The Wallowa Mounains are spectactular! From the huge granite rock we camped on, sheared smooth by gigantic glaciers that moved across this area's valley floor eons ago, to the fantastic 9600 foot Eagle Cap Mountain reflected in the early morning calmness of Mirror Lake, paints an image in the hearts of every adventurer to this beautiful place.
Mirror Lake is one of my favorite camping spots in the Wallowas. To find this place, take Interstate 84 and exit at La Grande, Oregon. Turn North and follow the highway towards Joseph and the Wallowa Lake. Exit at a small town called Lostine and head east towards the valley between the mountain peaks. Park at Two Pan Trail Head and hike 8.5 Miles, taking the left fork in the trail towards Mirror Lake.
There are a couple of miles of uphill switchbacks in the beginning, then the terrain levels off and the trail heads East through a peaceful valley along a quiet stream. The trail takes you to the base of Eagle Cap and into several campsites. The trail actually continues around for several miles, past Moccasin Lake and Glacier Lake towards the North. For the very adventurous, the trail splits again just prior to Mirror Lake and winds it's way up the elevation climb to the top of Eagle Cap. Early in the morning, a quiet hiker can often view Deer, Elk and Big Horn Sheep along this trail. Best seen in August.