Shaniko was the 'Wool Capital of the World' around 1900-1911, when its railhead shipped central Oregon's wool and wheat, before rail bypasses drained it to today's two-dozen residents. The 1900 Shaniko Hotel, water tower, school, and jail still line the highway as a well-photographed semi-ghost that leans into tourism with seasonal events. Access is trivially legal from US-97; respect the handful of private homes and the periodically closed hotel, and expect no services beyond a seasonal shop.
Vestige documents abandoned & historic places for education and preservation. Always obtain permission before visiting and follow local law.