Geology Hike, Aspen Hollow Preserve

Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore Central Oregon's natural world! Photo: Caitlin Eddolls.
Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore Central Oregon's natural world! Photo: Caitlin Eddolls.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Derek Loeb for a geology hike at Aspen Hollow Preserve. We'll start at the top of the canyon with views of the Three Sisters and learn about the volcanic forces that formed Central Oregon. Then, we'll hike down into the canyon formed by Whychus Creek and check out columnar basalt cliffs that are also home to nesting golden eagles. Explore mixed pine and juniper forest and a meadow next to Whychus Creek while you learn about the geologic history of the Preserve and our region. 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 ~2 mile hike.

    Route: This hike will start at the canyon rim and follow a gravel road into the canyon and a cinder trail as you walk along the creek. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    Elevation gain/loss: This hike is moderate with ~225' elevation gain/loss.

  • What to Bring

    Snacks/lunch, water, closed toe shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    The Deschutes Land Trust acquired and protected the 58 acre Aspen Hollow Preserve in 2015. The Preserve includes 1/2 mile of Whychus Creek, rimrock cliffs, as well as pine and aspen stands, and is located outside of Sisters, Oregon. Aspen Hollow Preserve is home to a host of wildlife species including salmon and steelhead, mule deer, rocky mountain elk, golden eagles, spotted bat and numerous 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.