Open in App
Try Pacer for Free

John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell | Map and Routes

Reservoir · Heath

4.1 (1 rating)

The John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell offers an unforgettable experience for walkers and hikers. With its stunning 3014.6 acres of vibrant, multi-colored rock formations, this ...

The John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell offers an unforgettable experience for walkers and hikers. With its stunning 3014.6 acres of vibrant, multi-colored rock formations, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an immersive and picturesque walking/hiking activity. The park's trails cater to all levels of walkers/hikers, from leisurely strolls to more challenging treks, providing an ideal setting for exploration and adventure. Visitors will revel in the breathtaking natural beauty as they traverse the diverse landscapes, making this park a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an exhilarating walking or hiking experience. In addition to its awe-inspiring scenery, the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit features a variety of well-maintained walking and hiking routes. One notable trail is the Painted Hills Overlook Trail, which spans 0.3 miles and offers panoramic views of the colorful hills, showcasing the park's natural wonders. With routes suitable for all ages and abilities, visitors can embark on invigorating walks or challenging hikes while immersing themselves in the park's captivating surroundings. Whether seeking a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous adventure, the park's diverse trail options ensure a fulfilling and rewarding experience for all walking and hiking enthusiasts. For those seeking more information about the park and its routes, the Pacer Pedometer app is an invaluable resource. This user-friendly app provides detailed insights into park amenities, trail lengths, estimated times, and user reviews, allowing visitors to plan their walking and hiking excursions with ease. Whether discovering the Painted Hills Overlook Trail or exploring other routes within the park, the Pacer Pedometer app is a valuable tool for enhancing the overall walking and hiking experience at the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell.

View MoreView More
Open in App for Detail
Overview
Check-in
Routes

Walking and Hiking in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Are you a walker or hiker looking for a memorable outdoor adventure in the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell, United States? This stunning park offers a range of activities, including walking and hiking, amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With essential amenities such as multiple parking lots, ...

Are you a walker or hiker looking for a memorable outdoor adventure in the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit in Mitchell, United States? This stunning park offers a range of activities, including walking and hiking, amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With essential amenities such as multiple parking lots, picnic sites, drinking water, and restrooms, visitors can comfortably enjoy their outdoor experience. The park's attractions, including the Painted Cove Trail and Leaf Hill Trail, offer captivating viewpoints and unique geological formations. Additionally, the presence of shelters adds convenience for visitors, ensuring a pleasant and safe hiking experience. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a leisurely walker, the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit is the ideal destination for an enriching outdoor adventure.

View MoreView More

Other Info about John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

HoursClosed
Phone(541) 987-2333
Websitehttps://www.nps.gov/joda/planyourvisit/ptd-hills-unit.htm

Essential Amenities in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Picnic Site
Drinking water
Restroom
Parking lot

Things to See in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Attraction

Painted Cove Trail

Attraction

Leaf Hill Trail

Other Amenities in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Shelter

Best Walking Routes in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

#1 - Painted Hills Overlook Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Painted Hills Overlook Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Mitchell, Oregon. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Leaf Hill Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 4m

Leaf Hill Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Mitchell, Oregon. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

See All Routes
See All Routes

John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
Scott
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Sutton Mountain Wilderness Study Area
Pats Cabin Wilderness Study Area
Bridge Creek Wilderness
Spring Basin Wilderness
Mill Creek Wilderness
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
John Day Fossil Beds - Clarno Unit
Antelope City Park
North Fork Wilderness Study Area

FAQs About John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Where is the best place to walk in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

The best place to walk in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit is the Painted Hills Overlook Trail, which offers stunning views of the colorful hills. This trail is rated 4.0 and has received 1 review on the Pacer community platform.

How many routes are in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

There is one route in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit, which is the Painted Hills Overlook Trail. This trail provides a short but picturesque walk through the unique landscape of the park.

Which is the longest route in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

The longest route in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit is the Painted Hills Overlook Trail, which spans 0.3 miles and can be completed in an estimated time of 5 minutes. Despite its short length, this trail offers a rewarding experience with its breathtaking scenery.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

Yes, there are parking lots, picnic sites, drinking water, restrooms, and shelters available for walkers and hikers in the park.

How accessible is John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

The park is accessible with parking lots, restrooms, and shelters available for visitors. The trails and viewpoints offer varying levels of accessibility.

What kind of sports can I do in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

While the park is more focused on walking and hiking, visitors can also enjoy activities such as picnicking and nature photography.

What is the best season to walk in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

The best season to walk in the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit is spring or fall when the temperatures are moderate, and the landscape is vibrant with blooming wildflowers or colorful foliage.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

Visitors to the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit should be prepared for hot and dry summers, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), and colder winters with occasional snow. It's important to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and dress in layers for changing temperatures.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit?

While walking or hiking in the John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit, visitors may encounter wildlife such as mule deer, coyotes, ground squirrels, and various bird species. It's essential to respect wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding or approaching them.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

Sutton Mountain Wilderness Study Area
Pats Cabin Wilderness Study Area
Bridge Creek Wilderness
Spring Basin Wilderness
Mill Creek Wilderness
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
John Day Fossil Beds - Clarno Unit
Antelope City Park
North Fork Wilderness Study Area

Latest Check-ins at John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

ScottSep 9, 2022
Sep 9, 2022Walking
ScottSep 9, 2022
Sep 9, 2022Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit

RankingCheck-ins
Scott
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in John Day Fossil Beds - Painted Hills Unit
#1- Painted Hills Overlook Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Painted Hills Overlook Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Mitchell, Oregon. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Leaf Hill Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 4m

Leaf Hill Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Mitchell, Oregon. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

pacer

Pacer Walking App

Pacer is the best walking app for walking challenges and finding places to walk near me.

Start Your Joyful Steps in New Parks
The Best Walking App
1.8M+ 5-star ratings
100M+ global downloads
Scan to download free
Open in App
pacer logoclose icon