I took the GS back into eastern Oregon again a couple of days after the Juntura ride to Eugene as the furthest point to see an ailing pal. This time it was via US26. US20 and 26 coincide for stretches in Idaho into Oregon, but diverge at Vale OR. 20 is to the south and 26 is to the north and parallel each other across eastern Oregon, but each has its own personality. Both are good rides that offer opportunities for side trips, both paved and unpaved. I was out for 3 days. Here are a few pics and a small sample of what there is to see.
Here is an old store and cafe in Brogan. Like the one in Drewsey I mentioned, I used to stop there and eat.
Always cool and pleasant, even when 100 degrees outside. Sadly, it too is long out of business and the building deteriorating.
Brogan had a fire scare in July with the Cow Valley fire. I rode for miles before I got away from the burned area. The mountains in the background are all charred.
A nice spot off of US26, with a little color in the trees -
Stopped for a break in John Day, obligatory corn dog and sugary coffee drink in the background -
Some scenery -
The Ochoco Divide campground was very pleasant. The vault toilets don't stink, has running water, and is quiet -
Day 3 corn dog with a little healthier beverage (if you don't mind a little BPA in your water) -
I turned north out of Mount Vernon on US395. What a great road. I ended up returning on the Middle Fork road, which I may feature in the Interesting Roads thread.
As soon as I saw these two trees, I thought of making a black and white photo of them -
