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