West Fork to Ice Lake (Wallowa Lake Trailhead)
Ice Lake is one of the most outstanding and loved locations in the Eagle Cap. Even though the location is just under 8 miles from the Wallowa Lake Trailhead, the last 5 miles involves numerous switchbacks over rocky ground and gains 2350’ in elevation. The trail climbs, unbelievably, right up a rockslide and up through sub-alpine into alpine, making the journey both beautiful and interesting as well. As you climb to the top, a large waterfall presents itself as you make the final accent into the large cirque that cradles Ice Lake (el 7849’). While this strenuous journey can be made round-trip in a day, campers can spend days exploring the many peaks that surround this unforgettable destination. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole!
Note: This location has almost zero forage for horses- be prepared to pack in weed-free local hay or pellets if you’re staying overnight. Also, check your horses’ shoes and pack at least one easy-boot per horse- this trail is rocky- anything less-than-perfect or older shoeing will most likely fail.
Download a home-printable pdf map of this area
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Matterhorn
Matterhorn
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Ice Lake Fishing
Ice Lake Fishing
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Ice Lake
Ice Lake
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Evening Fishing
Evening Fishing
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Ice Lake Waterfall
Ice Lake Waterfall
http://wallowalakecabinrentals.com/index.php/hiking-at-wallowa-lake/14-trails-and-trailheads?start=5#sigProId211028c027
You don’t have to go far to find something spectacular around Joseph. Start at the Wallowa Lake Trailhead and head up the West Fork Trail (#1820) on the right. Go about ¼ mile to where the trail forks and go right at that fork. In just a few feet you’ll see that the main trail follows left in about the same direction (upstream) that you were going at the fork, but if you want to see the falls, you’ll need to follow the less-used trail to the right (downstream, in the opposite direction of the main Chief Joseph Trail).
