Changing Habitats Hike, Metolius Preserve

Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.
Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.

This hike is currently full. We are, however, taking a waitlist in case a spot opens up. To add your name to the waitlist, please click the yellow 'Join Waitlist' button above.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Gary 'Gus' Gustafson for a wildlife hike around the Metolius Preserve. Explore how human pressure and urban growth are combining with climate change to impact the habitat needs of native mule deer and non-native turkey. These two species provide a great example of how native and non-native species respond to habitat changes and what that means for the future of our Central Oregon wildlife. 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 a moderate ~3 mile hike on Metolius Preserve hiking trails.

    Route: This hike will start at the North Trailhead of 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, closed toe 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.

  • 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.