7 Things You Must See, Do, Eat & Drink in Joseph, Oregon
Are you planning a once-in-a-lifetime whitewater rafting or guided fly fishing adventure to Eastern Oregon? If you’ve never been to the area before, you’re in for a real treat! There’s so much to do, see, eat, and drink in Joseph– beyond enjoying the great outdoors that is!
In this month’s post, we’ll show you some of our favorite Joseph, Oregon hotspots that your whole family will love. There’ll be great ideas for day hikes, fun side trips for the whole family, and places to relax and have fun in town for the non-fishermen!
Key Takeaways
- Explore top Joseph, Oregon attractions like the Wallowa County Farmers Market, Wallowa Lake Tram, and local art studios for a perfect mix of adventure and small-town charm.
- Enjoy outdoor activities beyond whitewater rafting—try mountain biking, scenic hikes, or a tram ride to Mount Howard for panoramic Wallowa Mountain views.
- Taste local flavor at Joseph’s must-visit spots such as Red Horse Coffee Traders, Embers Brew House, and Terminal Gravity Brewery for authentic coffee, pizza, and craft beer experiences.
- Discover local craftsmanship with visits to Valley Bronze, Olaf Pottery, and Moonshine Glass to appreciate Joseph’s artistic side inspired by its natural surroundings.
- Recharge with great local food after a day outdoors—favorites like Imnaha Tavern and Rim Rock Restaurant deliver hearty, locally sourced meals that capture the spirit of Eastern Oregon.
- Plan your adventure with Winding Waters to experience the best of whitewater rafting in Joseph, Oregon—combining thrilling rapids with breathtaking scenery and expert guides.
1. Don’t Miss the Wallowa County Farmers Market!
Every Saturday morning (well, from May through October), "Joseph Oregon Things to Do" comes alive as locals and tourists shop at the Wallowa County Farmers Market -- one of the top Joseph Oregon attractions. You’ll find tons of amazing, delicious, fresh local produce, as well as free-range meat, Oregon artwork and crafts, and much more.
There’s even live music and other fun events!
2. You’ll Love the Mountain Bike Trails
In addition to world-class whitewater rafting, Eastern Oregon is home to some of the best mountain biking in the entire world (in our humble opinion). Our local multi-use trails offer anywhere from 7-20 miles of incredible single track. There are options for beginners and expert riders alike. There’s plenty of hills, too– if you’re looking for a challenge!
These trails offer breathtaking views of the Wallowa Mountains Oregon and even glimpses of Hells Canyon Overlook :
- Redmont Trail Network – This trail system offers with amazing views of the Wallowa and Seven Devils mountain ranges and beautiful forests.
- Wagon Road Trail – This trail is a 5-mile out and back that’s best for more experienced riders. You’ll love the challenging switchbacks on this trail!
Don’t Forget : You can get a free map of local trails from the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce !
3. Take a Trip on The Tram
Looking for an amazing view without having to ride your bike up a mountain? The whole family will love the Wallowa Lake Tram ! The tram gains nearly 4,000 feet in elevation, ending at the top of Mount Howard– a bit over 8,000 feet above sea level.
From there, you can enjoy lunch at Summit Grill. Then take a fun (but challenging) hike on the East Peak Trail, all the way to Aneroid Peak (9,700+ feet above sea level).
4. Choose Your Brew: Coffee or Beer?
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Whether you’re looking for a coffee to get you going in the morning or a local craft beer to wind down at the end of the day, Joseph, Oregon attractions has you covered!
Our favorite local spots:
- Red Horse Coffee Traders – Right in downtown Joseph, a great spot to hit up before seeing the sights or visiting the Farmers Market.
- Arrowhead Chocolates & Coffee – Another downtown Joseph staple (find it on Main Street!), their chocolates have won national awards!
- Terminal Gravity Brewery – Located in nearby Enterprise, Oregon, we love Terminal Gravity Brewery! Great beer and great food! Their TG IPA is rightfully world-famous!
- Embers Brew House – The biggest selection of local microbrews plus some of the best pizza around! A great spot to catch a live band, too– after a day of catching Rainbow Trout !
5. See Local Artwork You’ll Love!
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From endless blue skies to raging rivers to towering mountains, the natural beauty of Eastern Joseph Oregon has inspired local artists for generations. When you’re visiting Joseph, Oregon, make sure to check out:
- Valley Bronze – For more than 35 years, they’ve been casting bronze statues that are seen around the world!
- Olaf Pottery – Schedule a tour to see an amazing pottery artist in action!
- Moonshine Glass – Amazing, hand-blown glasswork. Russell Ford’s creations are not only beautiful, they’re functional! He makes bowls, vases, and even beer steins!
6. Can’t-Miss Day Hikes
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While many people visit Joseph, Oregon for an unforgettable white water rafting adventure, we can’t not mention the area’s incredible day hikes!
A few of our favorites include:
- Maxwell Lake
- Brownie Basin
- Mirror Lake
- Bonnie Lakes and Dollar Pass
- LaGore Lake
- Ruby Peak
- Copper Creek Basin
- Blue Hole from Indian Crossing Trailhead (The area’s best swimming hole, in our humble opinion!)
