Enterprise Travel Guide

Discover the best of Enterprise, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks, hiking routes to local delicacies. Plan your unforgettable trip to this charming destination.


Introduction to Enterprise

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Oregon, Enterprise offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventure. From the soaring peaks of the Wallowa Mountains to the quaint downtown streets lined with historic buildings, Enterprise has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an adrenaline-fueled vacation, or an immersive cultural experience, Enterprise is the ideal destination.

List of Places to Visit in Enterprise

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wallowa County Museum: Exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Wallowa County, from Native American artifacts to pioneer settlements.
  • Josephy Center for Arts and Culture: An arts center that features rotating exhibits of contemporary art, film screenings, and classes.
  • Minam State Recreation Area: A beautiful park with numerous walking and hiking trails, as well as fishing and picnicking opportunities.

Natural Attractions of Enterprise: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wallowa Lake: A stunning alpine lake offering hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
  • Hells Canyon National Recreation Area: A rugged canyon with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views, perfect for hiking, rafting, and camping.
  • Zumwalt Prairie: A vast and untouched prairie landscape with great opportunities for bird-watching and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Enterprise

Enterprise boasts an abundance of hiking and biking trails, each with its unique scenery and terrain. Some of the top trails to explore include:

  • Chief Joseph Trail: An easy 1.5-mile trail that winds along the scenic Wallowa River, perfect for families.
  • Hurricane Creek Trail: A moderate 4.5-mile trek that takes you through alpine meadows and past thundering waterfalls.
  • Wallowa Lake Trail: A multi-use trail that circles the entire lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Enterprise: Activities and Tours

  • Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tours: A thrilling boat tour that takes you along the Snake River, showcasing the rugged beauty of Hells Canyon.
  • Wallowa Lake Tramway: Take a leisurely ride up to the summit of Mount Howard, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Wallowa Mountains.
  • Wallowa County Farmers Market: A weekly market where you can try local produce, crafts, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Enterprise

Day 1: Explore downtown Enterprise and its historic buildings, such as the Enterprise City Hall and the Hurricane Creek Grange Hall.

Day 2: Hike the Chief Joseph Trail and admire the scenic Wallowa River.

Day 3: Visit the Wallowa County Museum and learn about the region’s history.

Day 4: Take a scenic drive through Zumwalt Prairie and enjoy bird watching.

Day 5: Spend a day at Wallowa Lake, hiking, fishing, and boating.

Day 6: Take a Jet Boat Tour and discover the dramatic Hells Canyon.

Day 7: Shop at the Wallowa County Farmers Market before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Enterprise

Must-Try Dishes

  • Baked trout: A local favorite, served with seasonal vegetables and a glass of local wine.
  • Elk burger: A unique spin on a classic dish, this hearty burger is topped with bacon and cheese.
  • Huckleberry pie: A sweet and tangy dessert made with locally-grown huckleberries.

Local Beverages

  • Terminal Gravity Brewing: A beloved local brewery that produces delicious and unique craft beer.
  • Spire Mountain Cider: A refreshing hard cider made with apples grown in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Joseph Oregon Wines: Some of the best wine grapes in the world are grown in this region.

Where to Stay in Enterprise: Hotels, Hostels and Guesthouses

  • Belle Pepper’s Bed & Breakfast: A charming B&B with a cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfasts.
  • Enterprise House Bed & Breakfast: A historic home-turned-inn, with elegant decor and beautiful gardens.
  • Indian Lodge Motel: A budget-friendly option conveniently located in downtown Enterprise.

What to Buy in Enterprise: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade pottery: Discover the unique style of local potters at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture.
  • Locally-made jam and preserves: Pick up a jar of homemade huckleberry jam or raspberry preserves at the Wallowa County Farmers Market.
  • Traditional Native American crafts: Explore the works of local artisans at the Nez Perce Homeland Project.

Local Culture and Customs of Enterprise

To truly experience the local culture in Enterprise, take part in one of the many events and festivals held throughout the year. Some of the most popular include the Wallowa County Fly-in, the Oregon Mountain Cruise Car Show, and the Tamkaliks Celebration, a traditional Nez Perce powwow.

Best Time to Visit Enterprise

The best time to visit Enterprise is during the summer months, when temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities are plentiful. However, the fall and spring seasons can also be lovely, with less crowds and stunning foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Enterprise

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty of the area by leaving no trace.
  • Embrace the local culture by attending festivals and events.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages for a truly immersive experience.

Don’t:

  • Enter private property without permission.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Enterprise

Enterprise is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should exercise caution when venturing into wilderness areas. Be sure to carry a map, plenty of water, and appropriate gear when hiking or camping.

Health in Enterprise

Visitors to Enterprise should be aware of the high elevation and take precautions accordingly. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Getting to Enterprise: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Enterprise

  • Eastern Oregon Regional Airport (PDT), located in Pendleton, Oregon, is the closest airport, roughly 3 hours from Enterprise.
  • Boise Airport (BOI), located in Boise, Idaho, is a major International airport, roughly 4 hours from Enterprise.

Bus Stations Near Enterprise

  • Greyhound offers daily service to La Grande, which is roughly 45 minutes from Enterprise by car.

Other Options

  • You can also explore the region on a road trip and rent a car.

How to Get Around in Enterprise

The best way to get around Enterprise is by car. Enterprise is a small town, and most attractions are within easy driving distance of one another.

Where to Go Next from Enterprise: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Joseph: A charming mountain town with quirky boutiques and a thriving arts scene.
  • La Grande: A larger town with a bustling downtown and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Baker City: A historic town with an abundance of museums and landmarks to explore.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a relaxing retreat, Enterprise is the perfect destination. From the soaring peaks of the Wallowa Mountains to the charming downtown streets, Enterprise promises to deliver an unforgettable vacation. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of Eastern Oregon.