Cover photo by Jennifer Piper Courtesy of Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce
Wallowa County in the northeast corner of Oregon is a wonderland of wild and rugged landscapes with hundreds of miles of trails. Expansive prairie, canyon and ranchland views can be traversed by some of the most scenic back road drives in the Northwest. As if all of that wasn’t enough to make the gorgeous four-hour drive from Spokane, the authentic mountain towns of Joseph and Enterprise serve as hubs of culture and amenities that will make a visit here one you won’t soon forget.
Tour Historic Barns by Bike
Northeast Oregon is a road- and gravel-riders’ dream, with miles of winding, lightly-trafficked roads spinning off in all directions from Joseph and Enterprise for cyclists to explore. The Wallowa Barn Tour is a unique ride that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure and history. The route passes by 10 of Wallowa County’s historic barns with stunning mountain and prairie scenery as the backdrop. You can also drive the tour in your vehicle.
Gape Into the Deepest Gorge in North America
One of the best ways to take in the vast wonder that is Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, is from one of several remote backroad-accessed viewpoints. The awe-inspiring canyon and Snake River that flow through it are flanked by some of the most rugged peaks in the Northwest, the Seven Devils Mountains of Idaho and the Wallowa Mountains of Oregon. Navigate your way to the Buckhorn Tower Viewpoint south of Imnaha, or the Hat Point or Hells Canyon overlooks east of Joseph to experience the wild grandeur of this spectacular canyon country for yourself.
Hike the Eagle Cap Wilderness
Fall means fewer visitors and better hiking weather in the Wallowa Mountains and Eagle Cap Wilderness. A variety of nearby day hikes and multi-day backpacking trip options afford hikers the opportunity to traverse pristine sub-alpine valleys, visit sparkling alpine lakes and scale granite peaks many of which are over 9,000 feet high.
Road Trip Worthy Fall Events in Wallowa County
- Hells Canyon Mule Days (Sept. 6-8)
This annual event honors the mules and mule skinner heritage of the Wallowa and Hells Canyon country. In addition to the chance to view these long-eared equine from all over the West up close, the event includes artisans and exhibitors, cowboy poetry, a non-motorized parade, pit BBQ dinner, Saturday night concert, and a Dutch oven cook-off.
A day of craft beer from PNW breweries, live music, and local artists and vendors at the renowned Terminal Gravity Brewery in Enterprise.
A fine art show and En Plein Air Opening Reception kick off this weekend of arts in the Wallowas. Other events include a quick draw, live music, art exhibits, and a silent auction where you can bid on art.
This annual Swiss-Bavarian festival featuring several days of events includes live music, dancing, brats, local Terminal Gravity beer, games, yodeling and more.
Find event details and more outdoor adventure inspiration at Wallowacountychamber.com.
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