3.6 hr
Overview
Alder Springs used to be one of those local favorites, unknown to the masses, and was accessed by a rough trail that followed an easement through private land. An official trail has now been established here and this has become a very popular short backpack destination on weekends in spring and fall. The excursion offers a variety of natural wonders: views down to the central Cascades, the multi-layered palisades and rock sculpture of the Deschutes Formation, a cooling creek ford and lush springs, and wildflowers in season. It is recommended that you continue 1.7 miles from the springs down the canyon to Whychus Creek's confluence with the Deschutes as more geological wonders await there. Do this hike in a cooler season as the canyon bottom can be scorching in the summer months, but note that road access is closed for four months (December through March) to allow the area to recover from human affections. Most topo maps will show Whychus as Squaw Creek; the latter moniker is now deemed offensive and the new name, which means "water crossing," was approved in 2005.
Trail Stats
11.6 km
277 m
800 m
—
—
Photos
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.