Appreciate Central Oregon
Seasonal guides for exploring our special part of the world.
Seasonal Guides
By early to mid-October, our Western larch trees will have turned completely yellow, in sharp and brilliant contrast to their evergreen neighbors. Time to drop everything and go out for a scenic hike, ride, or drive, because this golden hue lasts a few weeks at most.
In autumn, Suttle Lake issues a siren song — calling out for one more hike or paddle before winter sets in. As you pass through Tumalo and Sisters, through stands of Ponderosa pines, past Black Butte and the turn-off to the Metolius River Basin, the drive is part of the adventure.
Just remember: the road you’re on bisects ancient migration routes. Your caution and your support for wildlife crossings is needed.
The Metolius region is a pristine ecosystem, home to an array of wildlife, plants, and natural wonders that have earned our enduring admiration and deserve lasting protection.
Urban native gardens are certainly not a panacea to global environmental challenges, but they do make a difference locally, and anyone — even beginners with “black thumbs,” renters with only a small balcony and some pots, and homeowners with itty bitty yards — can support local wildlife by planting a native garden.
Looking for the best views in Central Oregon? Catch them from a kayak or raft. The Crooked, Deschutes, and Metolius Rivers are all within a short drive for Central Oregon residents, offering whitewater adventures year-round with a range of difficulty levels.
With three prime birding locations near Terrebonne — the Crooked River Wetlands, Smith Rock State Park, and Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve — all within 25 miles, a birder can put together a rewarding excursion.
Located on a high plateau in Cove Palisades State Park, the Tam-a-láu Trail is a great place to appreciate birds, blooms, and awe-inspiring geology.
Bandit Springs Sno-Park provides access to the most diverse network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails on the Ochoco National Forest. With trail ratings ranging from easy to most Difficult, skiers of any skill level will have options here.