Fall activities
Considering that the town of Sisters in Oregon has four marked seasons during the year, you will come to find that fall is a magical time, with plenty of things to do. As the temperatures cool and the leaves change, the area transforms into a colorful scenery and offers a large list of activities to enjoy.
Hiking is a year-long activity, but doing it during autumn has a different ring to it. The Three Sisters Wilderness area offers a wide range of trails that showcase the vibrant colors of fall, from the golden aspens to the fiery reds and oranges of the maples. The Tam McArthur Rim Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the vast Central Oregon landscape. The Black Butte Trail is another option, with a more moderate hike that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the forests and mountains.
For a more gentle way to enjoy the orangy palette that this season has, visitors can take a scenic drive through the area. The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of the mountains, as well as stops at several historic sites, including the Dee Wright Observatory and the Proxy Falls. The Metolius River Scenic Byway is also another beautiful option, that gives you sights of the stunning river and its surrounding forests.
Fishermen and anglers find fall also a great time of year for fishing in the area. The Metolius River is well known for fly fishing, with an abundance of rainbow and brown trout. The nearby Fall River is another great option, with waters that are crystal-clear and plenty of fish. Visitors can also try their hand at fishing in the nearby Cascade Lakes, which offer a chance to catch kokanee, rainbow trout, and brown trout.
For those who prefer a more relaxed outdoor activity, autumn is a great time of year for golfing. The Aspen Lakes Golf Course is a great destination, offering stunning views of the mountains that surround the area, and a challenging course for golfers of all skill levels. The Black Butte Ranch Golf Course is another option, with 36 holes and breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains.
When visiting Sisters also enjoy the beauty of fall by horseback riding in between the forests and meadows of the region. Several local ranches offer guided tours that allow visitors to take in the colors of the season while enjoying a leisurely ride through the countryside.
These cooler months make the area great for birdwatching. The nearby Pine Mountain Observatory offers a chance to see a wide range of bird species, including raptors, songbirds, and waterfowl. Spotting a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, warblers, and thrushes, can be done while exploring the area on other activities.
When taking a break from the adventure of the outdoors, you can also enjoy the harvest season in Sisters. The local farmer’s market has a wide range of fresh produce, such as pumpkins, squash, and apples. The area is also home to several orchards and pumpkin patches, offering a chance to pick your own fresh fruits and vegetables. The Sisters Harvest Fair is another popular event that gives you a chance to shop for local crafts and goods while enjoying live music and delicious food.
Fall is also a great time of year to explore the area’s rich history and culture. The nearby High Desert Museum will teach you about the region’s natural and cultural history through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show is another popular event, featuring hundreds of beautiful quilts on display throughout the town.
Finally, fall is a great time of year to simply enjoy the remarkable beauty of the area. When visiting take a stroll through the charming town of Sisters, notice the quaint shops and galleries that line the streets. You can also relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the surrounding forests and meadows, taking in the breathtaking views of the fall colors.
Regardless of the main reason for visiting Sisters town and the Three Sisters area, during the autumn season, you will find plenty of other things to do in or outdoors. Keep in mind that some of them may require you to ask for permission, take a license or book it in advance. Following the regulations for each of the activities while taking care of the nature around, will preserve the place for generations to come.