Ascend To Heaven's Gate
Looking for a view to end all views? At 8,429 feet high, Heaven's Gate marks the very top of the divide between the Snake and Salmon Rivers, the two deepest river gorges in North America. To the south tower the Seven Devils Mountains, lingering snow contrasting sharply with the dark basalt peaks. To the west the Wallowa Mountains rise above the Oregon rim. To the east the Gospel and Bitterroot Mountains are often visible above the breaks of the Salmon. And on a clear day, you can see forever-or at least as far as four different states. The trail up to Heaven's Gate is just 660 yards, but the elevation alone can leave you short of breath. The route climbs nearly 300 feet as it winds its way to the crest of the mountain through open stands of white-bark pine and subalpine fir.

Ride To Hell And Back
The Western Rim Trail offers mountain bikers (plus hikers, horseback riders, and motorcyclists) 15 miles of single-track and Jeep trails, all at an elevation of 5,600-6,000 feet. Grind up and hammer down three challenging, steep saddles (Indian Grave, 7 Mile, and 9 Mile). Take frequent water breaks and enjoy spectacular views of the Hells Canyon Wilderness and the Snake River Canyon; check out Somers Point for a memorable look down into the canyon at the frothy waters far below. Varying from gradual to steep to gradual again, Windy Ridge Trail rewards mountain bikers with both panoramic views and wildlife sightings. Be aware that some side trails off of Windy Ridge's nine miles of single-track require technical skills to deal with very steep ups and downs.

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