Panoramic views from the Whychus Creek Trail hike around Bend, Oregon
Panoramic views from the Whychus Creek Trail hike around Bend, Oregon

Whychus Creek Trail hike

Bend
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Wildflowers on the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, OregonWhychus River Trail is a great hike near Bend, OregonView of the above the river on the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, OregonRocky cliffs on the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, OregonRiver along the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, OregonDeadfall in the river on the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, OregonWhychus Creek Trail Hike in Bend surrounded by the wildflowersThick flowers beside the trail on the Whychus Creek Trail Hike near Bend, Oregon

Whychus Creek Trail hike

Distance: 6.1mi
Elevation: 669ft
Time: 2.5-3h

Difficulty Rating:

User Ratings:
9.7 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty

This hike is perfect for escaping the crowds at many of the popular walks closer to Bend.  A moderate trail perfect for the whole family.

Whychus Creek Trail Map

Getting there

From Bend head north on US-97 for a short while until you see signs for Sisters. Exit the highway and turn onto US-20 heading west toward Sisters. After driving 22.0mi, turn left onto Elms Street and follow this road for about 5.0mi. Look for a very small hiker symbol on the right. Park here to begin the hike.

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About

When to do

Year Round

Backcountry Campsites

Yes

Toilets

None

Family friendly

Yes

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

Low

Route Type

Out and back


Whychus Creek Trail
Elevation Graph


Route Description for Whychus Creek Trail

Descend along the single-track trail down to the river before turning left to begin following the river. The trail trends upwards along the river and never gains much elevation. You will pass by numerous small waterfalls as you climb.

Weaving through awesome ponderosa pine forests, the trail never gets too far from the creek. Follow signs for the Whychus Creek Trail at all trail junctions. The trail ends at the junction of the Metolius and Windigo trails, where you will find a small walk-in campsite.

There are deep eddies along much of the walk, which offer many spots to jump in and cool off. The trees don’t always provide ample shade, so a dunk is sometimes necessary! After hiking beside this gurgling stream leading to a campsite, return the way you came.

Would you like to try an easier hike around Bend? Check out the Tumalo Falls.

Insider Hints

  • If hiking with kids, simply go for as long as you want then turn around.

Comments

Sally S. Norbert 4 years ago

Beautiful waterfalls. Great hike!

9.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
2h 45m Time Taken
Suzy TQ 4 years ago

Super fun, and a nice short hike if you only have a couple hours available. Bring better bug spray!

9.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
3h 00m Time Taken
HIllaryPNW 4 years ago

Great scenic place, great trails, the great outdoors

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Jennifer M. 4 years ago

Great and easy trail. There are some icy sections on the trail but it's still manageable. Would definitely go back again.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
T Rob 4 years ago

The hike is in the heart of the Sisters Wilderness and waterfalls were magnificent

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
3h 00m Time Taken
Adelina Krukova 5 years ago

Be prepared for a bit of a challenge with a pretty steep ascent. There are also lots of picnic spots here. Bring lots of water because it was pretty hot, especially if you arrive around 1pm.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
sweethomealana 5 years ago

The trail itself is okay, with some beautiful views. There were some muddy spots in the shade. You can also bring your dogs here which is awesome.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
AltaVito 5 years ago

Easy short hike! Safe and family-friendly.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Emma Paxton 5 years ago

The trail was easy to follow and we had a great time exploring the area.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Stewart M. 5 years ago

The river was not as beautiful as the previous river we visited so I'm a bit disappointed.

9.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
12 Comments Show all

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