Apart from remarkable scenery, this byway is known for its diversity: charming towns, a majestic national forest, rocky peaks,and wild rivers. The southern (first) half climbs through a majestic national forest, in which wildlife roam and you can do all kinds of 'outdoorsy' things: hiking, snowmobiling, camping, horse riding, etc. The northern (second) half is dotted with charming towns and winds through agricultural hills. The route has a grand finale: coming suddenly upon the kingly Columbia River.

Navigating the Byway:
* This byway picks up at one end of the Elkhorn Scenic Byway. It starts at the North Fork John Day campground junction, 10 miles north of Granite. At this junction, take Forest Road 53 west to start the Blue Mtn. Scenic Byway. * Ride FR 53 northwest for about 65 miles until you hit Heppner. * Take SR 74 northwest for about 50 miles until you come to I-84 and the Columbia River. This is the end of the byway.