Wallowa Mountains

The Wallowa Mountains are a rugged mountain range in northeastern Oregon noted for steep peaks, alpine basins and glacially carved valleys. The range includes high summits, a network of trails and extensive wilderness areas important for recreation.

The range was shaped by uplift and extensive Pleistocene glaciation that created its present cirques and lakes; human use has included seasonal grazing, small-scale logging and, more recently, outdoor recreation and conservation management. The area also has long-standing significance for Native peoples of the region.

The mountains sit in far northeastern Oregon, within Wallowa County, with the small towns of Joseph and Enterprise at the range foothills; the terrain rises sharply from the surrounding high desert and river valleys.

• Highest point: The highest summit reaches 9,838 feet and provides alpine views and winter snowfields well into summer.

What to See#

• Eagle Cap Wilderness: A federally designated wilderness area covering the high country of the range that contains the bulk of its trail network and backcountry lakes.
• Wallowa Lake: A large glacial lake at the southern foot of the range, roughly 3.5 miles long, that serves as a popular base for recreation and boat access to surrounding trails.
• Sacajawea Peak: The range’s highest summit, rising to 9,838 feet, which is a common objective for hikers and peak-baggers.

Wallowa Mountains are in northeastern Oregon. By car, reach the town of Joseph (about 70 km from La Grande) and use trailheads around Wallowa Lake or the East Fork Wallowa River. Regional flights are into La Grande; driving from major cities is the usual approach.

• For the best light and fewer people, hike early in the morning from the Wallowa Lake trailheads.
• Acclimatise to altitude-the peaks reach near 3,000 m and weather changes quickly.
• Hire a local guide for technical climbs; avalanche risk in shoulder seasons can be significant.