OverviewMatterhorn was once considered the highest point in the Wallowa Mountains at 9,845 feet, but it has subsequently been remeasured at 9,826 feet, 12 feet lower than Sacajawea Peak.
Viewed from the Hurricane Creek drainage, Matterhorn's white limestone stands out in contrast to the other rock in the valley. Its west face stands about 4,000 feet above the Hurricane Creek valley floor.
The best approach to Matterhorn is from Ice Lake on the east, to which there is a trail. A mountaineer's track leads most of the way to the summit from the lake.
Getting ThereDrive I-84 east from Pendleton or west from Idaho to LaGrande. Take the Highway 82 exit and drive eastbound toward Elgin and Enterprise. Drive through Enterprise to Joseph on Highway 82, and keep going to the end of the highway at the south end of Wallowa Lake. The Wallowa Lake trailhead is at the very end of the road, elevation 4,600 feet. Take the West Fork Wallowa River trail.
Red TapeAll trails and some picnic areas and campsites in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest require a regional pass costing $5/day or $30/year. Golden Age and Golden Access Passport holders may purchase the pass at a 50% discount. The Golden Eagle Passport does not apply to the Regional Northwest Forest Pass. Click here to find where one can be obtained.
When To ClimbOptimal conditions for climbing Matterhorn occur from July through October.
CampingCamping is permitted in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, but is prohibited within 200 feet of streams.
Mountain ConditionsClick here to learn how to obtain information about road and trail conditions.
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