South Sister

8.7 from 3 vote(s)

This hike takes you to top of the South Sister with an optional detour around Moraine Lake, with plenty of challenging stretches along the way.

The hike is beautiful and grueling at times, but it's well worth the effort. The hike is fairly well documented, but be aware of the time of year you travel there. The trailhead elevation is only 500 feet lower than the Mt. Bachelor lodge, and quickly climbs above it. Expect lots of snow at pretty much any time of the year. Plan for very cold, windy conditions at the top. The last mile takes you up a loose, very steep incline, so be sure to wear shoes that give you a lot of traction. If climbing in the snow, crampons may be helpful. A rather well written article about the hike, complete with an elevation map: http://www.oregon.com/hiking/south_sister.cfm

Closest City:	Bend
State:	Oregon
Directions:	From Bend, take Cascade Lakes Hwy towards Mt. Bachelor. About 5 miles past Mt. Bachelor Lodge, you'll see a sign for Ped X-ing, 350 ft. This is where the trail crosses the road. Just past that sign you'll see another sign for Devil's Lake, take a left. Park, and you will find the trailhead at the back of the campground. Devil's Lake Campground: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/recreation/campgrounds/devilslakecg.shtml
Level:	Difficult
Lowest Elevation (ft):	5450
Highest Elevation (ft):	10358
Length (mi):	12.5 Includes the return unless marked as Round Loop
Round Loop:
Good for Kids:
Camping Areas:
Picnic Areas:
Restroom Available:
Mountain Biking:
Horse Access: