Upper Imnaha Road, National Forest Route 3955, and County Road 727 veer off from the Wallowa Mountain Loop just a few miles north of the Hells Canyon Overlook. Curiously, Upper Imnaha Road lies south of town, while Lower Imnaha Road stretches north. This road meanders through some of the most breathtaking countryside of eastern Oregon. As you drive, be ready to stop not only for photos but also for the wildlife that roams freely in this area. Free-range cattle often create impromptu traffic jams, adding a touch of rustic charm to your journey.
Imnaha Road is a well-traveled route, serving as a vital connector for numerous farms and remote homesteads. Imnaha, Oregon, marks the literal end of the pavement—beyond the town's major intersection, the road becomes gravel. Nestled at the terminus of Imnaha Highway and Upper Imnaha Road, this quaint town sits in northeastern Oregon, just west of Hell's Canyon and the Idaho state line.
Legend states that the name "Imnaha" comes from a Native American leader named Imna, with the suffix "ha" added to denote his territory. The Imnaha River, designated a "Wild and Scenic" river, flows through the region, eventually joining the mighty Snake River. No camping is available along this trail as most of the land is privately owned and posted.