Winter fun can be found in many locations in Union and Wallowa Counties, Winter time can be very enjoyable as well for tourist and local residents. La Grande is the hub to the great outdoors in Eastern Oregon.
Ski Fergi – Winter fun weekend skiers, snowboarders and sledders head out to the volunteer operated Ferguson Ridge Ski Area about 9 miles east of Joseph off Tucker Down Road. The family – oriented community ski area includes a T-bar lift, a rope tow for beginners, a sledding hill, a small warming lodge with kitchen, ski and snowboard rentals, and offers eight trails for all levels of expertise.
Back Country Skiing – Many experience skiers, often with seasoned professional guides, head for back country starting at Salt Creek Summit every year. Be extremely aware of and prepared for avalanche conditions. Check with www.wallowaavalanchecenter.org for conditions.
Ice Skating – The Wallowa Valley Community Ice Rink, assembled each winter at Enterprise City Park, is free 9am to 9pm to skaters from young children to hockey players all winter long. It si said to be the only un-refrigerated ice rink ini Oregon, and it stays open until the spring thaw, ice conditions permitting. Visit the Wallowa Valley Community Ice Rink page on Facebook to check on the current rink status.
Snowmobiling – The is opportunity in both Wallowa and Union Counties. There are trail heads that are located at the base of the mountain ranges. There are some trails that are groomed in the area. Most of the drivers volunteer their time from the snowmobile clubs. The mountains in Eastern Oregon offer open meadows with timber draws and along the groomed trail. You can get some great views of the valleys and the mountains. Snowmobiling can be a lot of fun for the whole family.
Cross Country Skiing – There are numerous areas to enjoy cross country skiing. The Meacham Nordic Divide is very popular that is located off I-84 near the Spring Creek Exit. Local residents also enjoy using the Mount Emily Recreational Area. There is over 3,000 acres of forest and open meadows to take in.