Table of Contents
The Landscape of the Painted Hills
It’s hard to believe that Oregon can have so many different types of landscapes- that you can go from lush verdant forests and waterfalls to mountains and desert in just a few hours. John Day National Monument is one of the “seven wonders” of Oregon- and once you arrive you will immediately agree that this special place has earned it’s title. One of the most striking features is the red dirt and ash along the Painted Cove trail. This deep red substrate fell from the sky as hot ash millions of years ago from the surrounding volcanoes, preserving ancient flora and fauna, as well as information about the changing climate.
It’s important to protect this fragile landscape, so visitors to the park must stay on the boardwalk at all times. The boardwalk views are the best way to see these features!
Getting Married in the Park
Getting married in the Painted Hills is easy and affordable! Couples should note that a wedding permit is required, but it is very affordable (150-$300 depending on your group’s size). Places to consider include the Painted Cove trail pictured below!
How to Get There
From Portland: 3 h 56 minÂ
From Bend: 1 h 52 min
From Eugene: 3 h 51 min
Hair and Makeup: Katya LaPierreÂ
Find her on Instagram: @la.pierrestylist


June 24, 2020
Wild Earth Weddings
oh mmyyyyy i love the orange and red backdrops- they are such a nice change from the green tree backdrops. don’t get me wrong, i love the forest but it’s so great to see how diverse the landscape in oregon is.
You are like a photographer that’s also a wedding planner, this is so helpful for couples wanting to elope in an epic landscape! Your photos and colors are really killer too.
Wowowow these Painted Hills elopement photos are EPIC and I love all the helpful information you included too! Amazing job on these!
Oh man, these are so gorgeous! I want to go there so badly after seeing these beautiful photos! Amazing work!
How do you go about getting a permit for the park???
It’s a very easy process! I’d recommend calling the park at (541) 987-2333. Each permit is approved on a case- by- case basis so they will need to get some information about your event. I hope this helps!