Post Overview: A list of the best hikes near Bend, Oregon
My husband and I are avid hikers and spend most of our time outdoors. We’re lucky enough to call the glorious Pacific Northwest home so there’s seldom a shortage of natural wonders to choose from.
Like most folks, we try to explore new places but there’s something about Bend that keeps calling us back.
In fact, over the past three years, we’ve hiked almost every trail in Bend (yes, really) and today we’ll narrow down the best hikes in Bend for anyone planning a visit.
From panoramic alpine views to crystal-clear lakes, jaw-dropping waterfalls and spectacular vistas, Bend has it all and the hiking opportunities are endless.
Read on for everything you need to know about the best hikes in Bend, I hope you enjoy!
Best Hikes in Bend (Post Overview)
- Are permits required to hike in Bend?
- Bend hiking tips
- Hiking in caves
- Best hikes in Bend
- Best time to visit Bend
Bend Hiking Video
My husband was commissioned to create a video on the Deschutes National Forest by Visit Bend. It took two full years and hiking 80% of the trails in Bend to create the video and we had an absolute blast making it!
You’ll notice most of the Bend hikes mentioned in this post featured in the film, plus a few appearance from yours truly. Hope you enjoy. 🙂
Are permits required to hike in Bend?
The big question — do you need a permit to hike in Bend?
The natural areas near Bend have seen a 300% increase in recreational use in the past five years. In an effort to mitigate the damaging impacts of overuse, permits are required at certain Bend trailheads starting May 28, 2021.
Beginning Friday, May 28 and ending on Friday, Sept. 24, day-use permits will be required for 19 out of 79 trails in the Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, and Three Sisters wilderness areas.
I’ll make sure to denote the Bend hikes that require permits below to make your trip planning as easy as possible.
How do I obtain a Bend hiking permit?
The easiest and fastest way to obtain a permit for hiking in Bend will be through recreation.gov. You can also call 1-877-444-6777 to reserve permits, if you prefer having someone walk you through the process.
Bend hiking permits will eventually be available at some Willamette and Deschutes National Forest offices; however, due to COVID-19, Forest Service offices are currently closed and this option is not yet available.
Cost of Bend hiking permits:
- Day use permit: $1 per person
- Overnight permit: $6 per group (1-12 people)
Hiking permit availability:
- A portion of permits became available for pre-order on April 6, 2021, PDT.
- The remaining permits will go on sale seven days before they are active. For example, if you plan to hike on Friday, your permit can be reserved the Saturday before.
Check out this helpful page for more information.
Bend Hiking Tips
Practice Leave No Trace
- If you’re unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, it’s a measure to be a good steward of the land. You can read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.
You + Sunscreen = Best Friends (Forever)
- I swear by this sunscreen (and so do 5,000+ other people), I discovered it in France and now buy it in bulk. It works like a charm and doesn’t leave strange residue or smells, you’ll NEVER catch me without it!
Wear hiking boots with good traction
- Even though (most) trails are well maintained, exposed roots are common. It’s easy to trip on the trail, so set yourself up for success by wearing proper shoes. These are my hiking boots and I’d sleep in them if I could.
Wilderness Permits
- Make sure to complete the wilderness permits at trailheads. Not only are Wilderness Permits FREE, but they’re helpful for tracking usage trends and assisting with search & rescue efforts. It is imperative that you complete them when you see them at the trailhead.
Stick to the main trail
- There are a lot of social hiking trails in Bend (social trails are created by hikers going off the main trail). These trails cause damage to sensitive areas, so stick to the clearly marked trail to preserve delicate flora and wildlife.
Pack it in, pack it out
- If you bring something with you, take it out. We encourage you to go a step further and pick up trash you see along the way. 😉
Hiking in Bend Caves
Some of my hiking recommendations include caves. Unfortunately, over the past few years there’s been an onset of a deadly fungal disease killing millions of bats in North America.
The disease is called white-nose syndrome and it worries scientists (and bat lovers) immensely. Don’t contribute to the demise of this fragile ecosystem and make sure to follow the steps below.
If you plan to visit a cave, you must follow basic decontamination steps below to prevent the spread of the virus:
- Don’t wear the same clothes into different caves without washing them first.
