Oregon llama trek question
 

I'm planning another trip to Oregon for next summer. I'd like to take a backpacking trip, but due to a back injury I can't carry a pack anymore. I was wondering about llama trips I've heard about. Does anyone know if it's possible to "rent" a couple of llamas for the backcountry? Can you suggest a good outfitter? I'm not choosy about where in Oregon I go, would prefer one of the wilderness areas in the Cascades, but that's not the only option.

Did you ask the llamas if it's okay with them? :-d

This is not a specific reply regarding Oregon, but it may be generally helpful. In SW Colorado, you can rent llamas, and I'm sure you can do it just about anywhere that's popular for backpacking. One llama can take 2 packs. There is a comprehensive discussion of llama trekking on the Colorado Trail website. <www.coloradotrail.org>

Contact Pack Llama (www.packllama.com) for information about their tours. The largest llama ranch in North America, FYI, is in Sisters, Oregon. Have fun!

BTilke is right, Central OR is llama country. You can check out Sisters Oregon's web site. I would also check Redmond, OR as there a quite a few farms there. I know they heavily publicize llamas as pack animals and for hiking, but I'm not sure if you can just rent a llama or if these trips are guided. Enjoy your return to OR.

Yes, there is a big llama ranch outside Sisters (a very nice town) and on the way to McKenzie Pass (which many consider the most scenic pass in Oregon). I saw lots of bikes on the way to the pass, but not hikers.