No Permit, No Problem

The Three Sisters Wilderness is a spectacular region of shimmering alpine lakes, old-growth forests and wildflower meadows, including a family of glacier-clad peaks: the Three Sisters and Mount Bachelor (formerly, called Brother Jon). It is no wonder the wilderness trails are busy in summer.

In 2021, the U.S. Forest Service initiated a permit system to deal with overuse on the most popular Central Oregon trails. Obtaining an online permit to some of the region’s well-known destinations can be a challenge, especially for a spontaneous hike. So here are three options that don’t require advanced reservations. No planning required, just show up and go!

Scott’s Pass Trail

Named for cattleman Felix Scott who built a trail over the Cascades in 1862 to drive cattle from the Willamette Valley toward eastern Oregon, the Scott’s Pass trail climbs through coniferous forests to the namesake pass and connects to the Pacific Crest Trail near South Matthieu Lake, named for Oregon pioneer Francis Xavier Matthieu. Great views of North Sister await from the shoreline. 

Trail detail: 6.8 mile out-and-back, 650 feet elevation gain  | Scott’s Pass Trailhead: 14.5 miles west of Sisters off Highway 242

Six Lakes Trail

This trailhead provides access to far more than six lakes—it eventually connects to the Mink Lake Basin, home to numerous bodies of water. Nearly a mile from the parking area, the trail passes by Blow Lake, a deep glacially carved lake, visible through the woods. Another mile beyond Blow Lake, the trail passes by Doris Lake, also visible through the trees. On Doris Lake’s eastern shore, at the “day-use only, no camping” area, there is a swimming spot to take a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

The trail past Doris Lake gradually climbs through old-growth hemlocks to a junction. Turn right and the trail leads toward Mink Lake and numerous other lakes. Continue straight and head for Senoj Lake (Jones spelled backwards), a shallow lake within a large meadow. It’s too shallow for a swim, but the muddy shoreline is often rich with signs of deer, elk and other Cascade critters.

Trail details: To Senoj Lake, 7.8 miles out-and-back, elevation gain 660 feet | Trailhead: Six Lakes Trailhead is two miles south of Elk Lake Resort on Century Drive.

Horse Lake Trail

From the Elk Lake Trailhead, just across Century Drive from Elk Lake Resort, this trail leads through lodgepole pine and old-growth mountain hemlock forests, crosses the Pacific Crest Trail, before almost reaching Horse Lake. The main trail does not lead to the lake, rather a “fisherman’s trail” skirts along the western edge of the shore. About halfway around, a prow of basalt juts out into the water making a fine lunch spot to share with the uber-cute golden-mantled ground squirrels.

On the return trip to the trailhead, watch for unmarked signs leading to two other lakes, Colt and Sunset. A detailed map is handy for navigating this trail.

Trail details: 8.9 mile loop, 600 feet elevation gain | Elk Lake Trailhead: 33 miles west of Bend, just across Century Drive from the Elk Lake Resort

Central Cascade Wilderness Permits

Between June 15 and October 15, Wilderness permits are required for overnight and day use, however, no reservations are needed in advance. Permits, such as the Northwest Forest Pass or one of the Interagency Passes, are required for parking.

Ten of 44 trailheads in the Three Sisters Wilderness require an advanced reservation, with a nominal fee, through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 (TDD 877-833-6777), starting June 5. All other trailheads have free, self-issue wilderness permits at their register boxes.