The Museum of Wallowa County

Open 10-4 every day except Tuesday

Complete information available on the Nez Perce National Historic Trail Don’t miss the 100+ year old sheepherder wagon! Books, videos and cards available for sale.

8. Visit Tamkaliks and shop the garage sale

Take in more Native American culture and history at the annual Tamkaliks gathering, (almost) always held the third weekend in July. This free event is three days of song and dance, culminating in a walasit service and a Friendship feast. It’s an opportunity to learn about and meet members of the Joseph Band of Nez Perce. The event coincides with a communitywide garage sale in Wallowa. For more information about Tamkaliks, go to the website wallowanezperce.org/tamkaliks.

9. Try a huckleberry milkshake

Little Bear Drive-In is big on taste, especially with its burgers and shakes. Huckleberries are a summertime favorite and make exceptional milkshakes. Little Bear, which has been family owned and operated for decades, also builds tasty burgers made with homegrown beef at the nearby Baremore Ranch, and is known for the King Burger, a three-patty creation that will assuredly fill you up. It’s at 102 S. Madison St. in Wallowa. The phone number is 541-886-3161.

10. Winter ice skating

If you’re visiting Wallowa County in the winter, check out the Wallowa Valley Community Ice Rink at Enterprise City Park on Depot Street. The outdoor rink is free and open for adult hockey, and just about everyone who likes to have fun. Weather permitting, the rink is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, except for adult hockey on Monday and Wednesday nights from 7 to 9 and Saturday mornings from 9 to 11.

11. Hike to Maxwell Lake

The Maxwell Lake hike provides a climb into the mountain air right in the middle of the Wallowas. The trailhead is close to 18 miles south of Lostine on Upper Lostine Road. Be ready for a two-part adventure on this trek. The first three miles of this four-mile hike are a cakewalk compared to the last mile, which may at times feel more like a climb than a hike as you reach the lake’s elevation of 7,749 feet. Be sure to be careful on the return down! But the lake itself offers a great scenic view and good fishing if you bring your rod, reel and license.

12. Drop-camp at the Lakes Basin

Want to camp in the Wallowas, but don’t want to put in the effort of hauling your camping gear in and out? Make some arrangements to have it packed in for you. Both Del Sol Wilderness Adventures and Wallowa Mountain Outfitters are local packers who will haul your gear into camp and can give you a horse ride to and from your destination with a little planning. This service is provided at the Two Pan Trailhead, which is at the very end of the Upper Lostine Road. The main trail takes you just over seven miles into the Lakes Basin. Contact Del Sol at 541-398-2088 or delsolwildernessadventures.com or Wallowa Mountain Outfitters at 503-750-2913 or wallowamountainoutfitters.com

13. Visit the Blue Banana

Take your picture in the blue banana outside The Blue Banana coffee shop, and when you order your beverage of choice, savor every drop while sitting inside the back end of the Volkswagen Beetle that “crashed” into the side of the building. You’ll find the Blue Banana at 143 Highway 82 in Lostine. The phone number is 541-569-2400.

Enterprise

14. Explore Sunrise Iron

Erl McLaughlin has spent almost four decades accumulating farming antiques, and they are all on display at Sunrise Iron, 65708 Sunrise Road just south of Enterprise. His display room has a range of tractors, plows, cultivators and more, and the collection includes steam-powered machinery, with some of the equipment dating back almost two centuries to the 1830s. He recently added a 9-feet-by-70-feet addition to the display room, which now measures 40-by-300. An artist, McLaughlin also has several pieces designed from old wheels and other farming implements. If you’re in the county on Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, you can check out the museum because it’s open to the public on that day. If you can’t make it on Aug. 5, don’t despair: Call 541-263-0755 to set up an appointment.

15. Cycle through the county

For the best information on where to cycle in the county, visit the Chamber of Commerce at 309 S. River St. to pick up a map of bike routes in and beyond Wallowa County. Want to hit the trails, but didn’t bring (or don’t have) a bike? Visit Outlaw Motorsports, 504 NW First St., or call 541-426-3491. The shop is not only a prime location for a new set of spokes, but also a good place to get a repair job done. For additional information, check out the Wallowa Mountains Bicycle Club at its Facebook page or growing website (wallowamountainsbicycleclub.com).

16. Bronze foundry tour

While there is plenty of bronze to be found in Joseph (we’ll get to that in the Joseph section of “82 Things”), Enterprise is no slouch when it comes to the metal. Parks Bronze and TW Bronze, both on Golf Course Road in Enterprise, are highly respected bronze foundries. Parks Bronze Foundry is a full-service bronze casting and molding foundry. Tours are available. Call 541-426-4595. TW Bronze Foundry is another full-service foundry with personalized tours of the gallery and foundry. Call 541-398-0380.

