12 Must-Do Activities in Sisters, Oregon
If you’re planning a trip to Oregon, you’ve got to check out Sisters! This charming town is packed with history and surrounded by stunning nature, making it the perfect base for your central Oregon adventures.
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Table of Contents
- 1. Explore the Town of Sisters
- 2. Black Butte Hike
- 3. Skylight Cave
- 4. McKenzie River Trail
- 5. Tamolitch Blue Pool
- 6. Clear Lake (Hike or Chill!)
- 7. Dee Wright Observatory
- 8. Proxy Falls
- 9. The Cove Palisades State Park
- 10. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
- 11. Smith Rock State Park
- 12. Explore Bend
- Where to Stay in Sisters, Oregon
1. Explore the Town of Sisters
Wander the streets of Sisters and feel like you’ve stepped back in time! The town’s old-fashioned buildings give off serious Wild West vibes, but inside, you’ll find modern boutiques, art galleries, and trendy eateries. Don’t miss the 1950s drive-in for homemade ice cream!
2. Black Butte Hike
This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail will get your blood pumping! The Black Butte Hike is perfect for a challenging but manageable trek with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Sisters. Make sure to visit on a clear day for the best experience.
READ MORE: Hiking the Black Butte Trail
3. Skylight Cave
For a unique adventure near Sisters, head to Skylight Cave. This lava tube cave has a natural ‘skylight’ that lets beams of sunlight pour in, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Bring a flashlight and explore this fascinating underground world!
READ MORE: How to Get to Skylight Cave
4. McKenzie River Trail
Sisters is your gateway to the Cascades, and the McKenzie River Trail is one of the best ways to experience them. This 24-mile trail is a bit of a beast, but you don’t have to do the whole thing. Even a short section will treat you to waterfalls, rivers, and lush forests.
READ MORE: Guide to the McKenzie River Trail
5. Tamolitch Blue Pool
The 3.6-mile hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool is a must-do. The vibrant blue waters are jaw-droppingly beautiful, making the relatively easy trek totally worth it. Make sure to bring your camera because this is one spot you’ll want to remember!
READ MORE: Hiking to Tamolitch Blue Pool
6. Clear Lake (Hike or Chill!)
Clear Lake is a 5-mile loop trail perfect for an easy, scenic hike. The crystal-clear waters reveal submerged ancient trees, and you might spot eagles or trout as you walk. Not into hiking? No worries! Bring your kayak, or just relax by the lake with a good book.
READ MORE: Exploring Clear Lake
7. Dee Wright Observatory
Perched atop McKenzie Pass, the Dee Wright Observatory offers some of the most spectacular views in Oregon. This stone structure provides panoramic vistas of the Cascade Mountains and the surrounding lava fields. It’s a quick stop with a big payoff!
8. Proxy Falls
Proxy Falls is a short 1.6-mile loop hike that packs in a lot of beauty for its length. You’ll traverse a lava field and then be rewarded with a view of the stunning falls. You can even scramble closer for a more up-close experience—just watch your step!
READ MORE: Hiking Proxy Falls
9. The Cove Palisades State Park
Cove Palisades State Park is a summer paradise! Located in the Deschutes and Crooked River Canyons, it’s perfect for camping, boating, and hiking. Don’t miss the Tam-A-Lau Trail for sweeping views of the Cascade Range and the river canyons below.
READ MORE: Your Guide to Cove Palisades State Park
10. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is one of Oregon’s most beautiful drives. This 65-mile route takes you past stunning mountain views, rivers, and lakes. There are plenty of places to pull over and explore, whether you’re up for hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the scenery.
READ MORE: Exploring The Cascade Lakes in Oregon
11. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is like stepping into another world. With its towering rock formations and winding river, it’s a haven for hikers and climbers. Try the Misery Ridge Trail for a short but challenging hike, or just soak in the epic scenery.
READ MORE: Guide to Smith Rock State Park
12. Explore Bend
Bend is just a short drive from Sisters, and it’s packed with outdoor adventures and cool city vibes. Whether you’re hiking Tumalo Falls, floating down the Deschutes River, or hitting up the local breweries, Bend has something for everyone.
READ MORE: Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
Where to Stay in Sisters, Oregon
FivePine Lodge & Spa – Enjoy luxury amenities like a spa and free Pilates classes at this upscale lodge. Rooms feature fireplaces and deep soaking tubs!
Best Western Ponderosa Lodge – This well-reviewed hotel is adjacent to a golf course and offers a seasonal outdoor pool and relaxing spa services. It’s also conveniently located in Sisters.
Left Coast Lodge – Perfect for pet owners! This lodge offers views of the Cascades, a central location in Sisters, and a hot tub for relaxing after a day of exploring.
The charming town of Sisters is the perfect place to base yourself while exploring central Oregon. Enjoy the town’s unique blend of history and modern comforts, and don’t forget to get out into nature for some epic adventures!
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Sisters, Oregon!
