The city of Heppner lies about 50 miles south of the Columbia River snuggled against the foothills of the Blue Mountains in north eastern Oregon. Highway 74, also called the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, winds south from Interstate 84 through Ione, Lexington and Heppner.
Rolling hills rising to meet the mountains on the east offer a beautiful view while canyons, rivers and scattered farms also contribute to the picturesque drive. Beyond Heppner, Highway 74 leads into the Blue Mountains and to the towns of Ukiah and La Grande, earning Heppner the name “Gateway to the Blues”.
Heppner was incorporated in 1887 and is the county seat of Morrow County. It is the largest of three communities in the Willow Creek Valley. Heppner is a great place to raise a family or retire. With a population around 1,400, the town offers small town living at its finest with affordable housing, a full service downtown, medical facilities, superior schools and a low crime rate. Most of our residents are employed in agriculture, government, timber and manufacturing. It’s a prime location, offering the best of rural living with convenient access to the larger communities of Hermiston, Pendleton and the Tri-Cities.
Recreation opportunities abound in Heppner and the surrounding area. With an elevation of 1800 and a location in the foothills, the weather and climate are milder and access to the forest and lakes are only a short distance away.
Each March, Heppner is transformed into an Irish wonderland. A large St. Patrick's Day celebration includes a parade, vendors, special performances and multiple other recreational opportunities. 2020/2021's festivities were cancelled due to COVID 19 but we are hopeful 2022 will carry on the tradition.
Visit https://www.facebook.com/st.patrickscelebration for more information
*photos and information from local Heppner Chamber of Commerce and City of Heppner websites
