Facility · Idaho ·
Managed by the USDA Forest Service
Wallowa National Forest (NF) · Open Access
The trail is well signed at the trailhead, boundary and all junctions. This site provides access to Cougar Ridge trail #1668 which enters Eagle Cap Wilderness.
Much of this trail is along the ridgetop, but will go in and out of old burned forested areas where you will see many ponderosa pine trees. The trailhead is equipped with a stock unloading ramp. This trail also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
There are many dispersed campsites along this route. The guard station cabin is in good condition, but is not for public use. There are several trails that come together near the cabin, making it an excellent choice for a base camp.
View a printable information sheet about this area and a map of the trail (PDF File)
Located 27 miles west of Enterprise, OR, off State Highway #82. Turn left at the Fish Hatchery onto the Big Canyon road, Forest Road #8270 and travel approximately 18 miles to the trailhead. This is a gravel road and can be rough after the spring thaw.
45.48019, -117.62660 · 45°28'48.7"N 117°37'35.8"W
Typically 88°F in Jul, down to 36°F in Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 36 | 43 | 52 | 60 | 69 | 77 | 88 | 88 | 79 | 63 | 46 | 36 |
| Low °F | 20 | 22 | 27 | 32 | 38 | 43 | 47 | 45 | 38 | 31 | 25 | 19 |
| Precip in | 1.8 | 1.6 | 1.6 | 1.6 | 2.2 | 1.6 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 0.7 | 1.5 | 1.9 | 2.1 |
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 7.9 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.
Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.
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