Summit Slumber on the South Sister

The summit of Mt. Charity (South Sister), stands a towering 10,358 feet above sea level. This mountain is a very popular spot for day hikers: on a clear weekday expect 50-100 people to make the round-trip, and on a weekend, plan on an upwards of 200-300. All those hundreds of people are making a quick round-trip day out of the mountain and do not get to experience the mountain her in full glory: when the stars come out. To do this, you must lug up all your camping gear. But let me tell you, every ounce is worth it.

From Bend, Oregon, drive about 30 minutes west on the "Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway," until you reach the "Devil's Lake Campground." Turn in here and find a place to park, then pay for a $5/day, $30/year National Forest pass and start off on your trek! The trail begins at about 5000ft and will take you nearly directly north, first through a wooded area, then over a flat plane, and lastly up the steep south face of the mountain. In all, the trail is right around 5 1/2 miles. The climb is by no means technical, but neither is it for the faint at heart. Loose rock and dirt cover the trial the entire way, making especially descending very tricky. Pace yourself because of your pack, or you may burn out very quickly. With a 40lb pack I was able to summit in just under an three hours. Although, many experienced day hikers say it takes anywhere from five to seven depending on the group. Know your limits and pace yourself accordingly.

Upon arriving at the crater rim you will quickly notice several rock shelters in which you can pitch your tent (the one to the East is top notch). Pick a vacant enclosure and then prepare your camp. Try and plan your accent so that you summit the rim about an hour before sunset, giving you time to settle before the big event happens. Make the trip to the true summit on the north side of the rim to enjoy the ever-changing display of color. But the best reward of your climb is still to come: From the summit (on a clear night of course), look up for the best view of the Milky Way I have experienced in the Northern Hemisphere. This is why you lugged up that hefty DSLR! Eventually hit the sack and set an alarm for about 30 minutes before sunrise (the sun rises much sooner 6000ft above where Google thinks you are).

Wake up early, enjoy the sunrise, and that hearty breakfast your stomach has been looking forward to all night. Pack up, and then begin your descent. The downhill trek can be a bit strenuous with the larger/heavier pack, so I recommend bringing along trekking or ski poles to help not only spread out weight absorption, but also to help keep balance.

All in all you will be fully satisfied, especially if you have the summit to yourself for 12+ hours! Enjoy the rare solitude on a very heavily-used mountain.