Northwest Expeditions

Wilderness Backpacking

Take an exhilarating trip through Northeastern Oregon's Eagle Cap Wilderness. Ascend the peak of Eagle Cap, rising 9,595 feet above sea-level, and view alpine meadows and mountain lakes.

The Eagle Cap Wilderness is characterized by high alpine lakes and meadows, bare granite peaks and ridges and u-shaped valleys carved out by glaciers. Each season brings its own unique visitors to the area.

Lace up your boots and head into Oregon's remote Wallowa Mountains. Explore this wonderland of more than fifty glacial lakes, miles of streams designated as National Wild and Scenic Rivers, hundreds of soaring peaks, and open meadows with elk, deer, bighorn sheep, coyote, black bear, and cougar. Climb Aneroid, Chief Joseph, and Matterhorn Mountains; hike the Eagle River, Cliff Creek, and Deadman Canyon; or visit Razz, Blue, and Bonny Lakes. During the summer months, you might see white-tailed deer, rocky mountain elk, or black bears munching on huckleberries. On rare occasions you might spot a rocky mountain bighorn sheep or mountain goat.

In the winter months turn your eyes to the sky in search of a peregrine falcon or bald eagle. Winter months bring heavy snowfall to Eagle Cap, creating many opportunities for backcountry skiing and other snowy recreation.

Eagle Cap Wilderness

Join us on our next adventure:

June 30th - July 5th, 2019 @ Eagle Cap Wilderness

Meet at Halfway, Oregon

Leader: Wally Wanderer

$350.00 per person | All meals included

What to Bring

  • Rain jacket (or poncho), lightweight, waterproof and breathable
  • Sleeping bag (rated to 30-35° F), lightweight, compressible down or synthetic material is best
  • Sun hat with brim
  • Lightweight thermal underwear top and bottom, synthetic or wool
  • Hiking pants
  • Hiking shorts
  • Long-sleeve shirt
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear
  • Hiking socks
  • Liner socks
  • Swimsuit

Micah Hollister

Boulder, Colorado

“I enjoyed hiking around the rim, stopping often to catch my breath and take pictures. The weather was near perfect, with early views of a pair of snow capped peaks. I was unprepared for the sunshine though and subsequently burnt my nose for the umpteenth time this trip. It was awesome—I can’t wait to return.”

Alistair McAllister

Walla Walla, Washington

“Seeing Norway in a way that most tourists would not. I didn't think an active vacation would include such insights into the history and lifestyles of the general population. All this while participating in activities I love, with people that enjoy them as well.”

Carrie Onmiwheywardson

Lawrence, Kansas

“The helpfulness and friendliness of the guides, Julian and Christine were great; they really made the trip enjoyable; there was really nothing negative about the trip; I would recommend that Portland Outdoor Recreation explain in the trip details that travelers can bring their own tent, if they choose.”