The days are starting to get a little shorter and cooler, giving us a long-awaited break from the summer heat! For many of us, that means back-to-school! And for some of us, that also means the start of hunting season!
Whether you’re lacing up your hiking shoes, grabbing your binoculars, or pulling out your camo and spotting scope, the Deschutes Land Trust works to conserve and care for the lands, waters, and wildlife that help us all thrive here. Healthier lands and waters mean healthier animal populations, too, so we can all connect to the outdoors in ways that we find meaningful!
We can share these spaces safely by following some simple, practical tips.
When is hunting season in Central Oregon?
August through October are when many big game hunters will be out hunting with family and friends. But some hunting seasons extend through the winter months. Know the general timeframes of different hunting seasons and the regulations for where you plan to hike. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is a great place to start!
When is the best time of day for me to hike?
Many foraging animals are out at dusk and dawn, and hunters will be out too, so plan your hike for the middle of the day during this time of year. If you are out when it’s dark—maybe to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset—make sure you’re visible to others sharing that space! Use a flashlight or headlamp, wear something reflective over bright colors, and make some noise!
What should I wear?
Do you remember the old-fashioned rule to never wear white after Labor Day? In this case, that is sound wisdom! Wearing white in the woods can make you look like the rump of a deer or elk—and nobody wants that! Instead, stick to bright colors. Bright orange or hot pink on the upper half of your body and visible from 360 degrees helps keep hikers and hunters alike visible and safe.
Should I be quiet?
Just like we don’t want to surprise animals such as bears or cougars that are hunting, human hunters are helped by being alerted to our presence. Talk with your friends, sing to your dog, and practice your whistle! Think of hunting season as the time to get out the last bit of summer’s energy before settling in for the winter, rather than a quiet time of wildlife watching. This helps ensure everyone has a great day in our forests.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs must be on leash at all times on Land Trust Preserves and many Central Oregon hiking trails. During hunting season this protects your beloved pet from being mistaken for a game animal. This also protects your dog from other animals, protects our animal neighbors, and protects our plant life.
Is it safer near roads?
We were taught this as kids and it’s still applicable—always check before you cross or use a roadway! Many of our Preserve trails cross logging or forest service roads used by cars, trucks, and ATVs to access hunting camps. Look both ways and check twice!
Is it safer on trails?
Staying on-trail is always best practice to help preserve the soils, plants, and insects that make up the beautiful lands we love to visit. But this is especially important during hunting season, when hunters may track game to quieter areas of the woods. Hunting season is also a great time to visit more popular trailheads.
Hunting is not allowed at Deschutes Land Trust Preserves. However, hunting is allowed in the Deschutes National Forest lands near and around the Metolius Preserve. The Land Trust marks Preserve boundaries with No Hunting signs, but it’s possible that hunters and their marks may stray into the Preserve, and hikers should exercise caution.
Want to hike with a group at this time of year? Check out our full schedule of fall Walks + Hikes!
Learn more:
- Ways to Get Outdoors that are not Hiking
- Trails and Routes at Land Trust Community Preserves
- Fall Colors at Land Trust Preserves
- Caring for the Land During Muddy Trail Season