The Anthony Creek elk feeding site at the base of the Elkhorn range of the Blue Mountains, near North Powder, has been a busy place since mid-December. TNT Wildlife Viewing Tours reports they have carried over 1,000 elk enthusiasts on their wagon already this season. People are traveling from Boise, Portland, Tri-Cities and beyond, as well as from just down the road, taking advantage of the unique opportunity to see and photograph Rocky Mountain elk from just a few feet away.

The fully accessible wagon (specially built for this purpose a few years ago), loads passengers at the parking area above the meadow feeding site. Then Waylan and Jed, two big, beautiful black Percheron horses, guide the wagon down the hill and into the midst of over 100 feeding elk.

The elk have been cooperating by showing up at the hay feeding site on time and in good numbers; cows, yearling calves, and big antlered bulls. After many years of being the stars of this show, they are used to the activity and the voices of Alice and Susan as the tour guides tell the history of elk in the region and the reason behind the tasty alfalfa meal the elk are enjoying. But don’t worry – they are still wild animals, a barking dog, sudden shout or movement can send them all running for the forest and cover. And, once the snow in the high country begins to melt and fresh grass greens the foothills, the elk will again disappear into the mountains until next winter.

                To reach the elk feeding site, take Interstate 84 to exit #285 at North Powder, Oregon, about halfway between La Grande and Baker City. Turn west toward the mountains on River Road and follow the brown wildlife viewing and binocular signs to the site at the base of the magnificent Blues. Tours take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday, mid-December through February, departing every half hour. The fee is $7 for adults and $5 for youth.