National Forest Foundation | Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

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Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

The Wallowa -Whitman National Forest, in Idaho, Oregon and Washington, contains 2.3 million acres ranging in elevation from 875 feet in Hells Canyon, to 9845 feet in the Eagle Cap Wilderness.

These forests are managed as sustainable ecosystems providing clean water, wildlife habitat and valuable forest products. And, for things to do and places to be, the Wallowa-Whitman is the setting for a variety of year-round recreational activities.

The Forest ranges from the Blue Mountains and rugged Wallowa Mountains down to the spectacular canyon country of the Snake River on the Idaho border, including Hells Canyon National Recreation Area -- a mecca of hiking and river floating.

In fact, the entire forest offers plenty to do for thrill seekers, hikers, bikers, off-highway vehicle riders and other recreationalists. The forest offers an array of options, lined out in a text-only chart and an interactive map. Off highway vehicle riders, please check forest regulations before hitting the trails. Skiers, try your skills at Ski Anthony Lakes, a downhill ski resort on the forest.

The Wallowa NF was created in 1908 from the combination of seven Forest Reserves, and the Whitman NF was created in 1908 by combining three Forest Reserves. The Wallowa and Whitman National Forests have been managed together since 1954.

Statistics

State(s):

Oregon

Nearest Large Urban Area:

Boise, ID

Notes & Conditions:

Research campground locations and amenities at the U.S. National Forest Campground Directory. The Web site is full of pictures and detailed descriptions to help you plan your next trip.

If you want to experience a guided recreation trip in a National Forest, visit Adventure Vacation to learn about whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, camping, hiking and fishing trips.

Permits, Passes and Fees:

A Northwest Forest Pass is required if you are parking at or within a quarter mile of many Wallowa-Whitman National Forest trailheads. It is also valid in any national forest in Washington or Oregon and in the North Cascades National Park. The cost is $30 for an annual pass and $5 for a day pass. The money goes directly towards trail and trailhead maintenance. They can be purchased at any Forest Service office and at many local vendors.

Sno-Park Permit: The state of Oregon requires Sno-Park permits during winter in certain mountain recreation areas. Proceeds keep Oregon's winter recreation areas accessible. Permits are available at Department of Motor Vehicles offices, local ski shops and area lift ticket offices. There are two types of Sno-Park permits available; one is a season access to all Sno-Parks in Oregon and the other is a day pass to any Sno-Park

Maps:

Visit the U.S. Forest Service Map Directory to see what maps are available for this Forest and others you may want to visit.