Three Sisters Wilderness

Three Sisters Wilderness is a protected volcanic landscape in the Cascade Range spanning approximately 286,700 acres. The terrain features three prominent peaks, high mountain meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and evergreen forests.

Congress protected this area in 1964 and gave it the name of the three peaks, formerly called Faith, Hope, and Charity. The volcanic formations themselves were created millions of years ago through ancient geological activity.

The Klamath and Warm Springs peoples relied on these mountains for hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices that shaped their way of life for millennia. The landscape still holds cultural meaning for these communities today.

Over 260 miles of trails crisscross the wilderness, including 40 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. Overnight camping requires a permit, and visitors should prepare for changing weather and rugged terrain.

The area contains volcanic features such as lava flows and crater lakes formed approximately 1.6 million years ago. These geological characteristics make the landscape a rare example of long-term volcanic development in the Pacific Northwest.