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7,700 years ago...Evidence of First Americans moving into Sisters Country, using these lands for huckleberry, root and nut gathering, fishing and hunting. 1805  Lewis and Clark note the snow-capped peaks of the “Western Mountains” (Cascade Range), and name Mt. Jefferson after the President who sent them on their journey. 1859  A group of men from Lebanon, Oregon, scout a route for eastern road over Cascades; it becomes Santiam Wagon Road, completed in 1865. 1865  Captain Charles LaFollette and forty men from Company A, 1st Oregon Volunteer Infantry, establish a military camp at Camp Polk. 1870  Samuel Hindman and family, one of the first settlers in Central Oregon, establishes a homestead near the abandoned Camp Polk. 1895 Squaw Creek (Whychus Creek) Irrigation District organized. 1912  Hotel Sisters built. 1923  Fire destroys buildings on Cascade Avenue, including businesses and residences, one being the Sisters Drug Store and Post Office.  1924  Fire starts in a defective flue in the Gist Hotel, destroying buildings on both sides of Cascade Avenue between Fir and Spruce. 1937  Separate Sisters High School building built. (This brick building is now used as the school district administration offices and is on the National Register of Historic Places.) 1946  Sisters becomes an incorporated city. 1968  Sisters High School closed; students bussed to Redmond High School. 1971  Black Butte Ranch, the Brooks Resources resort, begins selling lots and Big Meadow Golf Course opens. 1975  Jean Wells and Cathi Howell begin the first annual Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show; eleven quilts exhibited. 2025 is the 50th anniversary show, and is always held the second Saturday of July. 1992  New Sisters High School (now Sisters Middle School) opens, taking old mascot name: Outlaws. 2003  New Sisters High School opens. B&B Complex Fire. 2006  Squaw Creek renamed Whychus Creek. 2014  Cascade Avenue/Highway 20 undergoes complete renovation. 2017  New roundabout installed at Highway 20 and Barclay Drive at the west end of Sisters. 2024  New roundabout installed at Highway 20 and Locust Street at the east end of Sisters. 2024  New Sisters Elementary School opened. Sisters now has a three-school campus located in close proximity at the west end of town. Sisters Park & Recreation District took over the former elementary school site as a new community center, which will include a new public park. Information in this timeline was graciously provided  by Three Sisters Historical Society.

By Bill Bartlett Make a visit to alpaca ranches where you can get up close and personal, petting, feeding, and “chatting” with them. Alpacas make a gentle humming noise when happy. Photo Courtesy Wasim Muklashy Where to find them: No less than 1,000 alpacas are about a 15-minute ride east from Sisters. Alpaca Country Estates  started with just six Huacaya alpacas in 2006. The 134-acre pastured ranch is set with breathtaking views of the Cascades. Alpaca fiber produces amazingly soft garments and warm throws, rugs, and yarn. The property includes an all things alpaca seasonal farm store. Luxurious alpaca fiber is one of the rarest and most treasured natural fibers in the world. Private tours and group activities are available. At Paca Picnics  you’ll eat, drink, and be merry while surrounded by a pack of friendly alpacas. Picnics happen at Flying Dutchman Alpacas north of Tumalo. The fun is all managed by the same folks who run Alpaca by Design, a premium apparel shop in downtown Sisters. Reserve ahead for all activities.

Banks: First Interstate Bank 272 E. Main Ave.541-549-2061. ATM. Mid Oregon Credit Union 650 N. Arrowleaf Trail 541-382-1795. ATM. U.S. Bank 123 W. Hood Ave. 541-549-2141. ATM. Washington Federal Bank 610 N. Arrowleaf Trail541-549-8110. ATM. Wells Fargo ATM 665 N. Arrowleaf Trail CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: 257 S. Pine St. 541-549-0251 DENTAL: Pine Desert Dental 304 W. Adams Ave.541-549-0109 Sisters Dental 491 E. Main Ave.541-549-9486 EMERGENCY/POLICE: Black Butte Ranch Police 13885 Bishops Cap541-595-2191 Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Sisters Station 703 N. Larch St.541-549-2302 Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD 301 S. Elm St. 541-549-0771 GROCERIES: Black Butte General Store 13890 Bishops Cap Black Butte Ranch  541-595-1222 Camp Sherman General Store 25451 F.S. Road 1419Camp Sherman | 541-595-6711  Oliver Lemon’s 160 S. Fir St.541-549-0711  Ray’s Food Place 635 N. Arrowleaf Trail541-549-2222 Sisters Liquor Store 110 W. Cascade Ave.541-904-0339 Sisters Meat & Smokehouse 110 S. Spruce St.541-719-1186 LAUNDRY: Washable Laundry 247 N. Fir St. 541-247-1222 MEDICAL: High Lakes Health Care 354 W. Adams Ave.541-549-9609  St. Charles Medical Center 630 N. Arrowleaf Trail 541-549-1318 Summit Health Care 231 E. Cascade Ave.541-706-5440  NEWSPAPER: The Nugget Newspaper 442 E. Main Ave.541-549-9941 PET/VETERINARY GROOMING, BOARDING: Black Butte Veterinary Clinic 703 N. Larch St.541-549-1837 Broken Top Veterinary Clinic 67293 Hwy. 20541-389-0391 Central Woof & Groom 367 W. Sisters Park Dr.541-549-2275 Sisters Groomery 221 W. Main Ave.541-639-2891 Sisters Veterinary Clinic 371 E. Cascade Ave.541-549-6961 POST OFFICE: 694 N. Larch St.541-549-0412 TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER 291E. Main Ave.

