By the 1800s settlers were grazing sheep, cattle, and horses throughout the valley and canyons. Today the herds have greatly decreased in number but cattle allotments still exist in the area. Grazing impacts are minimal as ranchers work with Forest Service managers to monitor grazing activities closely under annual operating plans. These grazing activities still exist in wilderness due to the 1964 Wilderness Act which allows some traditional activities to continue as long as wilderness values are not compromised. Outfitters and Guides A number of Outfitters and Guides offer wilderness trips using backpacking, horses, and llamas under permit from the Forest Service.
Many outfitters offer a range of opportunities from drop camps to deluxe services.
Call the Wallowa Mountains Visitor Center for a complete list of permittees. Refer to the Outfitter and Guides section for more detailed information on services provided in each wilderness. In Halfway, at the Halfway Motels. In Unity, at Stratton Store. In La Grande, at Blue Mountain Sports.