Unearth the Past: A Journey to the Ghost Towns of Eastern Oregon
Picture the booming gold rush era with miners and pioneers, bustling with life and activity. Now, fast-forward to these modern days where quiet echoes of the past dominate the landscapes of Eastern Oregon. These ghost towns, whispers of a bygone era, are preserved relics of Oregon’s history, waiting to be explored.1. Shaniko
Once known as the “Wool Capital of the World,” Shaniko is a well-preserved ghost town on Highway 97. With its iconic Shaniko Hotel still standing strong and antique cars scattered around, it feels like stepping back in time. A must-visit is the Shaniko Museum that holds countless artifacts and photographs from the old days.2. Hardman
Nestled in the hills of Morrow County, the deserted town of Hardman creates a haunting yet beautiful setting. The old general store and post office are still intact, and visitors can get a peek into the rural Oregon life of the 19th century. Spring is the ideal time to visit, with wildflowers accentuating the landscape’s beauty.3. Sumpter
Sumpter’s rustic charm and ties to the Oregon gold rush are undeniable. Nature lovers can hike the Elkhorn Crest Trail for panoramic views. A trip on the Sumpter Valley Railroad, a restored steam train, is a must-do for a full immersion into the region’s mining past.
4. Granite
Another relic from the gold rush era, Granite offers breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains. A drive along the Elkhorn Scenic Byway often surprises visitors with deer sightings. The annual Miner’s Jubilee, full of bustling activity, transforms this ghost town into a lively spectacle in July.5. Antelope
Thanks to its connection with the Rajneeshpuram community, Antelope isn’t your typical ghost town. It was the center of the Rajneeshee saga in the 1980s. Visitors can learn more about this intriguing period of Oregon history by taking a walk around the town’s sparse buildings.6. Greenhorn
The smallest city in Oregon, Greenhorn sits at an elevation of over 6,300 feet in the Blue Mountains. It’s a captivating sight during the winter when its weather-worn buildings are encased in snow. Remember to pack warm clothing even in summer, thanks to Greenhorn’s high-altitude chill.7. Cornucopia
Once a thriving base for over 700 miners, Cornucopia is now a time-capsule of bygone days. Getting there is half the fun, with a scenic drive along the Snake River and the Cornucopia Highway. Make time to explore the Cornucopia Mines, but remember to respect the boundaries as it’s private property.8. Friend
The remote outpost of Friend is more of a dot on the map than a town. Despite it having just one remaining structure, the sight of the old Friend School, with the Friend Church nearby, evokes a sense of poignant nostalgia. The road less traveled to Friend offers unmatched seclusion and serenity.9. Whitney
Situated in Baker County, Whitney is a gem tucked away in the verdant setting of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The draw is the scenic drive along Highway 7, popularly known as the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway. Don’t forget your camera for some spectacular landscape shots.10. Golden
This blink-and-you-miss-it ghost town is notable for its two churches – one Methodist and the other Catholic, just a stone’s throw from each other. Golden is part of the Coyote Creek State Park, so outdoor activities are a bonus. Take a self-guided walking tour to truly appreciate the sacred simplicity of this town.Ghost towns with their aged charm offer a peek into the past. They’re an integral part of our beautiful Beaver State’s history, as they lay bare the stories of those who came to conquer the West. Indeed, discovering these ghost towns of Eastern Oregon is like turning the pages of a living history book – a testament to the enduring spirit of Oregon.