Deschutes Land Trust: Walks + Hikes

(Photo above by Tyler Roemer)

Since 2000 the Deschutes Land Trust in Bend, Oregon has offered an amazing array of outings designed to connect and engage all Central Oregonians with the spectacular places around us. The Land Trust is very excited to announce itsslate 2015 Walks + Hikes!

Deschutes Land Trust Walks + Hikes provide direct exposure to Land Trust protected lands, and share the story of land conservation from a variety of perspectives. Interest in Land Trust hikes has grown exponentially over the years, and while there are many reasons for this growth, most of all, it’s clear that Central Oregonians are hungry not just for getting outdoors, but for learning something about the natural world around them. If you’ve been on a Land Trust hike before, you know that they are some of the most informative, enjoyable hikes in Central Oregon—and they’re free!

To celebrate the launch of this year’s program, here are seven reasons to get out on a Land Trust Walk + Hike this year:

1. Nearly 8 miles of trails at Whychus Canyon Preserve.
Land Trust been hard at work building new trails and connections at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Walks + Hikes at Whychus Canyon Preserve are your perfect chance to learn about new routes and find scenic viewpoints. One section of new trail takes visitors on a brief half-mile jaunt from the kiosk to a new, easily-accessed viewpoint with stunning views of Whychus Creek, its canyons, and the mountains beyond. Another section links the kiosk to a northern viewpoint without descending all the way into the canyon. This trail can be connected with the main route through the Preserve for a new three-mile loop.

2. Birds, butterflies, flowers, oh my!
We know you’re curious about nature. That’s why the free Walks + Hikes cover everything from beginning birding to butterflies, history to geology, mountain biking to mammals and more. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor expert or new to Central Oregon, you can learn something new on a Land TrustWalk + Hike.

3. New hikes and topics this year.
The Land Trust has expanded Walks + Hikes to include easy-going Wanders, new art workshops and Brews with Views hikes. If you’re looking for a scenic stroll with minimal walking, check out Wanders. If you want to hone your artistic craft or explore creative outlets, check out Art Workshops. Or, maybe enjoying the land and a beer is what you’re after, so be sure not to miss Brews with Views outings. In short, there’s never been a better time to find the perfect Land Trust outing for you.

4. Our Walks + Hikes leaders.
From prize winning photographers, to geophysicists, butterfly experts and life-long naturalists, volunteers give countless hours making sure you get the best guided hike in Central Oregon.

5. People like you.
It’s interesting and engaged participants like you who make Walks + Hikes that much more amazing. Group sizes are kept small, meaning you get more opportunities to ask questions and meet new like-minded people. Attend a Walk + Hike and you just might leave with an awesome new friend.

6. They’re all free!
Thanks to the generous support of more than 1300 Land Trust members and a few key sponsors including the Oregon Community Foundation, every one of our wonderful outings is free! What better way is there to enjoy some of the most amazing places and sights in central Oregon.

7. They’ll make you smile.
Let’s face it, there’s a reason you live here. We are surrounded by some of the most amazing places on earth, amazing and diverse wildlife, and wonderful people to share it all with. On a Walk + Hike with the Deschutes Land Trust, you get to experience all three—and that should make everyone smile.

Deschutes Land Trust Walks + Hikes are offered April-November. Find hike descriptions, difficulty ratings, and online registration at: deschuteslandtrust.org/events