What is the population of Sisters? 3,823 inside city limits; 10,000± in the school district. What are the Three Sisters Mountains called? Informally — Faith, Hope & Charity. Schools: Sisters School District: elementary, middle, and high school. Total enrollment: 1,170. How much do homes cost? Median home listing price: $849,000; sold price: $740,000. What’s the climate like? Sisters is considered high desert. Hottest month is July (avg. temp. 78.8/49.6); coldest month is December (40.8/20.1). Driest month is July; wettest month is January. Average annual precipitation is 11.4 inches. Average snowfall is 32 inches. There are approximately 162 days of sun each year, and 73 days see some precipitation. Who are some of Sisters’ largest employers? Black Butte Ranch, 400; Sisters School District, 176; Sisters Coffee Co., 76; Sisters Bakery, 62. Why the Western Theme? Adopted in the 1980s, Sisters has an architectural theme that requires commercial buildings to resemble a Western town of the 1880s. Does Sisters have an airport? Yes, Sisters Eagle Airport is located less than a mile from downtown Sisters on Camp Polk Road. 3,550 ft. of expanded and improved runway; airplane tie-downs; fuel available on-site. Year-round access. Redmond Municipal Airport — Roberts Field The wider world is just a plane ride away out of Redmond Municipal Airport-Roberts Field.Located just 20 miles down Highway 126, east of Sisters, seven airlines offer direct flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Burbank, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Palm Springs, and Dallas-Ft. Worth. From these hubs, you can get anywhere. Visit www.flyrdm.com.

Hiking in Sisters Country is unforgettable. With close to a half million acres and a thousand miles of mapped, single-path trails that delight with tumbling waterfalls, steep canyons, roaring rivers, snow-covered peaks, and bucolic meadows, it doesn’t get much better. Come for a day or stay for a week. You will not come close to experiencing all that we offer. Want more? Of course you do! Here are some memorable hikes from among dozens of possibilities. Each one is a fun-filled, photo-packed outing with picnic option. Jump to: Rivers & Waterfalls • Peak Experiences • Canyons & Rims • Lakes & Meadows The Metolius River in Camp Sherman, Oregon. Rivers and Waterfalls 1.     The Metolius (half day) – easy About the Hike: The Metolius, most magical of all Oregon rivers, emerges fully grown at 50,000 gallons a minute from the arid base of Black Butte. Sample the river's wizardry with this easy hike along a section of the oasis-like riverbank. The trail passes sudden springs, reveals colorful bird life and leads to a wonderfully visitable fish hatchery. Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on section Season: Open all year, except in winter storms. Getting There: Start by driving Highway 20 west of Sisters 9 miles (or east of Santiam Pass 10 miles). Just west of Black Butte, near milepost 91, turn north at a sign for the Metolius River. Drive straight on paved Road 1419, ignoring a right-hand fork after 2.5 miles labeled "Campgrounds." At a stop sign at the 4.8-mile mark, continue straight onto Road 1420. Keep going straight for another 3.3 miles. Then turn right at a sign for Canyon Creek Campground and drive 1 mile to the West Metolius Trailhead, beside the river at the far end of the campground (GPS location N44°30.054' W121°38.466'). Fees/Permits: None. Restrictions: None (Source: Oregon.com) 2.     The Deschutes (variable) – easy to moderate About the Hike: When locals talk about the scenic Deschutes River Trail, they’re typically referring to one of two trails that line the Deschutes River—but which are disconnected from each other. Either way, you’ll find unique landscapes and plenty to love about each trail. The northernmost of the two major sections begins in the heart of Bend and covers about 12 miles while meandering through the city’s urban landscapes, heading into a rimrock canyon, and passing under a canopy of ponderosa pine trees. Broadly speaking, this stretch of trail runs from Riley Ranch Nature Reserve in northern Bend to a footbridge just south of the Old Mill District; several footbridges along the way let hikers and trail runners cross the river to create loops and shorten their route as necessary. Occasional Cascade peaks provide a powerful backdrop against the cityscapes below. The second of the two most popular Deschutes River Trails sits closer to Sunriver and offers a more remote experience away from the hustle and bustle of Bend. This stretch, popular with hikers and mountain bikers, covers lava flows, old-growth pine forests, waterfalls, and raging rapids in the Deschutes River—like Big Eddy (popular with whitewater rafters), Dillon Falls, Benham Falls, and Lava Falls. This loop totals about 17 miles round-trip, and several trailheads make it easy to choose the right length for you. Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on section Season: Open all year, except in winter storms. Getting There: In Bend, a flat, paved (wheelchair-accessible) stretch of the Deschutes River Trail can be accessed at the Old Mill District—roughly one mile south of downtown Bend via NW Wall St., SW Industrial Way, and SW Bond St. For the southernmost stretch, the Benham Falls West Trailhead (a popular jumping-off point for that portion of the path) is 13 miles south of Bend via SW Century Drive, Conklin Road/Forest Road 41, and Forest Road 400.Fees/Permits: None. Restrictions: Horses and bikes are prohibited on the Bend-based Deschutes River Trail— and are prohibited on certain sections of the trail closer to Sunriver. (Source: Oregon.com) 3.     Crooked River (variable) – easy to moderate About the Hike: In all the Crooked River and its trails cover about 125 miles of stunning opportunity for every hiker ability. The most popular are the ones through Smith Rock and near Crooked River Ranch. Our favorite: Chimney Rock. Take a break from your scenic drive along the Lower Crooked Wild and Scenic River south of Prineville and hike one of the gems of the High Desert. Walk in the shadows of lichen-covered basalt cliffs as you zigzag up and out of the river canyon to spectacular views of Central Oregon. The trek is about 1.3 miles each way and ends at the namesake chimney basalt rock formation. Pause on one of the benches along the way for a drink of water and just absorb the beauty of the area before heading back to your car and the rest of your travels. Difficulty: Easy to moderate Season: Open all year but may be snow covered in winter months. Getting There: Begin the 37-mile out-and-back journey in the historic community of Prineville. Start at Rimrock City Park and follow the Crooked River south out of town, with picturesque views of the surrounding llama farms and cattle ranches. The route leaves the pastures behind as it enters the Crooked River Canyon. The road slips through the canyon’s towering basalt cliffs, gently curving and climbing to a scenic view near Palisades Campground before descending back toward the river. Plenty of picnic tables, campgrounds and even a viewing deck. The final stretch of the Crooked River Scenic Byway continues through the canyon and passes by several other day-use sites and campgrounds. Observant hikers might spot resident wildlife like deer, great blue herons and golden eagles. The byway ends at Big Bend Campground, which has parking, restrooms, water and power. Fees/Permits: None Restrictions: None 4.     McKenzie Waterfalls (half day) - easy Make a day outing to the waterfalls trail. Head west on Highway 20, and at the junction with Highway 126 (National Scenic Byway), follow it and the well-marked signs to the pristine McKenzie River’s  Sahalie Falls  with a spacious parking lot. Sahalie Falls is a mass of foaming white water plunging 100 feet over a natural lava dam. This famous falls can be spotted in Disney’s “Homeward Bound.” The Sahalie Falls viewing platform is less then 100 feet from the parking lot and is wheelchair accessible. An easy and wildly scenic 2.6-mile roundtrip trail brings you downriver to  Koosah Falls,  a 70-foot drop into a deep pool. These falls mark the terminus of two thick flows of basaltic andesite lava that dammed Clear Lake and moved into the McKenzie River 3,000 years ago.  Sahalie, meaning “heaven,” and Koosah, meaning “sky,” are Chinook jargon words — part of a rudimentary trade language that allowed people to exchange news and goods in the area. The Kalapuya, Molalla, Sahaptin, and Chinook peoples traveled and traded here, perhaps on their way to obtain obsidian in the high Cascades or to gather huckleberries. Both sites feature parking, interpretive panels that tell the story of area geology, restrooms, and observation points. Next stop is  Proxy Falls  by continuing down Highway 126 to the junction of Highway 242 (McKenzie Highway). Make the only turn and drive nine miles to the trailhead for the splendid 1.6-mile loop trail. Proxy Falls is a cascade and plunge waterfall from a collection of springs that plunges into a gaping canyon near McKenzie Pass. The waterfall sports an impressive main drop of 226 feet, which makes it one of the highest plunge waterfalls in Oregon. Continue the loop by driving Highway 242 all the way back to Sisters with a stop at  Dee Wright Observatory. Peak Experiences Black Butte (half day) – moderate to difficult  About the Hike: Plunked amid the Central Oregon plateau, Black Butte looks like a misplaced mountain. A steep but view-packed trail climbs 1.9 miles to the panoramic summit, gaining 1,600 feet of elevation. The last portion of this route is difficult enough that it is not generally recommended for hikers with children. Still, it's surprising how many kids enjoy the climb because they view it as a challenge. Difficulty: A moderate, 3.6-mile loop to the headland's tip gains 900 feet of elevation. Season: Open all year but may be snow covered in winter months. Getting There: Drive Highway 22 west of Sisters 5.5 miles (or east of Santiam Pass 13.5 miles) to Indian Ford Campground, near milepost 95. Turn north onto paved Green Ridge Road 11. After 3.8 miles, turn left onto gravel Road 1110 for 5.1 miles to a parking area at the road's end. Fees/Permits: A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park here. The pass costs $5 per day or $30 per season. It can be purchased at a ranger station, an outdoor store or at the trailhead fee box. Restrictions: None Source: Oregon.com 2.     