Tenderfoot Trailhead

The Bonny Lakes via Tenderfoot Wagon Road trail offers a beautiful journey into the Eagle Cap Wilderness, leading you through diverse terrain to the stunning Bonny Lakes basin. You'll start on an old wagon road, now a singletrack trail, passing through forested sections and areas recovering from a wildfire, now bursting with wildflowers. Expect rocky terrain and basalt outcroppings before a steep push to the two picturesque Bonny Lakes, which often reflect the surrounding peaks like Aneroid Mountain. The basin itself is celebrated for its beauty and abundant wildflowers, making it a top choice in the Wallowas.

This moderate 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike involves 1321 feet (403 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 1 hour and 54 minutes. Be aware that the Forest Road 100 leading to the Tenderfoot Trailhead is known for being very rocky, bumpy, and narrow, so plan your vehicle choice accordingly. The prime season for experiencing the trail's vibrant wildflower displays is typically from July through mid-October.

What sets this trail apart is its ability to offer a more serene and peaceful hiking experience compared to other popular areas within the Lakes Basin. The Tenderfoot Trailhead sits at a higher elevation, providing a shortcut into the mountains with less initial climbing. Beyond the stunning scenery and geological features like columnar basalt, you might spot wildlife such as pikas and monarch butterflies, and the lakes serve as an excellent base for further exploration into the wilderness.

Hike the difficult 19.5-mile Tenderfoot Wagon Road in Eagle Cap Wilderness, gaining 3636 feet with diverse scenery and viewpoints.