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| Cathedral Rock is just one the many scenic spots along the John Day River. |
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Hiking
There are several Hiking Trails within the monument. Click on the highlights to the right to get trail guides for each of the units.
River rafting
Large portions of the John Day River system are designated as a National Wild and Scenic River as well as an Oregon Scenic Waterway. The lower section of the John Day River from Tumwater Falls upstream to Service Creek is classified as recreational and has the best rafting potential.
The spring flows bring the best rafting conditions with the river becoming unfloatable usually by July 4th for most boats, though not all. Floating at levels between 1500cfs, and 5000cfs will keep most people away from rocks and trouble. You can check the river flow two ways. Call Oregon River Flow at 503-261-9246, or use the internet to find the Oregon Water Resources Department at http://www.wrd.state.or.us, and click on "Stream Flows". Service Creek to Twickenham is a 15 mile drift and can be done in one day or two. Service Creek to Clarno is 48 miles which makes for a nice three night/four day float. Service Creek to Cottonwood is about 118 miles, a very nice six night trip.
For more information, see also "Soggy Sneakers, A Guide to Oregon Rivers" by Williamette Kayak.
Fishing
It is legal to fish in the monument and elsewhere on public lands along the John Day River with the proper Oregon state fishing license. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are abundant.
For more information, contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife in Canyon City at 541-575-1167.
There are no mountain biking areas within the monument, but there are many designated routes nearby in the Malheur National Forest. The route closet to the John Day Fossil Beds visitor center is the Field's Peak-McClellan Trail. This ride is estimated at 2-4 hours / 13.6 miles one-way and rated as "more difficult." The trail begins from USFS Road 2160 which is reached from Field's Creek Road off Hwy 6 between Dayville and Mount Vernon and travels east to an end point along USFS Road 2190 along Riley Creek.
For more information, contact the forest recreation office in John Day at 541-575-3000.
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