Part 1.
Oregon has 29 designated Scenic Byways/Tour Routes which highlight the varied landscapes of the state. These routes fall into one of four designations – All-American Roads, National Scenic Byways, State Scenic Byways, and Tour Routes. This fall I have been exploring the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, one of the nine State Scenic Byways.
This is a 286-mile ride in an Oregon history time machine. The route begins at the Columbia River, the historic fishing grounds for many generations of native peoples; goes to an historic wool shipping capital; travels through canyons generated by ancient volcanic activity; traverses prehistoric fossil beds; takes you to mining boomtowns; and ends at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.
The Tour Route
The guide for this route tells you to allow 8-10 hours for the trip. However, if you want to truly experience it, you should allow at least two travel days. The route is extremely rural so you should plan carefully as you will not find bustling communities with stores, gas stations, or restaurants along the route. Stay tuned as my camera and I explore this byway.