Day 6.
…through a forest that seems destined to die, so many of the pines here are dead already, leaving behind their empty husks, as a reminder of how things once were…
The wind did not tear down the trees around our tent last night, and we head out early, wanting to get a jump on our 10 mile day. True to our gleaned information, there was no real snow on the trail, just a few spots as we dropped down off of Scott Pass. Then, it was clear sailing along the 10 mile foot race to the truck. A nice, easy, gradual slope downward for most of the way, then a 500 foot slight incline, then all downhill again to the truck, through a forest that seems destined to die, so many of the pines here are dead already, leaving behind their empty husks, as a reminder of how things once were.
The only real thing that slowed us, where the several downed trees across the path. As there isn’t really any underbrush along the trail, however, it made it relatively easy to get around the obstacles, in fact, from people doing just that, it almost appears that the trail has been re-routed, leaving a clear path around them. Many times, I have to almost run to catch up to Greg, as he is practically flying down the trail.
…I have to douse my feet with water, as they have spontaneously burst into flames from flying across the central Oregon rock and sand…
At this pace, we arrive at the truck at 11:30 am! Before noon, for crying out loud! I have to douse my feet with water, as they have spontaneously burst into flames from flying across the central Oregon rock and sand. After packing, and putting on some comfortable shoes, we travel to Bend, to see my friends, Jim and Tange Taylor. They were willing to put us up for the night, so that we could get an early start to head back to Puyallup, but since we tore down the trail so quickly, we decide that instead, we would enjoy some food and conversation first, then head back tonight. After a great burger at Pilot Butte Burgers, (they make a great one!), we say our farewells, and head home.
What a great trip! If I ever get the chance, I would take this trip again, maybe this time take in the South Sister? And, definitely would like to see the meadows covered in brilliant wildflowers, instead of drifted snow. Where else can you take in the scenery like this, with 3 distinct 10,000 footers in your sights, lava flows, alpine lakes, old growth forests, and running streams everywhere? Truly a land of beauty, and a hike that should be required viewing for those interested in the best 30 miler plus category in the Pacific Northwest.
The 46-mile circuit of trails around the third-, fourth- and fifth-highest peaks in the state is one of Oregon’s great multinight backpacking opportunities — and one that gives you plenty of those in-your-face views.
Yes, wish we had more opportunity to hike in Oregon, there are some beautiful places to see! Thanks for the comment!
The trail around Mount Hood is officially impassable at Eliot Creek, so the Three Sisters hike is a good alternative.
Excellent info, thank you for sharing this!
Three night backpack – camp at Camp Creek Trail junction, Moraine Lake, and a little beyond Sisters Spring.
Thanks for the info!