| Sisters Country Attractions
Dee Wright Observatory
Standing atop the windswept McKenzie Pass, Dee Wright Observatory looks like the lonely lair of a robber baron. The observatory was named after a Civilian Conservation Corps foreman who worked on the site. The observatory offers a sweeping vista of the Cascades and overlooks the somber yet intriguing lava flows that dominate the pass. Interpretive signs offer a little education about the unusual geology of the area. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the McKenzie Summit just west of the observatory. To get there, take Highway 242 west from Sisters (when passable).
Head of the Metolius
It’s hard to believe that the mighty Metolius River starts from tiny springs in the shadow of Black Butte. Over the next five miles, more springs and tributary creeks build the river into a magnificent rushing torrent. The Head of the Metolius is one of the most serene and beautiful spots in Central Oregon. And it’s very easy to get to. Just drive 10 miles west of Sisters to the entrance to Camp Sherman and follow the signs along Road 14. They’ll point you to an expansive parking area where you can walk down a paved path about 300 yards to an overlook that treats you to a calendar shot of the headwaters and Mt. Jefferson.
Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery
While you are in Camp Sherman, head further north to visit Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery. When you cross the bridge over the Metolius River and enter Wizard Falls, you know this is a special place. The clear, aquamarine color of the river water leads into a pristine grassy area and gentle paths winding through the
35-acre site. Various open tanks house the different fish species raised at the hatchery. Rainbow, brook, cutthroat and trophy trout, kokanee and Atlantic salmon are part of the three million fish on display. The hatchery hosts Kids Fishing Day on the second Saturday in June. Wizard Falls is open from 8 a.m. until
7 p.m. Take Highway 20 west out of Sisters for 10 miles. At the Camp Sherman road sign, Road 14, turn right and travel 10 miles to the hatchery entrance.
Suttle Lake
Suttle Lake is one of Sisters’ understated natural wonders. It’s not dramatic or spectacular, but it is one of the most soul-satisfying spots in the area. Some days the lake is calm and glassy, offering a lazy afternoon on Cinder Beach looking out on Mt. Washington. Other days the wind whips the lake into a whitecapped chop and windsurfers bob and weave through the waves. In the fall it is a riot of color as the leaves turn with the early frost. Visit the Lodge, take a boat out for a lazy day of fishing or take a stroll around the lake. Take Highway 20 west 16 miles from Sisters; turn left and
follow the signs.
Proxy Falls
Proxy Falls in the Three Sisters Wilderness are among the prettiest waterfalls in Oregon. The falls are easily accessed with a short, easy hike from the trailhead. The loop takes you to both the upper and lower falls. The upper falls is a cascade, while the lower falls is a classic waterfall that pours over a moss-covered rock face. This is a great excursion for families with young children. A 1-1/4 mile loop trail takes you to two distinctly different waterfalls in a beautiful deep forest setting. Get there by driving about 28 miles west on Highway 242 from Sisters (when open in summer) and parking at the marked trail. The trailhead is 8.9 miles east of the Highway 242/126 junction and also makes a nice stop on your way from Eugene to Sisters.
Camp Polk Preserve
The Deschutes Land Trust acquired 145 acres of rare wetland/wet meadow habitat just north of Sisters and manages the site as a preserve. Camp Polk Meadow is the site of the first settlement in the Sisters Country. Camp Polk was established as a military encampment for the suppression of local Indians in 1865. The Land Trust is working in the area to restore riparian habitat along Whychus Creek in hopes of one day restoring steelhead runs in the creek. Guided tours are given throughout the summer. For more information call 541-330-0017.
Three Creek Lake
Sixteen miles south of Sisters lies Three Creek Lake, nestled beneath the spectacular Tam McArthur Rim. Just take Elm Street due south and enjoy a drive offering some impressive views of the Cascades. When you arrive, you can take the kids out to hunt for tadpoles or go fishing in the lake. If you’re feeling like a hike, you can jump on the trail to Tam McArthur Rim, or you can just stroll around the lake. It can be buggy here during the summertime and it’s a popular destination, so it can be a bit crowded, but a visit here makes for a fun outing or overnight stay.
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