Restoration Tour, Camp Polk Meadow Preserve

Fall is prime time for hiking in Central Oregon! Photo: Steve Pedersen.
Fall is prime time for hiking in Central Oregon! Photo: Steve Pedersen.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Mary Crow for a check-in on the restored Whychus Creek at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. Five years after the restoration, Whychus Creek is making itself at home and the once dry meadow is springing back to life. Walk the restored meadow and see the robust streamside vegetation that has taken root, the paths the creek has chosen to follow, and how the restoration project has improved habitat for fish and wildlife. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is a moderate, 2-mile hike off-trail and through grassy meadows.

    Route: This hike will start at the Camp Polk Meadow Preserve kiosk. We will venture off-trail into the meadow. Terrain will be uneven.

    Elevation gain/loss: This hike is moderate with little elevation gain/loss.

  • What to Bring

    Snacks/Lunch, water, sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    Camp Polk Meadow Preserve is a 152 acre Preserve on Whychus Creek near Sisters, Oregon. The Preserve was first established by the Deschutes Land Trust in 2000. The Preserve contains approximately 1.4 miles of Whychus Creek, wetlands, meadows, aspen groves and ponderosa pine stands. It is home to a variety of plant and wildlife species and is one of Central Oregon's birding hot spots. The Preserve also has a long and illustrious history as a crossroads for Native Americans, explorers, soldiers and settlers.