Discovering the Ghost Towns of Eastern Oregon: A Local’s Guide
There’s something hauntingly beautiful and spine-tingling exciting about exploring Oregon’s old ghost towns. Nestled deep within Eastern Oregon’s rolling hills and high-desert plains, they hold stories of opportunity, triumph, and inevitable abandonment. These once vibrant communities offer a fascinating glimpse into Oregon’s rich mining and pioneer heritage. Bundle up, grab your sturdy boots, and prepare for an intriguing journey into our state’s past.1. Shaniko
Begin your journey in Shaniko, often dubbed as Oregon’s most famous ghost town. Known as the Wool Capital of the World in the early 1900s, the town retains its charm with preserved historic buildings like the Shaniko Hotel and the old Schoolhouse Museum. While the town has some year-round residents, the silence carries the ghost town feel. Remember to respect private property when exploring.2. Sumpter
Heading further east, reach Sumpter, a gold boom town settled during the late 1800s. Pay a visit to the restored Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area for a more in-depth look at the gold mining history. Hunt around in the Sumpter Flea Market, a local favorite; you never know what treasure you might find!3. Cornucopia
Next, traverse the stunning Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to get to Cornucopia, once the richest mine in the state. Here, adventure-loving souls can explore the Cornucopia Peak to soak in scenery. Check local weather and road conditions before hiking, as the town sits at a high elevation with harsh winter conditions.
4. Granite
The old mining town of Granite awaits next. The lure of gold brought settlers here in the late 1800s. Today, the Granite General Store operates seasonally, offering a much-needed pit stop for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don’t forget to capture a snapshot of the famous Granite Jail, one of the town’s original buildings.5. Hardman
Walking through Hardman, you can feel the sense of community that once thrived in this farming town. Peek into the Coe Building, a rustic relic of the town’s past. Drive safe and slow through the area; Eastern Oregon’s wildlife, particularly deer, are known to bolt across roads without much notice.6. Greenhorn
Welcome to Greenhorn, the highest town in Oregon with an elevation near 6,300 feet. The town, which during its heyday had five hundred souls, is best visited during the summer. Snow is a real challenge in Greenhorn; come prepared if visiting during the colder seasons.7. Whitney
Discover the logging town of Whitney tucked away in the Blue Mountains. While the houses are now collapsed, you can still see remnants of the once-thriving community. Be sure to pack out what you bring in! Keeping our heritage sites clean is part of being a responsible explorer.8. Antelope
Antelope offers an intriguing blend of history and modernity. Once swallowed by the Rajneeshpuram commune in the 1980s, the town has returned to its quiet origins. Drop by the Antelope Cafe and Gift Shop for a local yarn and some Oregon-inspired souvenirs.9. Friend
Named after George Friend who had a homestead nearby, Friend is a picture-perfect destination with its old schoolhouse standing in a wheat field. There’s no gas station or amenities here, so fuel up and carry necessities before reaching this isolated gem.10. Sparta
Ending this journey at Sparta might seem ironic, yet this quiet farming town holds its charm. In the fall, the hills around Sparta light up with color, creating a picturesque backdrop for the remaining homesteads. It’s worth noting that Sparta Wind Farm is a private property; always respect boundaries while exploring.Strolling through these ghostly remnants of once vibrant communities, it’s easy to find wonder in the solitude, history, and enduring spirit they represent. As you return home, driving through Eastern Oregon’s jaw-dropping landscape, you’ll carry with you not just photographs but memories of a stirring journey through Oregon’s undying past. Happy exploring, fellow Oregonians!