DESCHUTES RIVER

Sheep Bridge Campground

 

Bald Egle
                

This isn't so much a hiking trail but rather a beautiful spot on the Deschutes River as it empties out of Crane Prairie Reservoir and makes its way to Wickiup. If you visit in November, take your binoculars and snowshoes. We counted eleven eagles hanging out in the trees hoping for fresh salmon.

 

 

 

We parked at the deserted Sheep Bridge Campground, and snow-shoed  along the river's edge in both directions, breaking trail in soft snow and counting eagles across the river.

 

     
Sheep Bridge

 

Golden Egle

 

Two Bald Egles

 

Egle

 

 

 
Flying Egle

 

Deschutes River
 

The Deschutes River, at 4,400 feet in elevation, stands half frozen in the glow of a late autumn sun.

 

 

 

Elevation: Approximately 4,400 feet in elevation

Trail distance: Up to you!

Rated: Easy

Latitude: 43.73222

Longitude: 121.78583

Directions: From Bend, travel approx 27 miles south on Hwy 97; 11 miles west on County Road 43, 4.5 miles west on Forest Road 42, then one mile south on FR 4260.

Fees: No fees.