The last part of our journey, but certainly not least of the John Day Fossil Beds tour was the Painted Hills. Actually it was the very best part. There are a several hikes to view the area. Of course, I had to hike them to make sure I didn't miss anything. LET NO GOOD HIKE GO UNHIKED! I had heard that the best time of day to view the hills is at sunset and that proved to be true. It is as if the waning sunlight magically intensifies the colors with each passing minute.
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| Breathtaking |
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| A close up view of the popcorn soil |
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| Resting waiting for sunset |
The most ordinary looking hills in the distance belie the intensity that is beneath. Time and weathering reveal the magnificent colors that are beneath the surface.
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| Sun setting on a smokey sky |
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| A restful stop at the Spray Motel in the Elk room |
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| Local Farmers create their own 'fossils' |
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| A stop to view a sculpture made of horseshoes in Ritzville, WA |
