Burnt Ranch Road (also known as Bridge Creek Road) leads from the Ochoco Highway in Mitchell to the Painted Hills Overlook (part of the John Day National Monument/Painted Hills division). The road itself is partial monument land, part BLM, so care must be taken with permit applications.
The road itself is a stunning drive surrounded by geological fossil formations on one side, and grasses and farm land on the other. It also winds alongside Bridge Creek.
BLM permit applications require 60 days advance notice through BLM Prineville.
John Day National Monument should be done at least 30 days in advance.
Nearest accommodation and services are in Mitchell (limited/10-15 minutes away), and wider availability in Prineville (1 hour via Hwy 26).