History:
Early emigrants following the Oregon Trail passed through
our picturesque valley and rested at the present-day site
of La Grande before climbing the Blue Mountains toward their
dreamlands in the Willamette Valley.
In 1861 the discovery of gold near Baker City, to the south,
prompted settlement of the Grande Ronde Valley. It is a fertile
area and was perfect for growing the agricultural products
needed to serve the mines. The city of La Grande was incorporated
in 1865.
Geography: Nestled at the feet of the Blue Mountains on
the edge of the fertile Grande RondeValley, La Grande is a
pretty town with lots to offer travelers. With a population
of more than 12,000, the community is friendly, casual, and
has its own brand of sophistication, due in large part to
the presence of Eastern Oregon University.
The surrounding national forests, lakes, and rivers provide
some of the best biking, hiking, skiing, fishing, snowmobiling,
camping and sightseeing opportunities in the state.
All of northeast Oregon's most popular visitor attractions
are within easy reach of La Grande and Union County's smaller
communities. The historic Elgin Opera House, the beautiful
Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing,
and the Union County Museum with its wonderful new Cowboys
Then & Now exhibit are just minutes away from your hotel
room. The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Wallowa Lake State
Park, Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, and the Wild Horse Gaming
Center are each less than 90 minutes from La Grande.
A wide variety of visitor services are available in the city,
including facilities for conferences and group tours. La Grande
has shopping venues for all tastes, from unusual boutiques,
to antique shops, to national discount chains. The attractive
downtown and the university provide a level of entertainment
and culture not usually seen in communities of this size.
La Grande Oregon Information: Oregon.com
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[Material provided by Oregon.com.
Photo: Union County Chamber of Commerce]
