This is a great trail for those hot summer days mainly because it makes its way through lush, green, old growth forest. It begins over a mile high and descends at a steady rate along the North Fork Walla Walla River before making a steep climb up to its junction with
Table Springs/ Bear Creek Trail.
The first few miles of the trail is single track. Once you reach a camping area and the junction with the Tiger Ridge Trail (#3224), which provides ATV access, the North Fork Walla Walla Trail will continue at ATV width (50″) for about another 3.5 miles. Since this trail is frequently used by ATVs, it is typically maintained quite well.
After the 3.5 miles on ATV width trail, you will arrive at a bridge crossing and begin to make your way back uphill along a steep single track trail for the next 3.5 miles. From this point you have the option of going back along the North Fork Walla Walla Trail or loop back around via the
Table Springs/ Bear Creek Trail (roughly the same distance as traveling back along the North Fork Walla Walla Trail but includes six miles of very rough forest road travel). This trail lends itself to backpacking as there are camping opportunities along the way.
Regulations
Motorized vehicles: Class 1 ATV (50″ or less in width) and class 3 ATV (motorcycles) only. Must have current ORV registration and ATV safety card (motorcycles are a class III ATV). Safety cards are free online if over age 16 and those are good for life. Riders under 16 must take a hands on course. Full details at the Oregon Online ATV Safety Education Course website.
Wildlife Awareness
We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains and Walla Walla Valley. So many opportunities exist to play outside, whether in a national forest, wilderness area, or on a Wild and Scenic River. With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild.
Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur.
Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice.
Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day’s adventure is taking you.
Field Notes
Navigation: Consider downloading the Avenza Map app. This app allows users to upload three maps (or unlimited with a subscription) to use offline. It can track your location offline and overlay GPS data from the phone onto the map. The vehicle use maps (for trails allowing motorized vehicles) are the easiest to use.
Otherwise, Geo Tracker offers similar tracking capabilities and additional details about your adventure. If no service, Geo Tracker will at least show your location. The Blue Mountains and surrounding area offer a remote recreating experience, and knowing your location is paramount to staying safe. Always make sure to bring paper maps. Tell others where your adventure is taking you and when you expect to return.
Pets: In general, pets are allowed on a leash and under control throughout jurisdictions. The only restrictions we have encountered are around swimming areas. As a best practice, be mindful of riparian habitat in general. You never know where a precious spawning area might be located. Pack it in and pack it out applies to your furry friend as well.
Disclaimer: While the Outside Walla Walla team has enjoyed all the adventures listed on this site, we cannot provide real-time conditions & maintenance reports. Extreme weather can change access overnight. Volunteer groups might lose capacity to manage trail systems. We do our best to report that information and update our site accordingly, but please read our Disclaimer (footer) and proceed with any adventure as your comfort level allows.
