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Move over, NYC and Los Angeles. Bend, Oregon is making its mark. What was once a hidden gem is now one of the most popular destinations to visit in the Pacific Northwest. It’s the Beaver State and yes, the scenery is just as intriguing as its nickname.
So, if you’ve never been to the Pacific Northwest, you’re missing out. Bend, Oregon is one of the best places to explore in the United States. So, grab your wood polarized sunglasses, pack your backpack and get ready to explore the highs and lows of this stunning PNW town.
If you’re heading to Bend, Oregon during the snowy season, strap on some snowshoes and enjoy a nighttime stroll to the amphitheater. The sparkling snow-covered scenery is absolutely astonishing, and the outdoor bonfire complimented with espresso vodka is certain to warm you up. Roast some marshmallows, listen to the animals howling in the night and learn about the area.
When in Bend Oregon, beer and adventure are two things that come naturally. The area is popularly known for its infamous Bend Ale Trail which is a beer tour around the city. You can take it via a horse-drawn carriage or van.
However, you can also skip the trails and enjoy the sights - and some beer - as you canoe through the Cascade Lakes.
Speaking of the Cascades Lakes, you’ll find Deschutes National Forest just to the east of the area. It’s a combination of the Fremont National Forest, Cascade and Blue Mountains, allowing you to take in a full 1.8 million acres of scenery. You’ll find everything from escarpments to deep forest, caves, lava tubes and so much more, which leads us into the next adventure in Bend, Oregon.
One of the best places to explore in Bend, Oregon is definitely the Lava River cave. It was naturally formed over 80,000 years ago and is now known as the longest, continuous lava tube in the entire state. It goes a mesmerizing 5,211 feet deep and you can even descend 126 steps to the beginning of it. So, we aren’t sure how much loungingyou’ll be doing but it’s definitely a spectacle you can’t miss.
The lava caves extend well beyond the area and into Oregon Badlands Wilderness area –29,180 acres into the wild, to be exact. This is an excellent way to explore the unique landscapes and stunning geological attributes of the area. If you trek long enough, you can head right into the Dry River where water once flowed during the Ice Age. However, it’s now the space that separates Badlands volcano from Horse Ridge volcano.
When in Oregon, there’s always something to do, especially outdoors. The Oregon Wilderness Area is definitely worth checking out if you’re interested in mingle amongst the wildlife. From bobcats to mule deer, elk, antelope and marmots, falcons, eagles and so much more, you’ll see it all. Just be sure to pack your polarized wood sunglasses and a good pair of hiking shoes because the 50 miles of trails will provide hours upon hours of adventure.
For the adrenaline-seekers out there, you’re likely looking for a differentkind of adventure. Sure, hikes are great but flying by the seat of your pants, quite literally, it much more fun. Pine Mountain is located just outside of Bend, Oregon and is a popular destination for paragliding. It’s sure to get your blood pumping and your need for thrill fulfilled.
With fall coming up, you’ll definitely want to add Tumalo Falls to your Bend bucket-list. This 100-foot-tall waterfall is one of the most beautiful sights there is, complete with crystal clear water flowing into the canyon below, nature rapids and deep forest to go with it. Niagara Falls has nothing on Tumalo falls!
What was once an area used as a landmark for pioneers to navigate through the Deschute Rivers is now a popular destination for the history buffs. The old cinder cone was formed after the eruption of Newberry volcano and is now a great place to enjoy the sunset, have a picnic or enjoy some old history and all the excitement that comes with it.
Plus, you can also see Three Sisters, Mount House, Mt. Jefferson and Black Butte from here.
You simply can’t go to Bend Oregon and opt to stay on land. With over 40 lakes, you have to get out on the water. Whether it’s with a canoe or kayak, boat or yacht, you mustget out there. It’s like a Bend right of passage.
If you have a dog, don’t forget to pack them in for the ride. Bend, Oregon is super dog-friendly and is always happy to see a new furry face in the pack. Now all that’s left for you to do is grab a new pair of polarized wood sunglasses from your favorite shop that knows allabout the Bend, and start trekking. The area is full of adventure, perfect for urban explorers and never fails to surprise – and please.