Diamond Loop Back Country Byway
64 miles - Allow 3-5 hours to enjoy the byway.
The Diamond Loop Back Country Byway moves past high desert habitats and offers a variety of wildlife, historical landmarks and fascinating natural formations. Travel along marshes to see bird species from waterfowl to shorebirds and the darting figures of quick-footed deer and antelope.
Stop in the town of Diamond, originally established as a major supply center for ranchers. Residents of the area can tell you about the history of the recently renovated Hotel Diamond, a legacy of its rancher past. Another site to see is the Pete French Round Barn, built in late 1870. Nearby is another legacy -- the Kiger Mustangs, believed to closely resemble the horses brought over by the Spaniards in the late 16th Century. Walk around the Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area, home to some of the most diverse volcanic formations in America.
End your trip in Frenchglen and snap a picture of the famous Frenchglen Hotel, now on the National Register of Historic Places.