Plant Hike, Metolius Preserve

Explore the nature of Central Oregon with Deschutes Land Trust. Photo: Rick Dingus.
Explore the nature of Central Oregon with Deschutes Land Trust. Photo: Rick Dingus.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Tom Wainwright for a hike to learn about the plants of the Metolius Preserve. Explore the transition zone where wet westside and dry eastside plants converge in the mixed conifer forest of the Metolius Preserve. Learn about how subtle changes in precipitation and soils create the right conditions for plants like vine maple, twinflower, and blackberry to thrive even on the dry side of the Cascade crest. 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 3-4 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.