Wallowa Lake

In America's Alps

By John Trevino

Wallowa Lake, where is that? Many of us here in the Treasure Valley don't know that we are just a short drive from one of the most beautiful alpine settings on earth. Often billed as America's Alps or America's Little Switzerland, the Wallowa Lake area of northeastern Oregon can be reached by car in a little over four hours. Once you arrive, one breathtaking view will help you understand why this area is often called America's Alps. The grandeur of these mountains is absolutely magnificent. The Wallowa Mountains area, which includes the Eagle Cap wilderness area, is Oregon’s single largest alpine area. The Wallowa's to Oregonians is comparable to Sawtooths for Idahoans.

Its still cold now, but like me, many of us are already starting to plan and dream longingly of that perfect summer getaway. If you have never been to Wallowa Lake, There is no time like now to add this to one of your regular summer destinations.

Wallowa Lake is a morainal lake, which means it was formed by a glacier, about 9 million years ago. The lake is 5 miles long, and about a mile wide. As early as mid nineteenth century, a hotel, restaurants, boat services and even a dance hall have been available at Wallowa Lake.

The lake is only about one mile from downtown Joseph, Oregon, so civilization is never very far away. In Joseph, you will find gift shops and a thriving artist community, which does world-class bronze castings. Tours are available through the foundries. Around the Wallowa Lake area, you can enjoy hiking wilderness trails, horseback riding, bumper boats, canoeing, and miniature golf or ride a tramway to the top of one of the mountains. A trailhead that takes you deep into the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area begins near the lake.

One of Wallow's most spectacular attractions is the tramway. The 3700 vertical foot ascent to the summit of Mt. Howard, which towers above the lake area, is an unforgettable experience. The exhilarating trip to the top of the peak allows one to enjoy the view as the gondola rises above the Wallowa Lake Village and the clear waters of the Lake. During this breath-taking ride, visitors get a view of the surrounding area and its rocky peaks. Upon arriving at the summit, visitors can explore the peak enjoying the ample diversity of alpine plants along any of the many trails. Enjoy a meal, snack, or your favorite beverage at the Summit Grill or Alpine Patio.

The resemblance between the Alps of Switzerland and the Wallowa Mountains has inspired a connection to Old Europe. Every autumn, a Swiss-Bavarian festival, Alpenfest is held in the traditional Oktoberfest style. An autumn venture to Wallowa Lake will yield great tastes and great experiences. German sausage, sauerkraut, blueberry pancakes, beer and wine are among the culinary delights. Stroll through a maze of food and open air booths, displays and demonstrations of woodworking, homemade pies, handmade candles, paintings, jewelry, ceramics and more. Dancing, music, an alphorn blowing contest, Swiss music yodeled through the crisp alpine air as notes echo through the Wallowa Mountains; Alpenfest is a magical experience.

An Oregon State Park is also located at Wallowa Lake with 121 RV full hookup sites, 89 tent camping sites, 1 cabin and 2 yurts. The yurts are available all year. The campground is surrounded on three sides by 9,000' tall snow-capped mountains and sits right on the lake. The lake is popular for fishing and boating. Boat ramp available. For information, call (800) 551-6949.

Wallowa Lake; Relish the experience!

Driving Directions: Head west on I-84 about 190 miles to La Grande and then take the Highway 82 exit. Continue 70 miles northeast to Joseph, Oregon. It's about a four and one-half hour drive from Boise.

Where To Stay: Wallowa Lake Lodge is a beautiful, historic structure built in the 1920s, right on Wallowa Lake, (541) 432-9821.