Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Becky Burchell for a steelhead walk at Camp Polk Meadow Preserve. It's been twelve years since the Whychus Creek restoration at the meadow was completed, and the once dry meadow has been entirely transformed. Explore the restored meadow and creek 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, including Chinook salmon and steelhead. Visit acclimation tanks where steelhead will be imprinting on Whychus Creek. 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, water, closed toe 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.

• 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.