- Remove dirt from your shoes after leaving a cave.
- Clean your hands and any exposed skin before getting back in the car.
Best Hikes Bend Oregon
#1. Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake
Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake is, hands down, my favorite alpine hike in Bend. We learned about this trail through a local and are forever grateful.
But our naivety about this epic Bend hike is not to say the trail is unpopular. On the contrary, this is one of the most popular hiking trails in Bend, it was completely full of hikers during our visit.
Within minutes of reaching the summit, I knew exactly why this trail is so popular.
Sweeping breathtaking views of the beautiful Cascade Range are on full display as the jagged peaks of Broken Top rise sharply over No Name Lake.
Hiking to No Name Lake is challenging because of the elevation gain but let me tell you, it’s completely worth the effort. Of all the Bend trails we’ve hiked to date, this one always stands a mile above the rest and I always recommend it to friends.
Just know you’ll need a high clearance vehicle to hike the shorter 6-mile route and you’ll want to hike late-summer to avoid snow. We hike this Bend trail in August and the conditions were perfect.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate/Difficult
- Distance: 6-miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,400 ft
- High clearance vehicle with 4WD required
We enjoyed this Bend hike so much we wrote an entire post about it. You can read more here, if you’re interested.
NOTE: A hiking permit is required for Broken Top Trail, permits can be purchased here by typing in the name of the trailhead in the search box.
#2. Sparks Lake
Sparks Lake is one of the most popular spots in Bend, Oregon for good reason. Surrounded by three towering peaks, South Sister, Broken Top and Mount Bachelor, it’s a breathtaking sight that never gets old — regardless of how often you visit.
The lake gets very busy during weekends and the parking lot fills before 8am most days, so arrive early if you want some semblance of solitude.
I suggest catching sunrise from the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail to avoid the crowds. This Bend hike is very little effort for great reward, the views are so spectacular, especially during the early morning hours when the sky comes alive with vibrant colors.
The entire trail is a 2.5-mile loop that hugs the lake, but I normally hike to the viewpoint located less than a mile from the parking lot.
Distance from Bend: Sparks Lake is 25 miles west of Bend and the trailhead starts by the boat launch parking area.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 2.5-mile loop
#3. Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls is arguably the most famous waterfall in Bend and luckily visitors are able to hike to the viewpoint for an incredible vantage point of this powerful force.
The waterfall is nestled into a healthy evergreen forest that enhances the awe-inspiring dramatic falls. You can take in the splendor of this incredible landscape from one of two viewpoints.
The more popular viewpoint is located a few short steps from the parking lot and requires minimal effort, but expect crowds.
If you’d like to avoid the crowds, I suggest hiking to the upper viewpoint to get a unique vantage point from the top of Tumalo Falls.
The half-mile hike follows a well maintained trail that is easy to follow with minimal elevation gain.
Tip: The parking lot fills up very quickly, so come early or carpool with friends. I noticed a lot of bikers during my visit, make sure to watch out for them on the trail — this is a very popular mountain bike trail.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 1-mile out and back
- Elevation Gain: 350 ft
#4. Tumalo Peak
If you’re in the mood for jaw dropping views of Bend’s rugged alpine wilderness, look no further than the incredible Tumalo Peak hike.
I suggest taking the snowshoe trail during winter to catch sunrise from the summit because most folks aren’t willing to brave the cold and you may have the trail to yourself, like we did.
It’s hard to put into words the beauty of this Bend hike during the peaceful morning hours while the sleepy world around slowly starts to stir.
Regardless of the time of day you choose to hike this trail in Bend, one thing is certain — you can’t afford to miss it because this is one of the best alpine hikes in Bend.
This is a challenging hike because you’ll need to hike uphill for one mile and will gain 1,400 feet of elevation in the process. It will definitely get your heart pumping!
The unparalleled views of Mount Bachelor, Broken Top and South Sister from Tumalo Peak simply can’t be beat, I’d even go so far as to tell you this is one of the best hikes in central Oregon!
If you’d like to catch sunrise from Tumalo Peak, like my husband and I did, prepare for an early morning wake up call.
