Before you register, please:

• Read our updated digital Liability Waiver here. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read waiver during registration.
• Read our COVID-19 Event FAQ here. Friends now requires participants to be vaccinated in order to attend outings. After you register, you will be asked to present proof of vaccination.
• Complete the CDC's Coronavirus Self-Checker 48 hours before the outing.

Outing Description

Join naturalist Ralph Thomas Rogers for a leisurely walk to learn about the Deschutes River area's riparian ecology. On this hike, there will be an emphasis on birds, plants, and butterflies. There will also be discussion on the ecological impacts of fire on this Columbia Basin shrub-steppe habitat. This will be a slow-paced leisurely ecology hike with frequent stops.

Trained volunteers lead Friends outings

• Hike Leader: Ralph Rogers
• Hike Shepherd(s): Claudia Sanzone and Mark Sanzone

What you can expect on this guided outing: This outing will appeal to those who prefer a slow-paced outing that frequently stops to identify and learn about plants and wildlife. The eastern Gorge is very exposed to sunlight, be prepared for hot temperatures. This outing is not for those who want to hike a fast pace.

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours);
• 10+ Essentials in backpack;
• Tecnu (poison oak wash);
• Insect repellent (bug spray);
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen;
• A photo/copy of your vaccination card if proof not sent via email.

What to Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots.
• Long durable pants to protect from poison oak.
• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather. Be ready to shed layers in hot temperatures.

What to expect at a Friends guided outing: Expect a supportive and welcoming space where experienced hike leaders and shepherds guide you throughout Gorge outdoor spaces. Friends outings provide the opportunity to explore the Columbia Gorge, build community, and learn how Friends is the only conservation organization entirely dedicated to protecting, preserving, and stewarding the Gorge.

A confirmation email with outing details will be sent out 3-5 days before the event.

Questions? Please contact Melissa Gonzalez at hikes@gorgefriends.org or 971-634-1265.

Photo: Joe Urmos