Whychus Creek Overlook Trail near Sisters, Oregon
Five miles outside Sisters is the Whychus Creek Overlook trailhead. From there, you have options to do a short, 1ish mile hike or extend your adventure to more than 10 miles. Due to time, the little bit of snow, and me nursing an injury, we chose the shortest of the short hike. We walked the half mile out to the overlook, enjoyed the view, and made our way back to the trailhead. There is an option to hike a loop, which is a bit longer and steeper. I told my boys they could do that route, but they were kind enough to hike the out and back with me.
Â
This post may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Â
We really enjoyed this hike for a quick stop on our way through town.
Whychus Creek Overlook Trail Stats
Trailhead: Whychus Creek Overlook Trailhead
Trail Type: Out and Back, with loop option
Difficulty: ⚪ Easy based on OK Which Way’s rating system
Distance: 1 mile
Elevation: 3800 feet
Planning Your Visit
Location: Deschutes National Forest, 5 miles south of Sisters, Oregon
Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time
Parking: Whychus Creek Overlook Trailhead
Park Pass Needed: none
Entrance Fee: none
Trail Map: Link to AllTrails maps
Pets: Dogs on leashes allowed
The Trail
Much of the trail was covered in snow when we walked it. But, it was still an easy hike. The trail was great and relatively flat. Our journey through the trees and shrubs, with occasional peeks of the river below, was lovely. It was a bit windy at the overlook, but the sun was out and the view of the mountains was spectacular.
View from the Overlook
Final Thoughts
I would absolutely do this hike again and would be up for trying some of the longer trails nearby.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Optional Items to Bring
Our Stats
Date: March 2023
Distance: .9 miles
Start: Whychus Creek Overlook Trailhead
End: Whychus Creek Overlook Trailhead
Hiking Time: 48min*
*A quick note on our hiking style – We stop and smell the roses. When I go for a run, speed is a consideration. While hiking, it is not. We take photos, watch the chipmunk in the tree, find geocaches, and simply enjoy the adventure. So, typically a hike can be completed in a shorter time than we log.
Thinking About Seeing the Amazing View from Whychus Creek Overlook?
Pin This to Help Plan Your Trip ⬇
More Adventures in Central Oregon
This trail review is based only on Jennifer’s experience. Hike at your own risk with the understanding that individual scenarios in a natural environment will be variable.
Â
Â
Â