Oregon is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, but it also holds a fascinating historical secret: its ghost towns. These abandoned towns, once bustling with activity, now offer eerie and intriguing destinations for adventurous hikers and history enthusiasts alike. Exploring these ghost towns provides a unique opportunity to combine hiking with a journey back in time. Here’s a guide to some of Oregon’s most captivating ghost towns, including the best hiking trails and fun facts about each.

1. Baker City – Sumpter

Ghost Town: Sumpter

Nestled in the Elkhorn Mountains near Baker City, Sumpter is a ghost town that offers a glimpse into Oregon’s gold rush era. Once a thriving mining town, Sumpter now attracts visitors with its historical ruins and scenic beauty. The Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area features remnants of gold mining operations and offers hiking trails through the area.

Hiking Trail: Sumpter Valley Dredge Trail

The Sumpter Valley Dredge Trail provides an easy hike with informative signs detailing the history of the dredge and the mining operations. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and takes you through the historical dredge site, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to explore the remnants of the old mining equipment.

Fun Fact: The Sumpter Valley Dredge is one of the largest pieces of mining equipment in the world, once used to extract gold from the riverbeds.

2. Granite – Granite

Ghost Town: Granite

Granite, located in northeastern Oregon, was once a thriving gold mining town. Today, it’s a charming ghost town with well-preserved buildings and a fascinating history. The town’s historic district offers a glimpse into the past, and nearby hiking trails allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking Trail: Granite Mountain Trail

The Granite Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the ghost town of Granite below. The trail is about 4 miles round trip, taking you through dense forests and rocky terrain. The summit provides a fantastic vantage point to view the remnants of the old town.

Fun Fact: Granite was named for the granite quarries in the area, which played a significant role in the town’s economy during its heyday.

3. Shaniko – Shaniko

Ghost Town: Shaniko

Shaniko, located in central Oregon, was once a key stop on the Oregon Trail and a bustling railroad town. Today, it stands as a well-preserved ghost town with a range of historic buildings, including the old schoolhouse, hotel, and general store. The town’s history is rich with tales of its role in the region’s development.

Hiking Trail: Shaniko Area Exploration

While there isn’t a dedicated hiking trail, exploring the Shaniko area on foot provides a sense of adventure. Wander through the town’s streets, discover the old buildings, and take in the views of the surrounding high desert landscape. It’s a walking tour through history, offering insights into life in the early 1900s.

Fun Fact: Shaniko is often referred to as the “Wool Capital of the World” due to its historical significance in the wool trade.

4. Austin – Austin

Ghost Town: Austin

Austin, located in northeastern Oregon, is a historic ghost town with a rich past. Once a bustling mining town, it now offers a fascinating look into Oregon’s history with several well-preserved structures and artifacts. The nearby hiking trails provide an excellent way to explore the rugged beauty of the region.

Hiking Trail: Austin Trail

The Austin Trail is a relatively easy hike that takes you through the scenic landscapes surrounding the ghost town. The trail is approximately 3 miles long and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. As you hike, you’ll encounter remnants of old mining operations and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Fun Fact: Austin was named after Austin, Texas, due to the influence of early settlers from the Lone Star State.

5. Silver City – Silver City

Ghost Town: Silver City

Silver City, located in southwestern Oregon, was a silver mining town that flourished in the late 19th century. Today, it stands as a partially restored ghost town with several original buildings and mining artifacts. The area offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Hiking Trail: Silver City Trail

The Silver City Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through the historic ruins and surrounding forests. The trail is about 2.5 miles round trip and provides a chance to explore the old mining equipment and structures. The hike also offers beautiful views of the nearby rivers and mountains.

Fun Fact: Silver City was named for the silver mines in the area, which attracted many prospectors during the town’s peak.

6. Canyon City – Canyon City

Ghost Town: Canyon City

Canyon City, located in eastern Oregon, was once a thriving mining town and is now a ghost town with several well-preserved buildings. The town offers a glimpse into the past with its historic structures and artifacts, and the surrounding landscape provides excellent hiking opportunities.

Hiking Trail: Canyon City Historic Trail

The Canyon City Historic Trail is an easy hike that takes you through the ghost town and surrounding areas. The trail is approximately 2 miles long and provides a chance to explore the historic buildings and learn about the town’s history. The hike also offers beautiful views of the surrounding canyons and rivers.

Fun Fact: Canyon City was one of the first towns established in Grant County and played a significant role in the region’s mining history.

Tips for Exploring Oregon’s Ghost Towns

  • Respect the Sites: Many ghost towns are historical sites with fragile structures. Respect the ruins and follow any guidelines provided.
  • Wear Appropriate Gear: Hiking in and around ghost towns can involve rugged terrain. Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers for changing weather conditions.
  • Bring a Camera: The combination of historical ruins and natural beauty provides excellent photo opportunities. Capture the unique atmosphere of these ghostly locales.

Oregon’s ghost towns offer a unique blend of history and adventure, with hiking trails that provide both scenic beauty and a chance to step back in time. Whether you’re exploring abandoned mining towns or historic railroad hubs, these destinations offer an intriguing way to experience Oregon’s rich past while enjoying the state’s stunning landscapes.