With around 300 days of sunshine a year, this small Oregon town boasts big adventure and tons of breweries. Located conveniently on the edge of the Cascades, with the Deschutes River running right through it, Bend is not only beautiful but provides outdoor activities year-round. With so many activities, you can spend days here. Here are our top 5 things you must do while in Bend.
5 Things You Must Do in Bend, Oregon
1. get outside at Smith Rock State Park
Rock climbers from all over the country make the pilgrimage to Smith Rock State Park. With thousands of climbs within the 650 acres of park, the sheer rock faces are carved from welded tuff and basalt, perfect for climbing.
If climbing isn’t what you are hoping to do, there are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails – or bring a picnic and marvel at the ability of the climbers on the walls.
2. Float the Deschutes River
When visiting during the summer months, taking a float down the Deschutes River is a must-do. The city provides a Ride the River Shuttle, making a 60-90 minute float easy – and fun – by taking you back to your car once you have finished. You can either bring your own floatation device or rent one from one of the many gear shops in town.
Not into floating? There are plenty of other options to get on the water, including renting stand-up paddle boards or kayaks.
3. Make at least one stop on a Brewery Tour
As we write this, there are at least 22 breweries in Bend – don’t forget Bend is on the smaller side of size and population so this means there is about 1 brewery for every 4,500 people. Whether you are a beer fan or not, we recommend taking a brewery tour to learn the science behind it.
A great way to explore all the breweries is to follow the Bend Ale Trail. There are 22 breweries on the trail and they are all relatively close to one another. Grab a map and your passport – and don’t forget a designated driver.
Or get a behind the scenes tour of the breweries – and sober transportation -- with the Bend Brew Bus.
4. Take a Hike
Central Oregon has hundreds of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult.
For beautiful views, the hike to South Sister, the 3rd tallest mountain in Oregon, is a must-do, but it is 11.2 miles out and back so give yourself a full day to complete it. It is a very difficult climb to the peak so it is recommended only for experienced hikers.
Another great option is the hike to Tumalo Falls, a 97-foot waterfall. The trail is 6.5 miles out and back, and is rated as moderate. This is a popular hike so make sure to get here early to beat the crowds.
An easier option that still offers beautiful views is the walk to the top of Lava Butte in Newberry National Volcanic Monument. With a paved road and only 3.25 miles round trip, hikers of most levels can choose this option.
5. Go skiing at Mount Bachelor
Bend has attractions years-round, which is one reason we love visiting, so we can’t forget to mention some winter sports. Mount Bachelor is a stratovolcano located in the Cascade Range reaching 9.068 feet in elevation. Due to typically crisp and clear weather, skiers and snowboarders flock to the mountain throughout the winter. In addition, you’ll find options for snowshoeing, snow tubing, dog sledding, and more.
Need help for your next vacation? We can plan you a custom RV trip to Bend, Oregon.
Due to its close proximity to Portland, Crater Lake, the Columbia River Gorge and other top Oregon attractions, an RV is the perfect way to see Bend.