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About The Blue Mountain eagle. (John Day, Or.) 1972-current | View Entire Issue (March 30, 2016)
Dayville T OUR TOWNS ELEVATION: 2,369 FEET • POPULATION: 150 he vibrant community of Dayville is rich in “Old West” atmosphere and small town charm. Located at the western end of the John Day Valley, Dayville has a bit of everything to offer both locals and visitors: groceries, diners, camping, lodging, an ATM, gas and gifts. The town even has its own volunteer-run library, located next to city hall and across from City Park. With the Northside, Murderers Creek and Ochoco units all intersecting the area, and the John Day River and its South Fork flowing nearby, the region is a paradise for hunting, hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing and more. Looking for scenery? The Mascall Formations Overlook about 4-1/2 miles west of Dayville features stunning 360-degree views of the Mascall formations and the western end of the John Day Valley, with interpretive signs describing the formations. Plenty of parking and wheelchair accessibility make this a treasure for everyone to enjoy. The overlook also has a good view of the entrance to Picture Gorge. Carved by the John Day River, the gorge is named for the Native American pictographs which adorn the steep canyon walls. History buffs can step back even further in time with a trip to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument just north of the Picture Gorge area on State Route 19. Dayville School serves students from preschool through grade 12. The stately Dayville Community Hall in the center of town, built in 1920-21, is the site of many of the town’s annual events. Incorporated in 1913, Dayville was a stop on The Dalles Military Road, a wagon road that provided access for miners and freight to the gold fields in Canyon City from 1868-1870. DON’T MISS: City Park, located along the banks of the John Day River at the east end of town. The park offers an expansive grassy area, horseshoes, tennis courts, picnic areas, a playground with a slide mounted right onto the hillside, welcoming and well-kept restrooms and a new drinking fountain fashioned from a hydrant. OUR TOWNS Granite ELEVATION: 3,695 FEET • POPULATION: 37 G ranite was established by miners after gold was found in a nearby creek on July 4, 1862. The original town was about 1.5 miles downstream from where it stands today. In 1867 the town moved to its current location. Upon incorporation, the name Independence was chosen, but had to be changed as Oregon already had an Independence, and Granite was picked, due to the granite rock surrounding the area. The Post Office closed in 1957, but the town remained. You are more likely to meet the resident wildlife than the human inhabitants. IIf you like the outdoors and need a break from civilization, this is the best place to go. Granite is located in the Blue Mountains surrounded by streams, lakes, nature and wildlife. Olive Lake is just a short drive away and provides a peaceful retreat. The lake has many amenities: fishing, boating, hiking, swimming and camping. Don’t forget your camera and hiking boots! DON’T MISS: If you are looking for an adventure, step back in time and enjoy the great outdoors. Granite is the gateway to paradise. 54 | OFFICIAL GRANT COUNTY VISITOR GUIDE 2016 | MyEagleNews.com
