A paved, easily accessible trail follows some of the best preserved and most scenic traces of the Oregon Trail. Interpretive panels depict the pioneers struggle through the tall trees and over the rugged Blues. Living history presentations some weekends. Settlement era logging exhibit. Picnic area, hiking trails, restrooms and drinking water. Open weekends and holidays, May to October. Operated by the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest trail park fee.
Experience the Oregon Trail as the pioneers did! Some of the best-preserved traces of the Historic Oregon Trail await you on this forested ridge. Walk among stately Ponderosa pines that still bear the scars made by passing wagons over 150 years ago. Meander on a gentle footpath next to wagon-wide depressions. Enjoy the sweeping view that met the emigrant’s eyes so long ago. Choose a Discovery Trail and literally walk in the footsteps of the pioneers.
The Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing is a combination interpretive trail and picnic area. Facilities include large parking areas, paved accessible trails, drinking water restrooms and interpretation panels. Living history re-enactments are periodically available on holidays. The site may be staffed on weekends or holidays.
Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing is where the Oregon Trail passed through the rugged Blue Mountains. Knowing that this was the last mountain range they would cross must have helped emigrants find the strength to climb the Blue Mountains. Trail swales and scars on stately Ponderosa pines made by passing wagons reveal the struggle emigrants faced in this rugged, and beautiful, mountain range.
The Interpretive Park is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and offers a half-mile, wheelchair-accessible interpretive loop, walking paths along Oregon Trail swales, and occasional living history programs. Bicycle and equestrian use is allowed on the trails. Amenities include picnic tables, drinking water, and restrooms. Interpretive panels throughout the park help to tell the story. This is a great place for kids to stretch their legs and their minds. Modest admission is charged.
