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way to the Oregon border with this much character and color. And the Historic Hotel Prairie on Main Street is popular and rider-friendly, with a restaurant and bar.
East of Prairie City, U. S. 26 passes through the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest on the last stretch to Oregon’ s eastern border. I passed spectacular scenic buttes, passes, and summits as I rose in elevation through more juniper trees to Unity Lake, created by damming the Burnt River. This reservoir and surrounding 40-acre park offer boating, fishing, and camping. A few miles later I reached 4,623-foot Eldorado Pass.
Continuing south and gradually stepping down through rolling hills covered in brush, sage, and cheatgrass along U. S. 26, I reached Brogan Hill Summit. I stopped to mournfully
glance back in the rearview mirror as the sun set for a last look at the 360-degree canyon country views. My three-day ride was coming to an end. Finally finding 6th gear, I soon arrived in the town of Vale. At Nyssa, the“ Gateway to the Oregon Trail,” I stopped to soak my feet in the Snake River, replaying the 750- mile journey. Thankful for the great weather, ever-changing roads, spectacular scenery, friendly people, and Big Red, I had enjoyed an epic ride across Oregon.
Wendy Newton loves exploring motorsports worlds through building, racing, and touring via vintage and modern motorcycles and cars. Follow her on Instagram @ helmetsnheels.
Clockwise from top left: Eldorado Pass on U. S. 26. Historic Prairie City is the last colorful stop on U. S. 26 heading east to the Idaho border. While watching the sun set at Brogan Hill Summit, I enjoyed 360-degree views of canyon country.