Natural Wonders of Bend, Oregon
Updated 1/30/25
Discover the Natural Wonders of Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, this vibrant town offers access to stunning landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic activity, crystal-clear rivers, towering forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature, Bend’s diverse natural wonders offer something for everyone.
The Deschutes River
The Deschutes River flows right through Bend, offering year-round activities. From calm floats to thrilling whitewater rapids, the river is a hub for outdoor recreation. Popular spots like the Deschutes River Trail and Farewell Bend Park provide scenic walking and biking paths. In the summer, locals and visitors flock to the river for tubing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Highlights:
Whitewater adventures through Big Eddy Rapids
Scenic river trails for hiking and cycling
Fishing for trout and steelhead in the pristine waters
Pro Tip: Rent a tube or paddleboard from local shops and float through the Old Mill District for a laid-back summer afternoon.
The Cascade Mountains and Mt. Bachelor
Bend is framed by the Cascade Range, with Mt. Bachelor as one of its iconic peaks. Known for world-class skiing and snowboarding, Mt. Bachelor also draws visitors year-round with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides. The volcanic peak offers panoramic views of the Three Sisters, Broken Top, and Crater Lake National Park in the distance.
Highlights:
Winter sports paradise with over 4,300 skiable acres
Summer hiking trails with breathtaking mountain vistas
Dog-friendly sledding and snowshoe areas
Pro Tip: Visit in late spring to experience a rare combo—ski in the morning and paddleboard on the Deschutes River in the afternoon.
Tumalo Falls
One of the most photographed spots near Bend, Tumalo Falls is a must-see natural wonder. The 97-foot waterfall is just a short hike from the parking area, and the trail continues along the river, revealing a series of smaller cascades. It's a popular spot for picnics, photography, and nature walks.
Highlights:
Easy-access viewpoint near the parking area
Trail system offering both short and long hikes
Beautiful in all seasons, from lush summer greenery to frozen winter scenes
Pro Tip: Visit during early morning hours to enjoy the falls with fewer crowds.
Smith Rock State Park
Just 30 minutes north of Bend lies Smith Rock State Park, a world-famous destination for rock climbing. Its towering basalt cliffs attract climbers from around the globe, while hikers can explore trails like Misery Ridge, which offers stunning views of the Crooked River winding through the canyon.
Highlights:
Over 1,800 climbing routes ranging from beginner to expert
Trails with panoramic views of Central Oregon’s desert landscape
Frequent wildlife sightings, including golden eagles and mule deer
Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise illuminating the rock formations.
Lava Lands and Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Bend's volcanic past is on full display at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Explore Lava Butte, an ancient cinder cone offering panoramic views of Central Oregon's unique terrain. Don’t miss Lava River Cave, a mile-long lava tube perfect for a cool summer adventure. Nearby, Paulina Lake and East Lake provide opportunities for camping, fishing, and hot springs relaxation.
Highlights:
Hiking and views from Lava Butte
Self-guided exploration of the Lava River Cave
Boating and fishing at Paulina and East Lakes
Pro Tip: Bring a headlamp and warm clothes when exploring Lava River Cave—it stays chilly year-round.
High Desert Landscape
Bend is uniquely situated at the crossroads of mountainous forests and high desert plains. Explore the Oregon Badlands Wilderness, where ancient juniper trees and volcanic rock formations create an otherworldly landscape. It's a peaceful place for hiking, wildlife photography, and stargazing.
Highlights:
Remote desert trails perfect for solitude
Unique volcanic rock formations and ancient lava fields
Ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution
Pro Tip: Visit in spring or fall to avoid extreme desert temperatures and enjoy cooler, pleasant weather.
Crater Lake National Park (Day Trip Option)
Although it's about a two-hour drive from Bend, Crater Lake National Park is well worth the trip. Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, known for its brilliant blue color and clarity. The Rim Drive offers unparalleled views and access to hiking trails like Cleetwood Cove, where you can take a boat tour to Wizard Island.
Highlights:
Breathtaking views of one of the world's natural wonders
Boat tours and island hikes on Wizard Island
Scenic viewpoints along the 33-mile Rim Drive
Pro Tip: Pack layers—the elevation can make temperatures unpredictable, even in summer.
Why Explore Bend’s Natural Wonders?
Bend's natural beauty is a cornerstone of its lifestyle. Residents and visitors alike take full advantage of the area’s diverse landscapes, engaging in outdoor adventures year-round. From skiing on Mt. Bachelor to kayaking the Deschutes and hiking Smith Rock’s iconic trails, Bend offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping action or quiet moments of reflection, Bend's natural wonders provide the perfect backdrop.
Plan Your Adventure:
Take your time to explore all that Bend has to offer. From hidden gems like local hot springs to well-known landmarks, there’s always more to discover in Central Oregon’s great outdoors.
Bend offers an incredible array of restaurants and breweries perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Whether you’re savoring local craft beer or enjoying farm-to-table cuisine, the options are endless (explore Bend's best restaurants and breweries). But what truly sets Bend apart is its natural beauty. From volcanic landscapes and serene lakes to towering waterfalls and desert trails, the area's breathtaking wonders make it one of the best places to explore in Oregon. If you’re planning your trip, check out even more things to do around Bend and dive into the outdoor adventures awaiting you.
