Oregon's natural grandeur is once again in the spotlight with a new ArcGIS Story Map, celebrating Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and the accompanying Hells Canyon Recreation Area's 50th anniversary. This digital feature complements the color section of the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book, and was publicly unveiled today by Secretary of State Tobias Read. "Hells Canyon is one of Oregon’s great scenic and ecological wonders", Read remarked on the State of Oregon official website.
The story map guides users along the scenic route from La Grande to Baker City, giving a virtual tour that includes towns and the stunning vistas Oregonians boast of. Secretary Read stated, "It tells the story of the canyon and showcases this culturally and ecologically important area of our state." Among the visuals are photographs from the extensive Oregon State Archives Scenic Image collection, and the narrative weaves through the voices of local residents and their interactions with the beloved canyon.
Efforts to encapsulate the essence of Hells Canyon relied heavily on the regional perspective. According to Read, "Our team worked to tell the story from the perspective of those who live in the region." The approach seems fitting considering the geographic and emotional proximity they maintain with the terrain they call home. Many stories and affections are buried in the folds of these landscapes, and the story map aims to unearth and share them.
For those looking to add a touch of Oregon's heritage to their shelves, the Oregon Blue Book, a stalwart almanac and fact book for the state since 1911, can be purchased with this digital mapping experience included. It's described as a gateway to get to know Hells Canyon without having to step outside – though Read hopes it will be just the nudge needed for Oregonians to venture into the majestic wilds. "It’s our hope that the story map will provide Oregonians around the state with excellent information about Hells Canyon and will use it as an excuse to get their own firsthand experience there," he said.
Interested buyers can find their copy at various independent bookstores or explore the electronic version that accompanies this latest edition of the Oregon Blue Book. Besides historical data and state trivia, it now houses an invitation to explore one of the state's most breathtaking natural landmarks, marking half a century of its official recognition and conservation as a recreation area.
