Outdoors
K i l
Photo by Michelle Bloker
PARKS Destination Northeast Oregon
■■ Wallowa Lake www.wallowalake.net
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Wallowa Lake is about 70 miles from La Grande on Highway 82, near Joseph. It was shaped by glaciers that covered this region several times. At six miles in length, the lake is a playground to waterskiers, jet skiers, paddleboaters and anglers. On-shore are go-carts and miniature golf, as well as a tramway that takes visitors to the summit of 8,300-foot Mount Howard. Two miles of hiking trails at the top provide incredible views. Amenities: lodging, RV park, restaurants, convience groceries, boat launch, state park and campground. No gas. Many services are open seasonally.
■■ Hilgard Junction State Park
Camp and picnic among the giant cottonwoods along the banks of the Grande Ronde River, at a site where pioneers forded the river. Historic information kiosk. Located eight miles west of La Grande, Exit 252 off I-84.
■■ Minam State Park
Features 12 primitive campsites on the banks of the Wallowa River. Camp, fish, raft and enjoy the scenery. Located two miles north of Highway 82 at Minam, midway between Elgin and Wallowa.
Oregon State Parks www.oregonstateparks.org Some state parks charge a day-use fee of $5. Or, you can purchase a 12-month pass ($30) or a 24-month pass ($50) at most major state park offices, over the phone by calling 800-551-6949, or from vendors all over the state. The pass is transferable among vehicles. ■■ Red Bridge State Park www.oregonstateparks.com
This scenic park sits in the pine trees along the Upper Grande Ronde River. Popular for fishing and picnicking, it has a few campsites as well. Take Exit 252 off I-84, then go eight miles on Highway 244.
■■ Emigrant Springs State Park www.oregonstateparks.com
Near the summit of the Blue Mountains, Emigrant Springs is between La Grande and Pendleton, at Exit 234 off I-84. The park offers campsites in the midst of giant evergreens. Cabins, teepees, covered wagons, RV and horse camp sites are also available. There are interpretive kiosks, living history presentations and restroom facilities complete with showers.