Have you ever discovered tracks or scat in areas frequented by wildlife and wondered what left these bits of evidence behind? Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Gary 'Gus' Gustafson at the Metolius Preserve to learn more about the wildlife of Central Oregon and the clues they leave in the landscape. Explore the different kinds of wildlife tracks and learn how to determine which animal they came from. Then, dig into wildlife scat and learn how to read this clue that wildlife leave behind in their daily activities. Look for scat and tracks along the trail and in photos as we hike around the Preserve. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

• Outing Details + Route

  Hike Rating: This is a moderate ~3 mile hike on Metolius Preserve hiking trails.

  Route: This hike will start at the North Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and follow Preserve trails. Terrain will be uneven at times.

  Elevation gain/loss: There is very little elevation gain/loss on this hike.

• What to Bring

  Snacks, water, closed toe shoes. Dress for the weather.

• About the Property

  The Metolius Preserve is a 1,240 acre forested Preserve near Camp Sherman, Oregon. The Deschutes Land Trust established the Preserve in 2003. The Preserve contains mature ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western larch, as well as a rich diversity of other plant species. Three miles of Lake Creek, an important tributary to the Metolius River, flow through the property, contributing to the rich habitat found on the Preserve.

• Accessibility

  The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.