Travel Oregon

Many Tribes One State

Experience the rich, artistic cultures of the original Oregonians at nationally acclaimed tribal museums, lively festivals and authentic powwows.

  • Distance:  310 miles
  • Starting Point:  Ontario
  • Minimum Driving Time:  4 days
  • Best Time to Drive:  Late Summer

1. Four Rivers

Experience the rich, artistic cultures of the original Oregonians at nationally acclaimed tribal museums, lively festivals and authentic powwows. Begin in Ontario at the Four Rivers Cultural Center to learn about the Northern Paiutes' role in this ethnically diverse region.


2. Chief Joseph Days

Then travel north on I-84 to La Grande and northeast on Hwy. 82 to Joseph, once the domain of the Nez Perce Indians. Visit the Wallowa County Museum and take in Chief Joseph Days, a fun-filled weekend in July honoring the great chief.


3. Wild On Pendleton

Return to La Grande and on to Pendleton, home of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Here, you'll find the Wildhorse Casino Resort and Hotel and the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, which explores 10,000 years of tribal history through the eyes of the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians. The Pendleton Round-Up in September features a powwow and native dancing.


4. Extend this Tour

To extend this tour to 595 miles and 5 days, visit The Museum at Warm Springs in North Central Oregon to learn about the culture of the Wasco, Paiute and Warm Springs Indians. Farther south in Bend, The High Desert Museum's By Hand Through Memory exhibit depicts the culture of the Columbia River Plateau Indians. For itinerary planning assistance, contact the Eastern Oregon Visitors Association, or local visitors centers listed in the Visitor Information section.


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