North Powder River

The North Powder River is located in northeast Oregon in Baker County. It originates on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, high on the Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains, and flows generally northeast for 24 miles until it joins the Powder River. The North Powder River Valley is a glaciated valley characterized by craggy mountain tops reaching above the timberline. From its headwaters at nearly 7,900 feet, this small alpine stream is fed by waters from Meadow, Little Summit, and Summit Lakes.

The river’s name is derived from the Chinook words “polallie illahe,” which translates as “sandy” or “powdery ground” and is an apt description of the soils along the stream.

The North Powder River drainage is included within the ceded boundaries of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The area was utilized in prehistoric and historic times by members of the CTUIR for fishing, hunting, and religious purposes. The corridor was also periodically and seasonally visited by small groups from other tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock, and Northern Paiute. Native Americans still travel to the area to hunt, fish, camp, and gather, continuing the traditions established prior to Euro-American arrival.

The primitive road paralleling the stream is a portion of a route to early-day mining camps. This road was originally constructed in 1864 by the Dealy Wagon Road Company as one of the earliest routes across the Elkhorns to Bourne and Sumpter. As this was a difficult route, it was not heavily used, and easier alternate routes were constructed elsewhere. Historic references can be found to its early use, including by Native American travelers.

Visitors can access the river with four-wheel drive vehicles, mountain bikes, on horseback, or on foot on Forest Service roads and hiking trails. Popular activities include camping along the river at dispersed campsites, hunting, exploring the historic wagon route, and sightseeing.