Max slope angle
15-30 Degrees
Vertical descent
2,200.00 ft (670.56 m)
Distance
4.00 mi (6.44 km)
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Wing Ridge is the go-to backcountry ski location for northeast Oregon. Easy access from the small town of Joseph and a variety of terrain make it appealing for backcountry skiers of all abilities. Salt Creek Sno-Park has a warming hut for use before and after skiing, and it also has some great views of Wing Ridge. 

Thick stands of lodgepole pine make route finding difficult, so consider hiring a guide from Wallowa Alpine Huts to show you around and keep you safe if you're new to the area. 

After navigating the web of cross-country ski trails and dense trees, gain one of the many smaller ridges that leads to the larger Wing Ridge. Wind slabs and large cornices often keep skiers from reaching the top of Wing Ridge, but the best skiing can often be found lower down where wind and avalanche danger is less of an issue.

Logistics + Planning

Parking Pass

Sno-Park Parking Permit (required in OR + WA 11.01 thru 04.30)

Pros

Great views. Easy access. Good snow.

Cons

Route finding. Tricky snowpack.

Trailhead Elevation

6,100.00 ft (1,859.28 m)

Location

Comments

Been to Wing Ridge many times over the past 20 years. One of the best places I've ever skied!
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