Recreation in Wallowa County

The awe inspiring diversity of landscapes of the Wallowa Mountains and the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway in Northeast Oregon will hold a place in your heart. Wallowa County’s friendly communities are eager to greet you and share this wonderful destination.

Here are 13 suggestions for outdoor recreation in Wallowa County. Seasonal weather conditions may affect roads and activities in Wallowa County. Refer to listings at the end of this page and also contact the Forest Service Wallowa Mountain Visitor Center, 541.426.5546

• Wallowa Lake & Fishing! Rent a boat for a trip around Wallowa Lake or try your hand at fishing. The Wallowa Lake Marina provides paddle boats, canoes, row boats, small motor boats and a 21 foot Pontoon boat for your enjoyment. Parasail if you are ready for a one-in-a-life time memory. Fish throughout the year – catch Trout in early spring and Kokanee from late spring through August. For information contact the Wallowa Lake Marina, 541.432.9115.
• Scenic Cycling! Have fun on an easy ride around one of Wallowa County’s friendly towns or the Wallowa Lake area or do a more challenging trip through Hells Canyon. Wallowa County is perfect for the cyclists! Hells Canyon Scenic Byway has been one of Cycle Oregon’s favorite spots. Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Hiking! Wallowa County is a hiker’s paradise. With miles of trails for all levels of hikers, the only difficulty is deciding where to start …Hells Canyon or the Eagle Cap Wilderness! There are 560 miles of trails in the Eagle Cap Wilderness and another 694 miles in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area and Hells Canyon Wilderness. Did you know the Wallowas have 20 peaks that rise above 9000 feet in elevation? When you come plan to spend an afternoon, a day, a week; you will need plenty of time to explore. Also don’t forget your wilderness pass. Maps and trail information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Wildlife & Birding! Wallowa County is rich in wildlife diversity. The Zumwalt Prairie, northeast of Enterprise, is one of Oregon’s premier sites for observing Birds of Prey. It is common to spot it all – hawks, falcons, owls, golden and bald eagles, in one early, spring morning tour. Wildlife is abundant! Herds of elk are frequently viewed from the roadside. Mountain Goats can be spotted in the higher elevations of the alpine Eagle Cap Wilderness. You may even spot a moose or two. As you look for wildlife, don’t forget to visit the rugged canyon country of the Hells Canyon Recreation Area. This region provides remote, rich habitats for – black bear, cougar, elk, mule deer, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Fly Fishing at its Best! The Snake River is listed as the 47th “Best Place” to fish in the world reported by Field and Stream and the BEST place in the world to catch a steelhead on a fly. Wow, we have it happening for fly fishing. Come here to hook that huge Steelhead or exceptional wild-tasting Trout. Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Photography! Wallowa County is a photographer’s heaven. From towering mountain peaks and alpine meadows to rimrock country and river canyons, there is a vista waiting to be captured by your camera. A careful eye will capture an abundance of wildlife with beautiful landscapes and it will lend itself to impressive photos. Be sure to bring your camera! For information contact the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce, 800.585.4121.
• Natural History Tours! Sit back and relax while your knowledgeable guide takes you on a variety of tours. The Wallowa Mountain Institute (WMI) specializes in eco-tourism and rural education. Hells Canyon; Buckhorn Overlook that looks into the Imnaha River drainage; history tours of Wallowa County; wildlife and geology – are just a few of the custom-designed tours available. For information contact the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce, 800.585.4121.
• Rafting, Kayaking, River Boats & Guides! If you want excitement, you can raft the best of Hells Canyon’s rapids including the famed “Wild Sheep” and “Granite Creek” rapids. On jet boat tours you will enjoy spectacular scenery, wildlife, and Indian pictographs. Maybe it is time for a guide to take you fishing at some of our premier sites. These tours are not limited to the Snake River! There are many wild & scenic rivers in Wallowa County and guides to show you an exceptional experience you will never forget. For information contact the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce, 800.585.4121 or Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Outfitters for the Backcountry! Rent a horse, spend an hour and ride up 1,000 feet to a spectacular view of Wallowa Lake or a whole day exploring the high lakes area of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Better yet, book a custom-designed guided trip with experienced outfitters. Eagle Cap Wilderness is Oregon’s largest wilderness and Hells Canyon Recreation Area is maybe Oregon’s most rugged country. Guides are available to pack your gear into your desired locations. There are several guides eager to assist you with hunting expeditions. For information contact Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce, 800.585.4121 or Maps and information: contact FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Winter in the Wallowas! All of Wallowa County is a winter recreation sanctuary for the individual wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a true getaway. You will find that excellent backcountry skiing and snow shoeing opportunities abound in this remote region. The Wallowa Mountains are reputed for deep, dry, powder snow. Backcountry skiers of any skill level may find an experience to suit their desire; from gentle touring to more advanced telemarking. It’s often extreme and breathtaking. For information on guides contact Wing Ridge Ski Tours, 800.646.9050.
• Salt Creek Summit Sno-Park! This park is located 20 miles southeast of Joseph, Oregon on FS Road 39. The Sno-Park provides 175 miles of designated snowmobile trails and over 20 miles of designated cross-country ski trails. This area offers open forest suitable for sledding, snowboarding, snow-shoeing, and other winter recreation activities. Seven loops of cross-country ski trails are rated from "Easy" to "Most Difficult" in the sno-park. Winter enthusiasts will be surprised to find a brand, new Salt Creek Summit Multi-Purpose Building that serves as a warming room during those cold winter days. Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.
• Ferguson Ridge! (Down Hill Skiing) This local ski hill has a rope tow and T-bar serving 640 feet of vertical terrain. It is a perfect to learn to ski, snowboard or work on new techniques. The runs have a great view of the surrounding mountains and valley. There is no running water at Fergi so bring your own water and food. Maps and information: contact the FS Wallowa Mountains Visitors Center, 541.426.5546.

Recreation Members: