Running commentary

Summer is here and the opportunities for runners in Central Oregon seem endless. So, whether you are a year-round resident of Sisters Country or here for a visit there are trail recommendations and events galore.

The trail systems in and around town cannot be taken for granted. Few cities of any size have done more to enhance the running, hiking, and biking access than Sisters, thanks to the Sisters Trails Alliance, city, county, and state governments, and the U.S. Forest Service.

Long-time residents are likely well-acquainted with the Peterson Ridge Trail complex south of town, which offers a variety of loop courses suited for everyone from joggers to ultra-marathoners. The shortest loop, Dog Crossing, is 1.4 miles and the longest, Top Rung, covers just under 21 miles.

Rather than a loop, it can be fun to get dropped off at the top of the trail and have a mostly downhill run back to town of about 10 miles.

The main trailhead can be accessed from the corner of Elm (Three Creek Road) and Tyee streets. Parking is limited, but more parking is available at the Village Green City Park on Elm, right across from the fire station. There is also access to the trail from FivePine Lodge and Sisters Athletic Club. Maps of the Peterson Ridge system along with other trails maintained and supported by Sisters Trails Alliance can be found at http://www.sisterstrails.org.

Horse activity on the Metolius-Windigo Trail in the summer makes it a little sketchy, as well as extra dusty, but it does pass through prime forested land in the heart of Sisters Country. Trail etiquette is a must, and dogs are not recommended.

Camp Sherman, famous for its quiet beauty, is another access point for some of the most beautiful running in Oregon. A trail runs on both sides of river from the Camp Sherman Store and bridges downstream allow for making a loop. The trail is also accessible from the campgrounds along the river. The store is a great place for post-run refreshment.

If getting off the beaten path is more your style, the Sisters Ranger Station has excellent maps of the area that show the hundreds of Forest Service roads and trails in the surrounding Deschutes National Forest. Access to dirt roads from the Tollgate and Crossroads subdivisions, as well as Black Butte Ranch, is easy, as are spur roads off Road 15 west of town off the McKenzie Highway. Most of these roads are lightly traveled dirt with occasional gravel sections.

For safety, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area, it is recommended to let someone know your planned route and carry a phone and/or a map. Those trees and dirt roads can all start looking alike, so do all you can to save yourself from getting lost or going on a much longer run than you expected!

Summer races in Sisters are limited, but others are available in the greater Central Oregon region. Fourth of July includes a plethora of races in the region, including the Rally on the Runway 5K at the Sisters Airport. Registration is available on UltraSignup. The race is nice and early at 8 a.m., leaving you free for the rest of your Independence Day fun. The Sisters Kiwanis Club sponsors the Hoodoo Challenge: Run to the Top half-marathon on Saturday, July 28. The event has added a 5-kilometer race for those that want something less than the 13.1-mile option. Information at http://sisterskiwanis.org/runtothetop.

Most regional races are listed on the FootZone Bend website (www.footzonebend.com) and www.racecenter.com.

Happy running!