Sumpter is a historic gold mining town in Oregon that is now a recreational destination for visitors from all over.
The town is located in the heart of the Blue Mountains, and there are plenty of things to do in the area, both in town and out.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Sumpter, Oregon
- Take a tour of the Sumpter Valley Railroad
The Sumpter Valley Railroad is a historic narrow gauge railroad that operated in the Sumpter Valley from 1896 to 1947. Today, the railroad is run as a living history museum, and visitors can take tours of the line aboard vintage trains.
- Visit the Sumpter Valley Gold Dredge
The Sumpter Valley Gold Dredge is a massive gold mining machine that was used in the Sumpter Valley from 1912 to 1954. Today, the dredge is open for tours, and visitors can learn about the history of gold mining in the area.
- Go for a hike in the Sumpter Valley
The Sumpter Valley area is home to several hiking trails, including the popular Powder River Trail. There are trails to suit all levels of ability, and the scenery is simply beautiful.
- Visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is a museum devoted to the history of the Oregon Trail. The museum has exhibits on the trail, as well as a full-scale replica of a pioneer wagon.
- Take a ride on the Sumpter Valley Railway
The Sumpter Valley Railway is a replica of the historic narrow gauge railway that once ran through the Sumpter Valley. Visitors can take a ride on the railway, and experience what life was like for the early settlers in the area.
- Visit the Sumpter Museum
The Sumpter Museum is a small museum located in the heart of town. The museum has exhibits on the history of the town, as well as the gold mining industry.
- Go for a swim in Sumpter Lake
Sumpter Lake is a man-made lake located just outside of town. The lake is open to the public, and there is a swimming beach.
- Take a scenic drive
The Sumpter Valley area is home to several scenic drives, including the Powder River Scenic Byway. The byway follows the Powder River through the valley and offers stunning views of the mountains.
- 9. Go fishing
The Sumpter Valley is home to several lakes and streams, making it a great place to go fishing. The area is stocked with trout, and there are also bass, catfish, and other species of fish.
- Visit the Sumpter Valley Gold Mine
The Sumpter Valley Gold Mine is a historic gold mine located just outside of town. Today, the mine is open for tours, and visitors can see what gold mining was like in the early days.
- Have a picnic
The Sumpter Valley is home to several parks and picnic areas. The parks are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Go for a horseback ride
There are several stables in the Sumpter Valley area that offer horseback riding. This is a great way to see the valley, and the horses are well-trained and easy to ride.
- Go camping
The Sumpter Valley is home to several campgrounds, making it a great place to go camping. The campgrounds are located in the forests and offer access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
- Go gold panning
Gold panning is a popular activity in the Sumpter Valley, and there are several places where visitors can rent pans and other equipment. panning for gold is a great way to experience the history of the area.
- Visit the Sumpter Pines
The Sumpter Pines is a historic tree farm located just outside of town. The tree farm is open to the public, and visitors can take a self-guided tour.
To Wrap Up:
These are just a few of the many things to do in and around Sumpter, Oregon. So whether you’re looking for a historic steam train ride or a hike through the wilderness, you’re sure to find it here.