South Sister (full day) – difficult About the Hike: You can walk right up to the top of Oregon’s third tallest peak. However, the trail up 10,358-foot South Sister is exceedingly steep, long and rugged, but no technical climbing skills are required, and the rewards are great. From the summit - a broad, snowy crater with a small lake - you can see half the state. If this sounds too demanding, here's a secret: the loop to Moraine Lake, halfway up the mountain, is just as picturesque. This lower hike avoids the final trudge up cinder scree yet still offers views 100 miles south to Mount McLoughlin. What's more, the weather's better here. The summit often generates its own little cloud, complete with whiteouts, wind, and a miniature blizzard. Difficulty: Strenuous. 12.5 miles roundtrip in 7-10 hours starting at 5,453 feet and ending at 10,358 feet. Average speed is 1.8 mph. Season: Open August to mid-October, but do not attempt the summit climb in anything but perfect weather. If there is a cloud on the summit, even on an otherwise sunny day, hikers could well encounter a blizzard whiteout at the top. Getting There: Drive 28.5 miles west of Bend on the Cascade Lakes Highway. Beyond the Mount Bachelor Ski Area 6.5 miles, turn left at a Devils Lake Trailhead sign and park at the end of the campground loop. Fees/Permits: A Northwest Forest Pass is required to park here. The pass costs $5 per day or $30 per season. It can be purchased at a ranger station, an outdoor store or at the trailhead fee box. How to: For a one-day summer scramble to the summit, cross the highway (5,450 feet) and proceed up the South Sisters climbers trail. It goes between Devils Hill and Kaleetan Butte. The trail leaves the forest after 1.5 miles and intersects a second trail. Moraine Lake is to the right (east), and Wickiup Plain is to the left (west). Ignore both and proceed north across a sparsely wooded plateau known as "the golf course." About three miles from the trail head, the trail becomes a climber's path. Continue north toward the Lewis Glacier on steep scree. Near 8,800 feet, at the western edge of the Lewis’ terminal moraine, skirt the glacier on its left, passing one of the highest lakes in the region. Follow the south ridge 1,400 feet up a slope of red volcanic scree. At the top of the slope, proceed to climber's right, around the eastern rim to the true summit on the northeastern side. Warning: Do not attempt this hike without knowing the risks. Trappers Butte & Scar Mountain (full day) - difficult About the Hike: The Scar Mountain Trail is part of the Old Cascade Crest trail system and even though it is a spectacular trail with epic views, this trail is seldom used. This is a serious outing, but not extreme. Beware of steep drop offs and rocky footing at the Scar Mountain summit. Difficulty: A moderate to difficult trek, 6 miles round trip w/ 1,670 ft. elevation gain (to Trappers Butte summit). 10.6 miles round trip w/ 3,000 ft. elevation gain (to Scar Mountain summit). Highest elevation 4,917 ft. and lowest 3,537 ft. 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on destination. Season: Open all year but mostly snow covered in winter months. Getting There: Drive on US Hwy 20 west for a total of 25.7 miles, then make a slight right to merge onto OR-22 W for 7.9 miles. Turn left onto Parrish Lake Rd. for 3.2 miles. At a Y junction, stay right on NF-2266 for 1.3 miles and find the North Pyramid Trailhead parking on your left. (Total of 38 miles). No toilets. Fees/Permits: None. Restrictions: None Source: Hike Oregon Canyons and rims Tam McArthur (full day) – moderate to difficult About the Hike: Tam McArthur Rim is one of the most popular hikes in Sisters and for good reason. It is moderate in difficulty and offers spectacular views of the Cascade mountains as well as some of the amazing blue-green alpine lakes nearby. You can choose to keep this hike short and family friendly at 5.6 miles round trip, or you can continue the trail around Broken Hand and go all the way to Broken Top and No Name Lake, making it a much more difficult hike at 11.5 miles roundtrip and 2,195 feet elevation gain. The parking area is large but even so, the trailhead fills up and cars spill out onto the main gravel road during summer weekends even with the limited entry permit system that was put in place in 2020. It is recommended to do this hike on a weekday and/or very early in the morning! Difficulty: Moderate. 