Effervescent Waters: a Hike to Wizard Falls
Between the House on Metolius and the Wizard Falls fish hatchery, the river is deep and swift, and almost glass clear. In several places, the depth is over ten feet, but the bottom is still quite clearly visible.
As you make your way along the trail, you will find springs along the edge of the river pouring into the stream, adding more icy water to the flow. The clear, cold water is a haven for a variety of fish, including bull and redband trout, and salmon, particularly Kokanee. Keep an eye out for these and other wildlife, such as bald eagles and ospreys, as well as the occasional otter or mink.
The hike to Wizard Falls makes for a nice family outing. The trail follows the winding path of the river, taking you through a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops.
The Wizard Falls are named for their distinctive shape, which is said to resemble a wizard's hat. As you approach Wizard Falls, the sound of rushing water fills the air, and the spray from the falls creates a misty veil that envelops the area. The falls themselves are a sight to behold, with the crystal clear water tumbling over a series of rocky ledges and into a deep pool below.
An Afternoon Hike
Walking from the House on Metolius to the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery takes about an hour. Spend some time looking at the fish and then either retrace your steps or come back on the west side of the river. Or for a one-way hike, leave a car at the hatchery for the return journey.