We decided to snowshoe to the summit for sunrise and had to start our hike at 4am (mercy!). Since the trail disappeared thick layers of snow, we had a semi-hard time trying to find an effective route and found the trail challenging and steep.
It took us approximately 1 hour to reach the top, but we were hiking in the dark.
Was this Bend hike worth it? Not even a question.
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Distance: 2.6-miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,400 ft
#5. Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park
Let’s start with the obvious, the Misery Ridge trail is aptly named.
This trail requires a full-hearted effort, but I assure you that this beautiful Bend hike can’t be missed.
Heck, even if you don’t plan to hike the entire trail, you should most definitely make an effort to see Smith Rock State Park because the landscape is something else.
The first mile of this scenic hike is challenging, but if you preserve you will be rewarded with views that will forever be seared in your memory.
Geology is the name of the game here and the iconic rock outcrop known as Smith Rock feels like an alien wonder.
The entire landscape seems to crop out of nowhere, but it is ripe for exploration and offers a spectacular vantage point of the sweeping Cascade Range.
If you’re not in the mood for a high elevation hike near Bend, but would like to enjoy the other-wordly scenery of Smith Rock State Park, then I suggest swinging by the River Trail because it’s flat and offers phenomenal views.
We hiked the Misery Ridge Trail at sunrise to avoid crowds and watched a hot air balloon take in the splendor of the sun greeting the valley floor. Hot air balloon ride over central Oregon? Now that’s an idea I can get behind!
- Difficulty Level: Moderate/Difficult
- Distance: 5.5-miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft
I hiked this Bend trail in August 2020. For photos and tips, read: Hiking the Misery Ridge Trail.
#6. West Metolious River Trail
Pronounced MEH-TOLL-EE-US
West Metolious River trail is a popular and scenic hike suitable for all skill levels. The trail follows the beautiful Metolious River and is especially spectacular in autumn when the trees are ablaze with fall color.
The landscape will take you back to a simpler time when nature was uninhabited by the stress of infrastructure and the insatiable desire to be conquered.
The river seems to flow the way its always flowed — slow and steady, a reliable source of reprieve in a busy world.
The coolest feature of this Bend hike is Metolious Springs – the source of the Metolious River. The source of the springs is unknown, but the assumption is it comes from a large drainage basin near Black Butte Ranch.
The Metolious River is famous for fly fishing, so you’re bound to fisher-people (is that the right way to say that?) and a handful of kayakers. It’s a great spot for anyone that enjoys water sports.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail and a bathroom is provided at the hatchery.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 7.3-miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 270 ft
#7. Lava River Cave Trail
Hiking Lava River Caves was the highlight of our last trip to Bend. We’ve heard so many great things about the cave and were worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype. How wrong we were!
Before entering the cave, visitors must take part in a Ranger talk about white-nose syndrome (a deadly disease killing bat populations throughout the US).
After the informative session, visitors can rent lanterns for $5 before entering the cave. I suggest bringing your own, this is the one we’ve used the past 10+ years (we love it!).
Some people assume they can use the flashlight on their cell phones, but trust me, this is not the case. The cave is vast and very dark – a cell phone doesn’t work here. Lantern or bust, my friends.
After you get the lantern situation squared away, you’ll follow a little trail that leads directly from the lantern kiosk into the cave, at which you’ll descend down well-maintained stairs (exactly 55 steps) into the dark abyss where wander awaits you.
The temperature drops rapidly upon entering the cave and stays at a cool 40 degrees throughout the hike — regardless of the temperature above ground, make sure to pack a warm sweater otherwise you’ll need to cut your hike short.
The cave itself is fascinating, especially if you’re interesting in bat habitat. We didn’t see any bats during our visit but experiencing the cave was cool enough!
This hike is great for families with kids, we saw lots of kiddos during our hike.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 2.2-miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 150 ft
- Estimated Hiking Time: 90 minutes
#8. Green Lakes/Soda Creek Trail
A permit is required to hike the Green Lakes Trail, permits can be purchased here by typing in the name of the trailhead in the search box.
