The Painted Hills -
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
The Painted Hills are one of three units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. They are in a remote location, approximately 75 miles east of Bend, Oregon, off Hwy. 26., near Mitchell.
The red soil deposits were left by an ancient river floodplain in the area.
The soil in the area has unique, starkly contrasting colors.
Looking south from the hills of red soil provides a more typical view of the region. Despite its remote location, the Painted Hills' scenic features attracts visitors from all over.
Four legged visitors also enjoy exploring the Painted Hills.
The person in white on the right hand side provides scale for the size of these reddish hills.
Hikers must be careful due to the steepness of the slopes and loose gravel in the Painted Hills.
This shot was taken from the Observation Area at the Painted Hills. The colorful layers of soil were composed in various geological eras.
An abundance of fossil remains are located in the Painted Hills.
Hiking trails provide different viewpoints for the Painted Hills.
The Painted Hills are a spectacular sight, and appear to change in color in different shades of light.
A panoramic camera best captures the expanse of the Painted Hills.
