Battle Creek Trail

This information provided by USDA Forest Service All the trails that lead into the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area consist of great elevation changes but also offer panoramic views of the canyon country. Steep, rocky, jagged canyon walls rise up from Battle Creek providing interesting views. In the early spring many wildflowers may be seen along the trail. This trail offers excellent wildlife viewing, such as elk, bighorn sheep, deer and bear. Remains of the Winchester mining site in lower Battle Creek are still visible. Barton Heights is accessible from this trail. It is a wonderful viewpoint of the river and has good dispersed campsites. CONSIDERATIONS: A Northwest Forest Pass is required at P.O. Saddle Trailhead. Ten campsites are available at P.O. Saddle. They are suitable for tent camping or pull-through truck and trailer camping. There are vault toilets and fire rings available in addition to hitch rails, a stok loading ramp, stock water, corrals and ample parking. After the first mile the trail is open to foot and stock travel only, since it is in the Hells Canyon Wilderness. The trail is easy to follow but there are a few rocky and steep sections along the trail. Be aware of poison ivy and rattlesnakes that may be along the lower portion of the trail. Directions from Joseph, OR.: Take State Highway #350, Drive approximately 8 miles, turn right on to Road #39 (Wallowa Mountain Loop Road). Go approximately 31.5 miles, turn left at Forest Road #3965 (Hells Canyon Overlook) which is a paved 2-lane road for approximately three miles. Continue past the Hells Canyon Overlook on a gravel road until you reach P.O. Saddle, approximately 7 miles. There is a gate here that is usually locked late September through late June. Take trail #1774 which leads you to Trail #1784.