Oregon is home to many beautiful little locales, but none exude Old World charm quite like Joseph. This village in the northeast corner of the state is known as "The Little Switzerland of Oregon" -- and once you visit, you'll see why. Between its breathtaking natural beauty and quaint downtown district, Joseph is the most marvelous mountain town in Oregon, and well-worth exploring on your next weekend getaway.
Joseph, Oregon, is a place that just exudes beauty and charm.
Nestled in the wondrous Wallowas in the northeast corner of the state, Joseph is the perfect place for your next weekend adventure.
The downtown district is chock-full of adorable shops, small businesses, and local restaurants, for peak window shopping and perusing. Simply Sandy's is located right on Main Street and features an eclectic mix of western art, cooking supplies, furniture, and one-of-a-kind specialty items. It's the perfect place to wile away an afternoon!
Known as the "Little Switzerland of Oregon," Joseph has all the charms of its European counterpart, but better, because, Oregon.
For those pining for a European holiday in the mountains, you'll be right at home in Joseph.
The Wallowas are one big outdoor playground, offering visitors a mountain retreat that would put any European peak to shame. Hiking, cross-country skiing, kayaking... you can do it all here!
Winter is a popular time to visit Joseph, and for good reason. The slopes here are unrivaled, and the views simply cannot be beat. The Ferguson Ridge Ski Area is a great place to don your skis and enjoy some fresh air!
One of the best attractions in Oregon, the Wallowa Lake Tramway, ascends 3,700 feet to the top of Mt. Howard and boasts spectacular views of the Wallowas and Wallowa Lake as you go. At the top, hiking trails lead to viewpoints of both the Wallowa Mountains and the Seven Devils Mountains in Idaho.
Please note: the Tramway operates seasonally, May through October.
Another reason to take your adventures sky high is The Summit Grill. This eatery is located at the tramway’s upper terminal which sits at the 8,150 foot level of Mt. Howard. Talk about dinner with a view!
For those who prefer to imbibe at a less dramatic elevation, the Terminal Gravity Brewery and Pub in town is a delightful option. Just as in Switzerland, you'll enjoy great brews and views at this charming eatery!
Also in town, Outlaw Restaurant is a perennial favorite, offering visitors a good, old-fashioned saloon experience in the most fetching of settings.
And since no visit to Switzerland is complete without chocolate, be sure to stop by Arrowhead Chocolates when in Joseph, too.
Part chocolate shop, part coffee shop, Arrowhead Chocolates is pure decadence... and they even serve Oregon-roasted coffee, too!
This is Joseph, Oregon, a magical place that lives up to its "Little Switzerland" moniker. Come and allow yourself to be charmed by this delightful little Oregon mountain town!
Have you visited Joseph, Oregon, before? Did you know we had our very own Little Switzerland in Oregon? It really is one of the most adorable little locales in the Beaver State!
Of course, Joseph is just one of the many charming towns in Oregon, as evidenced by this list!
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