Blue-green rock formations sit in a valley surrounded by green grass and shrubs and brown mountains
1-3 Hours

Blue Basin Overlook Trail

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

The Blue Basin Overlook Trail is a 3.25 mi (5.2 km) trail that climbs 760 ft (230 m) in elevation to an overlook of Blue Basin. This trail provides breathtaking views down into steep canyons and grand vistas of the John Day River valley. It starts both at the Blue Basin parking lot and also connects along the Island in Time Trail. No collecting is permitted and off-trail hiking is strictly prohibited. Please stay on trail.

The Blue Basin Overlook Trail is a 3.25 mi (5.2 km) trail that climbs 760 ft (230 m) in elevation to an overlook of Blue Basin. This trail provides breathtaking views down into steep canyons and grand vistas of the John Day River valley. It starts both at the Blue Basin parking lot and also connects along the Island in Time Trail. No collecting is permitted and off-trail hiking is strictly prohibited. Please stay on trail.

Tags

Front-Country HikingFossils and PaleontologyGeologyScenic ViewsSheep Rock unithikinggeologypaleontology

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Details

Duration

1-3 Hours

Fees Apply

No

Seasons

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility

This trail climbs 760 feet in elevation with a minimum width of 15 inches. Trail has rocks and changes between gravel, dirt, and claystone composition throughout. There is a wooden bridge for a short portion of the trail. Potential hazards: Rocks, high winds, muddy after rain and snow

Pets

Yes

Reservations

No

Location

Sheep Rock Unit

View on NPS.govBack to John Day Fossil Beds

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