The Grouse Mountain Trail is a family-friendly hike. The views are big the entire trail, and there is little net elevation gain. There are a few abrupt ascents/ descents that will require effort and shoes with good traction, but for perspective our five-year-old was able to complete the entire trail.
Typically, trails in this area start diving down the mountain to their lower trailheads near the Umatilla Forks Campground area. Traversing up and down a mountain with little ones is often challenging.
In contrast, this trail stays on the ridge and overlooks the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. The trail fades away into the landscape at its end, but if you follow the ridge to its point you get a view of the Umatilla River down below. Clocking in at under an hour from town and only three miles of gravel road, it really is a spectacular area to enjoy the Blue Mountains.
Because there is ample room at the trailhead, it is also a great place to bring family who might not be as mobile or trail ready. The views are fantastic without even stepping foot on the trail. Those wanting to stretch their legs for a few miles could enjoy the Grouse Mountain Trail, and other folks could bring a set of binoculars and be equally as entertained.
There is a viewpoint less than 100 yards from the trailhead as well. Meet up for a picnic back at the trailhead, and everyone in the family can enjoy a day in the wilderness.
Amenities
Pack in and pack out. There are NO vault toilets in the area.
Regulations
Wilderness regulations apply in the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. Such restrictions include no motorized equipment, bicycles, or hang gliders to name a few. Groups larger than twelve are prohibited as well as caching or leaving equipment or supplies for longer than 72 hours. Most applicable to hikers is the fact that shortcutting a switchback on any trail is also a violation of wilderness regulations. For a complete list of wilderness regulations visit the Umatilla National Forest website.
Wildlife Awareness
We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains and Walla Walla Valley. So many opportunities exist to play outside, whether in a national forest, wilderness area, or on a Wild and Scenic River. With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild.
Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur.
Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice.
Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day’s adventure is taking you.
Field Notes
Navigation: Consider downloading the Avenza Map app. This app allows users to upload three maps (or unlimited with a subscription) to use offline. It can track your location offline and overlay GPS data from the phone onto the map. The vehicle use maps (for trails allowing motorized vehicles) are the easiest to use.
Otherwise, Geo Tracker offers similar tracking capabilities and additional details about your adventure. If no service, Geo Tracker will at least show your location. The Blue Mountains and surrounding area offer a remote recreating experience, and knowing your location is paramount to staying safe. Always make sure to bring paper maps. Tell others where your adventure is taking you and when you expect to return.
Pets: In general, pets are allowed on a leash and under control throughout jurisdictions. The only restrictions we have encountered are around swimming areas. As a best practice, be mindful of riparian habitat in general. You never know where a precious spawning area might be located. Pack it in and pack it out applies to your furry friend as well.
Disclaimer: While the Outside Walla Walla team has enjoyed all the adventures listed on this site, we cannot provide real-time conditions & maintenance reports. Extreme weather can change access overnight. Volunteer groups might lose capacity to manage trail systems. We do our best to report that information and update our site accordingly, but please read our Disclaimer (footer) and proceed with any adventure as your comfort level allows.
