Church to host first hike of the summer

The summer hiking season is here and Three Sisters Fellowship is once again offering group hiking opportunities for local residents.

Like last year, Kim Barry and some friends plan to lead weekly hikes that range from short, “kid-friendly” jaunts along the Metolius River, to day-long excursions into the wilderness.

Due to heavy snow over the winter, some of the higher trails haven’t opened up yet, so a complete calendar of events is not ready. The group plans to start in the lower elevations to begin with and will publish future hikes as the mountains become more accessible.

The first hike of the season, Thursday, June 29, will feature a prominent part of the Sisters landscape: Black Butte. This is a relatively short but steep hike suitable for most ages that features wildflowers and unobstructed views of the Cascades.

The adventure will begin at 5:15 p.m. from the parking lot of Three Sisters Fellowship. The group will carpool to the trailhead on the side of Black Butte and begin the 3.8-mile round trip by 6 p.m. The trip should take about two hours.

Central Oregon weather can change quickly. Barry urges hikers to carry extra clothing to layer on if the temperature drops or a rainstorm rolls in. Of course water is a must and cameras are encouraged.

“The beauty last year, with the wildflowers, blue skies and white snow-capped mountains was just amazing,” said Barry. “We are so blessed to live in this area and to have an opportunity to fellowship in the wonder of God’s creation.”

Time and days of the week of future hikes will vary to accommodate a variety of schedules, according to Barry. She points out that some hikes will require the Forest Trail Pass and that carpooling will be highly encouraged. Barry can be reached at 549-2934. Future hikes will be published in The Nugget and will be available in print at Three Sisters Fellowship.