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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
78 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.7 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

West Metolius River

Panoramic views from the West Metolius River hike near Bend, Oregon
Measurement:

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Table of contents

It’s a postcard-perfect river walk: simple as that. The Metolius River is unbelievably beautiful and the easy hike along its flank is worth the relatively long drive from Bend. The water is clear and flecked with stunning whitewater rapids. This truly is a trek worth taking.

Route Description for West Metolius River

The trailhead is beside the small campground, where you’ll also find pit toilets. From the trailhead, descend down to the slow moving Metolius River. You will be shocked at how clear the river is! You will be able to see right down to the rocky bottom in the very center of the river. Begin hiking along the riverside, along the well-kept, flat trail. You will pass a small tributary waterfall, called Gushing Springs. This wide, short, gentle waterfall cascades slowly down to the river, creating a beautiful scene. Continue hiking as the river veers left. You will pass by several sections of whitewater sets as you continue following the flow of the river. Approximately two-thirds of the way through, the trail will begin to ascend and you will traverse through a sparse forest. Soon you will arrive at the Wizard Fall Fish Hatchery, where you can feed the fish and is an interesting stop. Here there is a bridge and a parking area. This is also the turnaround point of the hike. Return following your path you came out on. Would you like to try a similar level hike around Bend? Check out the Tumalo Falls.

Insider Hints for West Metolius River

  • You can also start the hike at the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery, reached by going along NF-14 from Camp Sherman.
  • An option to extend the hike is to continue past the hatchery. You can go another 3.2mi to Pioneer Ford and the Lower Bridge.

Getting to the West Metolius River Trailhead

From Bend drive north along US-97 and then turn onto US-20 west towards Sisters for 32.0mi.  After Black Butte Ranch turn right onto Camp Sherman Road and follow it for just under 3.0mi.  Veer left to stay on Camp Sherman Road, which turns into NF-1419.  After 5.5mi, turn right onto NF-1420 towards the Lower Canyon Creek Campground.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year Round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    None

  • Toilets:

    At trailhead

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

West Metolius River Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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