The oldest and most weathered of the three volcanic peaks known as the Three Sisters presents a jagged, towering presence at 10,085 feet. A series of rock spires along the crest of the mountain forces climbers to exercise a mixture of both alpine and rock techniques.

North Sister is most frequently climbed from the saddle running between North and Middle Sisters which can be gained from either the Obsidian Trail along the McKenzie High Pass road (only open a few months of each summer season) or from a longer route coming up from Pole Creek Trail outside of Sisters to the east.

Any route on North Sister carries considerable risk from rock fall and avalanche. A number of climbers have died climbing the mountain, so good judgement is advised when risky conditions are encountered.