FANs' Historic Peninsula Guided Hike

Jeff Scheetz will lead us on a moderate 6-mile round-trip hike through remnants of early homesteading at the end of Crooked River Ranch, known as “The Peninsula.” We will see evidence of a corral, cistern, foundations and a slot trench. We will ultimately reach the Cove Palisades State Park area and view the amazing “Walls of the Seven Sisters.” Join us and learn the hardships of the hardy ranchers who farmed the Crooked River Ranch plateau and the story of those Seven Sisters.

Our meet-up will be at the end of Peninsula Road; park at the cattle guard. The hike will begin promptly at 9 a.m. We will carpool from there about one mile to eliminate some of the tedious non-historic access.

This is a long, but not a difficult hike. The terrain is fairly level with mostly hiking off-trail through sagebrush country. It is possible we may encounter rattlesnakes and ticks as well as a variety of birds. The cross-country travel will invite us to practice map/compass skills and possibly discover new artifacts. Wildflowers are guaranteed.

Sturdy lugged-soled hiking footwear and trekking poles may be helpful. Bring plenty of water and trail snacks. This hike is limited to eight participants and no pets are permitted. Registration is required. If the hike is full please add your name to the waiting list; it is not unusual for folks to cancel as the day of the hike approaches. We will contact you if space becomes available.

DIRECTIONS: From outside Crooked River Ranch, use 43rd Street and turn left onto Chinook Drive. Follow Chinook and turn left onto Mustang Road. In one-half mile turn right onto Shad Road. Drive about one mile and turn right onto Peninsula Road, which is just before the Crooked River Ranch Fire Station. Follow Peninsula all the way to the cattle guard and park.

Host or Publisher Friends and Neighbors of the Deschutes Canyon Area (FANs)