17. Fish at Marr Pond

This waterhole on the southwest edge of Enterprise is a great location to cast a line for stocked trout. For those who don’t want to fish but still want to take a walk without wandering into the Wallowas, the area also has plenty of trails. Marr Pond, once the site of a log pond and mill, now is an easy-toaccess ecological refuge that is also a great place to introduce people to fishing. To get there, drive south on Depot Street in Enterprise. Turn west onto West Alamo Street and stay on the road until it turns into Marr Pond Lane. At the end of the lane, hop out of your car and take the short walk straight ahead to the pond.

18. Make your own glass sculptures and cups (at Moonshine)

Glassblowing is a lost art in many places, but not in Wallowa County. Moonshine Glass Art in Enterprise not only has a variety of gorgeous glass art and more traditional pieces but offers classes and other opportunities to let you make your own artisan glassware. Call 541-398-2090, or stop by 624 S. River St. The website is www.moonshineglassart.com

19.

Go antiquing

Enterprise has an antique store with everything a person could imagine — Favorite Finds on Main, located at 300 W. Main St. Sondra Lozier has an impressive collection of items she has been curating for decades, and will help you dig in, explore and find what your heart desires.

Other options include Second Hand Antiques / Antique Store at 126 Highway 82 in Lostine and the Soroptimist Thrift Shop at 105 NE First St. in Enterprise. The thrift shop also offers a range of books, and proceeds go back into the community.

20. Visit the Bookloft

Books. Coffee. Snacks. Chocolate. Everything a book lover could want is at the Bookloft at 107 N. Main St. in Enterprise. It’s the ideal bookstore, with books about the history of the county, natural history, foods, and fiction and nonfiction pieces that will satisfy any reader. The Bookloft also features a selection of used books. The Bookloft also features the Skylight Gallery, the oldest existing gallery in the county. The gallery features selections from local photographers, potters, glass blowers, fiber artists, jewelers, and others. Customer favorites include David Jensen’s photographs, jewelry from Annie’s Southfork Silverworks, and pottery by Olaf. 541-4263351, or bookloftoregon.net.

21. Golf

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A quaint nine-hole course just northwest of Enterprise, Alpine Meadows Golf Course has a pristine look and is a great escape for anyone wanting to get in a round. Take in the view of the Wallowas while you attempt to dodge sand traps and stay out of the water. Open from mid-April to mid-October. 66098 Golf Course Road. 541-426-3246, golfalpinemeadows.com.

22. Visit a Carnegie public library

Enterprise is home to one of the relics of the early 1900s, the Carnegie Library. The Enterprise Public Library has been restored in detail and is listed on the Register of National Historic Places. 101 NE First St., 541-426-3906.

23. Visit 6 Ranch farm stand

It doesn’t get more local and fresh than Liza Jane’s 6 Ranch Farm Stand. The stands contain garden-fresh produce, grass-fed meats, fresh dairy, honey, eggs and much more. It all originates from the 6 Ranch, which has been in the county for almost 140 years and has been in the family that entire time. The family has done a lot of restoration work on the Wallowa River where it runs through the farm, focuses on producing healthy food, and on preserving Western culture and traditions. The stands are located at 87161 Highway 82, about two miles west of Enterprise, and 64110 Imnaha Highway in Joseph. For more information, go to the website 6ranch.com/local#farmstands

24. Check out (or get) an animal

Adopt (or just pet) a kitty and shop to support the Wallowa County Humane Society. The society’s ReTail Boutique, 119 E. Main St. in Enterprise, across from the Wallowa County Courthouse, includes an enclosure where you can meet cats and kittens available for adoptions, as well as high-end preowned clothing and many other items. Stop by and give the kitties some attention, and support the Humane Society, too.

25. Try acupuncture

Triple H Clinic (Holistic Health & Healing Clinic) and Eagle Cap Wellness, both in Enterprise, offer acupuncture therapy to help you relax. Triple H, located at 507 S. River St., is part of the Winding Waters Medical Clinic. Eagle Cap is located at 616 W. North St.

26. Make prints from digital photos

So you captured a dazzling photo and don’t want to wait till you get home to make it a print? Swing by Central Copy at 110 S. River St. They can print photos from your cellphone or digital camera in a snap or can turn those photos into large-form prints. You can also get documents printed there. 541-426-2679.

