Cheryl Hoefler/Go! Magazine

DAYVILLE — Are you ever out day-tripping and you see a spectacular view, but there’s no place to pull off to enjoy it?

Yeah, I hate that, too.

There’s a viewpoint west of Dayville, though, that not only has plenty of space to stop and take photos, but offers enough attractions and services to make it a bona fide destination spot all on its own.

The Mascall Overlook, a geologic gem, is about 4½ miles west of Dayville on Highway 26. You might have even passed by the “Overlook” sign a few times, not realizing the scenic surprise waiting just off the highway.

The overlook is about a mile up a paved road, also called Antone Highway. There’s plenty of parking for all kinds of vehicles, from motorcycles to buses and RVs, with a loop roadway leading back to the highway. Want to hang out and enjoy a picnic? Restrooms and picnic areas make that easy too.

So just what is there to see at this little wayside?

At the end of a short path — which is wheelchair accessible — visitors will find a breathtaking vista with 360-degree views of Picture Gorge to the north, the western end of the John Day River valley and the Mascall Formation area. Interpretive signs explain the geologic formations, which were created 15 million years ago.

The Mascall Overlook is part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. After some photo-and-picnic time, check out the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center at the Sheep Rock Unit, located nearby on Highway 19, about 2 miles north of Highway 26.

For more information about the Mascall Formation, visit www.nps.gov/joda/learn/ nature/mascall-formation.htm.