Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Located in Arches National Park, Utah.

Trent River is located about three kilometers south of Courtenay, BC on Vancouver Island. It is a great walk in August when the river is down and you can walk the river bed without getting your feet wet. The bank is made of marine shale. It is a magical place that is 80 million years old. It is has numerous crystal clear swimming holes and if you are a fossil hunter it is a great place to spend an afternoon banging rocks and looking for a treasure of years past.

Canyon in Arizona.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Eroded structures sometimes resemble animals. Here, the brilliant orange "mudball" had been placed perfectly by Mother Nature to resemble the eye of a snake or some other reptile...

Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah.

A walking trail through the Painted Desert in Arizona. Beautiful landscape.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Trees cling to the bare rocky sides of a mountain.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Geological formations in Watkins Glen State Park. Located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, these were formed by glacial movement during the last Ice Age.

(1 in a multiple picture album)

This rangler is saddling the horses and mules for the first trip of the day at the corrals near Zion National Park Lodge.

I noted that he is wearing the best tool ever invented, The Leatherman. I go nowhere without mine.

Located in Monument Valley, Arizona side.

The little creek at the top of the Erith Coal Mine Falls further up the creek was another ledge that we could see with another little waterfall, just wish there was more water but we haven't had any decent rain for almost two months .. actually it is the driest winter we have had for a few years.

Images from a few days spent exploring the beauty of the Slovenian countryside in spring.

All images by Alex Berger, please reach out directly for licensing or usage requests.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Myvatn, Iceland - July 4, 2023: Skutustadagigar, or the pseudo caves, is a geological formation near Lake Myvatn, Icelandic sign in English

Red Rock Canyon State Park, California 2015

The Irish Run Natural Bridge is located in the Marietta Unit of the Athens Ranger District. It can be found along the Archer's Fork Trail, around one mile south of the main Archer's Fork trailhead.

Irish Run Natural Bridge is an impressive 51 feet long, 19 feet wide, 16 feet thick, and 39 foot high natural bridge. And yes, you can walk across it or under it!

The bridge lies along an upper slope in a steep hollow. It was formed by stream erosion and weathering. The less resistant center section of the huge sandstone formation was softer and gradually eroded through and broke off along joint planes forming a hole under the massive rock wall. The remaining rock in the bridge section has a higher iron content and was more resistant to weathering. Large blocks of sandstone that once formed the window before they broke away are still present in the gully below. The rock is Permian-age quartz sandstone, deposited as sediment when the oceans receded.

Forest Service photo by Kyle Brooks

Another view of the surrounding countryside with the identical cone like mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. (Bohol- Tagbilaran, Philippines, May 2013)

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.

Found in Arizona.

And for those who want pictures to prove that I was there, where, here it is, I was there! Thumbs up to the Chocolate Hills, Bohol! (happy now?) (Bohol- Tagbilaran, Philippines, May 2013)

Near Moab, Utah along Potash Road.

Painted Hills State Park at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Mitchell, Oregon. Wheeler County.

It is amazing how minerals and volcanic ashes that were deposited 33 million years ago here have reacted with the elements over time, producing some amazing colors on the ground! Yes, I have double checked, what you are seeing in your screen is accurate depiction of the colors on the hills! Quite Amazing!

I am surprised that how little this place is known and how little it is promoted by State of Oregon! Utah has the Arches on their car license plates as background, Australia advertise their Red Rock all over the place, in that sense, this place is virtually unknown!!!

It is a very serene, absolutely quiet and pretty place, naturally colored hills are surrounded by high country desert and mountains. It's hard to believe the colors and that they occurred naturally! Really something to behold! On a funny note, this place could be an ad for Valspur Paint or Home Depot! Haha!

Serenity of this place isn’t broken even in the height of the summer tourist season. This place is virtually unknown. There are no people in the vicinity, one or two sporadic visitors. The weather is really nice here, cool and dry, no humidity and thus no sweat! Hikes here are really easy as the hills are not too steep. The wraparound view is pleasing to the eyes, one can see far and wide and doesn't feel all blocked and covered by giant trees as there are few trees here. It’s an arid area and so is the climate! And the really pleasing quietness, so nice that I didn't feel like interrupting the quietness with the sound of my own breath! Yes, really! It is that calm and quiet! Had I known a bit earlier, I would have come prepared and camped two or three nights here. It's a great place for camping and hiking. Entry is free and abundant places to camp along the road. There is also a Park Ranger Station and Rest Room Facilities near the entrance. This is the drier part of Oregon, on the east side of the Cascades Mountain Range. It is high country desert and Rattlesnake country! So be careful and watch your step! I will definitely come back here, as many times as possible, although currently I am in the East Coast.

For a day trip, you are more comfy and convenient by staying in a larger town, which would be Bend, OR, about 75 miles away from Painted Hills. Mitchell, OR, is the closest town/village (pop. about 140), 9 miles away. Mitchell has 2 motels, very basic but exudes with charm and down home hospitality. They have internet and Satellite TV. But there is NO cell phone reception/signal in this area, so bring along a real GPS!!! Your cell phone's cell tower triangulated GPS service won't work here. Two stores of Mitchell close early (country/village/small town hours) and so does the only Gas station. Get your gas tank of your vehicle filled before you venture in. If you, however, make the effort to come here and visit, trust me, it will be worthwhile and something that you will cherish forever.