South Sister Climber Trail

The trail officially begins at the Devils Lake Campground & Trailhead. This is also where you'll find parking. It's a very popular spot, so arriving early is highly recommended to secure a parking space, especially on weekends.

Yes, as of 2021, a limited entry permit is required to hike the South Sister Climber Trail. This is part of the regulations for the Three Sisters Wilderness area. Make sure to secure your permit in advance.

The terrain is incredibly diverse and progressively challenging. You'll start in a dense forest, then emerge onto an open plateau often called "the golf course." Higher up, you'll navigate lava fields, steep sections with large rocks, and significant stretches of loose scree. The final push to the summit is particularly steep and rocky, sometimes involving snowfields early in the season.

Most hikers find that completing the round trip takes anywhere from 7 to 10 hours, depending on their fitness level, the number of breaks they take, and trail conditions. It's a long and strenuous day, so plan accordingly.

The best time to hike is generally from mid-July through September, once most of the snow has melted from the higher elevations. Earlier in the season, you might encounter significant snowfields, and later in the fall, weather can become unpredictable with early snows and colder temperatures.

While dogs are generally allowed in the Three Sisters Wilderness, it's crucial to check current regulations regarding leashes and specific trail restrictions. Given the trail's extreme difficulty, loose scree, and potential for sharp volcanic rock, it may not be suitable for all dogs, especially without proper paw protection.

Due to the trail's demanding nature, come prepared. You'll need at least 3 liters of water (and a way to filter more), extra layers for wind and cold at the summit, trekking poles for stability on scree, gaiters to keep rocks out of your boots, and strong sun protection. Microspikes might be useful if hiking earlier in the season when snowfields are present.

The views are spectacular and constantly evolving. Early on, you might catch glimpses of Devils Lake and Moraine Lake. As you gain elevation, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding Cascade peaks, including Broken Top, Middle Sister, North Sister, and Mount Bachelor. From the South Sister Summit, you'll get breathtaking 360-degree views that can stretch for hundreds of miles on a clear day.

No, the South Sister Climber Trail is considered extremely difficult and is not suitable for beginners or young children. It requires significant physical fitness, experience with strenuous hiking, and proper preparation. There are many other family-friendly and less challenging trails in the Central Oregon area if you're looking for an easier outing.

Yes, the route primarily follows the South Sister Climber Trail, but it also passes through sections of the Three Sisters Loop Trail, and is sometimes referred to as South Sister Climber Trail #36.

While you might cross small streams or encounter Lewis Tarn near the glacier, these sources are not reliable for drinking without proper filtration. It's essential to carry all the water you'll need or bring a reliable water filter for any potential sources you might find.