The geological area known as the John Day Formation sits north of Highway 26 between the Ochoco summit and Dayville. Fossil beds in this area are world-famous and well worth a visit. It is after all one of the seven wonders of Oregon.
The area lacks photogenic interest, unless you’re a geologist. The exception being the Painted Hills Unit. We come to this space regularly. It’s an hour’s drive from La Pine, just west of Mitchell, north off 26 on Bridge Creek Road. You are treated to delicate layers of reds, yellows, black and green, which create an alien landscape that changes with the season, as well as the time of day.