27. Visit a quilt shop

Quilters won’t leave Wallowa County disappointed. Prairie Creek Quilts carries a large selection of fabric and patterns. The “notion wall” carries sewing and quilting supplies and accessories you may have left at home or need to add to your collection. You can sign up for a class. The address is 112 S. River St. in Enterprise, across from the Wallowa County Courthouse, 541-426-3900.

28. Get a haircut

If the adventure has you looking for a break, and you want to update your hairdo, check out one of the several salons, stylists or barber shops in the county. In Enterprise, check out Zel’s Beauty Bar, 541-426-9357, 108 W. Main St. If you are further down the road in Joseph, Serenity Salon on Main Street in Joseph, 541-4321010, 102 ½ E. Joseph Ave.

29. Try an elk burger. Buffalo, perhaps? Beef?

You can only hunt elk in the fall but can bite into a scrumptious elk burger anytime in Wallowa County. Not into elk? How about buffalo? No? Want just a good burger? You’ll find what you’re looking for at Heavenly’s Restaurant in downtown Enterprise, at 500 W. North St. Buffalo and grass-fed burgers are also on the menu at Terminal Gravity Pub, 803 SE School St. in Enterprise.

30. Try a guided fishing tour

This is a great opportunity for new and advanced anglers alike. Veteran anglers can seek out a guide to help them find the best watering holes for hauling in fish. The newbies can learn the basics from a local pro. Local fishing guides include 6 Ranch Outfitters’ James Nash (406-925-2108) and the Minam Store (541-437-1111, minamstore.com).

31. See the Wallowas by air

The Wallowa Tramway (which shows up later in this list) offers perhaps the most well-known, up-close look at the Wallowas, but pilot Joe Spence can provide an unparalleled view from above with his flights over the Wallowa Mountains or over Hells Canyon. Want to camp in a highly remote, beautiful location? Spence can fly you in and back out. Contact Spence Air Service at 541-426-3288.

Joseph

32. Tour the bronze statues

Scattered throughout downtown Joseph are 18 iconic bronze statues representing the culture of Wallowa County. From Chief Joseph and other members of the Nez Perce Tribe to bucking bronc riders to animals (cougars and eagles among them) to women of the West, there is plenty to take in on a stroll through town.

33. Tour bronze foundry, Valley Bronze

After you’ve seen all the statues, Valley Bronze of Oregon invites you to tour its production facility and see how an artist’s masterpiece is cast into metal. Tours are available once a day, Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. at 307 Alder St. in Joseph. Cost of the tour is $15 per person, with children 10 and under free. Please reserve a spot ahead by calling 541-432-7445.

34. Shop Joseph stores

Many people make their way to the end of the road in Joseph for one thing: shopping. For fun shopping, stores include: The Hobbled Pony, 203 N. Main. St., Unit 4 (leather arts, tack, chaps, beadwork and glass art); B Bright Vintage (104 S. Main St.); Simply Sandy’s (305 N. Main St.); Copper Creek Mercantile (15 S. Main St.); and Mad Mary’s (5 S. Main St.).

35. Shop farmers markets

Downtown Joseph comes alive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday for the farmers market. Farm-fresh food, crafts, meats, recipes and more are available for purchase. In addition, the market features handcrafted items, artisan ware, and music. The market is open from Memorial Day weekend to October.

36. Visit Josephy Center exhibits

The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, 403 N. Main St., is the art center of Wallowa County. Named for World War II combat journalist Alvin Josephy, the center showcases regional artists and offers art classes for youth, adults and families. The center has a variety of displays and thematic art shows throughout the year. The museum features the work of local artists and artisans, and a large selection of books. Want to learn more about the Nez Perce Tribe? Wander upstairs to find a display about Chief Joseph’s band — Wal’ma nimiipuu — as well as the Josephy Library and a lending library about the tribe, its culture and its history. The website is josephy.org.

37. Take a Josephy Center class

If you feel inspired after seeing the art, photos and more on display in the Josephy Center, sign up for a class! The center offers classes on painting, drawing and photography. You can also learn printmaking, attempt to make a wood sculpture, or try out nightsky photography. For more details, visit josephy.org.

38. Explore the Wallowa County Museum

On the other end of Main Street in Joseph is the Wallowa County Museum (110 S. Main St.), which is rife with history on nature, the West, cowboy lore, and exhibits featuring the history of the Nez Perce and pioneers in the county. There is even animal history on site. The museum is open from the last weekend in May (Memorial Day weekend) through the end of September. The museum is closed during the winter, but visits can be arranged by emailing the curator at wallowacountymuseum@gmail.com. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (65 and older) and $2 for students. Children 6 and under are free. 541-432-6095.

