The Three Sisters Wilderness in Oregon State is managed by the US Forest Service, and there are several wilderness regulations that visitors should be aware of. These rules help protect the wilderness area and ensure that visitors can safely enjoy it while minimizing their impact on the environment. Here are some of the most important aspects to keep in mind:
- Group Size Limits: Groups in the Three Sisters Wilderness are limited to 12 people or less. This limit applies to both day use and overnight trips.
- Camping Regulations: Campsites must be at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, and trails. Additionally, they must be at least 500 feet apart from each other. There are also some restrictions on camping in certain areas of the wilderness, so it’s important to check ahead of time and obtain any necessary permits.
- Leave No Trace: Visitors are required to practice “Leave No Trace” principles, which means packing out all trash, minimizing campfire impacts, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and natural resources.
- Trail Regulations: Visitors are required to stay on designated trails, and off-trail travel is prohibited in some areas. Additionally, bicycles and motorized vehicles are not allowed in the wilderness area. These regulations, besides conserving nature, are a way to ensure your safety against wildlife encounters.
- Food Storage: Food and garbage must be stored in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk. This helps prevent bears and other wildlife from becoming habituated to human food.
By following these steps, visitors can help protect the Three Sisters Wilderness, while still having a complete adventure, and ensure that it remains a pristine and beautiful natural area for generations to come.