Beginning Bird Walk, Indian Ford Meadow Preserve

Hikers enjoy an early winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
Hikers enjoy an early winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
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Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Jan Rising for a beginner's bird walk at picturesque Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. Look and listen for early spring songbirds as you saunter in the sage-flats and journey through the juniper and pine forest of the Land Trust's flagship Preserve. Learn the basics of birding, including identifying birds by size, shape, color, behavior, and habitat.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is an easy 1 mile walk along the Preserve trail and through a grassy meadow.

    Route: This hike will start at the Indian Ford Meadow Preserve kiosk, follow a gravel trail, and then venture off-trail into a grassy meadow. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    Elevation gain/loss: There is very little elevation gain/loss on this hike.

  • What to bring

    Binoculars, snacks, water, sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    Indian Ford Meadow was donated to the Land Trust in 1996 by a local landowner to protect its dramatic scenic views and important wildlife habitat. Bisected by Indian Ford Creek, this picturesque 63 acre meadow near Sisters contains a unique diversity of ecosystems ranging from wetlands to pine forest. The Preserve also serves as a migratory corridor for mule deer and a breeding ground for migratory songbirds.