15 Things to Do in Central Oregon: Your Local Area Guide
Central Oregon isn't just a place to live. It's a lifestyle. With over 300 days of sunshine, world-class outdoor recreation, and a growing arts and food scene, you won't run out of things to do here. Whether you just moved in or you've been here for years and need fresh ideas, here's our local's guide to the best of the region.
1. Float the Deschutes River
From June through September, floating the Deschutes through Bend is basically a rite of passage. The popular stretch from Riverbend Park to Drake Park takes about two hours. Bring a tube, sunscreen, and a dry bag for your phone. Shuttle services run all summer long.
2. Ski or Snowboard at Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor has over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain and the season usually runs from late November through May. It's only 25 minutes from Bend, so it's easy to squeeze in a few runs before work or after school. Plenty of locals do exactly that.
3. Explore Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock is where American sport climbing got its start, and it's one of the most dramatic landscapes in the state. You don't have to climb to enjoy it. The hiking trails deliver incredible views of the Crooked River canyon. Misery Ridge is a tough hike but well worth the effort. Located just north of Redmond, it's also one of the most photographed spots in Oregon.
4. Mountain Bike the Phil's Trail System
Bend is a mountain biking town, and Phil's Trail is the crown jewel. More than 30 miles of singletrack range from beginner-friendly to expert-level. The trailhead is minutes from town, and the Central Oregon Trail Alliance keeps everything in great shape.
5. Visit the High Desert Museum
Part zoo, part museum, part nature center. The High Desert Museum south of Bend explores the natural and cultural history of the region. The raptor flight demos, the otter exhibit, and the rotating art galleries all make it worth coming back multiple times.
6. Craft Beer Tour in Bend
Bend has more breweries per capita than almost any city in the country. Deschutes Brewery, Boneyard Beer, Crux Fermentation Project, and 10 Barrel are just the start. The Bend Ale Trail passport program covers over 30 participating breweries.
7. Hike the Cascade Lakes
The Cascade Lakes Highway west of town is a scenic drive lined with alpine lakes, trailheads, and volcanic landscapes. Todd Lake, Green Lakes, and Sparks Lake are popular summer spots. Come in the fall for larch colors and thinner crowds.
