The climb up South Sister isn't just about reaching the top. With the exception of the first 1.5 miles of forested trail, the hike showcases so many beautiful views and famous mountain peaks which is photographers' dream place. After mile 3, the trail goes up with a vengeance. at about 9700 feet, near Lewis and Clark Glaciers , I had to take a bio break. I lost contact with my group at that point. I end up hiked the last 0.5 miles from North face of the crater rim. I had to hike over pretty difficulty terrains. at times there were big drops. I thought to myself I'm not going to be able to go back from here. Not until I reached the summit did I realized I deviated from the trail. Descent from the summit seemed more difficulty for there are loose rocks and dirt. all in all, this is my favorite hike of the Oregon six-pack of peaks and also the most difficulty one.