Connecting Communities
One Trail Section at a Time
The Joseph Branch Trail Consortium is a nonprofit organization based in Enterprise, Oregon dedicated to developing a trail-with-rail in Wallowa and Union Counties. The Joseph Branch Trail will run alongside the Wallowa Union Railroad Authority (WURA) railroad, allowing for continued use and aspiration for both multi-modal recreation and railroad operations along the WURA right-of-way. Sections of The Joseph Branch Trail within the cities of both Elgin and Wallowa, Oregon are now OPEN and accessible to all!
The Joseph Branch Trail strives to connect communities throughout rural northeast Oregon, creating accessible outdoor spaces that will benefit our region for generations to come.
“A Trail-with-Rail corridor would support the physical, mental, and social well-being of local youth. Safe trails encourage healthy movement, offer positive alternatives to screen time, and give students places to build confidence, independence, and lifelong outdoor skills. For many youth, especially those without access to transportation or recreational programs, a nearby trail can become a vital space for exercise, connection, and stress relief.”
Ron Pickens - Teacher Enterprise, Oregon 
“The Joseph Branch Trail is a project of monumental economic importance to the tourism economies of the region. In Elgin, we will be using this trail as a springboard to invite people to experience not just the best of the Jewel of the Blue Mountains, but every town from the trailhead to Wallowa Lake.”
Alex McHaddad - City Administrator Elgin, Oregon Project Funders and Partner Businesses
