The Catherine Creek State Park is a hidden gem in the northeast region of Oregon. It boasts a tranquil campground and scenic hiking trails that provide stunning vistas of the Blue Mountains. Jamie Hale from The Oregonian captured the essence of this remote park in his photograph.
There are no waterfalls or ocean beaches to be found, and it’s not located near any major cities or popular tourist destinations. Some might even argue that it’s not always worth the effort to make a road trip to this place.
Catherine Creek State Park may be small, but it is filled with natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere that makes it a unique destination. Despite its size, this park deserves more recognition and attention for its charm and peacefulness.
According to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Catherine Creek, which should not be mistaken for the Washington park with a similar name, had 17,376 day-use visitors and 3,640 overnight campers in 2023. These numbers were low enough to rank Catherine Creek as the third least-visited state park in the previous year.
The location of Catherine Creek is a significant factor in its uniqueness. It is situated in the remote area of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon, just outside the small town of Union. To give you an idea, Union is approximately 14 miles away from La Grande and around 50 miles southeast of Pendleton.
The serene campground and picturesque picnic area beside Catherine Creek itself attract numerous visitors. Additionally, hikers can relish a network of small trails that traverse the park and lead up into the foothills above. The park offers 20 primitive sites that are perfect for those seeking peace and tranquillity.
As it winds its way through the state park, Catherine Creek adds to the natural beauty of the area. The gentle flow of the water creates a serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Jamie Hale captured the essence of the creek in his photograph, showcasing the peacefulness of the setting.
As you trek along the North Ridge Loop trail, your eyes will feast on the breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains. The beauty of this natural wonder is captured in an image taken by Jamie Hale for The Oregonian. The majestic mountains stand tall and proud, inviting adventurers to explore their rugged terrain. You’ll be left in awe as you take in the stunning scenery that surrounds you. Jamie Hale’s photo perfectly captures the essence of this remarkable destination.
Hikers can access the park through two trailheads, located at the campground and the main day-use area. Upon arrival, they will cross a delightful arched footbridge that spans the creek and leads them into the tranquil woods.
Running for half a mile along a cliff above the creek and passing through thickets of Pacific ninebark shrubs, the Salmon Run Trail connects the two bridges. The trail is enveloped by a canopy of conifers, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing hike. Further uphill, the trail meets the North Ridge Loop which presents stunning views of the hills in the vicinity.
The hike covers a distance of approximately 2.5 miles, starting from either bridge. The trails have a moderate elevation gain of only 450 feet and are not very steep. Although the trail network is not marked, it is quite easy to follow, with clear junctions and minimal user-made trails.
In late spring and early summer, the park truly comes to life. During my recent visit in June, the trails were adorned with blooming ninebark shrubs and red columbine flowers. The vibrant colors of wild roses, red paintbrush, and yellow buttercups added to the park’s natural beauty. As I strolled along, the clear waters of the creek flowed through the lush green brush in the foothills of the mountains, creating a tranquil ambiance.
It’s unrealistic to expect to have the trail all to yourself on gorgeous days like these. However, unlike the more popular parks in Oregon, such as Silver Falls or Tryon Creek, you won’t have to deal with hordes of people or struggle to find a parking spot at the trailhead. Even if Catherine Creek State Park becomes a bit more crowded, it appears that it will continue to be one of the state’s most peaceful locations.
If you’re headed to Catherine Creek State Park from La Grande, simply follow U.S. 30 east until it intersects with Interstate 84 and becomes Oregon 203. After driving for about 11 miles, you’ll need to turn left onto East Beakman Street in Union. After another 8.6 miles, keep an eye out for a parking area on your left-hand side.