Finding trails to enjoy is what inspired Outside Walla Walla. With 715 miles of trails in the Umatilla National Forest and 2,700 miles in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, hiking opportunities are plentiful. These two forests account for roughly 3.3 million acres of public land across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
Ranging in elevation from a few hundred feet to 9,845 feet in the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, the hiking experience varies as much as the elevation. Bring the whole family on a riverside stroll or pack it in for a long weekend, whatever distance covered guarantees scenic vistas and magnificent displays of the intricate and complex workings of geologic time.
Protected by the Cascade and Rocky Mountains, the climate allows for an extended hiking season. Dodging the wet, marine air from the west and cold, Arctic air from the east, it is not unheard of to get a hike in each month of the year.
Hiking through the seasons also means different looks at the same terrain—rivers bulge with winter snow melt as trees bud and blossom, which, in the blink of an eye, turns to trickling creeks and fall foliage.
Picking just ten trails to recommend was challenging. There are plenty more to love. Always up for a challenge, we’ve compiled a list, elaborating on the qualities and features that make these trails extra special.
(1) Grouse Mountain Trail—If big views are your sole purpose for hiking, then this is the trail for you. The trail follows the ridge of Grouse Mountain overlooking the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness area. This trail is magical in spring when everything is still lush and green from all the early rain, and the wildflowers are just spectacular.
Bring a guidebook or two as the variety of foliage and incredible beauty will no doubt spark your interest. This trail is great for the family–short, manageable elevation changes, and stunning vistas.
(2) Umatilla Rim Trail—This trail provides so much fun for so many users. Hiking and mountain biking are just a few ways people can enjoy this part of the forest. As the name suggests, the Umatilla Rim Trail follows the ridge and skirts the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness area.
It is a long trail with multiple access points to allow for different experiences on the same trail. Multiple lookout areas provide incredible views of the Blue Mountains, and a number of creek crossings keep users refreshed and entertained. Keep this trail in mind for outdoor recreation enjoyment close to town.
(3) Jubilee Lake Recreation Loop Trail—A local treasure, the Jubilee Lake area is a great place to escape valley heat and provide a change of scenery. Adventurers can hike, camp, fish, and embark on a water sport or two.
This area checks off many activities available in the Umatilla National Forest. It is a great spot for a day trip. But, if you have time for longer stays, there is plenty to do in this part of the forest.
(4) Nine Mile Ridge Trail—An instant favorite, the Nine Mile Ridge Trail shows off the Blue Mountains in stunning fashion. The trail enjoys dense creek-side vegetation and long stretches of fields full of grasses, wildflowers, and sagebrush. The forest also provides an opportunity to enjoy a little shade and take in the views.
This trail climbs over 1,000 feet in just over two miles. Hikers are rewarded with views of the South Fork of the Umatilla River and North Fork Umatilla Wilderness area, a truly special place.
(5) Middle Point Ridge Trail—Following the North Fork of the Touchet River and nestled between Chase Mountain and Middle Point Ridge, the Middle Point Trailhead is a mere 17 miles from Dayton, WA and 48 miles from Walla Walla. The views are fantastic. Many folks might use this road in the winter on the way to Ski Bluewood, but the views in spring, summer, and fall are equally as pleasing.
As the crow flies, the trailhead is almost the same latitude as Walla Walla. An excellent trail choice for folks interested in trekking a few miles as well as for those eager to spend a full day or more in the mountains.
(6) North Fork Walla Walla Trail—The North Fork Walla Walla Trail is a jem located not far from town high in the Blue Mountains. The views, lush foliage, and beauty of old growth forest earn it a spot on the visit often list.
There are multiple ways to enjoy this trail, from a leisurely hike to multi-day backpacking trip or perhaps even on horse or motorcycle. Considering its elevation, keep this trail in mind for summer or early fall before the snow comes.
(7) Oregon Butte Lookout—If you want to summit a mountain without having to climb it (or at least all of it), this hike is for you! The trail starts at a high elevation, leaving a manageable 1,000 feet up to go. Enjoy crisp mountain air and an eagle’s eye view overlooking the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness.
Atop the highest point in southeast Washington, take in panoramic views that include the Wallowa Mountains of Oregon, Seven Devils of the Idaho Rockies, and maybe even a volcano to the west.
(8) Lake Creek Trail—The Lake Creek Trail sits on the southern edge of the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. It provides access to the Buck Mountain, Buck Creek, and Umatilla Rim trails. Features include big trees and big views as you descend into the South Fork Umatilla River drainage. Enjoy a milder slope than some of the other wilderness trails in the area. The Lake Creek Trail is beginner friendly.
(9) Burnt Cabin Trail—The Burnt Cabin Trail is a test of fitness and willpower. Although beautiful, the long, steep switchbacks make for an efficient and difficult hike. The reward is a gorgeous crossing of the South Fork Walla Walla River via the newly installed Burnt Cabin Bridge. This hike will count as a workout, and isn’t every workout worth it?
(10) North Fork Umatilla River Trail—If grand views and wildflowers sound like a great way to enjoy the day, the North Fork Umatilla River Trail is the way to do it. Most of the trail is located in the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. This trail offers everything from an enjoyable stroll along the river to thigh-burning hill climbs.
The Jasper Mountain Reserve is a privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the Blue Mountains. Protecting over 300 acres of habitat, outdoor enthusiasts are in for treat. There are many ways to engage with the landscape from bird watching to trail running. In the winter, some of the trail systems are groomed for cross country skiing.
Sign up for Trail Fest, a fundraising event with distances ranging from 4.4 miles to 100k relay. The reserve is the closest mountain trail system to Walla Walla which makes it perfect for day trips. To access the reserve, purchase a day or annual pass.
When talking with folks who have explored the Blue Mountains for decades, we often hear about hundreds of full-time and seasonal employees who once maintained hundreds of miles of trails. Last I checked that number is down to one seasonal employee.
Many volunteers work to keep trails clear, rebuild washed out sections, and improve signage. Please expect to come across overgrowth, fallen trees, and creeks without bridges. Of course, always recreate within your comfort zone, tell others where you are going, and study the area before you go.
Get to know these trails. Each time you visit, I guarantee you will notice something new—perhaps even invite a friend and introduce them to all the wonderful and unique paths to explore in the Blue Mountains.
Let us know what you think! What is your favorite trail? The beauty of outdoor recreation is that it means something different to everyone. Choose your own adventure!
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