5.6 miles round trip w/ 1,250 ft. elevation gain (to the end of Tam McArthur Rim Trail) 11.5 miles round trip w/ 2,195 ft. elevation gain (to No Name Lake). 2 hours 26 minutes w/ an average pace of 2.5 mph (to the end of Tam McArthur Rim Trail) 5 hours w/ an average pace of 2.3 mph (to No Name Lake). Season: Typically, early June to late October. Getting There: From Sisters take S. Elm Street which changes to Forest Service Road 16 at the edge of town (also known as Three Creek Rd.) Stay on this road for about 15 miles and find the trailhead parking on your right just as you arrive at the lake. Fees/Permits: None Restrictions: Dogs on leash Source: HikeOregon.net Scout Camp (half day) – moderate When you’ve climbed Black Butte, made it to the top – the very top – of Upper Chush Falls, notched Black Crater, and want even more, then the 50-minute bucolic ride to Scout Camp Loop Trail will slake your thirst for adventure in Sisters. Getting there is a fantasy trip itself through pastoral hay and orchard grass fields, and sprawling cattle ranches. You’ll drive past an alpaca ranch with over 1,000 head of the lovable creatures who will come right up to the fence to say hi. Any map app takes you past a vineyard or two, a wildlife preserve, and a 570-acre deactivated diatomaceous earth mine with its otherworldly white crystalline dunes. The trailhead has ample parking and the locals cannot recall it ever being full. The trail seldom shows up on any “best of” lists for Central Oregon, but once you get into the reviews of the most popular online trail blogs, all at once its prominence rises easily to the top five in all of Oregon. It’s deceptive at only three miles. It’s not a walk in the woods. The lollipop loop starts out easy enough through generous junipers until you quickly reach the loop. BLM, on whose land it rests, asks that you go clockwise, and for good reason. Now it’s down, way down — 718 feet — in very short order. Using a series of switchbacks as you wind your way deep into the canyons to the riverbed below, you are treated – make that blown away — by some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find anywhere in Oregon. The hike follows the upper Deschutes River, full of fish and deep pools punctuated by roaring rapids. The river is walled on both sides by cliffs, some sheer, and many housing raptors and dozens of other bird species.  This is not a hike to take with young children or dogs, or if you are afraid even a little of heights. Poles are helpful. At its closest point to the river, about 50 feet, you will have to boulder twice to continue. This can be a challenge and deal-breaker for some. It is at this point where the Whychus, which runs through Sisters, now cascading, has its confluence with the Deschutes. It is teeming with birds and beauty. Plan to go early in the day especially in the summer months. For an optimal experience picnic on one of the many dramatic outcroppings. Then head back to Sisters and revel in the memories that will last forever. Smith Rock (variable)  – easy to moderate About the Hike: Smith Rock State Park is the second most visited place in Oregon after Crater Lake hosting some 900,000 visitors a year. And with good reason. It’s drop dead gorgeous, a truly majestic set of formations. The two most popular options are the Crooked River canyon trail and Misery Ridge. The former is a 2.5 mile out and back family favorite with breathtaking views of the sheer vertical canyon walls usually spotting climbers from around the wall scaling the hundreds of feet of rock. Waterfowl is abundant and a good portion of the walk is in the shade. Misery Ridge is not at all miserable, but it is steep. The ascent is aided by natural stone stairs. It’s only .68 miles to the 3,360-foot summit, a 722-foot gain. Once on top you are feted to spectacular panoramic views and on most days, you can see all the way to Mt. Hood near Portland. You can make it a 3.7-mile loop trail by going down a series of switchbacks and connecting with the river trail. Talk about awesome! Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on section Season: Open all year, except in winter storms. Getting There: It’s 28 miles from Sisters and appears on any map app. It takes about 30-35 minutes. We like to go via the Lower Bridge routing – far more scenic and bucolic. Fees/Permits: $5 day use fee or various annual permits. Restrictions: Dogs on leash. No drones. Warning: Rattle snakes inhabit the area but are generally not interested in you. Do not approach when seen and do not agitate. They will move on. Most hikers never see one. Lakes and meadows   1.     