Eagle Cap Alpine Adventure- Hiker’s Paradise, OR

Backpacking among Oregon’s Glacial Lakes and Wild and Scenic Rivers!

Join this popular backcountry backpacking project in the stunning Eagle Cap Wilderness! The Eagle Cap Wilderness lies in the heart of the Wallowa Mountains in northeastern Oregon on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

The Hurricane Creek trail is a major access point for hikers and horses into the Eagle Cap Wilderness. View massive granite and limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildflowers along the trail. Gradually climb across subalpine meadows alternating with timbered areas. This route will provide panoramic views of Sacajawea, Matterhorn and Eagle Cap Peaks. Cross-country hiking in and around the basin provides spectacular views and photographic opportunities.

The 2026 project will focus on restoring a segment of the trail to Eagle Cap Summit which has been damaged by extensive erosion and heavy foot traffic. Volunteers will take part in hands-on rock work, including the installation of water bars and check dams, signpost and cairn installation, as well as tread stabilization along steep rocky terrain.

The worksite sits above Mirror Lake and Upper Lake, offering incredible views of the Lostine Valley and Lakes Basin. Each day will include meaningful elevation gain—up to 1,000 feet—as the crew hikes to and from the work site(s). In addition to the erosion restoration, there is an opportunity to rehabilitate braided trail sections, install and repair Restoration Site signage in impacted areas, and install water control features such as check dams, French drains, and water bars on Trail #1661 near Ivan Carper Pass by Upper Lake. Other opportunities may include fire ring deconstruction and campsite restoration at Upper or Mirror Lakes.

This project gives volunteers the chance to protect a beloved and highly trafficked Wilderness route, preserve fragile alpine landscapes, and directly improve trail safety and sustainability for years to come.

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

Avg. Temperature:

Typical weather for this area during this season has highs of around 75–80°F and lows of 45–50°F. Early August in northeastern Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains offers warm, dry days, cool nights, and generally light, infrequent showers.

Land Acknowledgment:

AHS acknowledges with gratitude that this project takes place on the traditional lands of the Nez Perce, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla people past and present. We honor the land itself, the Indigenous communities who have stewarded these islands and mountain landscapes for countless generations, and those who continue this stewardship today. This acknowledgement is one step in our ongoing commitment to uplift Indigenous voices. We invite the American Hiking Society community to learn about, support, and stand in solidarity with the Indigenous peoples whose lands we live, work, and recreate on.