Mitchell Vacation Rental cottage

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument:: John Day Fossil Beds National Monument protects one of the longest and most continuous records of evolutionary change and biotic relationships in North America. Here, scientists have unearthed countless fossils of land plants and animals dating back 6 to 54 million years as well as evidence of the dramatic climatic changes that have occurred. The monument includes over 14,000 acres found in 3 widely separated units, the Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit and Clarno Unit. The Painted Hills are located 9 miles from Mitchell. Sheep Rock is about 38 miles and houses the monument's visitor center as well as the Thomas Condon Paleontology museum with its large collection of ancient fossils. The Clarno unit is close to Fossil, about an hour drive from Mitchell. All drives are magnificent scenic byways capturing the landscape's diversity and beauty. Its possible to dig your own fossils in the Wheeler High School Fossil Beds. More info can be obtained from the Oregon Paleo Lands Institute.

Ochoco Mountains:: About 20 miles from Mitchell are the Ochoco mountains with Evergreen forests and various snow parks offering great opportunities for cross- country skiing, sledding and snowmobiling. The Ochoco Nordic Club in Prineville offers classes and cross country skiing trips there throughout the winter. In early summer this region is great for morel mushroom hunting, and hiking.

The John Day River:: The John Day is spectacular river with incredible scenery and unspoiled beauty. With its 280 miles of length it is the longest un-dammed river in the Pacific Northwest and is federally protected as a Wild and Scenic River. The basalt formations and bluffs are typical of this region and some of the cliffs and palisades along the shores tower more than 3,000 feet high above the river.The John Day is a favorite for bird watching as it is in the heart of the Pacific Flyway. Look out for Canadian geese, hawks and humming birds. There is great winter Steelhead and bass fishing, with the drifting time beginning in spring running through June. From Mitchell there are various different routes to get to the river and we will be happy to show you our favorite spots for swimming,and hiking. The river is particular magnificent in spring as it is swollen with melting water. Rafting season begins in May and ends in August when it becomes too low.Swimming is best in July and August.

Ski: The Ochoco National Park, about 20 minutes from Mitchell by car, has various snow parks with great cross~ country skiing possibilities, as well as sledging for the kids.

Other Activities: fossil hunting, wilderness photography, cross country skiing

Learn more about this vacation rental at the owner's website:

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