Three main trails lead from Eagle Cap Wilderness to Wallowa Lake. Eagle Cap Wilderness is nestled in the middle of the Wallowa Mountains. It was once home to Chief Joseph Band of the Nez Perce tribe. This area is popular for its granite peaks and ridges, vast wildflower beds and small areas of old-growth forest. To get to this region, take the Chief Joseph Trail, the Aneroid Lake Trail or the West Fork Wallowa River Trail. The first part of the Chief Joseph Trail is part of the West Fork Wallowa River Trail. At the 1/4-mile marker, take a gentle right to continue down the trail. The first notable landmark is a waterfall that cascades below a bridge. Roughly 25 yards from these falls is an area filled with wild roses and mock orange. Continue down to an outcrop that provides a view of Wallowa Lake and two valleys. You will run into a meadow before you climb to the top of Chief Joseph Mountain, elevation 10,000 feet. Be adequately prepared with water, snacks, and good boots. Bring your camera.
Take the Aneroid Trail for magnificent views of the mountainous region. Within the first 2 miles, the trail goes up 1,200 feet. If you are new to hiking or are out of shape, avoid traveling on this trail. Follow a zigzagging trail until you reach a dam. This may be a nice spot to take a breather or have a snack. The trail takes you past a bridge and over the east fork of the Wallowa River Trail. The last part of the trail consists of 2 1/4 miles and an elevation of 500 feet until you reach Aneroid Lake. From there, you have the option to go further into Eagle Cap Wilderness from Tenderfoot Pass. Take regular breathers on this trail and avoid feeling dizzy by keeping your blood sugar stable with snacks and moving at a steady pace.
The West Fork Wallowa River Trail runs into many trails that go in different directions through Eagle Cap Wilderness. Keep an eye out for the markers for the other trails, so you don't get lost. When the West Fork Wallowa River Trail breaks from the Chief Joseph Trail, it gets dramatically steep for 300 feet. Slowly, the terrain will become more gentle and take you to a rockslide called The Refrigerator. The area is the perfect place to take a break, because of the cool air pushed across the trail. Further down there are two springs called the Twin Rivers. A few more yards down is an ancient tree stump called The Grotto and a small spring that has its own micro-climate. Around the 3-mile mark the Ice Trail veers off to Ice Lake. The West Fork Wallowa River Trail continues on to other lakes and the Six Mile Meadow. Spend some time in this region to be able to check out more of these trails.Not even the locals can see everything in Eagle Cap Wilderness, but it gives you an excuse to try.