7. Kick Back & Enjoy A Great Meal!
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Yes, Joseph is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. But is there anything more satisfying than a delicious meal after a day outdoors? We don’t think so!
Luckily, Joseph is home to some really incredible restaurants that specialize in serving great meals made from local ingredients.
- Imnaha Tavern – Perfect for adventurous eaters. Try the deep-fried frog legs, chicken gizzards, and rattlesnake. Or just enjoy an ice-cold PBR at this local hangout.
- Rim-Rock Restaurant – Located on Highway 3, overlooking Joseph Creek Canyon the Rim Rock is a perfect place to stop for a meal! The Rim Rock Burger is always a crowd pleaser! And don’t forget to save room for a piece of Chocolate Cream Pie!
Photo Credits:
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via VisualHunt
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Photo credit: theslowlane
via Visualhunt.com
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Photo credit: ex_magician
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Photo credit: Eric Gropp
via Visual hunt
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Photo credit: Sam Beebe, Ecotrust
via VisualHunt.com
/ CC BY
Bonus: More Adventures and Attractions in Joseph Oregon
If you’re still wondering what to do in Joseph Oregon, consider these additional ideas:
- Camping at Anthony Lakes Campground, Blackhorse Campground, or Moccasin Creek Campground Georgia
- Exploring Hells Canyon Visitor Center and Hat Point Overlook
- Enjoying Wallowa Lake activities like boating and fishing
- Visiting during fun Joseph Oregon events or checking the Joseph Oregon weather for the perfect hike
- Planning stops on your way from Boise to Joseph Oregon or when asking where is Joseph Oregon
or take a multi-day trip like the Salmon River 6-Day Rafting Adventure.
Ready for Adventure?
Looking for your next outdoor thrill?
Book Whitewater Raftings with Winding Waters today and make memories that will last a lifetime in Joseph, Oregon!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a visit to Joseph, Oregon? Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask about things to do, see, eat, and experience in this beautiful Eastern Oregon town.
What are the top things to do in Joseph, Oregon?
Don’t miss exploring the Wallowa County Farmers Market, riding the Wallowa Lake Tram to Mount Howard, and hiking the scenic trails around Wallowa Lake. Art lovers can tour local studios, while foodies will enjoy local breweries, coffee shops, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Where is Joseph, Oregon located?
Joseph is located in Eastern Oregon, near the stunning Wallowa Mountains and Hells Canyon. It’s about a six-hour drive from Portland and offers easy access to Wallowa Lake, one of Oregon’s most beautiful alpine lakes.
What is Joseph, Oregon known for?
Joseph is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting and hiking, and its vibrant arts scene. It’s often called the “Little Switzerland of Oregon” thanks to its alpine views and welcoming small-town charm.
When is the best time to visit Joseph, Oregon?
The best time to visit Joseph is from late spring through early fall (May–October). The weather is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor dining. During this time, the Farmers Market, local events, and art galleries are also in full swing.
What are the best hikes near Joseph, Oregon?
Top hikes include Maxwell Lake, Mirror Lake, and Ruby Peak for breathtaking alpine views. For something shorter, try the East Peak Trail from the top of the Wallowa Lake Tram. Each offers unique scenery—from wildflower meadows to mountain overlooks.
What are the best restaurants in Joseph, Oregon?
Locals love Rim Rock Restaurant for hearty meals and stunning canyon views, and Imnaha Tavern for adventurous eats. Embers Brew House is perfect for pizza and craft beer, while Arrowhead Chocolates offers award-winning treats and coffee.
Are there good breweries or coffee shops in Joseph?
Yes! Terminal Gravity Brewery in nearby Enterprise is famous for its TG IPA and great food. In Joseph, Red Horse Coffee Traders and Arrowhead Chocolates serve up delicious coffee and locally made snacks in a cozy atmosphere.
What are the best family-friendly activities in Joseph?
Families can enjoy the Wallowa Lake Tram, the Farmers Market, local art galleries, and easy hikes around Wallowa Lake. The mountain bike trails also have beginner-friendly routes, and there’s plenty of great food and music in town to keep everyone happy.
What’s special about the Wallowa Lake Tram?
The Wallowa Lake Tram is a must-do attraction. It climbs nearly 4,000 feet to the top of Mount Howard, offering panoramic views of the Wallowa Mountains. Once at the summit, visitors can dine at the Summit Grill or hike scenic alpine trails.
Can you go camping near Joseph, Oregon?
Absolutely. Popular nearby campgrounds include Anthony Lakes, Blackhorse, and Moccasin Creek. Many are surrounded by lakes and forests, offering perfect spots for fishing, kayaking, and stargazing under Eastern Oregon’s clear night skies.
What are some unique local attractions in Joseph?
Visit Valley Bronze Foundry to see world-class bronze sculptures, or stop by Olaf Pottery and Moonshine Glass for handmade art. The nearby Hells Canyon Overlook and Hat Point also offer some of the most stunning views in the Pacific Northwest.
How can I plan a whitewater rafting trip in Joseph, Oregon?
Book a guided rafting adventure with Winding Waters River Expeditions. They offer trips for all experience levels, complete with expert guides and beautiful routes through Hells Canyon and the Snake River. It’s one of the best ways to experience Eastern Oregon’s wild beauty.
