Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Painted Hills Unit is one of the three units that make up the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, located in central Oregon. This remarkable landscape is distinguished by its multicolored hills made up of stratified layers of red, gold, black, and gray. These colors change throughout the day depending on the light and moisture levels, offering a dynamic view for any visitor. The Painted Hills were formed millions of years ago during different geological eras, with each layer representing a specific period in Earth's history. The area was once a tropical environment, and the rich coloring of the soil is a result of past volcanic activity mixed with decaying vegetation. Today, the Painted Hills not only provide an invaluable glimpse into past climates and ecosystems, but also offer visitors an opportunity for hiking, photography, and appreciating natural beauty. Unlike typical forests or river landscapes, the Painted Hills are barren yet captivating, providing a stark contrast to Oregon's lush green environments found elsewhere. Visitors can explore several short trails that offer views over the formations, as well as take advantage of picnic areas to soak in this geological wonder.