The Green Lakes Trail is sometimes known as Soda Creek Trail. Regardless of what you choose to call it, it’s one of the most popular hikes near Bend and a personal favorite of mine.
The reason? It has the best of everything!
From jagged mountain peaks, numerous waterfalls and prolific wildflowers in spring, you can’t go wrong with this hike.
A peaceful river guides you along the trail through a dense evergreen forest and ends at Green Lakes, where South Sister gracefully towers above the water and offers a semblance of protection.
You’ll also get spectacular views of Broken Top.
I’m not the only one that considers this one of the best hikes near Bend — the Green Lakes trailhead gets crowded fast! Arrive early (by 7am during summer weekends) and expect crowds regardless of when you visit. Being a mere 5 miles from Bend, Oregon means this is a favorite hike for locals and tourists alike.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Distance: 9.1 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,180 ft
- Estimated Hiking Time: 3 hours
Tip: If the trailhead parking lot is full during your visit, use the overflow parking lot across the highway.
#9. Paulina Peak Trail
The Paulina Peak trail is not for the faint of heart, this hike is tough but the spanning cascade range from the summit is worth it!
At an elevation of 7,984, Paulina Peak is the highest point at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Clocking in at 1,600′ of elevation gain, this hike offers panoramic views unlike any other hike in Bend.
The first mile of the hike eases you into the trail with minimal elevation gain, but the rest of the hike is steep with very few flat areas.
Snow is not uncommon well into the late spring months due to elevation, bring proper footwear (great waterproof hiking boots, like these).
If you’re not up for a hike but would still like to see the views, I suggest renting a snowmobile during the winter months and watching the sun rise over the vast valley floor — it’s an unbelievable experience just make sure to dress warmly.
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Distance: 6.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft
#10. Tamolitch Blue Pool
Tamolitch Blue Pool is breathtaking and I beat myself up for not visiting sooner! This clear topaz-blue water is the result of the Mackenzie River rising to the surface by way of lava tubes. How cool is that?
The trail is relatively flat but the terrain is uneven. I suggest wearing boots with good traction and bringing trekking poles if you’re prone to slipping on uneven surfaces.
To reach the bank of the pool, you’ll need to scurry down some rocks, nothing too crazy but it can’t be done in flip flops!
The water is mesmerizing, this Bend hike can’t be missed!
Tip to the wise: Don’t jump in, the water is frigid and some folks go into shock. As for the hike itself? I have all the details you need in this helpful trip report.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 4.2 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 300 ft
#11. Proxy Falls
Jaw-dropping waterfall hikes in Central Oregon almost seem commonplace but not all of them are as easily accessible as Proxy Falls.
Offering a spectacular treat for very little effort, this scenic waterfall hike in Oregon is one of the best ways to stretch your legs before brunch.
The 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through a healthy forest that loops around two waterfalls. The first waterfall on the hike is Lower Proxy Falls.
When you reach the falls you may notice some folks getting really close to the base, the area is ripe for exploration just make sure you’re wearing proper shoes because it’s very easy to slip.
The massive log in front of the waterfall is a popular spot for folks to take photos but I was too nervous to get on it because it was so slick (ha!) but I saw plenty of other folks having a blast, the adventure is up to you.
The second stop along the trail is Upper Proxy Falls and you would be remiss to skip it!
Both of these waterfalls are incredible and serve as proof that Oregon has some of the best waterfalls in the country.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 140 ft
#12. Deschutes River Trail
We can’t talk about the best hikes in Bend without mentioning the Deschutes River trail! Similar to the Metolious River Trail mentioned earlier, this hike is another local favorite for good reason.
The 3-mile trail can be tricky to follow due to the many turn-offs at various points throughout the hike, but for the most part, all paths lead to Rome.
Simply follow along the river’s edge and you’re bound to see some spectacular flora and fauna.
The trail ends at a small bridge about 1.5 miles in. At that point, you can cross the river and complete the loop. To access the Deschutes River Trail, park at Sawyer Park.
I especially LOVE this hike during the fall months, look at all that color!
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Distance: 3-miles out and back
#13. South Sister Trail
Summiting South Sister feels like a rite of passage, so there’s no way I’d leave it off this list of the best hikes in Bend!
