Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Derek Loeb for a geology hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. We'll hike into the canyon and explore the northern part of the Preserve. Visit the restored portion of Whychus Creek surrounded by cottonwood forests and unique rock formations. Gaze up at the rimrock as you learn about the geologic history of this stunning canyon. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

• Outing Details + Route

  Hike Rating: This is a challenging ~2 mile hike on gravel/dirt roads and through grassy meadows.

  Route: This hike will start at the top of Whychus Canyon and descend into the meadow via gravel and dirt access roads that are occasionally steep. We will also venture off-trail into the meadow. 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, closed toe shoes, long pants. 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.