We will more or less follow the route of the Lostine-Minam Loop backpack described by Douglas Lorain in 'Backpacking Oregon’, but will not be following his suggested iteinerary. This trip is a tour of the headwaters of the Lostine and Minam Rivers located in the northwest corner of the Eagle Cap Wilderness of the Wallowa Mountains. As with most backpacks in the Wallowas, this trip has granite peaks, mountain lakes, alpine meadows and grand vistas. We begin our trip from the Two Pan Trailhead, spending our first night on Copper Creek at its confluence with Elkhorn Creek. We will continue around the loop in a clockwise direction staying at Steamboat Lake, John Henry Lake, and Chimney Lake. As an optional day hike, we will hike to Hobo and Wood Lakes (5.2 miles, +1750 feet). We will be five days on the trail. This trip is rated medium-hard. Total backpacking distance is 28 miles with 7,600 feet of elevation gain. Moderate pace. The weather is likely to be good, but be prepared for cold nights -- all camps are over 7,000 feet -- and for the possibility of rain or snow. Please contact leader at cooperrm50@gmail.com to sign up or for further information.
Driving: 770 miles RT