Jack Creek similar to the Metolius

Water flows crystal clear forming eddies and shallow pools from the Head of Jack Creek, a handsome nephew to the Head of the Metolius. Photo by Tom Chace

Everyone knows of the great and beautiful Metolius River and particularly the tourist stop at the Head of The Metolius.

This destination is a must for visitors and locals alike. It is beautiful, and easily accessible -- almost too easy for those wanting a little more rustic and rugged hike.

Not far from the Head of the Metolius is the Head of Jack Creek, lesser in water volume but just as lovely and not nearly as "touristy." And it is still an easy walk in the forest.

The automobile ride there is attractive and the hike moderate and satisfying. Allow about 2-1/2 hours overall from downtown Sisters.

Jack Creek and its neighbor, Jack Lake, about 4-1/2 miles farther northwest, are part of the Mount Jefferson Wilderness area. Three Fingered Jack, a 7,800-foot craggy topped mountain, towers above both.

It is uncertain who "Jack" was, the one who lent his name to both Jack Creek and Jack Lake.

One story says Jack was a fur trapper who lived in these parts and gave his name to the mountain, along with the lake and creek. Another story, based on "the oldest, legal saloon in Washington State," claims Jack -- full name Jack Lemma -- was a butcher, and a careless one -- hence the nickname.

Jack Creek comes right out of the ground much as does the Metolius, fed by underground springs. The water is cold and constant. From its headwaters to where it joins the Metolius, the river maintains nearly the same depth and temperature.

It then flows northeast joining the Metolius River, about halfway between Camp Sherman and Wizard Falls, from whence it flows into Lake Billy Chinook and eventually to the Deschutes and Columbia rivers.

A trip to the Head of Jack Creek is a wonderful outing for youngsters and oldsters alike. The hike is flat, on a well-manicured path. There are picnic tables at the parking area and a restroom.

You will need to display a Forest Parking Pass, available at the Sisters office of the Forest Service, Pine Street at Cascade Avenue; or a Golden Age National Parks pass.

To get there from downtown Sisters, head west on Highway 20 12.1 miles to Road 12. Road 12 turns off to the right at a sign marked Jack Creek Road. It is paved and in good condition.

Stay on Road 12 for 4.3 miles, turning left onto a red cinder road No. 1230. After about 1/2 mile, this road crosses Jack Creek over a narrow, scenic bridge. Turn off 1230 to the left on 1232, about 50 yards past the bridge. 1232 becomes 400.

Drive past the Jack Creek Campground .7 miles to the Head of Jack Creek parking lot.

The trailhead is at the far end of the parking lot next to the Forest Service map and sign board.

The trail crosses a unique walking bridge and circles around the beginning of this lovely creek with marshland and crystal clear water as it courses it way toward the Metolius River.

On the return walk, look for a wooden log bench on the left. Detour around behind it, otherwise you will end up 1/2 mile downriver in the Jack Creek Campgrounds. The detour is necessary as the trail back to the parking area is blocked and covered by two downed trees, which hides the trail proper.