Overview
The Wallowa Lake Tramway is Oregon's highest gondola, carrying visitors 3,700 vertical feet from Wallowa Lake to the summit of Mount Howard at 8,150 feet in just 15 minutes. From the summit station, a network of short trails explores the high-altitude terrain above the Wallowa Valley, with views that rank among the finest panoramas in the Pacific Northwest.
The two-mile summit trail described here follows the main ridgeline network from the tramway station to the highest natural viewpoints, visiting observation areas above the valley floor. It is not a wilderness experience: the tramway station has a cafe, gift shop, and flush restrooms. But the views and the ease of access at altitude make it one of the most memorable short walks in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.
The Route
Tramway Station to Royal Purple Overlook (Mile 0 to 0.5)
From the upper tramway station, the main trail leads south along the ridge to the Royal Purple Overlook, a dedicated viewpoint with interpretive markers explaining the Wallowa Mountains geology and the visible peaks. The Wallowa Valley spreads 3,700 feet below.
Ridge Walk to Summit Viewpoints (Mile 0.5 to 1.5)
The trail continues along the ridge through open alpine meadow terrain. In July, wildflowers including paintbrush, fleabane, and lupine color the slopes. Multiple unsigned side paths lead to additional viewpoints.
Valley View Overlook (Mile 1.5 to 2.0)
The Valley View Overlook at the eastern end of the trail system provides the clearest view of Wallowa Lake directly below and the town of Joseph in the valley. Idaho's Seven Devils Mountains rise to the northeast. Return to the tramway station via the same route.
When to Hike
July through September is the operating season for the Wallowa Lake Tramway. Snow typically clears from the summit trails by early July. Wildflowers are strongest in mid-July.
Morning visits are strongly preferred: afternoon clouds often obscure the distant views, and the tramway crowds are heaviest after noon on summer weekends.
What to Bring
The tramway station has a cafe and water. Many visitors carry 1 liter of water for the short trail. Layers are important even in summer: at 8,150 feet, temperatures can be 20 degrees cooler than Wallowa Lake below, and afternoon wind on the ridge can be sharp.
Trailhead Access
The Wallowa Lake Tramway base station is in Joseph, Oregon, adjacent to Wallowa Lake State Park. A tramway ticket is required for summit access; check current pricing at the tramway website. The base station parking area is large and well-signed.
No trail permit required. Dogs allowed on the trail per current tramway dog policies (verify before visiting).
Nearby
The Mirror Lake Trail and other Eagle Cap Wilderness routes depart from the Wallowa Lake Trailhead a short drive from the tramway base. The Hurricane Creek Trail is accessible in minutes from Joseph.
Check current tramway operating hours and trail conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles on the summit trails.