Hiking is a summer staple, especially in the rich and rugged landscapes of Central Oregon. Sisters, a charming western town nestled at the base of the Cascade Mountains and between two national forests, is a dreamy homebase for hikers of all ages and abilities. From one of our area vacation rentals, you can easily lace up and head out to explore some of the most popular summer trails this famous area has to offer.
Spanning over 1.5 million acres, Deschutes National Forest is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country - a sprawling wealth of ancient pine forests, primeval lava flows, sparkling alpine lakes and lush wildflower valleys. The Three Sisters Wilderness alone offers over 260 miles of trail that are perfect for summer exploration as they wind through glacial lakes and alpine meadows dotted with hidden waterfalls, famous rock formations and photo-worthy vistas.
The Sisters Ranger District publishes helpful guides to seasonal trails, including a summer trail guide that highlights the many paths and viewpoints you can explore with ease during those peak summer months. Read on to learn about a few of our favorites and get inspired to blaze a path down the top summer trails near Sisters, Oregon.
Black Butte
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4 Miles (Roundtrip)
Pass Required: Yes
This popular hiking trail near Camp Sherman climbs steeply along a symmetrical volcano - but it’s far from the barren lava flows you’d expect. The path winds through a richly diverse forest setting before opening to panoramic views at the peak.
Black Crater
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 7.6 Miles (Roundtrip)
Pass Required: Yes, self-issued
After a challenging climb through thick stands of mountain hemlock, the Black Crater Trail emerges onto a summit of open pumice slopes. This rocky outcrop offers outstanding views of North Sister, Mount Washington and the McKenzie Pass lava flows, with views that extend west over the entire Central Oregon area.
Chush Falls
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2-3 Miles (Roundtrip)
Pass Required: Yes, self-issued
Chush Falls is a scenic forest trail that offers the chance to see summer wildlife and vegetation along Whychus Creek and lush valley terrain. After a moderate climb, the trail emerges onto an overlook above Chush Falls, a plunge waterfall made from melting glaciers that grows in flow by 6 times during the summer season.
Iron Mountain
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 3 Miles (Roundtrip)
Pass Required: Yes
Located near the summit of Tombstone Pass, Iron Mountain is known as a mecca of wildflower meadows, old-growth fir forests and scenic switchbacks. More than 300 species of wildflowers bloom along the trail, making it one of the best summer hikes near Sisters for photography and nature walks.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Varies
Pass Required: No
This winding riverside walk is arguably the most popular summer hike in the area, and for good reason - the path is easy for all ages and bursting with Central Oregon beauty. The trail runs both north and south along the Metolius River from Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery, crossing scenic bridges, feeder streams, campgrounds and more. Keep your eyes peeled for beaver dams, osprey nests and rainbow trout!
Proxy Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1 Mile (Roundtrip)
Pass Required: Yes, Self-Issued
Proxy Falls is a short and scenic trail that’s perfect for novice hikers and families with small children. The loop trail passes through conifer forests and old lava flows as it winds near two photo-worthy waterfalls: Lower Proxy Falls and Upper Proxy Falls. The lower falls are a better view and offer access to the spray, but the upper falls boast a more unique feature - after plunging into a small pool, the water seems to vanish into the ground.
Hike to your home-away-from-home with Sisters Vacation Rentals!
All trails must come to an end, but Sisters Vacation Rentals can help guarantee your summer hiking trails in Sisters lead to a cozy vacation rental designed for comfort and convenience. Book a charming 3-bedroom cabin that backs up to Deschutes National Forest for easy access to summer trails right from your backyard. Consider a riverside retreat on Metolius River to stroll the banks and forest trails at your leisure. You can also make your bed at Meadow View Cabin, a peaceful home that overlooks 60 acres of wildflower meadows and natural wildlife.
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