Trip Report: Moraine Lake and South Sister
When: 9/3/2016
Location: Moraine Lake / South Sister
Conditions: Lower 60's during the day, mid 30's during the night. Sunshine all around.
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Difficulty: Backpacking to Moraine Lake is easy/moderate.
South Sister summit hike is challenging.
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes
The Full Report:
Took an overnight backpacking trip to South Sister. Myself and four friends hiked into Moraine Lake on Saturday and set up camp. Very picturesque spot. Even for a Saturday in September the campground wasn't full (lucky). It is first come first served and this is a popular destination. Green Lakes can be used as a backup location but is popular as well. I would recommend going early to ensure a spot to sleep.
The immediate area around the lake is great. Fantastic views of South Sister, Broken Top, Bachelor, and surrounding areas. Moraine Lake is a great way to cool off and serves as an easy water source. As always take a filtration system to be safe.
We hiked South Sister on Sunday and then broke camp and returned to Bend that evening. You will see anyone and everyone on this hike. It is a challenging that is steep and the last third is loose scree. One step up half step back. Take plenty of water and snacks especially if you are doing it in a single day.