Bird Walk, Indian Ford Meadow Preserve

Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
This outing is full.
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Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Carol Wall for a bird walk at picturesque Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. Watch for warblers in the willows along Indian Ford Creek and songbirds in the sage-flats as you take in the views of Mt Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Listen for the California quail's distinctive "chi-ca-go" call while you see what species of birds are starting to return as part of their spring migration. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • 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 (if you have them), snacks, water, sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    Indian Ford Meadow Preserve 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.