Joseph is a city in Wallowa County in the U.S. state of Oregon. Almost completely surrounded by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, the city offers visitors easy access to stunning countryside, where they can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, hiking and horseback riding. There are annual events, such as the Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race, which give competitors the chance to test their physical prowess.
Boating on Wallowa Lake
Wallow Lake is located just south of Joseph and offers visitors the chance to enjoy clear waters and fresh air. There are two public boat ramps on the lake--one on the north end at the Country Park and the other at the South End. The lake has a calm temperament and few submerged hazards, making it ideal for canoes and water skiers, as well as for those who want to enjoy an afternoon fishing. The park authority patrols the waters and will check boaters' cards and equipment.
Parasailing on Wallowa Lake
Those who feel confident on the water can try parasailing on Wallowa Lake and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from 400 feet up in the air. The park authority provides the equipment and takes parasailers out on boats with 10 passengers, promising gentle and dry take-off and landings. Parasailing tours operate on the lake from June to Labor Day, Thursday to Monday, except in the event of storms or rough waters. Fliers can be of any age and will take off from the launch deck at the rear of the boat. Friends and relatives can come out on the trip and take photographs from the boat.
Horseback riding in the Wallowa-Whitman Forest
The Wallowa-Whitman Forest, a short drive from Joseph, is often enjoyed on horseback and there are some well-worn trails for riders to explore. Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge, has 900 miles of horse-friendly trails. Battle Creek Trail 1,784 is a six-mile one-way ride, which affords brilliant views of the canyon walls and in spring is decorated with wild flowers. For those without their own horse, the Cornucopia Wilderness Pack Station leads trips in the Eagle Cap Wilderness area. Visitors can join a four-day adventure or choose to stay on horseback for just one day.
Skiing in the Wallowa Mountains
During winter the area around Joseph experiences heavy snowfall, and the Wallowa Mountains have become a successful skiing resort as a result. One popular ski slope is Ferguson Ridge, which has a rope tow and T-bar, which scales a 640-foot vertical slope. It is known as a good area for those learning to ski or snowboard, although for experienced skiers may not be sufficiently challenging. Another hot spot is the Salt Creek Summit, which is located 25 miles from Wallowa Lake. Boasting more than 20 miles of cross-country ski trails and seven loops, this is a better location for those who are confident on their skis.
Hiking around Eagle Cap
Eagle Cap is located to the south of Joseph and has 534 miles of trails for hikers to explore. Those visiting the area, however, will need to obtain a Northwest Forest Pass, which cost $30 per year or $5 per day. These are for sale at Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Offices and selected visitor centers. One popular route is the Blue Creek Trail, which is a 12.9-mile round trip that takes hikers through an old mining town and past several streams; it is recommended for those seeking solitude and tranquility.
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