39. Visit Wallowology

It’s hard to say, but fun to explore. First off, it’s “wal-ow-OL-ogy.” It’s a natural history center for all ages featuring exhibits about animals, land, critters and more. Exhibits include information on salmon, lamprey, sturgeon, forests, geology and pollinators. There is also an activity room for children of all ages featuring microscopes, fossils, rocks, plants, bugs and more fun activities and things to see. Check out the center’s store, which has backpacks, maps, books and nature-related items. www.wallowology.org. The address is 508 N. Main St. in Joseph.

40. Go for a Discovery Walk

One of the features Wallowology provides is a free Discovery Walk led by a local nature expert. Where the walk leads and how long it takes depends on the participants — what they want to see, and how much energy they have. The walks are best for families and children, and they tend to last about an hour. Explore Wallowa Lake State Park, the moraine, forests, rivers, go birding, or visit other places and subjects of interest. Visit the website, wallowology.org, for more details, including dates and times.

41. Tour art galleries

The Josephy Center is not the only center for art in Joseph. In fact, the town includes several art galleries, most of which feature work from well-known local and regional artists. The galleries include Valley Bronze, the Phinney Gallery, Stewart Jones, Missy’s Uptown Art, the Element Art Gallery, Aspen Grove Gallery and others. Valley Bronze features bronze (and other) sculptures, paintings and photographs. Phinney’s display includes ceramic art, sculptures, and paintings, and much of the work was created by owner Malcolm Phinney. Aspen Grove’s walls are lined with oil paintings, watercolor paintings, sculptures and more. The art is primarily by owners Mark Kortnik and Carol McLaughlin, though work by other artists is on display.

42. Visit Stein Distillery

Want to imbibe a little bit as you explore town? And want to try something locally grown? Check out Stein Distillery on Main Street. For more than a decade, this family-run business distills grain grown only in Wallowa County. Tasting of distilled spirits is available in the visitors’ room, and the highlights include a bourbon whiskey (the first in Oregon), authentic rye whiskey, and a moonshine — distilled from 75% corn and 25% barley — called SteinShine. Tours are available with advance notice. Tours are available with advance notice. 541-432-2009.

43. Pedal the rails in Joseph

There are several trips out of the Joseph railriders location, including two nighttime opportunities to the “middle of nowhere.” Limited 60 or 90 minute nighttime trips are available.

Two other trips — one of about an hour and one of about two hours — are also available. These trips offer views of the pristine Wallowa Mountains, wildlife, and much more. A guide will accompany you on the trip. A bonus of riding out of Joseph is that the railriders have electric assist, and there are four-person cars available. These trips are available between May 1 and Oct. 10. Visit jbrailriders.org or call 541-786-6149.

44. Get fishing gear and tips

Want to hit the river or lake to cast a reel, but forgot something important? Or need some tips on how to get the best haul possible?

Visit the Joseph Fly Shoppe on Main Street. The Fly Shoppe not only has all your gear needs but abounds with conversation and tips for your next time out. Visit the website, josephflyshoppe. com or call 541-432-4343.

Just to the north on Main Street is The Sports Corral, which also has a wide array of fishing gear, sporting gear, Western gear and clothing. It’s also the place to go for firearms and ammunition. Call 541-432-4363 or visit sportscorral.com. #44

45. Go to Arrowhead Chocolates

If you are a chocolate fan, Arrowhead Chocolates is a must-stop location. The store has an array of handcrafted chocolates and has twice won the national Good Foods Award for its huckleberry and espresso truffles. Arrowhead carries milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and flavors you wouldn’t think of, like a habanerolime caramel truffle with lime fresca sea salt. It’s also a great place for a cup of coffee on the way to explore the town. Its Main Street location has a laid-back feel. For more information, visit arrowheadchocolates.com.

At the lake

46. Keep an eye out for Wally

Wally is the region’s version of the Loch Ness Monster, nestled somewhere in the depths of Wallowa Lake. Tales of sightings of the mythical creature date back more than 130 years — with a story in one of the earliest editions of the Chieftain detailing an encounter. According to legend, the Nez Perce Tribe avoided venturing out on the lake after it caused the death of their chief’s daughter. There have been strange viewings reported off and on in the years since. Is he out there? And can you find him?

