Cottonwood Canyon
The pungent smell of sagebrush brought a smile to my face, and conjured up many memories of my youth. Cottonwood Canyon State Park is nestled within a deep canyon carved by the John Day River, one of the nation’s longest free-flowing rivers.
Spanning over 8,000 acres, the Park offers diverse opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring its captivating landscape. Unfortunately, the 2025 Ferry Fire had a significant impact, scorching over 10,000 acres in the region.
Arriving in late March, the landscape was a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. Fortunately, the park facilities remained unscathed, although remnants of the wildfire were evident along the trails, serving as a poignant reminder of nature’s power.
John Day River
Desert Parsley
Plateau above the John Day River
Hard Stone Trail
Old ranch equipment
Burnt sagebrush along the Trail
Remains of an old sheepherder’s shelter built of rock
John Day River
Old ranch corral built of stone
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