Metolius Preserve Hike, Metolius 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 hike is part of Oregon Walk the Land Day!
This hike is part of Oregon Walk the Land Day!
Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Carol Wall for a hike at one of our flagship Preserves, the Metolius Preserve. Hike over Lake Creek and around the northern portion of the Preserve to learn about ponderosa pines and the white-headed woodpeckers that depend on them. Keep your eye out for larch trees and then, take a break by the creek and hear how native salmon are making their return. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is an easy, ~3 mile hike on trails.

    Route: This hike will start at the North Trailhead at the Metolius Preserve and follow Preserve trails. Terrain will be uneven at times.

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

  • What to Bring

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

  • About the Property

    The Metolius Preserve is a 1,240 acre forested Preserve near Camp Sherman, Oregon. The Deschutes Land Trust established the Preserve in 2003. The Preserve contains mature ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western larch, as well as a rich diversity of other plant species. Three miles of Lake Creek, an important tributary to the Metolius River, flow through the property, contributing to the rich habitat found on the Preserve.