Geology Hike, Alder Springs

Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Derek Loeb for a hike to Alder Springs with a focus on geology. We'll hike down to bubbling Alder Springs and check out examples of volcanic and sedimentary rocks that tell the story of the early Cascade mountains. Learn how these ancient rocks also formed the underground aquifers that much of Central Oregon depends on for water. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is a challenging 3-mile hike on trails in the Crooked River National Grasslands.

    Route: This hike will start at the Alder Springs trailhead and follow trails down into the Whychus Creek canyon. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    Elevation gain/loss: This hike is challenging with ~200' of elevation gain/loss.

  • What to Bring

    Snacks/Lunch, water, sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    Alder Springs is a 840 acre in-holding within the Crooked River National Grasslands. The Land Trust initiated negotiations and cooperatively partnered with The Trust for Public Land to conserve the property in 1998. The Alder Springs property is bisected by Whychus Creek, just above Whychus Creek's confluence with the Deschutes River. Alder Springs is owned and managed by the Crooked River National Grassland.