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DAY 1: Following breakfast we depart Sisters via the McKenzie Pass Highway. Be sure to get a glimpse of the Elk as we leave town. As we gradually climb to the pass the surrounding ecosystem changes from stands of Ponderosa pines to stands of Lodgepole pines, spruce, and hemlock. From the pass the view is spectacular with a vast carpet of lava rock leading to snow capped peaks. The descent from the Pass will bring us to Belknap Hot Springs. From a campsite along the McKenzie River you can grab hot shower and take a soak in the hot spring. Be sure to check out the lush gardens. Your guides will prepare a delicious dinner for your first night in the Cascades. Today’s mileage is 39 miles.

DAY 2: After an early morning soak and a filling breakfast we begin our travels along the shores of Cougar Reservoir. From here we follow the South Fork of the McKenzie River upstream into the deep forests of the Cascades. Tonight we camp within a towering grove of old growth trees. Today’s mileage is 35 miles.

DAY 3: For our final day we continue our journey along the moss covered Aufderheide Memorial Drive. One of our must stop visits will be Constitutional Grove. This short interpretive walk is one of the highlights of the Aufderheide. As we leave the Aufderheide we enter the picturesque hamlet of West Fir. Here we cross the Willamette River on a historic covered bridge to our waiting shuttle. From here you will be transported back to Sisters. Today’s mileage is 36 miles.

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