The trailhead is just 45 minutes out of Bend, and it features meadows, waterfalls, creeks, and a close-up view of Three Fingered Jack. Views of TFJ are best in the morning, with the sun behind you. In July and August, a profusion of wildflowers may be blooming along the trail and in the meadows. Note that the loop part of the hike is compulsory in order to reduce traffic on the busy trails. Take a left at a junction: to disperse impact in the meadows area, the lower part of the hike is prescribed as a one way loop.
You'll return on the other trail on your way back. Two miles from the junction, you will be at Lower Canyon Creek Meadow. The views are good, but they get better if you continue on.
The other side of the loop connects here, your track back to the trailhead. Continue straight, heading directly towards Three Fingered Jack. You will climb some more, and pass several meadows with some lush creek scenes.
A mile past the junction, you will end up at one destination, the Upper Meadow. Explore around, take pictures, or set up camp and enjoy the amazing view as the sun sets. If you still have energy, the trail continues for another half mile up to an overlook above a turquoise-hued glacial lake, and then up to a saddle on the east shoulder of Three Fingered Jack. It is a worthy side trip, but it is steep, exposed, and crumbly at times, so proceed with care. This side trip is not recommended for younger children.
The continuation will give you another mile and feet of elevation gain. Views from the shoulder stretch south along the Cascades to Mount Washington and the Three Sisters , and Mount Jefferson stands out to the north.
