Three Sisters peak
Three Sisters rises to 10,358 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
These peaks, named North Sister, Middle Sister, and South Sister, are part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc. South Sister, the highest of the three, stands at an impressive elevation of 10,363 feet (3,159 meters), while Middle Sister reaches 10,047 feet (3,063 meters), and North Sister stands at 10,085 feet (3,074 meters).
During the winter season, the Three Sisters receive substantial snowfall, making them a popular destination for snow sports enthusiasts. Snowpack levels can range from about 100 inches (254 cm) at the lower elevations to well over 200 inches (508 cm) at higher altitudes. This snowpack typically lasts well into the spring months, providing excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The abundant snow also contributes to the formation of several creeks and rivers that receive runoff from the mountains, including Whychus Creek, Squaw Creek, and Lost Creek.
The name "Three Sisters" originates from Native American folklore, which tells the story of three sisters who were turned into mountains by an angry deity. The legend states that the sisters were transformed in order to protect them from a volcanic eruption. The native tribes of the region hold the mountains in high regard and consider them sacred. This captivating lore adds to the allure and mystique surrounding the Three Sisters, making them not only a beautiful natural wonder but also a place rich in cultural significance.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Three Sisters
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Irish Taylor | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Chemult Alternate | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Clear Lake | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Three Sisters
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Mckenzie R Blw Trail Br Dam Nr Belknap Springs | 748 cfs | → |
| M F Willamette R Ab Salt Cr. | 562 cfs | → |
| Clearwater R Ab Trap Cr Nr T Falls | 69 cfs | → |
| Smith River Abv Trail Brdg Resv Nr Belknap Springs | 7 cfs | → |
| Mckenzie River Bl Payne Cr | 220 cfs | → |
| So Fk Mckenzie River Abv Cougar Lake Nr Rainbow Or | 329 cfs | → |
| Smith R Ab Smith R Res Nr Belknap Sprgs | 19 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Three Sisters
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Three Sisters.
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