by Andrew Dickson
March 29, 2024
If you think Sisters is an Old West town, you’re not entirely wrong. Just think of it more as a Western town that got a mani-pedi and developed an impeccable taste in Oregon wine and craft cocktails. If it’s been awhile since you visited, or you’ve never been, we highly recommend planning a long weekend. With Three Sisters Wilderness to the South, stands of Ponderosa Pine and mountain lakes to the West and the volcanic fields and arid sagebrush of Oregon’s High Desert due East, it offers incredible geographic beauty and diversity along with a rustic-chic downtown with small town charm and big city amenities. Here are 9 reasons to plan a visit.
Dozens of hiking trails for every ability near Sisters, Oregon
Epic Hiking
The Three Sisters Range of volcanic peaks offers some of the best hiking in Oregon, which means some of the best hiking in the world. Both easier paved trails, expert level treks into backcountry glacier fields, and several hikes to waterfalls abound, making it a welcome destination for hikers of all abilities. Whychus Creek Overlook and the Suttle Lake Loop are easier jaunts, while the South Sisters and Moraine Lake Trails get seasoned hikers into the backcountry. Seek top hikes here.
Biking Right From Your Door
Peterson Ridge has 25 miles of family-friendly mountain biking trails you can pedal to from downtown without getting back in your car. And yes, you can rent bikes and just about any other kind of gear in Sisters. Road cyclists should rightly thrill at the chance to bike the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway or the slightly more moderate Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway. The Metolius River Loops make for a serene ride along rushing river and lodgepole pine views. See more bike routes here.
Mountain bike trails like Petersen Ridge are a short ride from town
Year-Round Fly Fishing
The fabled Metolius River should be on every angler’s bucket list. Spring and summer are prime time to catch Rainbow trout, bull trout, brown trout, brook trout, kokanee, and mountain whitefish. It doesn’t get much prettier than this pristine flow through the forest.
Great Shopping
Downtown Sisters has a surprisingly sophisticated mix of boutiques, antique shops and art galleries. So pack an extra suitcase and plan to spend some time window shopping and shopping shopping. Little known fact, Black Butte Ranch heavily invested in Sisters in the 1970s to provide a place for residents and guests to come shop and have fun.
Galleries, upscale clothing and Western wear all in downtown Sisters
Fun Places to Eat
The Barn is arguably the best food cart pod you’ll find just about anywhere, serving wood-fired pizza, vegan bowls and more, plus craft cocktails for adults, and plenty of room for kids to run around with frequent live music shows. And it’s just one of dozens of great places to eat. For breakfast, swing by Sisters Bakery or sit down at the Cottonwood Cafe. We’re also big fans of the truffle shoestring fries and caramelized whiskey onions burger at Luckey’s Woodsman. Explore all the great places to eat here.
Resort Access
Sisters is a great basecamp for taking advantage of not only nearby Black Butte Ranch, but also Camp Sherman and Suttle Lake, all of which have great daytime activities for visitors. We highly recommend renting kayaks or canoes at Suttle Lake (only 20 minutes from Sisters), and sticking around for an evening concert on the grass.
Festivals and Events
Summer brings the Sisters Rodeo, the Sister Outdoor Quilt Show and the three day Folk Festival, to name just three touchstone events. Be sure to book your stay well in advance. The Quilt Show weekend is one of the busiest of the year.
Sisters Rodeo
Proximity to Portland and I-5 Cities
If you want to explore Central Oregon and you’re coming from the West of the Cascades, staying in Sisters will save you drive time. So you can visit Bend, but be on vacation faster, while being closer to true wilderness, mountain lakes and the moonscape of the McKenzie Pass.
Unique Lodging
With a range of lodging options from camping and affordable, upscale motels like the Sisters Inn & Suites, to the boutique style of The Scout, you can bring the family or plan a romantic weekend. Or rent out the entire Sisters Bunkhouse with friends.
Top Tips:
- Get the tires checked, pack your sunscreen — but don’t worry about rentals. Sisters can gear you up with just about anything at Blazin’ Saddles, Eurosports or Hillside Ski & Sport.
- If you’re thinking of coming for one of our fun events, book your hotel room early!
