Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
of the high country, including the only remaining glacier (Alpine Glacier) and eastern
Oregon's highest peak (the 9838ft Sacajawea), is part of the Eagle Cap Wilderness, a
715-sq-mile natural area studded with alpine meadows and lakes.
Trails, campgrounds and fishing holes are popular during the high season. In particu-
lar, the lovely state park at Wallowa Lake takes on a carnival atmosphere on summer
weekends. Some secondary roads over the Wallowa Mountains are closed between
November and May, so check ahead.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Wallowa Lake
Located 6 miles from Joseph, Wallowa Lake was formed when glaciers plowed down out
of the Wallowas, pushing huge piles of displaced rock. These rock moraines eventually
stopped the progress of the glacier, which melted, creating a lake basin. Today the lake is
surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the 9617ft Chief Joseph Mountain. Speaking of
Chief Joseph, his gravesite is near the north shore of Wallowa Lake, less than a mile
south of Joseph and right on the highway.
Sights & Activities
Wallowa Lake State Park PARK
( 541-432-4185; www.oregonstateparks.org ; 72214 Marina Lane) Pretty Wallowa Lake State
Park is the center of activities at the lake's south end. A swimming beach and a boat
launch bustle madly in summer, and you can rent a variety of boats at the marina here,
along with fishing gear. The best hiking is from the end of Wallowa Lake Rd.
Wallowa Lake Tramway TRAM RIDE
( 541-432-5331; www.wallowalaketramway.com ; 59919 Wallowa Lake Hwy; adult/child 13-17yr/
child 4-12yr $26/21/17; 10am-5pm late May-Sep) The Wallowa Lake Tramway leaves from
Wallowa Lake and climbs 3700ft to the top of 8150ft Mt Howard. The 15-minute ride is
thrilling enough, but the real rewards are the easy alpine hikes around Mt Howard's sum-
mit, with views onto Hells Canyon, the Wallowas and Idaho's Seven Devils. A restaurant
serves food at the summit.
Sleeping & Eating
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search