Kids' Nature Observation, Metolius Preserve

Join the Land Trust on a tour to explore your Land Trust Community Preserves! Photo: Land Trust.
Join the Land Trust on a tour to explore your Land Trust Community Preserves! Photo: Land Trust.

Bring the kids and join the Deschutes Land Trust and Chelsea Ernst for a sensory-based exploration of the Metolius Preserve! Explore the pine forests of the Metolius Preserve while you learn more about the plants and animals that call it home. Play nature-themed games and practice observations and sensory awareness to get to know the land around you. Perfect for kids ages 8-10 with a grown-up in tow. 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 for kids 2 mile hike on Preserve trails.

    Route: This hike will start at the South 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.