Wallowa Lake
Wallowa Lake
5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
55 reviews
Excellent
47
Very good
7
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Carol S
4 contributions
Sept 2022
All of what the other reviews said was true about Wallowa Lake, except it's *not* in La Grande, it's more than an hour away from there. It's right next to the town of Joseph, so this review will be for Wallowa Lake and Joseph OR, and just adding information that isn't in the other reviews. La Grande is much bigger than Joseph and has its own really great things.
So, note to people traveling to Wallowah Lake and Joseph - it is a gorgeous area and quaint, friendly little town, with really good little restaurants, taverns, museums and some art galleries, as well as lake activities and tram up the mountain. BUT if you go in September, know that it is wildfire season, and so you do run the risk of reservations being canceled or having to leave in a hurry in the event of evacuation orders. That didn't happen to us, but, the environment was so smoky (wild fires on three sides of us) that we could barely see the lake and the surrounding mountains; the tram closed on one day due to no visibility, etc. And of course you're breathing the smoke while there. Also, we went last week (19th Sept) and many of the shops and restaurants were closing or have more limited hours. Some stores posted signs on the door announcing that they'd be open by appointment.
We did get to see more the last day we were there because the rain came and cleared up some smoke and it is a spectacular place with friendly people and all the great things mentioned; I just wish we had scheduled our visit at a different time when we could have enjoyed more!
So, note to people traveling to Wallowah Lake and Joseph - it is a gorgeous area and quaint, friendly little town, with really good little restaurants, taverns, museums and some art galleries, as well as lake activities and tram up the mountain. BUT if you go in September, know that it is wildfire season, and so you do run the risk of reservations being canceled or having to leave in a hurry in the event of evacuation orders. That didn't happen to us, but, the environment was so smoky (wild fires on three sides of us) that we could barely see the lake and the surrounding mountains; the tram closed on one day due to no visibility, etc. And of course you're breathing the smoke while there. Also, we went last week (19th Sept) and many of the shops and restaurants were closing or have more limited hours. Some stores posted signs on the door announcing that they'd be open by appointment.
We did get to see more the last day we were there because the rain came and cleared up some smoke and it is a spectacular place with friendly people and all the great things mentioned; I just wish we had scheduled our visit at a different time when we could have enjoyed more!
Written 22 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hardtoplease75
Irrigon, OR308 contributions
Nov 2015 • Couples
This part of Oregon is spectacular. Wallowa Lake has swimming, boating, fishing, jet skiing, all kinds of activities and go carts for kids, horseback trail rides, hiking, a gondola with a restaurant on top and hiking trails andmany shops with clothing and souvenirs. There are campgrounds to choose from as well as motels and a large variety of rental cabins and houses available. The restaurants at the lake are worth exploring as they serve good food. Be sure to make a reservation for Vali's for dinner or you won't be seated. Well worth it and is very reasonably priced. The desserts are crazy good so save room. If you want to explore more territory drive into Joseph. Bonze statues are on every street corner and the hanging flower baskets look amazing. The stores are a good mix for browsing and shopping. The Joseph restaurants are extra special, especially for breakfast.
Written 16 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DWathenYoungstown_OH
Youngstown, OH290 contributions
Aug 2016 • Couples
Not expecting the level of scenery in this part of Oregon. Stunning to say the least. Great outdoor activities in the Joseph area both winter and summer. We were sure glad we made the trip on our way to Hell's Canyon. Don't miss it if you are in the area.
Written 1 September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard J
Vancouver, WA104 contributions
May 2013 • Couples
Wallowa Lake is a stunningly beautiful jewel of a lake, and should not be missed when visiting north east Oregon. It's located in the Wallowa Mountains, known as the Little Alps Of America, about two miles from the picturesque town of Joseph. The lake is approximately 5 miles long, and 3 miles wide. An access highway runs along one side of the lake, and ends at a beautiful park with camping available, rental cabins, and a restaurant, and the venerable Wallowa Lake Lodge. You may even choose to climb aboard the tram which transports visitors to the top of the mountain by the lake. You will be glad you didn't miss this remarkable Oregon landmark!!
It's very much like Switzerland!
It's very much like Switzerland!
Written 22 May 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kammi T
Pendleton, Oregon, United States3 contributions
Known as the "little Alps" of America, the area around Wallowa Lake is breathtaking and awe inspiring. The 2-hour drive from LaGrande to Wallowa Lake is a beautiful scenic drive with mountains, rivers, and the occasional Bald Eagle to see. Once at Wallowa Lake you will never want to leave!
Written 5 March 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
543WendyC
Imbler, OR47 contributions
Oct 2012 • Family
Wallowa Lake is one of the most beautiful places to go to at any time of the year. The drive up there (from La Grande) in the Fall rivals anything in New England as far as Fall colour is concerned!
As I love the history of Eastern Oregon this wonderful place supplied lots. The gravesite of Chief Joseph (Nez Perce tribe) is both sad when you think of his life and how he died, yet very touching to know you're standing right alongside deep history and admiration for Chief Joseph.
The surrounding areas cater to almost every taste, from horseback riders and wonderful horse trails, the watersport enthusiasts, hiking enthusiasts, OktoberFest enthusiasts and lay back and enjoy enthusiasts! Can't be missed. Truly.
As I love the history of Eastern Oregon this wonderful place supplied lots. The gravesite of Chief Joseph (Nez Perce tribe) is both sad when you think of his life and how he died, yet very touching to know you're standing right alongside deep history and admiration for Chief Joseph.
The surrounding areas cater to almost every taste, from horseback riders and wonderful horse trails, the watersport enthusiasts, hiking enthusiasts, OktoberFest enthusiasts and lay back and enjoy enthusiasts! Can't be missed. Truly.
Written 11 December 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dorothy96734
Kailua, HI66 contributions
Jul 2012 • Couples
I hesitated to write this. It is so beautiful I am not sure I want any more people to discover it. The drive to the lake is heavenly and the gondola ride is worth the money.
Written 3 August 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Luke T
86 contributions
Sept 2016 • Solo
Get off the interstate and see some breathtaking views! Lots of great wilderness to make your own adventure!
Written 25 November 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
susanpetersen312
Kennewick, WA5 contributions
Mar 2012
There is a spiritual beauty about Wallowa lake area. Ride the sky tram to the top of the mountain. Unbelievable! Deer are friendly and it seems it is one of the last few unspoiled and under commercialized places left. Take a deep breath and see the hand of God
Written 31 December 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GrandeRonde
eastern Oregon13 contributions
Fun activities around the lake. Boat, canoe, pedal boat rental on the lake. Good food options. Excellent, but challenging hike/back packing options up to high lakes.
Written 19 March 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi All. We're visiting Wallowa State Park next month and then heading on to Lake Cascade, Idaho after that. Has anyone driven that route? We have a camper pulled by our 4Runner. Thanks!
Written 2 August 2019
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