Explore the Outdoors: Bend, Oregon's Ultimate Guide to Adventure
Explore the Outdoors: Bend, Oregon's Ultimate Guide to Adventure
Discover the best outdoor activities in Bend, Oregon with Bend Social Co's weekly events calendar. From biking and hiking to snow sports, river adventures, and more, Bend offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Are you seeking thrilling outdoor experiences in Bend, Oregon? Look no further! Nestled on the eastern edge of the Cascade Range along the Deschutes River, Bend is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a resident, visitor, or considering a relocation, our curated list of activities will guide you through the best things to do in Bend.
Biking and Hiking in Bend: Bend boasts excellent biking trails, perfect for both casual riders and seasoned cyclists. Join one of the many biking events or explore the renowned Phil’s Trail, a must-do for mountain biking enthusiasts. Hiking enthusiasts can revel in the city's trail system, which offers scenic views of rivers, canyons, and forests. Explore trails like Miser Ridge Trail, Deschutes River Trail, Smith Rock State Park Trails, and more.
Hiking Trails
- Miser Ridge Trail: For a more difficult hike, read about Misery Ridge Trail at a total of 3.7 miles.
- Deschutes River Trail: On both sides of the river, this trail is a great stroll for scenic views or casual shopping.
- Smith Rock State Park Trails: North of Bend, Smith Rock State Park has a variety of trails ranging from 2.4 miles all the way to the Oregon Coast Trail which is 344 miles.
- Drake Park: Drake Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially if you’re looking for somewhere in Bend with a central location.
- Deschutes National Forest: The large Deschutes National Forest provides Bend with a lot of trails, use the USDA’s interactive map to find the trailheads near Bend.
More Mountain Adventures: Venture into the Cascade Mountains surrounding Bend for a vast array of trails, perfect for day-long excursions, camping, and mountain biking. Experience high desert hikes with stunning canyon views. For climbing enthusiasts, Bend offers excellent rock climbing options, including the popular Smith Rock. Don't miss the annual Pole Pedal Paddle event for the ultimate mountain adventure.
Snow & Ice Sports: Embrace Bend's powder-covered landscape during winter. Mount Bachelor, the largest ski resort in Oregon, is a hub for snowboarding, skiing, Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Enjoy ice sports at The Pavilion, offering ice skating, ice hockey, and curling for all ages.
River Sports in Central Oregon: The Deschutes River provides a variety of water activities, including floating, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. Explore Bend Whitewater Park for an exciting water sports playground. Beyond the city, discover excellent fishing spots, guided fishing tours, and adventurous river sports.
Golf and Fishing in Central Oregon: Central Oregon boasts over 40 golf courses, with Bend alone offering 11 courses for enthusiasts. Enjoy fishing in Deschutes County's lakes and rivers, home to various trout species, kokanee, and largemouth bass. Check the proper permits and boat ramps with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon State Marine Board.
Juniper Swim and Fitness Center: Operated by the Bend Parks and Rec Department, the Juniper Swim and Fitness Center is a state-of-the-art facility offering aquatic activities, fitness classes, weight rooms, and more. Located in the scenic Juniper Park, it provides fitness trails, tennis courts, and outdoor amenities.
Pet-Friendly Activities: Bend welcomes pets with off-leash dog parks and pet-friendly businesses. Enjoy trails with complimentary waste disposal facilities, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your furry friends.
Sightseeing and Resort Activities: Explore Bend's iconic sights, such as the lava river cave at Newberry National Volcanic Monument and Tumalo State Park. Discover resort options like Sunriver Resort, Pronghorn Resort, and Seventh Mountain Resort, each offering a unique blend of indoor and outdoor activities for a memorable stay.
Ready to embark on your Bend adventure? Check out Bend Social Co's weekly events calendar for the latest happenings and make the most of your time in this outdoor paradise. Explore more about Bend and envision what moving to Bend could look like for you!