The Blue Mountain Scenic Byway stretches 130 miles through Morrow County and was designated an Oregon State Scenic Byway in 1997. The route begins at the junction of Willow Creek, Interstate 84, and State Highway 74, passes through Ione, Lexington, and Heppner, and continues from Heppner along Willow Creek Road. From there, it leaves Morrow County for Umatilla County and the Umatilla National Forest.
Routes and Trails in the County
The Morrow-Grant County OHV Park also offers a variety of ways to get outdoors: ATV, hiking, and biking trails are assigned difficulty levels ranging from easy or beginner to difficult or expert. The park covers approximately 9,000 acres, of which 2,000 acres are in Grant County. The stated size and difficulty ratings provide specific guidance for anyone comparing different activities and levels of challenge.
The Columbia River Heritage Trail has a different status: a continuous, 25-mile trail for pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized users is planned for northern Morrow County. It is intended to connect important historic sites, viewpoints, and nearby communities. Those interested in the development of such a trail will find another perspective on the region’s history and landscape—as a planned connection, not a route that is already complete.
Cutsforth Park is located along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway and the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway. The park also borders U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land and private land. Its location along a road route and a cycling route makes Cutsforth Park a distinct point of interest for travelers interested in these different ways of getting around.
Explore History and Culture
In Heppner, Talking Rocks of Heppner offers a walking tour of the town’s history and cultural heritage. The Morrow County Museum uses artifacts and murals to portray the lives and activities of Heppner’s settlers. Morrow County Courthouse in Heppner is another historic stop: it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Morrow County Fair is dedicated to preserving and promoting the county’s agricultural traditions. It also showcases the region’s agricultural resources and the creative abilities of people of all ages. Heppner hosts a St. Patrick’s celebration every March. Alongside local history and agriculture, community cultural events are also in the spotlight.
The interactive SAGE Center focuses on sustainable agriculture and energy. Visitors can also learn about local industries and the technology associated with them; the center offers free educational tours. Admission to the Morrow Discovery Center is free for all visitors.
Nature and Activities
At the Irrigon Wildlife Area, the ponds offer seasonal opportunities to observe ducks, pelicans, herons, and painted turtles. The area also provides opportunities for hunting and fishing, as well as an accessible viewpoint and trails. A parking permit is required to park at the Irrigon Wildlife Area.
In Boardman, visitors can play disc golf at the Sailboard Beach Disc Golf Course at Boardman Marina. Willow Creek Water Park offers summer activities in Heppner; further current operating details are not included in this guide.
Where to Stay and How to Get There
Anson Wright Park offers primitive camping, full RV hookups, and a small cabin. Boardman Marina Park RV Campground has 63 paved RV sites and four grassy tent sites with water hookups and picnic tables. The two parks therefore offer distinct accommodation options, from tent camping to a cabin.
Morrow County Lexington Airport 9S9 is a general aviation airport serving recreational, business, and agricultural traffic, as well as charter flights. 100 LL aircraft fuel is available 24 hours a day on a self-service, credit-card basis.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Boardman, Polk County, Crook County, Multnomah, Coos County, Sherman, Harney County, Lake County.
For the broader travel overview: Oregon.
