South Sister Climber Trail
Conquer Oregon's South Sister, a challenging 12-mile hike with 5,000 ft elevation gain, offering breathtaking alpine views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
South Sister Climber Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer Oregon's South Sister, a challenging 12-mile hike with 5,000 ft elevation gain, offering breathtaking alpine views.
"Brutal, beautiful, and totally unforgettable – the South Sister Climber Trail is a true test of endurance with epic rewards."
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, layers, and snacks.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in early summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
South Sister Summit
Jaw-dropping, soul-shaking panoramic views from Oregon's third-tallest peak.
Moraine Lake
Trailhead area
A stunning emerald green lake surrounded by lava beds and alpine forests.
Glacial Features
Along the trail
Witness unique glacial landscapes and dramatic quartzite cliffs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Ascent
Permit & Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, layers, and snacks.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in early summer.
⏰ Start Early
Avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Essential for the challenging, rocky terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, layers, and snacks.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in early summer.
⏰ Start Early
Avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Essential for the challenging, rocky terrain.
🏕️ Consider Camping
Camp at Moraine Lake for an easier summit attempt if not fully fit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviewers consistently describe the South Sister Climber Trail as a 'brutal, beautiful, and totally unforgettable' experience. While the challenging ascent and demanding terrain are frequently mentioned, the spectacular summit views and the serene beauty of Moraine Lake are universally praised. Hikers appreciate the sense of accomplishment and the stunning natural scenery, though some caution about the intensity of the climb and the presence of mosquitoes.
"A nice trailhead with plenty of parking and toilets gets you started. No wait, the trail has been moved to the other end of the parking lot ! Confusing if it’s your first time here.
Once on the trail it’s easy to follow and there are plenty of signs to direct you. Not so easy is the slope, uphill all the way until you gain the ridge. Here the slope relents and views improve. Great views all around. After wandering around to see everything we had lunch sheltered by a few trees. Too much snow for us so we returned the same way."
Roger McMillan (RIMc615)
"What can I say about South Sister? She’s an absolute beast! I mean that in the best and scariest way possible. If you’re thinking about taking the rim trail, be warned: that’s where hiking politely steps aside and mountaineering crashes the party. That was a first… and most definitely a last for me!
The climb had plenty of company, but somehow it never felt crowded. Everyone was tucked in their own little adventure bubble. Butterflies seemed to be my cheer squad, fluttering around the entire way up. Even with a hazy sky, the summit delivered those jaw-dropping, soul-shaking views that make you forget your legs are on fire.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, extra layer and plenty of snacks!
South Sister: brutal, beautiful, and totally unforgettable. 🏔🦋"
Rachel J
"Summiting South Sister in the summer?
Bring sunscreen, lots of water, and a chair.
I'd recommend camping at Lake Moraine for the night before summiting South Sister if you're not TRUELY physically fit to fully summit. We weren't, and ended up having to end our summit at the false summit. We are avid hikers, but even without training its difficult but doable if you have the motivation. The views are spectacular."
Monsieur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin. Access is via the main park roads. Parking is ample, especially if you arrive early on a weekday. +1
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching remote trailheads like this. It's best to drive or arrange a carpool.
Navigate to Devil's Lake State Park, Wisconsin. The trailhead is well-marked within the park.
While the primary access is through Devil's Lake State Park, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail also passes through the region, offering alternative access points for experienced hikers.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the trailhead, especially if you arrive early on a Thursday morning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day hiking the South Sister Climber Trail generally does not require a permit. However, permits are necessary for overnight camping at Moraine Lake.
Devil's Lake State Park is typically open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, it's always best to check the official park website for any seasonal changes or closures.
Yes, there is a vehicle admission fee for Devil's Lake State Park. Fees vary by residency and vehicle type.
Permits for overnight camping can usually be booked online through the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system. Day use does not require advance booking.
You can typically pay the vehicle admission fee at the park entrance station or self-registration kiosks.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The South Sister Climber Trail is considered a strenuous and challenging hike with significant elevation gain (around 5,000 feet). It's often compared to Mount St. Helens in difficulty, but can be more demanding.
The hike is approximately 12 miles round trip and can take about 7 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop.
Pit toilets are available at the trailhead and at Moraine Lake campground. There are no facilities on the upper reaches of the trail.
The trail features varied terrain, including forest paths, lava beds, and a steep, rocky ascent to the summit. The 'rim trail' section is particularly challenging and can feel like mountaineering.
Dogs are generally allowed in Devil's Lake State Park on a leash, but specific regulations for trails should be checked. Some social media posts show dogs on hikes, but it's best to confirm park rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially during golden hour. Moraine Lake's emerald waters and the surrounding alpine scenery are also highly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Consider a lightweight tripod for stable shots.
The overlooks along the bluff trails offer stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape. Devil's Doorway is another iconic spot.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific park's drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families with older, experienced teenage hikers might consider the trek if they are well-prepared. A more manageable option for families might be to explore the area around Moraine Lake, which offers beautiful scenery and less demanding trails for a shorter outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack all your own food and water for the hike. Avoid purchasing expensive convenience items. Consider carpooling with friends to split fuel costs.
💑 Couples
Consider making it a romantic getaway by camping at Moraine Lake the night before your hike. Enjoying the serene alpine environment and stargazing can add a special touch to your trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The South Sister Climber Trail Experience
Many hikers describe the ascent as brutal yet beautiful, with the final push to the summit often feeling like mountaineering rather than a casual hike. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, starting in forests and progressing through lava fields before the steep climb. While the summit offers unparalleled panoramic views, the journey is equally spectacular. Moraine Lake, a stunning emerald gem near the trailhead, provides a beautiful starting point and a potential camping spot for those looking to break up the hike.
Hikers should be well-prepared for the challenges. Ample water, high-energy snacks, sun protection, and appropriate layers are essential.
Checking recent trail conditions for residual snow is also advisable, as spikes might be necessary in certain sections early in the season. Navigating the Terrain and Conditions
The 'rim trail' section, in particular, is known for its ruggedness, requiring careful footing and a good level of fitness. Weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations. While summer days can be warm, temperatures can drop significantly, and afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon.
For those considering an overnight stay, camping at Moraine Lake is a popular option. This allows for a more relaxed pace and an earlier start to the summit attempt.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit