Iwetemlaykin State Heritage Site (Oregon)

This small park hosts a pond, several creeks (actually irrigation ditches) and frequently mule deer and other wildlife. 

Starting from the trailhead, you will switchback gradually up to a general plateau. There are ups and downs, but really not much elevation change. Wander about as you like. All three main trails dead-end at roads. A quiet little pond is a great place to sit and reflect. Dry pine forest and shrub-steppe environments are well represented here.

Extend your hike

A great addition to this walk is to visit a nearby National Park Service administered grave site. Chief Joseph’s grave is here in a fittingly beautiful spot.

To reach this second location, turn left (southeast and uphill, eventually) when you reach the little pond. This trail will end at Wallowa Lake Highway. Walk 200 yards down this road to the gravesite park on the right. You may also drive there from the original trailhead just a quarter mile down the road. Trail distance includes all trails in the park.