47. Paddle Wallowa Lake in a clear kayak

JO Paddle offers a unique opportunity to kayak on Wallowa Lake while seeing everything above, around, and even below you while riding in clear-bottomed hybrid kayaks (partly canoe, partly kayak). Stand-up paddle boards also are available. These can be rented ready to launch at either the north or south end of the lake. These transparent watercrafts, made of polycarbonate, give you the chance to not only take in the scenic Wallowa Mountains directly around the lake, but to peer through the kayak into the depths below. Glacier Clear guided night tours are available, as are Glacier Clear Morning Nature Tours. Reservations can be made five days a week, Thursday through Monday. Visit jopaddle. com for more details. The phone number is 541-886-0086.

48. Take a gondola trip to the mountaintops

For more than half a century, the Wallowa Lake Tramway has been offering an easy way to feel like you are on top of the world — or, at least, near the top of the Wallowa Mountains — without the strain of hiking there. The tramway provides a quick trip to the top of Mount Howard in a gondola. Hop in at the south end of Wallowa Lake, and in a matter of minutes you’ll be transported 3,700 feet to the summit of Mount Howard, taking in the breathtaking views of the lake below and the mountains surrounding you. The Summit Grill — at an elevation of roughly 8,150 feet — numerous hiking trails and the crisp, thin air of the mountains await once you reach the top of the peak. Couples have even exchanged their vows at the top of Mount Howard. The season runs from May through September. Visit wallowalaketramway.com for more details or for tickets.

49. Paraglide

If you ride the gondola up Mount Howard in the latter half of the summer, you have a second, faster, and more thrilling way down. Todd Weigand offers tandem paragliding trips from the top of Mount Howard over Wallowa Lake and down to the valley floor. Weigand has been giving paragliders this shot at a trip through rarefied air for about 25 years. These trips usually are available in August and September. Visit wallowaparagliding.com to learn more or to book a trip.

50. Horseback rides

Want a different way — other than by foot or by air — to explore the Wallowa Mountains? How about on horseback? Or want the use of a pack mule to do the heavy lifting while you take in the scenery?

The Wallowa Lake Pack Station offers rides for all ages and skill levels, including rides around the property, mountain trail rides and half-day and all-day rides to Aneroid Lake. The company also offers gear drops and deluxe camping adventures. For more information, including prices and locations, visit https://www. wallowalakepackstation.com. The phone number is 541-975-3115.

51. Visit shops at Wallowa Lake Village

Coffee, gifts, souvenirs, snacks, ice cream and even dinner are available throughout the village, and all the shops are within walking distance of the campground and vacation locations.

52. Rent a kayak, paddle boat, or paddle board

If you can’t resist getting out on the water, paddle boards, kayaks and paddle boats can be rented at the Wallowa Lake Marina to get you on the crystal-blue accents of Wallowa Lake. For reservations or for more information, call the marina office at 541-432-9115 or visit wallowalakemarina.com.

53. Photograph the lake and its surroundings

Whether you’re a professional looking for that next awardwinning photo, or an amateur looking for that next profile picture, Wallowa Lake — and really, most locations throughout the county — provide views of the region’s breathtaking beauty that should be appealing to any photographer’s eye. The north end of the lake is among the best spots, with the lake and the peaks of the Wallowa Mountains in the background as your canvas.

54. Play disc golf at Wallowa Lake State Park

A nine-hole disc golf course was installed in 2019 at Wallowa Lake State Park at the south end of the lake between the campground and the Wallowa River. It’s a short course — the longest hole is 280 feet and the entire course is just 2,000 feet, according to pdga.com. You can bring your own discs or get some provided by the park.

55. Hike Iwetemlaykin

The “Place by the Lake” or “at the edge of the lake,” as the Nez Perce word translates to, is a state heritage site that, according to the Oregon State Parks website, was part of the Nez Perce Tribe’s homeland and is a sacred place for the Nez Perce and other area tribes. During the summer and fall they harvested sockeye salmon as they made their annual return to the lake. The trails lead to and beyond nearby ponds, and, if you are careful, quiet and fortunate, could provide an opportunity to spot wildlife.

56. Mini-golf

The Wallowa Lake Village offers a great opportunity for you to work on your short game — or fool around with your friends and family. Three Astroturf courses — Eagle Cap Chalet, Joe’s Place, and the Alpine House — each offer their own fun challenges.

57. Fish

World-record kokanee and mackinaws have been harvested at Wallowa Lake. In fact, the Wallowa County resident who holds the record for the largest mackinaw — a 36.5-pound behemoth — hooked multiple 30-plus pounders recently. Fishing is a way of life in Wallowa County, and while a lot of the attention focuses on the lake, that’s just one of countless water sources in the county where individuals can cast a line. Fishing gear and boats are available for rent at the Wallowa Lake Marina on the south end of the lake, as are fishing licenses for purchase. If you don’t have the needed tackle and gear — or your fishing license — make a stop there before you head out on the water.

