Attractions and Places To See in Malheur County - Top 20

Malheur County is rich in diverse natural landscapes. You can explore the rugged volcanic canyons of the Owyhee River, which offers opportunities for hiking and boating. Don't miss the iconic Pillars and cliffs of Rome, towering natural pillars near the Owyhee River. Other notable areas include Leslie Gulch with its striking rock formations and the distinctive Malheur Butte, a volcanic plug rising above farmlands.

Yes, Malheur County is known for its geothermal activity and features several hot springs. Popular options include Echo Hot Springs, offering a primitive tub with stunning Owyhee River views, and Snively Hot Springs, where you can find pools to relax in near the cool Owyhee River. Three Forks Hot Springs is another unique spot, though it may require fording the Owyhee River to access.

Malheur County has a rich history, particularly tied to the Oregon Trail. You can find sites in Vale showcasing the trail, with visible wagon ruts in some areas. The P Ranch and Sod House Ranch within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge offer a glimpse into 19th-century ranching. The city of Vale also features a series of 30 murals depicting the westward migration, and Rinehart's Stone House, opened in 1873, was once a social hub.

The Four Rivers Cultural Center & Museum in Ontario is an excellent place to explore the convergence of cultures, from native Northern Paiutes to 19th-century settlers and Japanese Americans. It features exhibits on various immigrant groups. Additionally, the Malheur Country Historical Society Museum, also in Ontario, preserves local history with artifacts, pioneer tools, and outdoor exhibits.

Many natural attractions in Malheur County can be enjoyed by families. For example, Snively Hot Springs is noted as family-friendly, offering pools where hot and cool water mix. The Bridge over the Owyhee River is also categorized as family-friendly. Exploring the Vale Murals or visiting Lake Owyhee State Park can also be enjoyable for families.

The best time to visit Malheur County for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. For hot springs like Echo Hot Springs, cooler seasons or evenings are recommended. Spring and fall often offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the canyons, avoiding the extreme heat of summer. Winter activities are also possible, especially for wildlife viewing at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

Malheur County is home to diverse wildlife, particularly at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. This vast habitat covers over 187,000 acres of meadow and 120,000 acres of wetland, making it a significant bird sanctuary. You can expect to see over 300 bird species and more than 50 mammal species, making it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing.

Yes, Malheur County offers various hiking opportunities, especially within its rugged canyonlands. The Owyhee River area provides trails along its shores. You can also find hiking opportunities in Leslie Gulch, with trails like Juniper Gulch. The Juniper Gulch Trailhead is a starting point for exploring the canyon. For more challenging routes, areas like Three Fingers Gulch offer more strenuous options.

When visiting hot springs like Echo Hot Springs, it's best to go during cooler seasons or in the evening. Bring enough drinking water, as collecting water from the Owyhee River can be difficult due to quicksand. For Three Forks Hot Springs, be prepared that you might need to ford the Owyhee River, which can be chest-deep even in spring. Snively Hot Springs can be popular, so it might be busy on weekends.

Beyond the well-known attractions, Malheur County holds several hidden gems. The primitive cement tub at Echo Hot Springs is considered a real gem. The Birch Creek Ranch, a BLM-owned ranch with 26 well-preserved structures, offers primitive campsites and insight into an Owyhee River gem. Juntura Hot Springs, a small soaking pool along the Malheur River, is accessible via a gravel road and offers a more secluded experience.

Malheur County is a significant part of the historic Oregon Trail. You can find information and tangible connections to the past in Vale, where wagon ruts are still visible. The Vale Grand Opera House, built in 1895, also serves as a resource for maps and information about the area, including its historical significance related to the Oregon Trail.