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Painted Hills

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

warningInformation1 warning calendar_monthApr–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule2 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
John Day Fossil Beds National MonumentYour own route Plan a trip here →
Information No Water Available at the Clarno Unit

There is currently no water available at the Clarno Unit of the park. Please plan accordingly and bring water when visiting.

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a significant paleontological site in Oregon, known for its well-preserved fossils dating back millions of years. Travelers visit to explore the colorful rock formations and learn about the ancient ecosystems that once thrived in this area.

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The monument features several units, including the Painted Hills, which showcase layers of sediment that reveal the region's geological history. Visitors can hike various trails, but it is essential to respect the fragile environment and follow park guidelines.

In pictures

Clarno
Clarno

Things to do

John Day Fossil Beds Junior Ranger Program
20-120 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Become a John Day Fossil Beds Junior Ranger

Layers of Life: Stories of Ancient Oregon
20 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Layers of Life: Stories of Ancient Oregon

Fossil Gallery
10-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Fossil gallery

Thomas Condon Overlook Trail
5-20 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This 0.25 mi (0.4 km) long trail starts at the far end of the Thomas Condon Visitor Center parking lot and end...

Trail of Fossils
10-35 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The Trail of Fossils is 0.25 mi (0.4 km) long and is the best trail in the monument to see real fossils. Look...

Story in Stone Trail
15-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The mostly level Story in Stone Trail loops through dramatic pillars of blue-green claystone rocks that make u...

Sheep Rock Overlook Trail
10-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Starting at the front gate of the historic Cant home, this 0.5 mi (0.8 km) trail ends at an overlook with a vi...

River Trail
10-35 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Starting at the Cant Ranch parking lot, this 0.6 mi (1 km) long trail passes through historic fields and along...

Painted Cove Trail
10-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The Painted Cove Trail is 0.25 mi (0.4 km) roundtrip. The Painted Cove is an amazing color palette of vibrant...

Red Scar Knoll Trail
15-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This mostly level trail is 0.25 mi (0.4 km) long and leads to a hill of bright yellow and red clays; called Re...

Painted Hills Overlook Trail
5-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The Painted Hills Overlook Trail is 0.5 mile (0.8 km) roundtrip. This fairly level trail follows an old road a...

Mascall Formation Overlook
5-15 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This 430 ft (131 m) roundtrip trail leads to a scenic view of the Mascall Formation, Picture Gorge, and John D...

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1975
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
some trails accessible
Address
32651 Highway 19, Kimberly, OR 97848
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
5419872333
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect limited cell service in the area.
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer months.
Check for seasonal road closures in winter.
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking.

Photo: NPS Photo / Scott Ritner