Located nine miles northwest of Mitchell, Oregon and seventy-five miles east of Bend, Painted Hills is a unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. They get their name from the colorful layers of their hills, which correspond to various geological eras. The Painted Hills are a spectacular sight best seen in the late afternoon sun, which illuminates the vibrantly colored soil layers. Yellow, gold, black and red soil layers are present in the park. Different light and moisture levels can affect the appearance of the flooring’s beautiful colors and shades.
Painted Hills is also known for the rich fossil records of plants and animals that have been extremely well preserved on the ground. Fossil records of ancient rhinos and horses dating back fifty million years have been found in the park. Fossils of various species demonstrate the dramatic climate changes that have shaped the region over time.
The Painted Hills can be visited throughout the year. They are located in a remote and arid region of eastern Oregon with summer temperatures often exceeding ninety degrees. Average daytime temperatures in the winter are usually in the thirties with occasional snow. In the spring, typically May and June, wildflowers abound. Outdoor exhibits, hiking trails, and a picnic area are available to visitors.
To get to Painted Hills, coming from the west in Madras, Oregon, take Highway 26 east through Prineville and the Ochoco National Forest. Just before the small town of Mitchell, turn left at the signs for Painted Hills, which is nine miles from Highway 26. Coming from the east in Baker City, Oregon, take Highway 7 west during approximately fifty miles and then connect to Highway 26 westbound. Mitchell is about a hundred miles to the west. Along the way you will pass through the beautiful Strawberry Mountains and Blue Mountains along the John Day River and the towns of Prairie City, John Day and Mount Vernon, before reaching Mitchell.
The other two units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are Sheep Rock, which is northwest of Dayville, Oregon, and Clarno, which is twenty miles west of Fossil, Oregon.