Alder Springs (Sisters)

Alder Springs exemplifies high desert beauty off the beaten track. The trailhead perches atop a ridge paralleling Wychus Creek, making the hike down a breezy stroll, but the ascent may test your stamina. Three miles and one creek crossing later, the creek joins the Deschutes. A quicker route to the creek splits off near the trailhead onto Old Bridge trail. Here you will find the perfect kid-splashing picnic spot – and rumor has it rainbows and brown trout lurk nearby, thanks to the intense restoration efforts that are returning Wychus Creek to balance. Go in the next few weeks while the wilfdlowers are blooming, before the summer sun bakes the canyon to a crisp!

- Oregon Adventurist: SJ