A century ago, Camp Sherman made a name for itself as the ideal summer retreat. Nestled amid the dense Ponderosa pine forests of the Deschutes National Forest in the heart of the Metolius River Basin (about nine and a half miles northwest of Sisters), Camp Sherman offers ample opportunities for all sorts of outdoor recreation — everything from hiking, biking, camping and horseback riding to fly-fishing, wildlife viewing and bird watching. Its expansive network of trails (including a nice stretch of the 100-mile Metolius-Windigo Trail) provides endless opportunities for exploring.
But with so much emphasis placed on Camp Sherman’s longstanding history as a summer destination, you might not know that it’s also an outstanding autumnal retreat. Last weekend, Jack and I were treated to a two-night stay at the Metolius River Lodges. And what it treat it was! Our rustic cabin, the Green Drake, is perched on the edge of the Metolius River (well-known for its outstanding fly-fishing) and just across the street from the historic Camp Sherman Store (a staple in this close-knit community since the early 1920s).
But perhaps most importantly, our cabin offered direct access to the scenic Metolius River Trail. The popular hiking trail (no horses, mountain bikes or motorized vehicles allowed) is a sight to see, garishly adorned in its vibrant fall colors.
I spent an afternoon with camera in hand just puttering along the river banks, and easily could have lingered longer.
On Day Two, we ventured down the trail for a mile or so.
Below are some photos from the trip:
Along the Metolius River Trail.
View from our cabin of the Metolius River Resort cabins across the Metolius River.
Along the Metolius River Trail.
The Camp Sherman Store & Fly-fishing Shop.
View from our cabin of the Metolius River Resort cabins across the Metolius River.
The Green Drake cabin at Metolius River Lodges.
A fly-fisherman at work just beyond the back deck of our cabin.
Waterfall along the trail near our cabin.
View of Black Butte from Camp Sherman’s Metolius River Trail.
Camp Sherman: Ponderosa pine heaven.
About the Author:
Lisa Broadwater, GRI, CDPE is a Central Oregon-based real estate professional who specializes in listing and selling homes, especially in Sisters, Tumalo, Redmond and Bend.