The highest and easiest of the Three Sisters, Oregon's third highest peak is a non-technical walk-up great for those want great views and a long hike. Great early season ski descent. Crampons and ice axe not needed in late season. Summit crater has highest lake in the state. Summit bivys can be popular. One of the easier glaciated peaks to climb to become a Mazama member.

Activity Notes

Happy Pride Month climbing family!  This is going to be a fun, relaxed climb.  New climbers and recent BCEP grads strongly encouraged to apply!

During Queerzamas activities, we are committed to cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment for all participants. We proudly affirm that this activity is LGBTQ+ friendly and supportive, welcoming individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations. We honor and respect each person's pronouns. Additionally, we strive to create a positive and supportive space that embraces diversity in all its forms. Regardless of race, age, gender, or life background, everyone is valued and respected here. It's our expectation that every participant will actively contribute to maintaining this safe and inclusive environment. Anticipate engaging in respectful dialogue and offering mutual support as we collectively strive for a positive and enriching experience.

Trip description:

Meet at the South Sister/Devil's Lake Trailhead at noon on Friday.  The hike up to Moraine Lake is just under 3 miles/1500'.  We'll arrive and set up camp midafternoon, allowing plenty of time for camp chores and socializing.  Saturday morning we'll depart for the summit just before dawn, another 3 miles/3500' away.  Our moderate and steady pace should put us on the summit between 10-11am.  We'll celebrate, take lots of photos, then head back to camp the way we came.  We'll take an hour break to pack up camp, and then hike out to the cars in time for dinner in Bend.

Helmet and ice axe are required gear.  Recommended footwear is likely to be hiking shoes and microspikes, but crampons and mountaineering boots may be needed.  Leader will advise on footwear expectations prior to climb.

The leader has obtained a Central Cascades Overnight permit for the group.

 

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 190 miles
Driving Time from Portland 4 hours
Distance - Round Trip 11 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Relevant Books Oregon High by Jeff Thomas
Relevant Maps USGS 7 1/2 minute series: South Sister, and Geo-Graphics, Three Sisters Wilderness <href="http: "="" adventure="" c463="" starts-here="" title="On the Mazama Climbing and Hiking map page " www.mazamas.org="" your="">On the Mazama Climbing and Hiking map page <href="http: maps.google.com="" maps?f="q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=middle+sister&sll=44.103449,-121.769206&sspn=0.018891,0.04549&g=north+sister&ie=UTF8&ll=44.127028,-121.734352&spn=0.151065,0.363922&t=p&z=12"" title="Google maps">Google maps</href="http:></href="http:>
Awards Qualified 16 Major NW Peaks, Seven Oregon Cascades Peaks