FS 39 is open, making it possible to complete the loop.
June 3 2026: The Forest Road 39, connecting Halfway and the Pine Valley with Joseph and Enterprise in the Wallowa Valley is now open for the season, and the scenery is amazing! This is the section of mountain road that connects the highlights of the scenic byway, including Halfway, the Snake River and Pine Valley with Joseph, Enterprise, Wallowa Lake and the Wallowa Valley, making it possible to drive the entire loop from Baker City to La Grande.
The Forest Service Road 39 is OPEN to passenger vehicles. Please drive with caution throughout the season, as there may be livestock or wildlife on the right of way and some sections are narrow. The entire FS39 is paved, including the two-mile side trip to the amazing views from the Hells Canyon Overlook.
Be aware that the road requires caution, especially around curves, due to debris, such as rocks and sticks, in the road early in the season. The road is paved throughout (including the two-mile side trip to the Hells Canyon Overlook you won’t want to miss), but some sections have potholes – so, another reason for taking the loop slowly, in addition to enjoying the scenery. Motorcyclists, please use extra caution and drive slowly to watch for potholes and over cattle guards on the road to the Hells Canyon Overlook. We have been told it is a rough crossing.
To get information about recreation on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest, go the website, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/wallowa-whitman/recreation. And stop by the ranger district office at Halfway or Joseph for the very latest on the condition of trails, campgrounds and backroads, as it is still early for the highest elevations.
