Near the North Fork Malheur Campground

Malheur National Forest

The North Fork Malheur River is also prized by fishermen. Follow all posted rules when fishing here.

Elevation: 4000-4880'

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Season: April to November

Allowed Activities: Hiking and horse use. ATVs and mountain bikes prohibited.

Use: Light

The North Fork Malheur River is accessed via much the same route as the Monument Rock Wilderness. From US Highway 26, turn south in downtown Prairie City at a sign for Depot Park. After 0.4 miles, turn left at a stop sign and continue on what becomes County Road 62. After about 8 miles, turn left onto FS Rd #13. Continue on this paved road until you reach FS Rd #16. The meadows at this intersection may be explored or continue south on FS Rd #16, passing Elk Creek CG before arriving at the intersection with FS Rd #1675 (gravel). Turn left (east) onto this road. Begin looking for wildflowers (several species of fleabanes, Allium, and Calochortus eurycarpus may be found in the woods and dry openings here. Continue down FS Rd #1675 until reaching the riparian meadows along the North Fork Malheur River. These could be explored for spring wildflowers. The North Fork Malheur CG affords another place to botanize as does the meadows at the trailhead for the North Fork Malheur Trail (#381). The trail closely follows the west bank of the river. Few person hike it, and it is a good spot for a leisurely stroll in search of flowers or birds. The area near North Fork Malheur CG also features some large diameter Western Larches.

From the north trailhead cross to the west bank via a foot bridge. The rest of the trail meanders southward along the west bank of the river, passing both through or near riparian meadows and coniferous forest in the Wild and Scenic River Area.

Partial Flora for the North Fork Malheur River

July 5, 2002: North Fork Malheur Camp Ground, Malheur N. F.