Wallowa Lake Trailhead

Michael's review is very thorough so I would recommend reading that. The condition of the Ice Lake section is still snowy as of 6/17. I'd recommend having your GPS activated to be able to bushwhack as necessary.
8 years ago (18-06-2017)

A place to sooth your soul. Hiked with family; incredible memories to hold forever!
8 years ago (14-09-2017)

The trails were mostly well maintained, the scenery is amazing bring a camera an get ready for a great day.
8 years ago (23-08-2017)

The Wallowa Lake Trailhead is the starting destination for many of the high alpine lakes in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Notably, Ice Lake is one of the premier destinations starting at this trail head. The hike beginning at the Wallowa Lake Trailhead is 7.5 miles and gains an elevation of 3,400 feet before reaching Ice Lake. The hike is considered difficult, although the elevation gain is spread out over the length of the hike, with a final push through a series of steep switchbacks. There are a few spots where you would certainly not want to slip, but otherwise you just need stamina. To begin the hike, take the West Fork Wallowa River Trail #1820 and soon cross a bridge over the West Fork of the Wallow River. Continue to head up a dusty tread, well-trodden by mule and horse trains. It is a slow uphill climb, with many switchbacks along the way. The first three miles follow the roaring West Fork Wallowa River before a cutoff for Ice Lake Trail takes you across a log bridge and uphill. Follow the Ice Lake #1808 trail; along the way are meadows sprinkled with wildflowers and plunging waterfalls. There are many areas to take a break and enjoy the scenery. One of the finer spots is at mile 5.4, where Lower Adam Creek Falls thunders into the canyon and Upper Adam Creek Falls can be seen in the distance above. The trail continues to climb through high country meadows until finally reaching an alpine bench with Ice Lake soon in view. Ice Lake in the Eagle Cap Wilderness is the premier alpine lake in Oregon. While many are content with admiring the beauty of the Wallowas from a distance there is no finer experience than hiking into the core of the wilderness and camping among nature in a pristine environment. The scenery is remarkable, with photo opportunities in every direction. One view in particular is the stillness of Ice Lake; it creates a perfect mirror reflection of the route up the back side to the Matterhorn, especially at sunrise when the orange and red hues are present. Plan on spending two nights at the lake, so that you can experience one full day from sunrise to sunset in this alpine wonderland. From relaxing by the lake, to fishing, or making a climb up to Sacajawea Peak, Ice Lake offers a reward to all who make the trek. In my opinion, Ice Lake is the top destination in Oregon for hiking and photography.
9 years ago (04-01-2017)

Easy to find, plenty of parking available.
8 years ago (13-08-2017)