Exploring Bend's Outdoor Adventures: A Guide to Hiking, Biking, and Paddling

Bend's diverse landscapes mean you'll always be near the best trails, bike routes, and paddling spots. Before you head out on the trail, check the weather forecast and trail conditions. It's also wise to carry plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as the weather can change quickly in the high desert. Remember to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and familiarize yourself with the area's Leave No Trace principles. By respecting the natural environment and packing out all your trash, you'll help preserve Bend's beauty for future generations.

The Tumalo Falls Trail is a captivating seven-mile loop with breathtaking views and picturesque waterfalls. Dominating the scene is Tumalo Falls, a stunning 97-foot waterfall that cascades over a cliff face. The trail meanders through lush forests and vibrant wildflower meadows, creating a serene and scenic journey. The moderately challenging hike rewards adventurers with various Insta-worthy viewpoints to capture the area's natural beauty. During winter, the trail remains accessible for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine winter landscape.

The Swampy Lakes Loop is a 3.8-mile trail that takes about an hour and 45 minutes to walk. During the colder months, the loop transforms into a winter wonderland, welcoming snowshoers to explore its snowy terrain. Warming huts along the way provide cozy spots to rest and enjoy the surroundings. For mountain bikers, Swampy Lakes Loop offers a challenging ride with thrilling descents and stunning alpine scenery. The trail's adventurous nature makes it a favorite among biking enthusiasts seeking excitement. Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail.

Sparks Lake is a paddler's paradise, offering a serene experience on its crystal-clear waters. Nestled within the Cascade Mountains, the lake provides stunning views of South Sister and Broken Top mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop for kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm waters make it an ideal location for beginners and experienced paddlers looking to soak in the natural beauty without the distraction of motorized boats. The lake's pristine environment and stunning alpine scenery make Sparks Lake a perfect escape for those seeking peace and relaxation in nature.

Elk Lake is a natural body of water in the central Cascade Range, 4,900 feet above sea level. The lake is part of a volcanic landscape that adds to its unique and picturesque charm. The calm waters of Elk Lake provide a perfect setting for paddling, whether you're kayaking or enjoying a leisurely paddleboard session. The lake has serene surroundings with stunning views and clear waters. Whether gliding across the water or relaxing on the shore, Elk Lake promises a rejuvenating outdoor experience.

The Deschutes River Trail traces the river's course for 12 miles through the town of Bend. The scenic trail is accessible from both sides of the river, connected by three footbridges that provide easy crossings. Starting from Farewell Bend Park, the trail meanders through the Old Mill District, passing McKay Park, Miller's Landing Park, and Bend Whitewater Park. The trail is lined with forests of pine, juniper, and ponderosa trees, offering beautiful river vistas and lush landscapes. It's an ideal path for families, with its wide, paved, and relatively level surface, accessible for children on bikes and scooters. Its scenic beauty and connection to Bend's vibrant community make it one of the most cherished trails in Central Oregon.

The Deschutes River is a 252-mile-long waterway that begins its journey at Little Lava Lake, high up in the Cascades, and winds its way to the mighty Columbia River. The river is a paddler's paradise, offering diverse experiences. Calm sections of the river provide a serene and safe environment for novices to learn the ropes of kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding. For those seeking more excitement, the Deschutes offers turbulent waters that challenge even the most experienced paddlers. Renting a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard is a great way to explore the river's scenic beauty, immersing yourself in the stunning natural surroundings and enjoying the diverse wildlife that calls this river home.

Smith Rock State Park is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations. The park has a range of trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs. Rock climbers flock to Smith Rock for its world-class climbing opportunities, with several thousand climbs available and over a thousand bolted routes. Visitors may see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otters, and beavers. Fishing areas provide an additional serene pastime within the park. Visitors should note that some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from January 15 to August 1 to protect nesting golden eagles and falcons. Dogs are welcome in the park, but park rangers strictly enforce the leash law.

Phil's Trail Complex is a classic cross-country mountain biking destination created by local legend Phil Meglasson. The extensive network of trails offers hundreds of miles of sweet singletrack, catering to riders of all skill levels with its smooth paths and challenging technical sections.

The trail system is designed with intersecting routes of varying difficulty. For instance, the section from the three-way intersection at Kent's to Phil's trailhead is downhill only, while from Road 300 to the intersection with Kent's, it operates as a two-way trail. Above Forest Service Road 300, Upper Phil's (Helipad) presents a more demanding ride. Below Heater Rock, bikers encounter a few rocky sections (rated blue), making it one of the more enjoyable downhill stretches in the complex. The area below the famous "Chicken" rock pile is mellow (rated green) with just one rocky notch and a boulder gap for experienced riders.

Combine your love for biking and craft beer on the Bend Ale Trail. The one-of-a-kind trail can be trekked using a passport or app, allowing participants to win prizes for completing territories and achieving other milestones.

The Bend Ale Trail includes seven distinct territories with 30 breweries to explore. Each territory features three to six breweries, many of which are conveniently within walking distance of one another. Biking between these breweries allows you to enjoy scenic routes throughout the city, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. It's an excellent way to discover Bend's best breweries while enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.

With its stunning landscapes, endless outdoor activities, and vibrant community, Bend offers a unique blend of adventure and beauty that captivates everyone who experiences it. Amanda Johnson's real estate team is dedicated to helping you navigate the Bend, OR, real estate market. With extensive experience in new construction and existing homes, Amanda and her team bring positive energy, kindness, compassion, and professionalism to every transaction. They will help you find the perfect home for your next adventure in Bend.