If Black Butte — an enormous, difficult-to-ignore stratovolcano just off of U.S. Highway 20 outside of Sisters — has been on your list of must-hikes, now is a good time to try it.

It’s a steep but pleasant route to the top of the butte. Part of the trail crosses the remains of a 578-acre fire from early July, but much of it heads through piney forest.

If you go

Getting there: Follow U.S. Highway 20 west of Sisters for 5.5 miles. At milepost 95, turn right toward Indian Ford Campground on Green Ridge Road and continue north on Forest Road 11. Veer left at branch for Forest Road 1110 and follow road to trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Cost: Northwest Forest Pass

Contact: Sisters Ranger District, 541- 549-7700

— Bulletin staff