Wizard Falls facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wizard Falls |
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Metolius River near Wizard Falls
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| Location | Willamette National Forest |
| Coordinates | 44°31′07″N 121°37′57″W / 44.51867°N 121.63254°W |
| Type | Steep cascade |
| Elevation | 2,766 ft (843 m) |
| Total height | 12 ft (3.7 m) |
Wizard Falls was a small waterfall in Jefferson County, Oregon, in the United States. It was located in a beautiful area near the Deschutes National Forest, close to Black Butte and the town of Sisters, Oregon. To the west, you can see the volcano Three Fingered Jack, with Mount Washington to the south and Mount Jefferson to the north.
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Why Wizard Falls is Often Dry
Wizard Falls is a unique waterfall because it doesn't always flow. This is because of something called the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery. A fish hatchery is a special place where fish are raised from eggs.
How the Fish Hatchery Affects the Waterfall
The Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery was built in 1948. To get enough water for the fish ponds, part of the Metolius River was moved. This change meant that the water that used to flow over Wizard Falls was redirected.
Now, the waterfall only flows if the fish hatchery needs to be completely shut down. This usually happens for cleaning or maintenance. So, most of the time, when you visit, the waterfall might look dry.
Is That Really Wizard Falls?
Sometimes, people confuse a fast-moving part of the Metolius River with Wizard Falls. This spot is near a bridge called Lower Bridge (or bridge 99). However, this rapid is not the actual Wizard Falls. The real waterfall is usually dry because of the hatchery.
Exploring the Wizard Falls Area
Even if the waterfall isn't flowing, the area around Wizard Falls is a great place to visit. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and is part of a special recreation site.
The Wizard Falls Trail
The Wizard Falls area is the main attraction of the Wizard Falls trailhead. A trailhead is where a hiking path begins. The trail itself follows along the Metolius River, which is known for its clear, cold water.
Nearby Campgrounds
As you explore the trail, you'll find a few places where you can camp. These include the Alder Springs campground and the Pioneer Ford campground. They offer a chance to stay overnight and enjoy the natural beauty of the forest.
