Take the Snake River-Mormon Basin Back Country Byway Loop

Brownlee Reservoir on the Snake River (OR) [1]

Travel the spectacular canyon country of the Snake River along the Snake River-Mormon Basin Back Country Byway for an up-close view of a High Desert environment. As you traverse the byway, you'll greatly appreciate the early pioneers who bravely crossed the area via wagon, foot, and horseback. Though you'll be traveling from the comfort of your vehicle, you'll find a surprise from Mother Nature over every summit and around every corner on your backcountry adventure.

Begin your byway journey in Baker City and head east across rural country before you descend into the Powder River canyon. Pass through Richland before heading south along the Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir. Park your vehicle and grab your fishing gear for some outstanding warmwater fishing. With some skill and luck, you’ll get a bite from a bass, catfish, or crappie. Continue your journey parallel to the Snake River along the Snake River Road as you pass through the Snake River Breaks. Pull off at the BLM Spring Recreation Site and pitch your tent or simply enjoy the picnic tables and drinking water as you take in the scenery.

Head towards Rye Valley through rangeland into pinyon juniper country, then climb the heavily forested slopes to the crest of Mormon Basin. Here, you’ll find the historic Mormon Basin gold mining district, noted by early writers for the richness of its placer gold deposits. Continue along the byway until you reach a 4-way, then head northwest up Glengarry Gulch through aspen, pine, and juniper forests. Enter the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest as you take numerous hairpin turns to the end of the loop.

Whether you take home a tasty fish, dirt on your shoes, a snapshot of Oregon’s diverse scenery, or fresh mud on your off-road vehicle, you’ll certainly have priceless memories of adventure along the Snake River-Mormon Basin Back Country Byway!