North Powder also holds that distinction. The town of Union sits on an alternate route and houses the Union County Museum, where you will find lots of fascinating information about the area's history. La Grande celebrates her pioneer heritage during Oregon Trail Days, an annual event the third weekend in August. A pioneer encampment, arts and crafts, entertainment, a buffalo barbecue, the Pioneer Olympics, an oldtime fiddlers contest and a Dutch oven cook-off are included in the fun. For insight into the Oregon Trail experience, visit Birnie Park, and the wonderful Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing.
Union County is cattle country.
Keep your camera handy. Much of the Old West is still evident in daily ranch operations. Check the calendar of events for rodeo dates and locations or contact the Visitor Bureau. And the scenery is spectacular. Union County boasts a popular ski resort for downhill and Nordic skiing, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort.