Mount Emily rises in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, in western Union County within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Visible from much of the Grande Ronde Valley, its southern edge is a familiar landmark for La Grande and a prominent part of the city’s skyline, giving it an important place in local identity. The mountain was named for Emily Leasey, whose family were among the first white settlers in the Grande Ronde Valley. In addition to its symbolic presence, the area around Mount Emily is also known for recreation, including mountain biking.