South Sister is the third tallest peak in Oregon, so the summit is no easy feat. However, as you can imagine, the views from this elevation point will take your breath away!
Elevation is the name of the game here, so I don’t recommend this hike for inexperienced hikers.
However, if you’re an avid hiker in search of adventure, I highly suggest hiking the South Sister Trail because you don’t need mountaineering skills to reach the summit — just a lot of enthusiasm and perseverance! These will help too!
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Distance: 12.2 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 4,900 ft
Photo credit: Travel Oregon
#14. Moraine Lake Trail
The panoramic vista from Moraine Lake is worth the trek, which is why I consider it one of the best hikes in Bend, Oregon.
The trail starts in a dense forest and takes you uphill, offering heart-pounding elevation gain, before opening up to panoramic vistas towards the tail end.
The hike ends at Moraine Lake when you will see demanding views of South Sister and Broken Top. In my opinion, the lake is not the coolest in Bend, but the interesting terrain leading up to the lake is incredible and worth the visit!
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Distance: 5.1 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,470 ft
Photo credit: Travel Oregon, Pete Alport
More Great Hikes Near Bend
#15. Sahalie & Koosah Falls
Sahalie and Koosah Falls is another great Oregon waterfall hike for families because it’s good for all skill levels.
In fact, both waterfalls are visible from parking lot viewing platforms but the best way to experience these Oregon falls is by hiking closer to them.
An easy 2.6-mile loop trail takes hikers past both Koosah and Sahalie Falls while offer breathtaking scenery of moss-laden towering trees and the scenic McKenzie River.
Of the two waterfalls, Sahalie is larger (dropping 100 feet over a lava dam) but 70-foot Koosah is the crowd-pleaser. In any case, hike to both and see which you prefer for yourself.
#16. Salt Creek Falls (The Second Tallest Waterfall in Oregon)
Located within the vast and beautiful Willamette National Forest lies the second-tallest single drop waterfall in Oregon.
The powerful force of this 286-foot Oregon waterfall can be experienced from one of two viewpoints.
One viewpoint is accessible directly from the parking lot and the other view requires a short hike but leads directly into the canyon and eventually to the base of the falls.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
#17. Cleetwood Cove Trail at Crater Lake National Park
Oregon is home to the deepest lake in the country and the 9th deepest lake in the entire world. So visiting Crater Lake National Park is a no-brainer and there’s one hike you can’t miss during your visit!
The Cleetwood Cove trail is arguably the best hike at Crater Lake National Park because it leads directly to the water! You’ll notice a ton of folks swimming in the frigid lake and jumping from rocks.
Did I jump into the water during my visit? You better believe it! Would I do it again? Probably.
The trail leading to the water isn’t much to write home about but the destination is completely worth the hike! Allot more time for the hike back and prepare for a steep ascent (700 feet in a mile).
If you’d prefer to stay dry during your visit to Crater Lake National Park, I suggest hiking the Watchman’s Peak Trail. The hike is 1.6 miles round trip and leads to one of the best vantage points of Wizard Island.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Elevation: 700 feet
#19. White River Falls
White River Falls is intriguing in the sense that it’s found in an arid landscape that doesn’t seem primed for impressive waterfalls and yet here we area.
Diving a stately distance of 90 feet into a striking pool of ice-cold water is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Oregon by the name of White River Falls.
There’s two ways to see this incredible Oregon waterfall, from a parking lot platform or with a short (but steep) half-mile hike.
From there you may notice a side trail, should you choose to take it you’ll find yourself at the foot of the waterfall, free to dip your feet in the icy water.
Heads up: This Oregon waterfall swells with people during the hot summer months because it provides and invaluable reprieve from the oppressive summer heat.
Photo Credit: Rennie Moya
#20. Abiqua Falls
Abiqua Falls is one of Oregon’s best kept secrets. Tucked into a majestic amphitheater of striking basalt adorned with moss and red lichen, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon.
The reason? There’s a little bit of effort involved and an adventurous spirit is required.
This 0.8-mile trail is considered one of the best waterfall hikes in Oregon. It’s short but steep, so make sure you’re wearing proper hiking shoes.
