Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Aaron Jenkins for an early spring bird hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Soak up spring as you explore ancient juniper groves and keep eyes and ears peeled for pinyon jays and bluebirds. Then descend beneath towering ponderosa pines on your way down to Whychus Creek. Along the way, take a break at a rocky outcropping with panoramic views of mountain peaks, where raptors like the golden eagle may soar by. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

• Outing Details + Route

  Hike Rating: This is a challenging 4-5 mile hike on 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 and steep at times.

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

• What to Bring

  Binoculars (if you have them), snacks, water, closed toe 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.

• Accessibility

  The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.