Accessible Trails in the Sisters Area

Dee Wright Memorial and Lava River Interpretive Trail

Directions:

Hwy 242 near the summit of Mckenzie Pass about 14.9 miles west of Sisters.

Features:

The unique Dee Wright Observatory, built of lava rock is located in the middle of a massive lava flow and offers panoramic views of the Cascade Mountain Range, as far north as Mt. Hood.

A barrier-free access trail takes visitors to an interpretive court, offering information on the history of the structure built in the 1930s.

The paved, half-mile Lava River Interpretive Trail winds through lava flows with spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape. It is rated accessible but most difficult for wheelchairs due to steep grades with dropoffs.

Other:

See USFS Website (scoll down to Dee Wright Memorial). Also see USFS Lava River Trail info.

The Head of the Metolius River

Directions:

The Head of the Metolius River is near Camp Sherman.

Drive 9.6 miles northwest from Sisters on Hwy. 20, then 4.4 miles north on Road. 14. Follow signage to the large parking area.

Features:

A 0.2 mile paved, accessible trail winds through open Ponderosa pine forests to an overlook of the Headwaters of the Metolius River.

This Scenic Waterway is one of the largest spring-fed rivers in the United States, winding past a fish-viewing observation point at Camp Sherman, the Metolius River Fish Hatchery, and on into Lake Billy Chinook. It was designated a National Wild and Scenic River in 1988. The majestic, snowcapped peak of Mt. Jefferson is the backdrop for smooth upwelling waters.

Other:

This trailhead has a paved parking area, accessible restrooms, and interpretive signs. Open April to November; although the roads are rarely closed, at an elevation of 3000 feet, there often is snow and ice on this trail in the Winter.

While in the area, visit the nearby Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery which has a grassy area and gentle paths winding through the 35-acre site. Open tanks house the different fish species raised at the hatchery: Rainbow, brook, brown and trophy trout, kokanee and Atlantic salmon. Scattered around the hatchery's paths are three memorial benches. ADA restrooms.

Able-bodied companions can hike the trail that begins at the hatchery parking lot and heads upriver (accessiblity rating for this section is unknown).

Black Butte Ranch

Directions:

Located 8 miles west of Sisters on Highway 20, at milepost 93, just before McAllister Road and the junction to Camp Sherman.

Features:

Black Butte Ranch is a full-service destination golfing resort with 18 miles of paved bike paths that are also wheelchair accessible.