Nestled into the foothills of the gorgeous Wallowa Mountains is the charming town of Joseph, Oregon. This remote, artsy town is home to roughly 1,000 residents, and its tree-lined streets are full of unique shops and cafes, historic buildings, amazing bronze sculptures, and more. The town is surrounded by pristine natural beauty and incredible mountain silhouettes; it’s even known colloquially as the “Little Switzerland of America”.
Located in Wallowa County, Joseph is a perfect place for a day trip or weekend getaway.
flickr/ Sam Beebe
Walking down the streets you’ll find historic buildings, cobblestone sidewalks, charming businesses, and beautiful mountain views.
flickr/ BriarCraft
Amazing bronze sculptures adorn the city streets, paying tribute to the area’s unique history, wildlife, and culture.
flickr/ BriarCraft
flickr/ Paul Bowman
Despite the town’s small size, you’ll find a plethora of unique local businesses, including art galleries, a bronze foundry, clothing boutiques, and more. Here’s a photo of the local artisanal chocolate shop, Arrowhead Chocolates.
facebook/ Arrowhead Chocolates
There are also many wonderful cafes and restaurants to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
facebook/ Silver Lake Bistro
If you want to stay the night, you can book a room at one of the town’s lovely inns or B&Bs. Here’s a photo of the wonderful Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast.
facebook/ Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast
Just outside of town, you’ll find green prairies and bucolic farmland. The meandering roads are perfect for a scenic country drive.
flickr/ Kirsten Comandich
The surrounding area is full of stunning natural beauty and tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There’s the Wallowa Mountains, Eagle Cap Wilderness, Zumwalt Prairie, Hells Canyon, and so much more. Right up the road is the breathtaking Wallowa Lake, which is a perfect place for boating, swimming, fishing, and more.
flickr/ R.U.P.A.K - A.N.T.O ~~ Passi
Joseph is a great lauching pad for all kinds of outdoor adventures, from hiking to white water rafting. Here’s a photo of the amazing nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness.
flickr/ Christof Teuscher
This remote, beautiful town is absolutely charming.
flickr/ drburtoni
Check out more lovely small towns in Oregon here.
flickr/ Sam Beebe
flickr/ BriarCraft
flickr/ Paul Bowman
facebook/ Arrowhead Chocolates
facebook/ Silver Lake Bistro
facebook/ Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast
flickr/ Kirsten Comandich
flickr/ R.U.P.A.K - A.N.T.O ~~ Passi
flickr/ Christof Teuscher
flickr/ drburtoni
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