Pass, or any form of the America the Beautiful National Pass |
| Open Season: | Memorial Day - Labor Day |
| Usage: | Medium |
| Restrictions: | General rules of use and restrictions apply for this developed recreation site. Pets in designated areas only. |
| Closest Towns: | La Grande, Oregon (16 miles) |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | Flush Toilets |
| Passes: | Recreation Passes may be used as a form of fee payment. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | La Grande Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:
From La Grande, Oregon travel west on Interstate 84 for 10.5 miles to exit 248; turn at exit 248 onto the Spring Creek Road/Kamela and go 0.2 miles; turn right on Old Emigrant Hill Scenic Frontage Road (Highway 30) and go 0.7 miles; take first right follow signs and go 2.4 miles to Park on Forest Road 1843.
NOTE: There is a 12' 9" clearance limit where Forest Road #1843 passes under the Interstate to enter the Park.
General Notes:
Click here for printable brochure.
Activities
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:California Gulch Trail near the picnic area is not accessible, however accessible trails are found at the upper main trailhead area.
Interpretive Areas
Recreation areas with activity Interpretive Areas:Interpretive sites are located on the California Gulch Trail near the picnic area and at the upper main trailhead area.
Picnicking
Recreation areas with activity Picnicking:Large picnic shelter is at site.
Group Picnicking
Recreation areas with activity Group Picnicking:Large picnic shelter is at site for familes or groups.