Hike Rating: Moderate (4 miles off-trail with 300 feet elevation change)

Guide: Jeff Scheetz, FANs Monitoring Coordinator (503-277-9110)

In addition to a pleasant hiking experience, this trip is a good chance to practice navigation skills due to the rolling trail-less terrain. We will adapt the training to the needs of the participants, but will target the USGS benchmark (Big Falls) as a destination (USGS quad map is Steelhead Falls). Students should bring relevant maps, compasses, and GPS receivers to enhance the learning environment. Generic topographic maps will be provided. There will be some fences to negotiate since this public land was once grazed.

Standard hiking equipment includes sturdy boots, lunch, water, extra layer and perhaps hiking poles. Standard Covid precautions will also be in effect. Maintain 6 feet distance from other participants and bring/wear a face mask.

This is a free hike, limited to 8 participants and registration is required. If the hike is full, add your name to the wait list. If any cancellations occur, you will be notified via email. Pets are not allowed on this hike.

DIRECTIONS: Drive west on Lower Bridge Way all the way to the Holmes Road intersection. Continue straight (north) on Lower Bridge for 1.3 miles (Do not turn onto Holmes Rd.). Park along the road adjacent to Crooked River National Grasslands strip to the east.

This event is sponsored by Friends and Neighbors of the Deschutes Canyon Area (FANs), a group founded in 2011 by landowners surrounding the Deschutes Canyon-Steelhead Falls Wilderness Study Area in Central Oregon who came together over their shared love of nearby public lands.  The focus area of FANs includes many special places such as Steelhead Falls, Alder Springs, the Peninsula, Otter Bench and Scout Camp.  Become a member by visiting our website at www.fansofdeschutes.org.  Memberships are just $10 per person per year.