Trip report by Colby Phillips.
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The top of Middle Sister, the shortest of Central Oregon’s Three Sisters volcanoes at 10,047 ft., can be reached via a beautiful hike through several distinct settings. The Obsidian Trail climbs from lodgepole pine forest, over rough, exposed lava flows, to the lush alpine shoulders of Middle Sister. At about 5.5 miles in, there is a great place to set up camp to launch a day hike to the summit of the mountain. An unmarked but well used trail leads up the rocky slopes and across year-round snow fields to the top. Very rough, but well worth it.
Stats: Round trip from the trailhead to the top of Middle Sister is about 12 miles, and gains over 5200 ft.
Maps: Three Sisters Wilderness.
Getting There: From Portland, take I-5 South to Hwy. 20 East to the town of Sisters, OR. Take Hwy. 242, past McKenzie Pass about 6 miles to the Obsidian Trail trailhead (sometimes called Frog Camp).
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.