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  Ranch at the Canyons

Summer Mountaineering In the Cascades

The Central Oregon Cascades are a virtual playground for the local mountaineer. With a dozen mountains to choose from with difficulty levels ranging from a day hike to multi-pitch rope climbs, the area is superbly suited for all levels of climbers.

The most climbed mountain in the region is South Sister. Due to it’s easy access from Bend and the fact that it is completely non-technical this mountain conquered by hundreds of people each year. It is the tallest Central Oregon peak (with the exception of Mt. Jefferson) at 10385 feet. The trail is extremely clear and easy to follow due to heavy traffic.

If easy is not your thing and you are looking for a bit more challenge and maybe some technical rope work, try North Sister or maybe Mt. Washington. These both offer some true high altitude rock climbing. Mt. Washington actually has multi-pitch routes. Mt. Theilson to the south has a short, but very exposed final summit climb that is rated 5.4. They call this mountain “the lightning rod of the Cascades” due to the needle like basalt plug that juts up into the sky. On the summit (which will only hold about 4 people comfortably) you can see the melted rock spots where lightning has super heated the stone. Other Mountains include Middle Sister, Three Finger Jack, Broken Top, Diamond Peak, and Mt. Scott. All of these offer their own unique challenges and rewards.

One of the greatest things about the Central Oregon Cascade Mountains is the relative easy access. Most mountains can be approached by foot in less than 5 miles, which makes many of these peaks possible day climbs. But don’t miss out on an opportunity to spend the night in the shadows of one of these gorgeous alpine giants.