Patjens Lakes Loop (half day) - easy Photo by Bill Bartlett Patjens Lake Loop Trail is in all its floral splendor, at least for the next week or two. The bear grass (Indian basket grass) is especially abundant standing as high as six feet. Likewise lupine, scarlet gilia, and Washington lily is in full glory. Why go? It's an easy, mostly flat 6.9-mile loop with abundant flora and fauna from late June to early August. The trail starts and passes by Big Lake and works around the smaller Patjens Lake, both scenic and pastoral. When to go? Like most trails in the peak of summer, the earlier the better to beat the heat. If you're a photographer you'll want to adjust your time to capture the best light. Also, earlier outings encounter fewer trail users. What to expect? Nice views of Mt. Washington, the Three Sisters, Husband, Sand, and Scott mountains. It takes less than three hours with frequent stops to take in the beauty. Total elevation gain is around 632 feet, but it's gradual, nothing steep, on a soft path with few rocks. The highest elevation is 4,830 feet; the lowest is 4,350. Due to unusually strong winds and deeper snow last winter, there will be a number of downed trees over which you will need to navigate, adding to the sense of accomplishment. Bring mosquito repellent but you're not apt to need it depending on the amount of sun or wind. About half the hike is shaded. Dogs may be off leash and the trail is shared with horses, however they are infrequent users say. It is open to campers. On a July 14, 8 a.m. start we had the trail to ourselves. Weekends are bound to encounter more traffic. Directions: There is no right or wrong way but if you make an early start, going clockwise will keep the sun mostly to your back. About three-fourths of the hike is within the Mt. Washington Wilderness, adding to its tranquility. Getting there: From Sisters drive west on Highway 20 to the Hoodoo exit at the summit. Follow the signs to the ski area and then turn left onto Big Lake Road. Follow it four miles to its end and the start of the trail. Parking in the summer is tight given the popularity of camping and boating at Big Lake. What you'll need: A Northwest Forest Pass for parking and a free day-use wilderness permit for the trail. Overnight campers will need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit between June 15 and October 15. The trail and lake is inside the Willamette National Forest. Another great time to go is late September and early October when all of the colors start to change. There will be few ponderosa pines. Most of the area is proliferated by douglas fir, but as many as 15 other conifers are possible on the hike, many old-growth. This is definitely a trail to add to your list. 2.     Little Three Creeks Lake (half day) - easy Photo by Bill Bartlett It's a great trail for dogs, especially those fond of water. Why go: The scenery varies from serene to dramatic. The elevation gain is a mild 212 feet. The lake itself is small, but not a pond. It's swimmable, albeit the mostly shallow water is quite cold. At an elevation of 6,700 feet, it gives one a clear sense of what a high Cascade lake is like. When to go: Like nearly all the better hikes in our surrounds, May through October is best. Before or after is the possibility of snow or muddy remains. Likewise, earlier in the day gives you more solitude. If you're a shutterbug, the best light will be after 10:00. What to expect: A good mix of trees – sylvan Alpine fir, mountain hemlock, and white bark pine are in abundance. As for trees, there will be some remains of the Pole Creek fire yielding surreal imagery that are prime photographic opportunities. Don't be surprised to find an abstract plein air artist trying to capture the many surrounding moods. Early on are meadows, one particularly tranquil (shown above) with 7,700 feet Tam McArthur Rim in the background. Upon reaching the lake you will be pleasantly surprised – maybe astonished – at its color. While perfectly clear it is a tapestry of hues, mostly green. Arising from the lake are several photogenic dead remains of once towering trees. Go counterclockwise when you reach the lake unless you are prepared to ford the creek spilling out its eastern end. You can go the way round the lake but at about the halfway point (where the underground springs are visible bubbling into the lake) you will have the choice to circumnavigate the lake or divert to the boulder field caused by an avalanche many moons ago. Upon diverting, within short order you will encounter the bus and truck size rocks and wonder in amazement at their being and their stacking randomness. You'll now be at the foot of the most dramatic section of the hike, and you can continue steeply upwards as much as you like, marveling along the way. Or turn back at any point and enjoy the return views from different angles. Getting there: Drive out Elm Street (FS Road 16) about 16 miles, the last two unpaved, and look for signs to Driftwood Campground on your right, 300 feet in, just before Three Creeks Lake. There's parking for roughly 30 cars. What you'll need: Some nearby trails require a permit but not Little Three Creek. As it's not a long trek, a small water bottle is enough. You can't outguess the infrequent mosquitoes so carry repellent. A hat and sunscreen are common sense. Strawberry Lake (all day) – difficult xxx