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#59

58. Go-karts

Rev it up at the go-kart track in the Wallowa Lake Village. Race against your friends, family, or even against strangers.

59. Swim in Wallowa Lake

During the heat of the summer, Wallowa Lake has safe places to take a brisk swim and cool off. On the north end, visit the Wallowa Lake Park outside Joseph, and on the south end, go to Wallowa Lake State Park. A word to the wise: The lake is fed by mountain water, and even in the summer it is colder than your typical swim.

60. Visit Old Chief Joseph’s grave

Old Joseph (Tiwi-teqis) was the father of the famed Chief Joseph of Nez Perce War repute. He died in January 1871 — six years before his son led the Nez Perce people in their fight against the U.S. Army forces — and is buried along the northwest side of the lake at Nez Perce National Historic Park. His bones were exhumed in August 1926 and a month later were reburied at their current location. (A story in this edition of the Visitors Guide tells the whole distressing tale.) An interpretive sign tells more about the man who led the Wallowa Nez Perce before you take the short trail to where he is interred.

61. Attend “Shake the Lake”

If you are in Wallowa County on Independence Day, the “Shake the Lake” firework show is a must. The entire county turns out for this annual fireworks extravaganza and party, so get to Wallowa Lake early, find a good spot to park and enjoy the festivities. The fireworks, which start at dark, are set off from a barge located at the north end of the lake. The dazzling show not only lights up the night sky, but also booms off the surrounding Wallowa Mountains. It’s not yet known if the event will feature live music.

Flora/Troy

62. Joseph Canyon Overlook

The county gives access to Hells Canyon, Imnaha Canyon, and a third less well-known, but also stunning, gorge — Joseph Canyon. This canyon overlooks Joseph Creek, is part of the Nez Perce homeland, and is home to the cave where Chief Joseph was born. The canyon itself is about 4,500 feet deep, and the overlook offers information about the canyon and the Nez Perce. The U.S. Forest Service viewpoint is about 30 miles north of Enterprise on Highway 3.

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63. Visit Troy

Troy is well off the beaten path, as the county’s northernmost town is roughly an hour away from Enterprise, less than seven miles from the Washington border. But the town sits right at the confluence of the Grande Ronde and Wenaha rivers, and has a tavern, restaurant, hotel and a vacation rental. The Troy Trailhead to the west of town provides access to several somewhat lengthy routes in the Umatilla National Forest, and Grizzly Flats Campground is just west of the town. To find Troy, head north on Highway 3 out of Enterprise past the Joseph Canyon Overlook. Take a left on Flora Lane, follow it until you pass through Flora, then take another left and continue to follow the road to Redmond Grade Lane. This windy road eventually takes you across the Grande Ronde River. You can either cross the river and then hang a left into Troy, or follow the Redmond Grade to Country Road, then hang a right and make your way to the town.

64. Check out the Flora School

This school has been closed since 1960 after an early 20th-century boom in the tiny town dwindled. The massive school building, which opened in 1915, is on the National Register of Historic Places, has been partially restored, and is the centerpiece of June’s Flora School Days. This event is a fundraiser for school restoration and an opportunity to teach visitors about the pioneer lifestyle. The 2023 edition of Flora Days is planned for Saturday, June 17. Blacksmithing, wool dyeing, dutch-oven cooking, and spinning, weaving and sewing all are demonstrated during Flora School Days. Other events are scheduled in June. For more details, visit https:// floraschool.org.

More in-county adventures

65. Take in a concert or musical performance

It seems just about every week during the summer features music in the air. The Courthouse Concert series in Enterprise in July and August has performances every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. Attend an all-day music events such as the Joseph Mountain Jubilee in July. Or take in Oregon’s Alpenfest in late September.

66. Hike the Hurricane Creek Trail

Here is an opportunity for an easily accessible hike that also happens to be an exceptional one. Where Hurricane Creek Road out of Enterprise (USFS Road 8205) ends — about 7.5 miles out of town — the trail begins. A short three-mile hike takes you to Slick Rock and a waterfall rolling over the cliff. The jaunt also gives a great view of Hurricane Divide and Sacajawea Peak, which at 9,843 feet is the highest point in the Wallowa Mountains. You can either call it there and return to the trailhead for a good six-mile adventure, or venture further in. The full distance of the trail, 12 miles, eventually takes you to the Lakes Basin trails. U.S. Forest Service data shows the total hike in from the trailhead to the Lakes Basin has an elevation gain of close to 2,600 feet.

