Joseph Wallowa County Hells Canyon Oregon Biking Hiking Dog Sled Races Fishing Hunting Rodeo

Wallowa County, located in northeast Oregon, is nestled in the arms of the majestic Wallowa Mountains, and is often referred to as the "Switzerland of America". The name Wallowa comes from the Nez Perce language and means "land of winding waters". With 3,100 flowing streams and 53 lakes within its boundaries, it certainly suits this scenic wonderland.

Recreation opportunities are vast and varied in Wallowa County. It is the gateway to the Hells Canyon Recreation Area, Eagle Cap Wilderness Area, and Wallowa Lake. Activities include: hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, hiking, camping, backpacking, horse back riding, pack trips on horse back, white-water float trips, the country's steepest gondola lift, photography, sight seeing, golfing, snowmobiling and winter skiing (both down-hill and cross-country), tours through the bronze foundries, museums, and shopping the many art galleries, gift stores, and specialty stores.

Art has become a key industry in the area, with a growing number of artists and craftsmen locating their studios here. There are three bronze foundries in the county and a unique art community has developed in Joseph. You'll find a first class selection of galleries with a wide variety of artists and mediums represented. Western and wildlife art is a featured subject at many of them. Joseph's main street is a virtual open air gallery, with original monumental bronze statuary on every corner. A large selection of artists and writers workshops are held throughout the year, sponsored by various galleries and organizations. The natural beauty, historic surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere all combine to inspire creativity which draws visitors back time and again.

The most famous of the many community events in the county is the annual Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, held the last full weekend in July. This PRCA sanctioned rodeo features professional rodeo athletes from across the country in top notch competition. The entire town of Joseph participates in the four day celebration that is highlighted with parades, dances, a carnival, arts and crafts fair, and four action packed rodeo performances. Chief Joseph Days is one of the Great Northwest's premier events of the summer, drawing visitors from around the world.

Below is a list of area attractions, local organizations, and a calendar of annual events with links to several websites where you'll find further information. We hope you'll consider a visit to this beautiful corner of Oregon and give us the opportunity to host your stay here.

A Cowboy's Riverfront Retreat

"Providing a restful haven to relax your mind and renew your spirit!"

Judy L. Bothum

810 Russell Lane ~ PO Box 727 ~ Joseph, Oregon 98746

judy@eaglecap.net

541-432-1775 or 541-398-0333

Organizations

www.chiefjosephdays.com Annual community celebration sponsored by the Joseph Chamber of Commerce featuring PRCA Rodeo, parades, dances, arts & crafts, carnival. Always the last full weekend in July

www.fishtrap.org This organization is dedicated to the development and promotion of the cultural arts. It sponsors a program of Writers Workshops, Poetry Readings, Cultural Activities and more.

www.wallowacountychamber.com This Chamber of Commerce site provides an overview of attractions, events, commerce, business resources, and government agencies. A beautiful look at Wallowa County

January 2008

Eagle Cap Dog Sled Races ~ 11-13

February 2008

Winter Fishtrap ~ TBA

www.fishtrap.org

March 2008

April 2008

May 2008

June 2008

Sagebrush Ramble Quilt Shop Hop ~ 2-7
Oregon Mountain Cruise Car Show ~ 13-14

Wallowa County 4-H Spring Fair ~ TBA

Mountain High Broncs & Bulls ~ TBA

July 2008

Fireworks at Wallowa Lake ~ 4
Summer Fishtrap (workshop) ~ 9-16

TamKaLiks Celebration, Nez Perce PowWow ~ 18-20
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo/Encampment ~ 22-27

August 2008

Wallowa County Fair ~ TBA

Bronze Blues & Brews Concert ~ 9

September 2008

Hells Canyon Mule Days ~ 5-7

www.hellscanyonmuledays.com

Imnaha Canyon Days ~ TBA
Alpenfest ~ 26-27

October 2008

6th Annual Quilt Shop Hop ~ TBA

November 2008

Inland Northwest Musicians Concert ~ TBA

Jingle Through Joseph ~ TBA

December 2008

Enterprise Winter Fest ~TBA

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