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America. There’s a very simple reason for that: It’s a LOT of fun. Access to pickleball is one of the most frequently-asked questions among visitors to Sisters. Visitors who are staying at Black Butte Ranch or in a vacation rental at Tollgate can avail themselves of the courts reserved for residents and guests. Public courts are not available right now in Sisters, but Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) has pickleball in its plans. Eight pickleball courts will be part of a new SPRD community park in September.  Lake Creek Lodge in Camp Sherman has pickleball courts available for guests. Players can head to Redmond’s Sam Johnson Park where there are several courts, or check out the courts at the Pine Nursery Park Pickleball Complex in Bend. For more information on Sisters Pickleball Club, visit sisterspickleballclub.com . Disc golfers can throw at Hyzer Pines just a few minutes from downtown Sisters off Highway 242 next to Sisters High School. It’s a challenging course that is heavily treed with small gaps for distance throws, to work around using backhand and forehand throws.  Another popular course in the Central Oregon area is Pine Nursery, featuring unique high desert terrain. There is also a course in Redmond near Dry Canyon offering a different type of terrain and views.  Photo Courtesy Black Butte Ranch

Photo Courtesy Black Butte Ranch By Bill Bartlett Sisters Country is popping up more often on destination wedding maps. And why not? Talk about the perfect backdrop for the big day. Memories are forever when you tie the knot in our picture-perfect setting. Choose from a variety of themes to accent the special day: luxury resort with world-class amenities, ranch, historic river lodge, bucolic winery, or right in town. Heck, you can even honeymoon in a forest fire lookout tower. Want to get married on horseback? You can do that in Sisters. At the base of a waterfall? You bet. On a mountaintop? Yep. If you’re looking for an alternative to ballroom weddings, or if fancy isn’t your vibe (or your budget), then exchanging vows in Sisters might be for you. Book early — at least a year in advance. A handful of nearby wedding planners can help create the perfect wedding.  Venues that match the Sisters style and brand: Aspen Lakes:   www.aspenlakes.com/restaurant/weddings   Black Butte Ranch: www.blackbutteranch.com/weddings Faith Hope & Charity Vineyard:   www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com/weddings FivePine Lodge:   www.fivepine.com/weddings House on Metolius:   www.metolius.com/weddings Long Hollow Ranch:   thelonghollowranch.com/weddings-events Pole Creek Ranch:   www.polecreek.com/wedding-events The Suttle Lodge:   thesuttlelodge.com/groups/weddings

If you have an itch to get your feet wet while enjoying a thrilling ride through some spectacular country, head out to raft one of Central Oregon’s wild rivers.  The beautiful McKenzie River  is widely regarded as the finest river-running experience in the region. With a steady plunge down the mountains, the river creates continual excitement for rafters.  This designated Wild & Scenic River is exquisitely beautiful, rolling between stands of tall Douglas fir, western red cedar, western and mountain hemlock, and white alder that line the banks. The Deschutes River  has long been a popular destination for rafters. The short Upper Deschutes is suitable for a family outing with children as young as seven, according to the guidebook “Whitewater Rafting in North America.” The relatively brief run features the Class IV thrills of Big Eddy, which rolls and swirls in a lava canyon formed by the region’s volcanic activity. The rest of the trip offers more mellow rapids in a scenic environment. The Lower Deschutes  offers a series of exciting rapids, and multiday rafters have the chance to explore the canyons. Numerous outfitters offer outfitting and guide services. Not only do they supply the equipment, but their experience and expertise make running the rivers safer.  Check with local resorts for information. The  Metolius River  near Sisters is beautiful — but navigating it is best left to highly experienced expert boatmen.  RIVER CLASSES… Class I: Gentle, moving water. Very small waves requiring little or no maneuvering. A nice float down the river. Class II:  Regular waves, easy to see, reaching three to four feet in height. May require simple maneuvering to avoid rocks and other obstacles. Class III:  Large, continuous series or sets of waves, some in excess of six feet. You can run holes or hydraulics or maneuver around them. There may be some small drops, ledges or waterfalls. Plenty of thrills for most folks. Class IV:  Difficult, wild water; for experienced rafters. Class V:  Very challenging water; for the most experienced river runners only. Class VI: Virtually non-navigable.

