Oregon Watershed

Metolius River

The Metolius River is a tributary of the Deschutes River (through Lake Billy Chinook) in Central Oregon, near the city of Sisters. The river flows north from springs near Black Butte, then turns sharply east, descending through a series of gorges before ending in the western end of the lake.

Bull Trout
Mountain Whitefish
Resident Rainbow Trout
Spring Chinook Salmon
Sockeye Salmon

River Stewards

ABAdam Bronstein

Loading map...

Loading river data...

Background

The Metolius River flows 28.6 miles (46.0 km) from Metolius Springs through the Deschutes National Forest, emptying into Lake Billy Chinook and ultimately the Deschutes River. The upper 11.5 miles (18.5 km) of the river are popular for catch-and-release fishing, whitewater rafting, picnicking, and camping. The lower 17 miles (27 km) are on the boundary of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, and flow by "a primitive area where motorized vehicles are not allowed."

The Metolius River was officially designated a National Wild and Scenic River in 1988.

Watershed Report Card

Good

Overall health score: 78/100

Data sources: USGS NWIS, EPA ATTAINS, StreamNet, NIFC, US Drought Monitor, NID. Scoring methodology developed by Native Fish Society based on salmonid habitat criteria. Data reviewed 2026.

Active Campaigns

Deschutes: Return to Wild & Cool

Oregon’s Deschutes River is home to a diversity of native anadromous and resident fish, however, this precious resource is under threat. Non-native fish species, poor water quality, and human impact have all taken a toll on the river, leaving its future uncertain. But there is hope. Native Fish Society is invested in our mission to restore the lower Deschutes River to its former glory, reviving its wild, native fish population and improving water quality for future generations.

Latest Updates

NewsJan 1, 2017

River Stewards to NOAA: Protect wild fish, not artificial production.

On December 20th, 2016 78 River Stewards from throughout the Northwest submitted the following letter to NOAA-National Marine Fisheries Service regarding the protections of hatchery fish through the Endangered Species Act.

NewsApr 28, 2017

Suction Dredge Mining Reform in Oregon moves ahead

NewsMay 30, 2017

Suction Dredge Mining Reform passes Oregon House of Representatives

Get In Touch

Send a message about the Metolius River

Your message will go to Adam Bronstein and all associated staff.

Protect This River

Help protect the Metolius River and its wild fish

Your donation directly supports Deschutes: Return to Wild & Cool — the work happening on this river right now.

Donate Now About Deschutes: Return to Wild & Cool

Explore Metolius River Protect This River