Eco Tour FAQ
What is an Eco Tour?
An Eco Tour is a portmanteau of "ecological" and "tourism". An Eco Tour will show you the natural habitats and teach you how to be ecologically friendly. By the end of the tour you will have learned about the area and cultures you've visited, as well as ways to conserve and preserve our land.
What is the cost of the Eco Tour?
$2,150 per person. (Double occupancy is $1,750 per person.)
What is included in the price?
The price is fully inclusive. This covers lodging, guides, and food.
Where will I be staying on the Eco Tour?
Each night will be spent in one of five lodges as you make your way through Sisters Country. For more information on the lodges click here.
How long will I be hiking each day?
Each day our unique lodge to lodge hiking itinerary will take you into vast and relatively unknown territory we call Sisters Country. You will find it magical to course your way through forested slopes of the Cascades, meander along crystal clear streams and stare at vistas of volcanic peaks while your guide unfurls the story of their creation. Journeys of four to eight miles each day will be punctuated by exquisite lodging and dining each evening.
One day we will bid farewell from the romance of Five Pine Lodge and from a ridgeline comprised of basalt, ash and pumice vistas of one million year old volcanoes will stand before you, clad in ice for the last 20,000 years. At days end alongside the scenic meadow of Black Butte Ranch you will relax in awe of these peaks.
Another day you will wend your way up a 6,000-foot volcano, perhaps tasting what the forest has to offer by means of berries. We’ll crest out on top for unparalleled views of forest, mountains and lakes. Suttle Lake, once scraped and scarred by powerful glacial ice, is now filled with deep blue water and is graced by a powerful architectural gem called the Lodge at Suttle Lake.
It happens that Suttle Lake is intertwined with a masterpiece of the natural world. Known to Native Americans as Mpto ly as, this river is fed by the ice and snow we witnessed earlier on our hikes. It feeds all life on earth, for as it melts and percolates through porous earth it later bursts from the earth providing sustenance for insects, fish, osprey, bear and elk. Through the home of this wildlife, along the arteries of water we will pass, en route to stunning Lake Creek Lodge.
A magnificent ridgeline will lead us another day to the hamlet of Sisters. Soaring Douglas Fir and ponderosa pine will line our hiking path to Ponderosa Lodge. When this getaway nears its end, Nature will have left a profound impression on you. Engaging with your professional, naturalist guide and fellow travelers will have inspired you. And having had the ability to take a deep breath at five very unique properties will have invigorated your life.
How do you manage guests with different hiking abilities?
All guests must be able to hike 7 miles per day over gentle terrain.
What kind of physical shape do I need to be in?
You should be able to hike 10 miles in one day.
How will my luggage be transported?
We will be transporting your luggage to each location for you, and it will be placed in your room before arrival.
What do I carry with me?
We recommend you carry a day pack with sunscreen, sunglasses, water, camera, and the provided packed lunch. Refer to the packing list for a more in-depth look at packing options.
What shoes should I wear?
You should wear shoes that will give you good support throughout your hike. Anything from cross-training shoes to hiking boots will be sufficient.
How large will my group be?
There will be 15-20 people in each group.
Can I be matched with a roommate?
We want to accommodate every group individually. If you wish to pair up we will be able to do so. (Accomodations can vary per property.)
Can I have a private room?
Yes.
Is this a trip for my entire family?
Families of 18 years and older are welcome.
Can I bring my dog?
Regrettably dogs are not allowed on this trip, but we do have a local dog boarder/daycare. Central Bark can be reached at 541.549.BARK (2275), and is located in Sisters OR.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We require you to book 30 days in advance, but it is a good idea to book further in advance because there is limited availability.
Is there a deposit required?
Yes, we require a $250 non refundable deposit at the time of booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you can not make the tour we require 2 weeks advanced notice. Deposits will not be refunded.
How do I arrive in Sisters?
Click here for directions and/or map.
Is there airport transportation?
Yes. The airport in Redmond, OR has transportation services starting at $65 each way.
Is there free parking?
Yes.
I'm interested in booking, who do I contact?
Contact Phil Arends of Desert Wings Travel regarding the Sisters Country Eco Tour at 800.551.1043.
I have more questions that I can not find answered here.
Further questions can be emailed to Phil Arends at deserttravel@aol.com.
