Chipmunks and black bears are numerous enough that food must be hung at night for safe keeping. Campers also report nighttime visits from porcupines that chew fishing rod handles and sweaty backpack straps for their salt. Mule deer are commonly seen in the evenings and early mornings. Known chiefly from just three locations in the high Wallowas, this rare bird feeds on numbed insects that have fallen onto high snowfields. Its winter home is unknown.
Group size is limited to six.
Backpackers should note camping is banned within 200 feet of any lake. Campers are not allowed to cut firewood from standing trees, alive or dead. Because downed firewood is scarce, backpackers are strongly encouraged to bring a camp stove. You'll need a Trail Park permit to park at trailheads. They're available at most Forest Service offices and outdoor stores.