Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Jenn Masse, Certified Forest & Nature Therapy Guide, for a guided forest bathing experience at the Metolius Preserve.
We will begin with a short grounding exercise to help you arrive and tune into your senses, followed by guided invitations that encourage slowing down and noticing the world around you. Along the way, there will be opportunities to share what you are observing, and we will close with a final group reflection and tea. Registration is required.
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to "taking in the atmosphere of the forest through the senses,” forest bathing is a guided experience of slowing down and being present in a natural setting. Research over several decades has linked this practice to a wide range of benefits, including reduced stress, improved sleep, lower blood pressure and inflammation, and strengthened immune function. At its heart, forest bathing is about remembering our connection to nature, to one another, and to ourselves. This experience is suitable for most abilities and includes slow walking and periods of stillness.
Metolius Preserve South Trailhead Driving Directions:
Mapping apps: Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze. Important note: These mapping app links will get you to the turnoff for the unmarked Forest Service Road 2064. Do not follow your map app beyond the turnoff for FS 2064; they will not get you to the right location. Follow the rest of the written driving directions below to get to the South Trailhead.
South Trailhead Coordinates: (UTM NAD83): 603743, 4920718
South Trailhead from Sisters:
Drive 10.6 miles west of Sisters on Hwy 20/126. Turn right onto unmarked Forest Service Road 2064. This is the first right turn 0.7 miles after the Camp Sherman/Metolius River turnoff. (You’ll know you’ve gone too far if the highway starts to head uphill and turns into 3 lanes.) Travel 2.6 miles on Road 2064 (red cinder road with turnoffs). You will see one large Metolius Preserve sign at ~1.75 miles: DO NOT TURN HERE. Continue straight on Road 2064, following the straight arrow on the sign. At the second Metolius Preserve sign (at 2.6 miles), turn right, following the arrow into the Preserve. Drive approximately 0.5 miles to the parking area.