Trail Overview

South Sister Summit — Bend, Oregon is a 12.0 miles-mile out-and-back trail in Bend, OR, Oregon, gaining 4900 ft feet on a Dirt, pumice, snow surface as an out-and-back route. Typical completion time: 8–12 hours.

Trail at a Glance

  • Distance: 12.0 miles miles · Out-and-back
  • Elevation Gain: 4900 ft feet
  • Difficulty: Expert
  • Surface: Dirt, pumice, snow
  • Season: July–September
  • Time: 8–12 hours
  • Fee: $5/day permit in summer
  • Dogs: Yes (leash)
  • Permit: Day Use Permit (summer)

What to Expect

The trail begins in Bend, OR and showcases the natural character of Oregon. The Dirt, pumice, snow surface is manageable for most hikers, and the route is clearly marked throughout. At Expert difficulty, this trail rewards the effort with scenery and experiences that define outdoor recreation in Oregon.

The 4900 ft-foot elevation change shapes the experience. The ascent builds steadily before the turnaround or loop completion returns you to the trailhead. Stay alert for wildlife and changing weather conditions common to Oregon trails.

Planning Your Visit

Fee: $5/day permit in summer. Dogs not permitted. Permit required: Day Use Permit (summer). Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person and energy-dense snacks. Layered clothing is essential for mountain and high-elevation environments.

What to Pack

  • Water: 2+ liters per person
  • Navigation: Download the GPX file before heading out
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
  • Layers: Wind layer and warm mid-layer
  • First aid: Basic kit with blister care

Getting There

The trailhead for South Sister Summit — Bend, Oregon is located in Bend, OR, Oregon. Confirm current conditions with the managing agency before your visit. Download the GPX file for navigation.

Leave No Trace

Stay on the designated trail, pack out all waste including food scraps and pet waste, keep dogs leashed, and respect wildlife by maintaining distance. Your care preserves these trails for future visitors.

Download the GPX File

Free GPX download available on this page. Load it into Garmin, Gaia GPS, AllTrails, or any compatible navigation app before leaving cell service.