You’ll notice a handful of ropes on the trail, use them during the steep descents and ascents to avoid slips.
You may need to scramble over boulders and rocks, but it’s nothing too crazy. Trust me, this is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon and is well worth the effort.
The trail leads to a pleasant creek that you will follow until the trail ends at a massive basalt bowl that houses Abiqua Falls.
But let’s get real — you’ll be hearing this Oregon waterfall long before you see it because the rushing force of 90 feet is powerful.
Note: Parking at the trailhead requires a high-clearance vehicle, otherwise you will need to park further up and hike in.
Best time go hiking in Bend, Oregon
After visiting Bend in all four seasons, I would say that the best time to visit Bend is the spring and summer seasons. Although in my opinion, Bend is one of those unique places where every season offers a feast for the eyes — thankfully there’s no bad time to visit.
Summer is my favorite time to visit Bend Oregon because the high-elevation trails are mostly snow-free and it’s possible to take advantage of the great hikes nearby. The temperatures can get hot mid-day, but there’s always a river to cool off in or a brewery to pop into.
Much like summer, spring is also great time to Visit Bend. The temperatures will be mild most of the day but the evenings will get chilly. Wildflowers pepper the scenery and offer a delightful splash of color amidst swaths of healthy forests.
Visiting Bend in autumn is a treat because the fall color is spectacular! What’s more, crowds will have thinned out substantially but the days are typically filled with ample sunshine. Even temperatures are chilly and a jacket will be necessary.
Winter is also a great time to visit Bend Oregon if you love snow sports. If you plan to ski or snowboard at Mt. Bachelor make sure to do your homework a few months in advance. Season passes sell out quickly!
Where do I park my car?
Bend is heavily trafficked, especially in the summer months. It’s not uncommon for parking lots to completely fill up before 7am and overflow lots to fill by 8am. Come early, come prepared.
Probably preaching to the choir, but hey. Make sure to pay to park when posted. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve seen seen parking citations on people’s windshields.
Nothing ruins a great hike like the blood pressure that accompanies a hefty parking ticket, right? Use that money for more important things (like beer).
Best way to end a Bend hike?
A hearty day on the trail is capped with a visit to a local brewery.
My husband and I like to try a new brewery each time we visit Bend and there’s no shortage of great Bend breweries to choose from, I’ll tell you that.
To fully appreciate the vibrant brew scene in Bend, I highly suggest partaking in the Bend Ale Trail — with 16 breweries participating, this is the largest beer trail in the west!
Pick up a passport (the Bend Ale Trail has been modified due to COVID) and navigate from brewery to brewery. You’ll get a stamp for each brewery you visit. Once you collect enough stamps you are eligible to receive a prize at the Visitor Center.
Best breweries in Bend Oregon
- 10 Barrel Brewing (my favorite brewery)
- Crux Fermentation Project (phenomenal craft brews)
- Deschutes Brewery & Public House
- Immersion Brewing
- Sunriver Brewery Company
- Three Creeks Brewing
- Bend Brewing
Best Hikes in Bend Oregon (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best hikes in Bend, Oregon
- Broken Top Trail
- Tumalo Falls
- Misery Ridge Trail
- Deschutes River Trail
- Tumalo Mountain
- Sparks Lake
- West Metolious River Trail
- Lava River Cave Trail
- Green Lakes Trail
- Tamolitch Blue Pool
- Proxy Falls
- South Sister Trail
- Deschutes River Trail
- Moraine Lake Trail
- Sahalie Falls
- Salt Creek Falls
- Cleetwood Cove Trail
- White River Falls
- Abiqua Falls
Map of Bend Oregon hikes
Further Reading
I hope you enjoyed this list of the best hikes in Bend. Let me know if I missed anything or if you’ve tried any of these hikes! Hope to see you out there.
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Happy hiking,
Antonina
I am SO happy I found your page! ThiS is literally THE best hiking list I’ve come across–I’m just making it my to-do list. Has badass hikes…has short but extremely unique hikes…what more could be asked for?! THANK YOU, YOU ROCK
Olivia, this comment made my day!! Thank YOU!