This single trail offers plenty of other opportunities, including fishing, other trails to hike, wildlife viewing, camping and more. Don’t forget your Forest Service or federal pass for trailhead parking and remember to fill out a wilderness permit at the trailhead.

67. Explore Oregon’s highest lake

Crater Lake in the Cascade Mountain Range is known for its depth, but Legore Lake offers a much different trait — it’s the highest lake in Oregon at 8,950 feet. This hike is a steep challenge — both literally and figuratively — with 4,000 feet of elevation increase in the four miles. To start this hike, turn off Hurricane Creek Trail a quarter-mile from the trailhead onto Falls Creek Trail (1807A). The rugged trail takes you past the old, defunct Legore Mine, and could lead to an encounter with mountain goats or bighorn sheep. You’ll definitely feel you’ve accomplished something if you reach the summit, but should the hike prove to be too much, there are plenty of breathtaking views to stop and take in along the way as consolation prizes.

68. Camp at Hurricane Creek campground

A small campground along Hurricane Creek that, indeed, offers true camping: No crowds, no camp hosts, no reservations. But there are just eight campsites on the grounds. If you can find an open site, it’s a worthwhile, quiet escape from the rest of the world. To get there, drive west from Joseph on Airport Road to Hurricane Creek Road. Drive an additional four miles to the U.S. Forest Service boundary, where the campground is located.

69. Explore Zumwalt Prairie Preserve

The Nature Conservancy owns about 33,000 acres of the Zumwalt Prairie. This part of the preserve is not only used for rare, raffle-won guided hunts, but is a great area to hike and explore. It’s about 15 miles north of Enterprise on Zumwalt Road and is covered in wildflowers in May and June. There are numerous hiking trails. Wildlife abounds, so keep your eyes peeled for elk, coyotes, hawks and more. You’ll likely see plenty of cattle, too, as they graze on the preserve lands. To get there, travel from Enterprise to Joseph, and about 3 miles down the road turn left onto Crow Creek Road. After five miles, turn right on Zumwalt/ Buckhorn Road. Go 14 more miles to the junction of Zumwalt/ Buckhorn and Duckett roads.

For help exploring. find a map of the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve in Enterprise at the Nature Conservancy’s office at 906 S. River St. Call the Nature Conservancy office at 541-426-3458, or visit nature.org and search for the Zumwalt Prairie. You’ll have to leave your four-legged friend at home for this trip.

70. Hike Harsin Butte

One trail on the Zumwalt we’ll highlight is the Harsin Butte Trail. It’s a short trail that’s worth the trip. To get there, once at the above-mentioned Zumwalt/Buckhorn and Duckett junction, turn right on Duckett. Travel to the next road junction, then take a right on Road 676. Just a quarter-mile ahead is the trailhead sign. The Nature Conservancy’s website says this hike is just 0.8 miles in and out, has a 700-foot gain in elevation and is “a bit of a scramble.” But the trip ends at the top of an extinct volcano and offers a stunning view of the Wallowa Mountains and even the Seven Devils Mountain Range in Idaho.

71. Visit Buckhorn Overlook

This is a trek further north into the county, but a worthwhile one with a stunning view. Travel about 25 miles past the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve — about 40 miles out of Enterprise — until you reach Forest Service land. At that point, the road becomes USFS Road 46. Continue about 8 miles until you see a sign for the Buckhorn Overlook. Turn right onto USFS Road 780, and drive about another mile to the overlook. Not only do you get a view of the Imnaha River Canyon, the Wallowa Mountains and the Seven Devils Mountains, but you may catch a look all the way to the Sawtooth Mountain Range in Central Idaho.

72. Visit the fire tower at Red Hill

Complete the loop back to Enterprise by heading from Buckhorn back onto USFS 46. The road heads north, then turns south and west. About 20 miles past Buckhorn is an inactive fire tower that is a good place to visit and also has a lookout. Jump back on USFS 46 and stay on the road until it meets Highway 3, then proceed just 12 miles back to Enterprise.

73. Hike the Tenderfoot Trail

A trip down USFS Road 39 provides access to many hiking adventures in the southeast corner of the county. This has everything from easy day trips to lengthier treks for those who want to stay in the forest and camp while they explore. For this first one, head east out of Joseph on Highway 350, then turn onto Forest Road 39. To get to Tenderfoot and drive about 14 miles to USFS 100 (which is a sharp right turn near Big Sheep Creek); the trailhead is near the end of the road. The hike itself is about 5 miles, but it starts at a higher elevation, so reaching the top of the Wallowas isn’t nearly the challenge as it is from elsewhere in the county.

