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9,838 ft · Wallowa Mountains, Oregon

Sacajawea Peak

Sacajawea Peak is a 9,838 ft peak in the Wallowa Mountains, Oregon. The standard route is the Hurricane Creek Trail: 16 mi, 5,600 ft of gain, Class 2.

Sacajawea Peak in the Wallowa Mountains, Oregon

Sacajawea Peak at a glance

  • Elevation9,838 ft2,998 m
  • RouteHurricane Creek TrailClass 2
  • Distance16 mi5,600 ft gain
  • Time11 – 13 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeWallowa MountainsOregon

Climbing the Hurricane Creek Trail

From Enterprise or Joseph, Oregon, drive to the Hurricane Creek Trailhead to approach Sacajawea Peak, a highpoint of the Wallowa Mountains. This is a long Class 2 route up the creek and steep upper slopes, often done as an overnight given the mileage and gain. Expect loose rock, snow lingering into midsummer, steep exposure near the top, and quick storms with strong wind. Cross streams carefully during spring melt. Carry a filter, navigation, and warm layers, and start early for the long day. This is remote, rugged alpine country, so plan for self-sufficiency and keep an eye on building weather. A self-issue wilderness permit is required.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (40–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Emergency Bivy
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • Loose rock
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Steep exposure
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Remote location
  • Stream crossing
  • High altitude
  • Rockfall
  • Low visibility

Quests with Sacajawea Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Sacajawea Peak?

Sacajawea Peak is 9,838 feet (2,998 m) tall. It is in the Wallowa Mountains, Oregon.

How hard is it to hike Sacajawea Peak?

The Hurricane Creek Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 16 miles with 5,600 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Sacajawea Peak?

Most people take 11 – 13 hours round trip on the Hurricane Creek Trail, covering 16 miles with 5,600 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Can a beginner hike Sacajawea Peak?

The Hurricane Creek Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard day: 16 miles with 5,600 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

When is the best time to hike Sacajawea Peak?

The usual hiking window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Sacajawea Peak?

The Hurricane Creek Trail starts at about 5,050 feet, roughly 4,788 feet below the summit.

Climb Sacajawea Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list