Photo by Jarod Gatley Sisters’ network of trails beckons to runners of every classification, from casual joggers to serious trail runners to elite athletes. Sisters is home to a variety of running events, from fun run/walk events often keyed to holidays, to ultramarathons that test the mettle of the most dedicated athletes.  Run Sisters Run hosts multiple fun run events through the year, including the Sisters 4th Fest on the Fourth of July, and the Ugly Sweater Run that celebrates Christmas. Alpine Running has sponsored a half-marathon and ultramarathon in the late spring, and the Peterson Ridge Rumble is an established destination event that features three distances — 40 miles; 27.8 miles; and 20 miles on the Peterson Ridge and Metolius-Windigo trail networks each April. Happy Girls sponsors a 5k/10k/half marathon each fall in Sisters, and other runs across Central Oregon. Keep an eye on the events calendar in The Nugget Newspaper for updates on events. On any given day, you’ll find runners out on the network of trails maintained by Sisters Trails Alliance, or on the forest roads that crisscross the countryside, cooking the miles, breathing the fresh alpine air, and enjoying spectacular views.

Photo by Jarod Gatley There’s music in the air almost all the time in Sisters. From major music festivals to a thriving open mic scene, local musicians mix with national and regional performing artists to create a vibrant music community. You’ll find all kinds of music here, from Classic Rock tribute performances to jazz, bluegrass, and folk-Americana. Local eateries and watering holes regularly present local and regional music, and music-loving residents stage house concerts and jams. The scene is enhanced by strong music programs in Sisters schools. Young jazz musicians are encouraged to jam with established pros in jazz sessions, and the Americana Project cultivates young songwriters and performers. An active fiddle club at Sisters Middle School is producing young fiddlers who have hit the road to experience music festivals in the Pacific Northwest. Sisters is always reaching for a high note.

Sisters has a hidden gem for those who like to test their skills on two wheels. Bike Park 242 is located just off the McKenzie Highway (242) at the far west end of the Sisters High School parking lot (1750 McKinney Butte Rd.). Bike Park 242 features four hand-shaped, progressive dirt jump lines ranging from beginner to expert. There are also two pump tracks with one designed for smaller riders and the second shaped for more advanced riders, although both pump tracks may be ridden by all levels. A pump track is meant to be ridden for as many laps as possible without pedaling. The beginner-friendly technical skills section consists of ground-level skinnies, rock drop-offs, and smooth wooden rainbow-like features. The park is open sunrise to sunset, April-October. SPRD offers a series of pump & jump clinics in the summertime ( https://sistersrecreation.com/activity/bikeclinics/ ). Bike Park 242 is maintained and managed by Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) reps and volunteers and SPRD. In the same location you will find  Sisters Skate Park  — designed and built with the impetus and assistance of the skateboarding community at Sister High School. The park is unsupervised. It offers skaters three main bowls and a number of street features. The park has been in place for over a decade, and in 2023 underwent renovations. The additions include a new entrance, half-pipe, and many other small features.

For more than half a century, Black Butte Ranch (BBR) has built lifelong memories. For many, it’s an annual destination where families can reconnect with the natural beauty found on more than 1,800 acres of some of Oregon’s most spectacular terrain. Others are just discovering this gem that lies just eight miles west of Sisters. They, too, will likely be back. It’s not just the beauty: BBR offers a wealth of year-round activities— from golf on two 18-hole championship courses with mountain views, to horseback riding, over 23 miles of paved hiking and biking trails, a full-service day spa, indoor and outdoor pool complexes, tennis courts, fitness facilities with cardio and weight equipment, a recreation center with entertainment for the whole family, standup paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and convenient access to some of the finest fishing and whitewater rafting you’ll find anywhere. Photos Courtesy Black Butte Ranch The Lakeside area features an expansive outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness facility, sauna, and locker rooms, — but it’s steps away from a game-filled Activity Center and playground. There are a dozen pickleball courts to meet the demand for one of America’s fastest-growing sports activities; 14 tennis courts, two bocce ball courts, and two horseshoe pits, along with sand volleyball courts and a full-length basketball court.  There are a variety of dining options, from the Aspen Lounge near the pool, to Robert’s Pub, and The Lodge Restaurant. BBR proclaims itself to be in the business of creating memories — and they do it in style.