Tag: Wallowa Lake

The Wallowa Mountains & Wallowa Lake

by kennethnewhouse, posted in Travel

wallowa-2I first learned about the Wallowa Mountains and Wallowa Lake from the Travel Oregon website. The Wallowa Moutains are one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, which are a must-see for any traveler.

The Wallowa Mountains and Wallowa Lake are located in Wallowa County & Union County, Oregon. This area was home to the Lower Nez Perce & Chief Joseph.  Joseph, Oregon, is the closest city to Wallowa Lake which stretches over 2.3 square miles.

Wallowa Lake offers some of the best fishing in Eastern Oregon. There are a few different species you can fish for which include Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout (Mackinaw) and Kokanee. The Mackinaw in the lake can reach up to 38 pounds!

wallowa-3“This rugged and beautiful landscape in the northeastern corner of the state offers some of the wildest country left in the Lower 48. The Eagle Cap Wilderness is Oregon’s largest, and within it, the Wallowa Mountains contain 18 peaks over 9,000 feet tall and 31 peaks over 8,000 feet. These mountains have been called ‘The Little Switzerland of America’ by many.” – Joe Whittle
wallowa-1Wallowa Lake is centrally located between Portland, Spokane and Boise. It’s located five and a half hours east of Portland, four hours south of Spokane and just four hours northwest of Boise, ID.  If you’re looking for a great vacation destination located in between these three major cities, you’re in luck with Wallowa Lake!

One of the most popular destinations in the Wallowa Lake region is Mount Howard. The Wallowa Lake Tramway offers rides up to the top of Mount Howard where you can hang glide, hike, and have a bite to eat! The top of Mount Howard offers incredible views of Wallowa Lake, Joseph, Oregon, and the surrounding Wallowa Mountains. Do you love animals? The critters at the top of Mount Howard are always looking for a snack and will eat right out of your hand!

I fell in love with Eastern Oregon and the Wallowa Lake region.  It is a hot spot for craft brews, good eats, and views that will blow your mind.  Make sure you explore this region if you take a vacation to Eastern Oregon!