I’m so glad you enjoyed this page, I loved writing it. My husband and I spent SO much time hiking in Bend and I didn’t want the knowledge to go to waste, I’m so glad you found it helpful!
I loved your hiking list. I am so sad to say that I have been in Oregon since I was 9 years old but I have never even heard of these hiking spots! ( never been to Bend Oregon.) Holy crap I have been missing out so much its mind-blowing.. I LOVE hiking. Thank god I found your page randomly.
Hi Yana! (That’s my sister’s name, too!).
Since you’re an Oregonian, you should DEFINITELY make the drive to visit Bend, if you can. The landscape there is otherworldly and I bet you will love it!
Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions before your trip – I hope you have fun!
Enjoyed your blog. We will be spending a couple of nights in Bend in September. So, reading About hiking there is helpful. Will only have a little time in morning and evening, so must do my research before we get there. Your blog is most helpful.
Hello Joe,
So kind of you to take the time to leave a comment. I’m glad you found the post helpful, don’t hesitate to reach out with questions!
Thanks so much for this post! I’m currently visiting from Texas and I think this list is going to help me see the best that Bend has to offer!
Hi Josh,
I’m so glad to hear that! I hope you enjoy your trip!!
These hikes look absolutely stunning. I want to hike them all now! Thanks for the great list.
Thank you for the kind words! 🙂 Hope you enjoy the hikes!
What are the hikes that you did to see those amazing fall colors!?
Hello! The colorful fall photos are from the Green Lakes Trail and the West Metolious River Trail.
Love your Bend hiking list! Actually spent Thanksgiving weekend in Bend and for the first time hiked Misery Ridge Trail. Besides (too) many people on the narrow path this was one of the most rewardable hikes closeby Bend, for me so far… But looking at your list I realize there are still some trails to catch up with… 😉
Thank you, Stefanie!
Always so nice to hear from you! Bend has so many great trails to choose from, you can spend years exploring the area. 🙂
Glad you found the list helpful.
Just a heads-up. While you can access the Deschutes River trail from Sawyer Park, the trail you’re describing is best accessed from Farewell Bend Park. Sawyer Park is quite a way downstream.
Visit. Enjoy. Cherish. But don’t live there…. last thing place needs is more asphalt and Concrete. Nature thanks you
Great input, Tom. 🙂
This article, like 100 before it are so well written that half the population on earth come to what was a well preserved beautiful land. I’ve hiked thousands of miles, to every single one of Oregon’s 3,000 to-4,000 lakes. I never left a trace or have rarely seen another person until wonderful writers shared these once special places with city dwellers who don’t care about this land.
I truly love the way you viewed and have personally experienced this beautiful landscape. My only issue is the same as the governing body who now requires a permit to walk in what was once a flawless place of beauty.
“Stay home unless you intend on leaving this place in better condition than you found it!”
Hi there. I live in Bend and thought you should know there are new limited entry wilderness permits needed for the high traffic hikes. It would really benefit the out of staters to know that. Happy hiking!
Thank you Stacie, I updated the post based on this information. I agree, it would be very helpful for folks to know about it, so I made sure this information is front and center!
Oh my goodness. This blog is so well done! Bravo!
Thank you! 🙂
Very beautiful video. You picked some of the best spots here. A couple drone shots look like they were filmed inside Three Sisters Wilderness where drones aren’t allowed. Hopefully, the shots were taken from a high vantage point and panned to look like they were shot from a drone.
Thanks for adding the info about the permit system. It has reduced the crowds at the places you’ve posted on your blog. Folks should just be aware they need to get on recreation.gov before they show up at the trailhead. Rangers do turn people back, so it could be disappointing.
Thanks so much, Bill!
To your comment about the aerial footage – we worked with the Forest Service and made sure to comply with all the drone regulations. The footage you referenced was taken from a high vantage and cropped in pretty hard for the effect.
And thanks for the note about turning folks away at the trailhead without reservations – that’s a good point. I’ll update with the link etc here.
Cheers,
Antonina
Antonine, this article is very helpful. Do you feel a 2018 Subaru Outback can handle the road? 8.9” of clearance. Thanks!
Totally awesome. Immediately indispensable. Been looking for exactly this. Thank you.