Posted by Bruce King on October 22, 2010 at 11:57 AM
I want to do some hiking in the Sisters area next year to shoot landscapes. Either spring or fall, haven't decided yet. I'm good for hikes over moderate terrain, 3 or 4 miles each way. Thinking about Black Butte. Any decent views form there, when? Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
Posted by Marcy Ugstad on October 22, 2010 at 8:16 PM
Hi Bruce
There are some good views from the top of Black Butte - depending on what you are looking for. Great views of the Three Sisters, Metolius River country, Black Butte Ranch etc. The only problem with Black Butte is that it's often pretty hazy in the area due to pollution and smoke being drawn into the lower elevations around the butte. Just know, too, that the trail is often blocked by snow well into June - especially on the north face. I worked a couple seasons as the fire lookout up there and there were a lot of days that I had limited visibility due to smoke or hazy skies. Late fall is often a gorgeous time for the hike - no people, no bugs, clear trail and normally clear skies. Fall colors with the Vine Maple, Aspens and Cottonwoods are a big plus, too!.......If you go to Central Oregon after Memorial Day, one of the best trips for photos is to ride the chairlift to the top of Mt. Bachelor (or hike up if so inclined). Amazing views!
Posted by Greg Vaughn on October 24, 2010 at 10:05 AM
How far from Sisters do you want to go?
n
Smith Rock State Park is a great place to shoot in Spring.
Late spring through summer locations:
- Three Creeks Lake and Tam McArthur Rim (southwest on FR 16 from Sisters)
- Metolius River
mid-summer for wildflowers:
- Canyon Creek Meadows
Posted by Bruce King on October 24, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Marcy-the chairlift sounds interesting, thanks.
Greg-Smith Rock is now high on my gotta go list, thanks.
Discussion
3 repliesThere are some good views from the top of Black Butte - depending on what you are looking for. Great views of the Three Sisters, Metolius River country, Black Butte Ranch etc. The only problem with Black Butte is that it's often pretty hazy in the area due to pollution and smoke being drawn into the lower elevations around the butte. Just know, too, that the trail is often blocked by snow well into June - especially on the north face. I worked a couple seasons as the fire lookout up there and there were a lot of days that I had limited visibility due to smoke or hazy skies. Late fall is often a gorgeous time for the hike - no people, no bugs, clear trail and normally clear skies. Fall colors with the Vine Maple, Aspens and Cottonwoods are a big plus, too!.......If you go to Central Oregon after Memorial Day, one of the best trips for photos is to ride the chairlift to the top of Mt. Bachelor (or hike up if so inclined). Amazing views!
n
Smith Rock State Park is a great place to shoot in Spring.
Late spring through summer locations:
- Three Creeks Lake and Tam McArthur Rim (southwest on FR 16 from Sisters)
- Metolius River
mid-summer for wildflowers:
- Canyon Creek Meadows
Greg-Smith Rock is now high on my gotta go list, thanks.