Highway OR-216 (Grass Valley To Tygh Valley Road Trip)

There are so many scenic drives in the state of Oregon, and one in contention for most scenic might be the stretch of Highway OR-216 from Grass Valley to Tygh Valley, also known as the “Sherars Bridge Highway”.  From the views of Mt Hood, the to scenic camping spots on the Lower Deschutes River and the White River Falls State Park, there’s no end to the great views.  I recommend you head from east to west, as you will get the best views of Mt. Hood this way.

Rolling Wheat Fields & Mt. Hood View

Mt Hood View, Note the two vultures sitting on the electrical post.

Grass Valley is aptly named, because it’s surrounded by wheat fields.  After a short drive you will start to see incredible views of Mt. Hood looming above the rolling wheat fields.  This stretch of road is especially sparse.  I didn’t see any cars in over 30 minutes of driving – talk about having a road all to yourself.

Canyon heading towards Deschutes River

Eventually the wheat fields end, and you start your descent down a grassy canyon, maneuvering switchbacks

all the way.  At the bottom you will find a ranch and the Deschutes River.

Wild and Scenic Lower Deschutes River

When OR-216 meet the Deschutes River, you can detour north on a gravel road to the Wild and Scenic Lower Deschutes River.  Boating, fishing, and primitive camping for $8-12 per night.  Managed by the Bureau of Land Management.   Watch for wildlife, I saw a whole herd of Bighorn Sheep in the hills and some birds.

Pheasant

Deschutes River Native American Fishing Area

OR-216 follows and crosses the Deschutes River for about a mile.  Here you can see the precarious fishing perches used by the Native Americans (if you’re lucky you might see them fishing).  Keep an eye open for “Cormorant Rock”, a home to a few dozen roosting Cormorant Birds.

White River Falls State Park

White River Falls

Inside the power plant

This waterfall is the highlight of this stretch of road.  The waterfall is composed of two levels and you can hike to the base of the bottom falls.  It also is the location of a defunct dam and power plant.  It’s surprising you can visit the semi-dangerous rusting power plant.  I stepped near a board with a nail sticking out on entry!  Both attractions are part of a free state park (have to love Oregon and all it’s free state parks).

Eat – Tygh Valley

Have a meal at Molly B’s Diner for a home cooked meal in this tiny town at the junction of OR-216 and US-197.   The breakfasts are great!

Stay

Head down US 197 to Maupin for accommodation choice, many on the Deschutes River.  Check Prices and Availability.

Find more off the beaten path places in Oregon.

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