74. Camp along the Imnaha River

For a backwoods adventure deeper in the forest, stay on USFS 39 and, after navigating some curves, twists and turns, you’ll come upon the Imnaha River or one of its many offshoots in the Wallowas (including Gumboot, Blackhorse and Dry creeks). Ollokot and Blackhorse campgrounds are both right along the Imnaha, and both only about 35-40 miles away from Joseph.

75. Hike to Blue Hole and the Imnaha headwaters

If you pass Ollokot Campground, you can take a turn onto USFS 3960 to venture even further into the mountains. (You can also access this road from USFS 140, or Cloverdale Road). This route takes you to either Hidden Campground or, near its end, Indian Crossing Campground, both also along the Imnaha. At the latter campground is Indian Creek trailhead, which leads you to trail 1816 back upstream along the Imnaha. Two miles up the trail is Blue Hole, a blue pool in the river with sheer rock walls around it. The trail can take you all the way to the Imnaha River headwaters at Hawkins Pass, some 20 miles away.

76. Visit Hells Canyon Overlook

We promise, this is the last adventure off of USFS 39 that we’ll mention here (though there are plenty more). Stay on the road past Ollokot Campground for about 3½ miles, then take a left onto Forest Road 490. A couple of miles farther takes you to the Hells Canyon Overlook for yet another view of the gorge.

77. Visit Imnaha Store & Tavern

If you decide to stay on Highway 350 rather than venture into the forest, you’ll make your way to the small town of Imnaha, about 26 miles from Joseph. This is one of the routes to access the northern end of Hells Canyon, but along the way, the historic Imnaha Store & Tavern is worth a stop. The tavern, which opened nearly 120 years ago in 1904, is one of the oldest continuously operated businesses in the county. The location is famous for its frog legs and chicken gizzards. There is a veterans’ wall, which a vet can sign and get a free beverage for their service, and you can learn about the tradition of pinning dollar bills to the ceiling — and do so yourself. Every couple of years, the money is split between a drawing winner and the local school.

78.

Visit Hat Point Overlook

Hat Point is the highest portion of Hells Canyon on the Oregon side at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. However, the trek there from Imnaha is not a simple one. It’s more than 20 miles of windy, narrow, gravel roads, full of potholes and washouts to be mindful of. A four-wheel-drive vehicle with good clearance is advised. But the trip is worth it. There are several grand views along the way, and at the end of the drive, another top-notch view of the country’s deepest canyon.

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79. Travel the Imnaha trail

This is another trip you will definitely want solid wheels to make, as it is about 28 miles on mostly gravel roads. Drive north from Imnaha on the Lower Imnaha Road, and about six miles in take a left on Fence Line Creek Road. Then take a right on Fence Line Road and onto USFS roads 975, 46 and 780. The road takes you through narrow passageways through the Imnaha River Canyon and leads to the trailhead. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must. The trail leads to Hells Canyon and the Eureka Bar on the Snake River, just 4.5 miles down the trail.

80. Explore Dug Bar

Just downstream from the Eureka Bar is the Dug Bar. This location has some historical significance, as it is where Chief Joseph’s Band crossed the Snake River as they eluded U.S. Army forces in 1877. Travel from Imnaha as if you were going to Eureka Bar but about six miles in, rather than hanging a left, turn onto Dug Bar Road, or USFS Road 4260. Your destination is about 23 miles away on the Snake River. Like the route to Eureka Bar, this is one you’ll want a four-wheel-drive vehicle for.

81. Hike a portion of the Blue Mountains Trail

The entirety of the Blue Mountains Trail runs more than 560 miles throughout Northeastern Oregon. A large portion of the trail is in Wallowa County. The trail’s starting point is at Wallowa Lake State Park, but portions of it run past the Hells Canyon Overlook, along the Wallowa River and, if you take the alternate route, the Imnaha River. It also takes you past Frazier Lake and the Twin Lakes. It eventually leads in the north end to Buckhorn Overlook, Troy and continues west as it heads out of the county. The entire quest would take months and impressive fitness, but portions of it abound for the day hiker. To find a map, visit https://www. hellscanyon.org/blue-mountains-trail-maps.

82. Minecart Panning

Discover hidden treasures on a unique minecart-inspired panning sluice at the foot of the glorious Wallowa Mountains. Tap into your inner rockhound, paleontologist, or prospector as you pan for gemstones, fossils, petrified wood, gold and more. You get to take home the treasures you uncover. This attraction is fun for all ages and is wheelchair-friendly. Operating from May to October. Visit minecartpanning.com for the schedule and more information.