Three Sisters Wilderness November

[Torin]

Was wondering if anyone could provide a little advice/answer some questions. Planning a nice trip to Three Sisters Wilderness 1st week of November-planning on climbing North, Middle, South and Broken Top in that order pending weather/conditions, etc. Had a couple of questions that I would appreciate anyone expressing their opinion:

1. What is the best side to approach from-East or West? and which trailhead would you leave car at.

2. Does the Federal Interagency Pass cover access to the area?

3. Any recommended camping locations? What are the camping regulations/costs?

 

Thanks. Torin Fitton

[skeletor]

Not sure I can answer all your questions, but here's a few thoughts

 

-I think most people go North to South, Pole Creek TH is probably the easiest approach for North and Middle

-NW Forest Pass covers parking at the TH, fill out a backcountry permit at the TH

-Not sure about camping locations, but I think you can pretty much camp anywhere. Might be some standard regs about distance from the trail etc. There are some designated camping areas in the wilderness but not sure what your itinerary is...

-Note that we've already had a lot of snow in the mountains, depending on how weather holds up, might make traverse to North Sister a little more difficult, as well as add time for the entire route you described...

 

[Couloir]

You may also consider either doing a car shuttle (leaving one car at Devil's Lake TH, if it's still open) and then starting at Pole Creek TH (if that's still open). Or arrange to have someone pick you up when you're finished at Devil's Lake TH. Going from North to South is definitely the best option.

 

[dinomyte]

I second the Pole Creek TH suggestion. I enjoyed camping at Camp Lake, right between Middle and South. I also recommend climbing South from the north side, though crowds should not be a problem in November.

 

Depending on your idea of fun, you could climb North and Middle, come down the south side of Middle and camp at the Lake. Then, climb the north side of South, down the standard route and up Broken Top, then back down and hit the trail back around to Pole Creek.

 

Short of the shuttle that Couloir mentions, that'd be my choice.

[Torin]

Thanks for the insight, glad to hear snow is falling in the mountains already. Torin