The hatchery is renowned for raising rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and brook trout. Visitors can observe these fish at various stages of development and even partake in feeding them. The hatchery plays a pivotal role in bolstering fish populations in the Metolius River, which is prized by anglers for its fishing opportunities. Make sure to go out to the fish pond at the very far north end. It is so cool! And … has big fish. [Oregon Dept of Fish & Wildlife]

Mt. Jefferson is a prominent stratovolcano and the second highest peak in the state at 10,495 feet. The mountain is part of a larger volcanic arc formed by subduction of the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate beneath the North American plate. Mt. Jefferson exhibits volcanic activity dating back over with 100,000 years. Glaciation has sculpted its slopes, creating deep valleys and cirques. [Wikipedia]

The name “Billy Chinook” is derived from a Wasco Native American chief who was prominent in the early 19th century. The lake and its surroundings hold cultural significance for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and they have continued to maintain a presence in the area.

Lake Billy Chinook was formed as a result of the construction of Round Butte Dam, which is a unique “selective water withdrawal” dam. It was designed to protect and enhance fish populations while generating hydroelectric power. The dam traps the waters of three rivers—the Deschutes, the Metolius, and the Crooked—and their confluence creates the lake.

“Ancient volcanic eruptions and erosion created this geological marvel of balancing rock pillars called “hoodoos.” The pillar layers were formed by different eruptions millions of years ago. Softer unwelded layers of tuff formed at the base, while hardened welded layers of tuff formed the perched boulders on top. Over time, the softer sediment surrounding the pillars eroded by weathering. Uniquely, the balancing hardened tuff layers protected the soft pillared layers from erosion, similar to an umbrella from rain. These aspects caused the beautiful geological balancing of rocks that look like a human artistic creation.” [Bend Bulletin]

At mile 38 the road road just … ends. The Shut-In Trail will be just to your right, dropping quickly down to the river on single-track trail. The next 2.5 miles will the the crux of the day. It can be brushy and wet. There can be some treefall. And the trail get precipitously close to the river a couple of times. trail follows the Metolius River closely for much of its length. Most everybody will end up doing a bit of hike-a-bike here. [US Forest Service]

“Not far past road’s end, you come to a viewpoint of the Whitewater River where it flows into the Metolius. It doesn’t take long to see why it is called the Whitewater River. The source of the river is the Whitewater Glacier on Mount Jefferson, some 10 miles to the west. The river flows through a remote part of the Warm Springs Reservation (the Metolius forms the southern boundary of the reservation for a considerable distance), down from Mount Jefferson and into the Metolius. The color comes from glacial silt, a common trait of glacier-fed streams. Just downstream of here notice how the Metolius River seems to be split in two, with one side white and the other blue.” [Off the Beaten Trail]

The name “Metolius” itself is derived from the Warm Springs word “Mpto” or “Mətúli”, which translates to “white fish”, likely referring to the bull trout or mountain whitefish that are abundant in the river.

Unlike many rivers, the Metolius River is spring-fed, emerging from the base of Black Butte, a stratovolcano. The river’s source is a large spring that gushes from the ground, with the river appearing almost fully formed at its headwaters. This gives it a consistent flow and cool temperatures year-round.

The route area is within the red rectangle and always south of the Metolius River. The Warm Springs Indian Reservation is to the north of the river.

Before European settlement, the Metolius River area was vital to Native American tribes like the Sahaptin-speaking Warm Springs and Wasco peoples for fishing, hunting, and gathering resources. However, the encroachment of European settlers’ led to the tribes’ displacement and altered the river area’s land use. This included increased recreational activities and conservation efforts, which at times conflicted with the tribes’ traditional practices.

In the middle of the woods … in the middle of nowhere, you will pass by this lemonade stand. So cool! Bring some money! This also marks the end of the single-track and the beginning of a slow 1 to 2% climb on rugged road back to Lower Bridge Campground (mile 50) and ultimately the start / finish (mile 53).