Salmon Walk, Camp Polk Meadow 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.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Rod Bonacker for a salmon walk at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Explore the towering cottonwood groves and quaking aspen with their vibrant spring leaves as you learn about the recently restored Whychus Creek and the efforts to restore salmon and steelhead in the region. 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 near the restoration area at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. 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.