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Lakes Basin Loop

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
20.4 mi
Elevation Gain
3,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Moccasin, Frazier, Horseshoe, and Lee Lakes in a compact granite cirque basin
  • Oregon's largest wilderness, the Eagle Cap Wilderness
  • Eagle Cap summit (9,572 ft) visible from the loop high points
  • World-class granite scenery reminiscent of the Sierra Nevada
  • Best multi-day backpacking route in northeastern Oregon

Overview

The Lakes Basin Loop is the crown jewel of the Eagle Cap Wilderness in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, connecting four high-country lakes in a granite cirque basin that many Oregon backpackers rank as the best backpacking destination in the state. The route begins at Wallowa Lake and climbs into the wilderness interior, visiting Moccasin Lake, Frazier Lake, Horseshoe Lake, and Lee Lake before returning via a different drainage.

The Lakes Basin sits at 7,500 to 8,200 feet in a compact bowl of granite peaks, snowfields, and clear lake water. Eagle Cap (9,572 ft) anchors the basin's skyline. The scenery is routinely compared to the Sierra Nevada, and the comparison is not unearned: the Wallowa Mountains are a granitic batholith fundamentally different from the volcanic Cascades, with sharper ridges and more durable geological character.

The Route

Wallowa Lake Trailhead to Wallowa River (Mile 0 to 3.0)

From the large trailhead at the end of the lake highway, the trail follows the West Fork Wallowa River upstream through a forested canyon. The first several miles are relatively gradual, gaining elevation steadily through old-growth fir and pine.

River to Six Mile Meadow (Mile 3.0 to 6.5)

The trail continues along the West Fork to Six Mile Meadow at about mile 6.5, a classic high-country meadow that serves as a common first-night camp. The meadow sits at about 6,000 feet and is well-watered.

Meadow to Lakes Basin (Mile 6.5 to 10.5)

The trail climbs more steeply above Six Mile Meadow, gaining the granite basin terrain. Moccasin Lake (7,850 ft) is the first lake reached at about mile 10.5. Frazier and Horseshoe Lakes are within a mile. The basin here is surrounded by peaks on three sides.

Basin Loop (Mile 10.5 to 15.5)

A loop through the lakes basin visits each lake, with optional side trips to the Eagle Cap summit (a 3-mile round trip from the basin). The granite terrain between lakes requires easy cross-country travel on some variations.

Return via East Fork (Mile 15.5 to 20.4)

The return route descends via the East Fork Wallowa River, rejoining the main trail and returning to the trailhead. This provides a genuine loop with different scenery on the return.

When to Hike

July through September is the primary season. Snow typically persists in the basin through late June. The wildflower peak is mid to late July.

September is the best month for clarity, solitude, and photography. Nights are cold at lake elevation; bring a 3-season sleeping bag rated to at least 20°F.

What to Bring

Many backpackers carry 2 to 2.5 liters of water capacity. Water is available throughout the route; treat or filter all sources.

Bear canisters are recommended for overnight trips in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. See Bear Canister Requirements. A 3-season tent is essential; afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Trailhead Access

The Wallowa Lake Trailhead is at the south end of Wallowa Lake, easily accessible from Joseph on Wallowa Lake Highway. Large paved lot with vault restrooms. Free self-issue wilderness permits at the trailhead for overnight trips (as of 2026).

Dogs allowed on leash.

Nearby

The Mirror Lake Trail and Eagle Cap Summit Trail share this trailhead. The Hurricane Creek Trail is a different approach to the same wilderness from the north.

Check current conditions and permit requirements at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles carefully in this high-use wilderness basin.

Trailhead Parking

Wallowa Lake Trailhead at the end of Wallowa Lake Highway south of Joseph. Large paved lot with restrooms. No fee for trail access; parking is free.

← Back to Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

More Trails in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

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Eagle Cap Summit Trail

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A 10.8-mile strenuous round trip to the 9,572-foot namesake summit of the Eagle Cap Wilderness, the high point of the Wallowa Mountains and one of the finest summit viewpoints in Oregon.

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Imnaha River Trail

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Mirror Lake Trail

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does the Lakes Basin Loop take?
Most backpackers complete the 20.4-mile loop in 3 to 4 days, camping at one or two of the lakes. Strong hikers have completed it as a very long day hike, but the scenery rewards slowing down.
Do I need a permit for the Lakes Basin Loop?
Overnight camping in the Eagle Cap Wilderness requires a free self-issue wilderness permit available at the trailhead (as of 2026). Day hikers do not need a permit. Check current requirements with the Wallowa Mountains Ranger District, as permit systems can change.
Is the Lakes Basin Loop dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed on leash in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The high-elevation terrain and granite scrambles on some route variations can be challenging for dogs.