Bird Walk, Indian Ford Meadow Preserve

Hiking along Whychus Canyon. Photo: Caitlin Eddolls
Hiking along Whychus Canyon. Photo: Caitlin Eddolls

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Carol Wall for a bird walk at picturesque Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. Watch for hummingbirds and kinglets 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.

Face masks: Per Oregon Health Authority (OHA) guidelines, face masks are no longer required indoors or outside. Individuals who wish to wear a face mask may do so.

  • 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 and then follow gravel and dirt trails 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, closed toe 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.

  • 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.