Geology 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.

This event is part of Get Outdoors Day.
This event is part of Get Outdoors Day.
Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Daniele McKay for a geology hike at Whychus Canyon Preserve. We'll hike down into the canyon and explore the northern meadows of the Preserve, walking along the recently restored 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 3-mile hike on old 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, 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.