Wildflower Hike, Whychus Canyon 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.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Jane Meissner for a wildflower hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Scan the canyon for colorful native blooms, like balsamroot or pale blue flax, and watch for songbirds and signs of wildlife. Walk the wildflower-studded slopes down to Whychus Creek and hear the wind through the towering ponderosa pines. Explore boulder outcroppings and take in panoramic views of mountain peaks, scenic rivers, and dramatic canyons. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is a challenging, 7-mile hike on the Whychus Canyon Preserve hiking trails.

    Route: This hike will start at the Whychus Canyon Preserve kiosk and follow trails down into the Whychus Creek canyon. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    Elevation gain/loss: This hike is challenging with 300' of elevation gain/loss.

  • What to Bring

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

  • About the Property

    Whychus Canyon Preserve is a 930 acre Preserve on Whychus Creek near Sisters, Oregon. It was first established by the Deschutes Land Trust in 2010 and an additional 480 acres was added in 2014. The Preserve contains four miles of Whychus Creek, high quality grasslands, old growth juniper, cottonwood and aspen stands. With such a diverse range of habitats, Whychus Canyon Preserve is home to a variety of fish and wildlife.