Pillars of Rome - Roman Ruins in Oregon!

The Pillars of Rome is a striking geological landmark in the Owyhee Canyonlands, located near Highway 95, 4 miles northwest of the tiny community of Rome and 36 miles southwest of Jordan Valley.

These volcanic formations cover a 5-mile by 2-mile area along the Owyhee River valley and rise up to 100 feet high. Early European settlers, impressed by their resemblance to Roman ruins, named them the Pillars of Rome.

Rome is a tiny outpost with around fifteen residents. Here, you can get some food and basic necessities.

The Pillars of Rome are easily accessible via a well-maintained gravel road a few miles from Rome, making exploration possible with a regular passenger car.

Pillars of Rome Geological History

The Pillars of Rome were formed by water and wind erosion approximately 2.5 to 5.3 million years ago during the Pliocene Era.

These tan and white bluffs are made of fossil-bearing clay, lakebed sediments, and significant volcanic ash deposits. Old stream channels often separate the pillars, enhancing their unique appearance.

The formations are capped by slightly more weather-resistant basalt and welded tuff, creating distinct and dramatic profiles.

Hiking

There are no formal hiking trails around the Pillars of Rome, but the open landscape is perfect for easy, self-guided walks.

You can explore the base of these towering structures but climbing the pillars is risky and can damage the formations.

Nature Viewing

The Pillars of Rome provide a spectacular setting for nature viewing. The area is a vibrant habitat for a variety of wildlife, offering ample opportunities to observe and appreciate the local fauna.

Photography

The unique geological features and the interplay of light make the Pillars of Rome a paradise for photographers. The white and tan hues of the cliffs change with the sunlight and clouds, giving the Pillars a different appearance during various seasons and times of the day or night.