[1] The byway offers glimpses into the geologic and pioneer history of Oregon.

[1] From Biggs, the byway follows U.S. 97 south through Shaniko to Antelope, then turns east on OR 218 to Fossil.

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is nearby.

From Fossil the byway continues on OR 19, turns southward near Kimberly, and goes generally eastward again on U.S. 26.

On U.S. 26 it passes through the communities of Dayville, Mount Vernon, John Day, and Prairie City.