Overview
Hurricane Creek cuts a narrow granite canyon into the northern face of the Wallowa Mountains north of Enterprise, providing one of the most dramatic low-angle views of the Oregon Alps without requiring multi-day wilderness travel. The trail follows the creek upstream through old-growth fir and spruce before opening into a high-country valley where the Matterhorn (9,826 ft) and Sacajawea (9,843 ft) dominate the skyline.
The Hurricane Creek approach is less visited than the Wallowa Lake routes to the south and serves as a primary access corridor for the northern Eagle Cap Wilderness in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The canyon walls rise dramatically on both sides, and the creek sound accompanies the trail throughout.
The Route
Trailhead to Wilderness Boundary (Mile 0 to 1.0)
From the Hurricane Creek Trailhead, the trail enters old-growth forest and stays close to the creek. The Eagle Cap Wilderness boundary is marked at about mile 1.
Canyon Middle Section (Mile 1.0 to 3.5)
The trail climbs through the canyon's most impressive section, with granite walls visible through the forest canopy above. The creek is audible throughout. At mile 3, the first open views of the Matterhorn appear at a bend in the canyon.
Upper Valley (Mile 3.5 to 5.2)
The canyon opens into a wider valley floor with meadow sections and clear creek braids. The Matterhorn and surrounding peaks are visible in full at the natural turnaround point at mile 5.2. This is the appropriate end point for a day hike.
Return via the same route.
When to Hike
July through September is the primary season. The trail is accessible from late June in average years.
September offers the clearest air for peak photography. The granite walls and peaks are best lit in early morning light from the east.
Early July creek crossings in the upper valley may be significant from snowmelt; check current conditions before visiting.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2.5 liters of water. Hurricane Creek is an excellent water source throughout; treat or filter. Individual hydration needs vary.
Trekking poles help on creek crossings and rocky canyon sections. Layers are useful in the shaded canyon even in summer.
Trailhead Access
Hurricane Creek Road is north of Enterprise, accessed from town via Hurricane Creek Road. The road is paved for several miles then gravel to the trailhead. Standard passenger vehicles can reach the trailhead in dry conditions.
Free self-issue wilderness permits at the trailhead for overnight trips (as of 2026). No permit for day hiking. A free primitive campground is at the trailhead.
Nearby
The Lakes Basin Loop and Mirror Lake Trail at the Wallowa Lake Trailhead provide alternative access to the same wilderness for a multi-day itinerary with different approaches.
Check current conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles in the Eagle Cap Wilderness.