National Historic Oregon Trail

Interpretive Center

National Historic Oregon Trail

Interpretive Center

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center sits atop Flagstaff Hill with panoramic views of the Elkhorn mountains and the ruts of the Oregon Trail in the Baker Valley below.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is currently CLOSED for a major building overhaul and renovations. A temporary exhibit is housed at the Baker Heritage Museum, 2480 Grove St. Baker City, Or 97814.

Access to the Historic ruts off Highway 86 are open daily. There are no public restrooms on site. please call 541-523-1843 or email BLM_OR_NH_mail@blm.gov for more information.

The 500 acre historic site has over four miles of interpretive hiking trails, including an easy access path to original ruts of the Oregon Trail carved by pioneer wagons migrating to Oregon 150 years ago. The hilltop facility offers stunning views, and includes permanent exhibits, a full scale wagon train diorama, and a special interest gift shop.

The Leo Adler Theater hosts lectures, films, music and dramatic presentations. There is a replica gold stamp mill and gold panning demonstration area.

A range of both self-guided and facilitated activities offer something for the entire family and all ages. Group tours are welcome.

The center is located at 22267 Highway 86, five miles east of I-84 exit 302 from Baker City, along the Hell’s Canyon Scenic Byway.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the local Trail Tenders volunteers. Federal recreation fee is charged; federal recreation passes accepted.

Monthly calendar of programs, events and workshops and current hours and latest COVID precautions can be found HERE.

In addition to the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, history enthusiasts visiting Baker County will also enjoy visiting the numerous other area museums, and heritage sites including  the Sumpter Valley Railroad, the Sumpter Dredge State Heritage Area, and historic Baker City Downtown.