Length:  37.5 miles
Trailhead(s):  Bowman Trailhead
Elevation Gain:  6,982’
Trail Type:  Loop
Dogs:  Allowed
Difficulty:  Moderate
Permit Required?  No
Considerations:  
Season:  Late Fall to Early Fall

Overview of the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop

If you’re ready for an immersive multi-day adventure in Oregon’s Eagle Cap Wilderness, the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop offers a diverse blend of challenging climbs, alpine lakes, and dense forests. This five-day backpacking itinerary begins and ends at the Bowman Trailhead and takes you through a series of remarkable trails—including the Bowman Trail, Woods Lake Trail, a side trip to John Henry Lake, the North Minam Trail, Copper Creek Trail, and the Minam Lake Trail. Here’s a detailed, day-by-day breakdown of what to expect along this unforgettable loop.

Day 1: Approaching Chimney Lake and Soaring Vistas

Your journey on the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop begins at the Bowman Trailhead, where the cool morning air and dappled sunlight usher you into the serene wilderness. Follow the Bowman Trail until you take a right onto the Woods Lake Trail leading to Chimney Lake. Although the climb to Chimney Lake can feel like a bit of a “schlog” – with many sections winding through thick woods and a few steep moments – the reward is undeniable.

Along the trail to Chimney Lake, you will pass Laverty Lake. The views of the lake are very pretty from numerous angles, so get your camera ready.

Once at Chimney Lake, you’ll find that the lake is exceptionally beautiful, its still waters reflecting rugged skylines. Note, however, that while there are numerous camp sites around Chimney Lake, privacy is scarce and it is a popular day-hiker destination (although we were fortunate enough to have the lake to ourselves this first night on the trail).

Before settling in for the night at Chimney Lake, be sure to hike further up the pass toward Woods Lake. Along the climb you will have outstanding views of the Wallowas, including an impressive glimpse of Eagle Cap.

This first day of hiking is really fantastic. It sets the tone for an itinerary filled with surprises and breathtaking scenery on the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop.

Day 2: Cascading Waterfall and the Marshy Charm of John Henry Lake

With renewed energy, break camp at Chimney Lake and head back to the Bowman Trail. The trail meanders downward, revealing intermittent views on the way to an unnamed waterfall that makes for a great camping spot for night two. Along the way, the landscape alternates between open vistas near the pass and thicker stands of trees as you descend.

About halfway to the waterfall, take the side trip to John Henry Lake on the John Henry Lake Trail. This detour leads you through marshy meadows and presents reflective waters that contrast with the dynamic energy of the waterfall section. Although John Henry Lake offers a scenic setting and a few campsites, its surroundings are dominated by marshy conditions that aren’t ideal for prolonged camping.

Back on the Bowman Trail and after achieving some spectacular views, the trail enters more secluded woods that eventually open up near the waterfall. Here, an established campsite awaits near the top, complete with good water access.

The hike on this day two is a good one. The combination of rugged woods, the marshy ambiance of John Henry Lake, and a soothing waterfalls richly encapsulates the varied beauty of the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop.

Day 3: From the Waterfall to the Tranquility of Steamboat Lake

Departing from the waterfall area along the Bowman Trail, you’ll transition onto the North Minam Trail. This outbound leg leads you to the renowned Steamboat Lake, a pristine alpine water body framed by rugged mountain peaks.

The experience at Steamboat Lake is both an invitation to pause and a highlight of the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop. Here, nestled in a serene setting, you can reflect on your journey thus far while relishing the physical challenge of the trail. Camping at Steamboat Lake feels especially rewarding, with the peace and beauty of the wilderness wrapped around you.

Day 4: Scenic Plateaus, Bug-Infested Beauty, and the Delicate Charm of Sky Lake

On day four, leave the calm waters of Steamboat Lake behind and set your sights on even more varied terrain as you continue on the North Minam Trail. The target for today is a camping spot just before the junction of the Copper Creek Trail and the Minam Lake Trail. As you climb along the beginning of this route, you’re rewarded with beautiful views overlooking Steamboat Lake – views that hint at the vistas to come.

Shortly after leaving Steamboat Lake, you will arrive at Swamp Lake. Although Swamp Lake is a pretty and interesting area, it comes with a caveat: it’s known for a significant bug presence, making camping there less than ideal. The area around the lake is very scenic, however, and adds interest along the trail.

Pressing on, you climb from Swamp Lake onto a fascinating plateau with sweeping panoramas as you join the Cooper Creek Trail. Take some time up here as the views are fantastic and the area has a unique character and topography.

Leaving the plateau, you will descend slightly to reach Sky Lake, which sits at the end of a short spur trail. This small, yet picturesque lake proved to be an excellent lunch spot for us before continuing the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop.

Back on the Cooper Creek Trail, you will reach a pleasant camping spot next to Copper Creek, just before the junction of the Minam Lake Trail. This spot will set you up nicely for an easy exit from Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop on day five.

Day 5: Easy Trail, an Open Forest Road, and the Home Stretch

The final day of the loop shifts gears as the terrain transitions from rugged mountain trails to an open forest road. Following the Minam Lake Trail beside the gently flowing Lostine River, the descent sets an easy, relaxed pace.

When you reach the Two Pan Trailhead, you’re at the home stretch of the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop. Take Forest Road 8210 back to the Bowman Trailhead. This 3.25-mile stretch, while a road hike, is a fast, easy hike back to the trailhead where your adventure began.

Do keep in mind that the Two Pan trailhead is very popular, so expect to share the forest road with cars, trucks, and horse trailers. Fortunately, most drivers are courteous and slow down to avoid startling or “dusting out” hikers.

Final Thoughts on the Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop

The Chimney-Steamboat-Lostine Loop is more than a backpacking trip – it’s an expedition that challenges your physical endurance while immersing you in some of the most spectacular landscapes Oregon has to offer. By carefully balancing rugged mountain hikes, intimate lakeside campsites, and an easy road walk, this loop invites you to experience the many moods of the wilderness. Whether you’re drawn to sweeping alpine vistas, the sound of cascading waterfalls, or the reflective quiet of high mountain lakes, the Eagle Cap Wilderness awaits with its timeless charm. Hike on!

Scroll down to learn about the GEAR WE USE and OTHER OUTVENTURES in this area.

Additional Information (Click below to follow links.)

• U.S. Forest Service Trailhead and Eagle Cap Wilderness Information Link