The lightly traveled Alta Lake Trail begins at Wallowa Creek and climbs two miles to the open forestland on the south slope of Gopher Ridge. The trail then continues on to junction with the Middle Fork, King Spruce, and Seven Lakes Trails. Good camping areas are present both to the east and west of Alta Lake on high ground. There is no horse feed available at Alta Lake. Water is present only at Boulder Pond and Alta Lake and Boulder Pond may be dry by September. Visitors should be aware that water in the wilderness and backcountry areas might not be safe to drink. Water is not tested and should be purified before drinking.

Note: Always camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, and trails. Please practice "no-trace" camping. This will increase the carrying capacity of the land and allow each visitor a chance to experience the solitude they seek in this special area.

Directions: From Butte Falls, Travel northeast on Highway #992 (Prospect- Butte Falls Highway) out of town 9 miles to Forest Service Road #34. Turn east and continue 9.5 miles to road #3785. Turn north and follow this road 3 miles to the Alta Lake trailhead. Parking is limited at the trailhead to turnouts along the road. There is room to turn a horse trailer around.

Elevation: 4,800 feet

Ending Elevation: 6,800 feet

Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet

Distance: 6.2 miles

Usage: Light

Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous

Visitor Information