The best walks and hikes in Union County

A popular summit in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, this high point offers views of the Wallowa Mountains in all directions. It's a lot of fun to pick out points you've visited in the valley below. While the climb is long, it is not exceptionally steep or technical. A well defined trail leads to the top, making this one of the easiest peaks to summit in the area.

A small cirque above Mirror Lake, Upper Lake offers a quiet spot for camping as well as a good water source for filtering below the Ivan Carper and Horton Passes.

Mirror Lake is one of the most popular destinations in the Wallowa Mountains, so don't be surprised when you find a lot of people camping along its shores. Most maps show a camping symbol on the northwest corner of the lake; this is where people will likely head to set up camp (it's where we went in the dark!). If you are willing to hike further to the east, you'll find some great locations (try crossing the creek on the east side - really great camps up on the granite!). Be sure to pitch your tent at least 100 feet from the lakes or wetlands - you will be asked to move by the rangers if you set up too close.

This island campsite offers great views across the lake towards Pete's Point, which catches the sunset light and turns pink in the distance. Running water is readily available from the lake outflow. Pika live in the nearby scree, making for fun wildlife observations, and as this is off the main lake, you'll find a little more solitude at this popular camping destination.

Every time we have enjoyed the atmosphere at Anthony Lake, it has been surprisingly quiet with far fewer people present than expected. The lake has a boat launch and is very accessible for bringing a canoe or other water vessel. A popular place for fishing, the scenic mountains surrounding the lake make you feel truly disconnected from the world in the best way possible. There is a trail around the entire perimeter of the lake that is great for a stroll with pets or children - or even yourself! The lake also has camping, both RV and tent sites available, along with 3 yurts you can reserve to lengthen your stay.

True to its name, the lake is blanketed with a plethora of lily pads. The lake is just off the side of the Black Lake trail, accessible by the boat launch to Anthony Lake. Come early enough and you might even hear the croak of hundreds of bullfrogs.

Jubilee Lake offers an array of outdoor recreational activities and is accessible from numerous locations. There are several day use areas as well as a campground (fee required). With boating and fishing access, hiking trails, and basic amenities such as toilets, potable water, and picnic areas, this is a frequented area in the national forest.

Anthony Lake is located at a lung burning 7,100 feet. Many people flock here in the summer as the large campground stays pretty cool in the warmest months and the scenery offers a nice mix of rocky boulders, conifers, and tranquil views.