Bend is a summer hiking paradise. There’s nothing better than spending a day in the Cascades with your friends and family. Get out and explore.
Here are some of our favorite hikes near Bend:
- Oregon Desert Trail
- Pilot Butte State Park
- Upper Deschutes River Trail
- Lava Butte
- Tumalo Falls
- Todd Lake
- Sparks Lake
- Green Lakes
- Devils Lake
- Sisters Mirror Lake Loop
Oregon Desert Trail
The Oregon Desert Trail passes through some of the most breathtaking natural areas on the state, including the Oregon Badlands Wilderness, Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, Steens Mountain, and Pueblo Mountains.
Pilot Butte State Park
Come and visit an ancient cinder cone located just east of Bend. Hiking up and around on one of three routes is a must. The trails wind through stands of juniper and sage bushes. All of the paths lead to the top.
Prepare for a stunning panoramic after reaching the top.
Upper Deschutes River Trail
Located 7 miles south of Bend, the Deschutes River Trail starts at the Meadow Day Use Area and is accessible via several access points and parking areas.
Lava Island, Big Eddy, Aspen, Dillon Falls, Slough, Benham Falls West, and Benham Falls East all have parking areas and access points to the Deschutes River Trail. From May 15 through September 15, dogs must be on a leash.There are certain sections that are designated to foot traffic only, so mountain bikers follow the signs and stay on your own designated trails.
Lava Butte
Meet the 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Sunriver, Oregon, and make friends. Considered a moderate difficulty path, it takes on average 1 h 41 min to complete. This is a popular walking and hiking route, but you may still get some peace and quiet at certain times of the day. The ideal months to go trekking here are March through November.
Tumalo Falls Trail
Tumalo Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Bend. The falls are beautiful, and the trail is easy to follow. It’s only about a mile round trip.
Todd Lake
In the summer, Todd Lake is a fantastic place to get away from the heat. The lake is encircled by trees, and there are several fishing spots available. There’s a three-mile round trip trek to the lake. This is a short stroll from the parking lot where you can take in the views of Broken Top. During peak season, this area becomes very popular for picnics and fishing.
Sparks Lake
Sparks Lake is another great option for a summer hike. The trail around the lake is easy, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Bachelor and South Sister.
Green Lakes
The trailhead offers views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mount Bachelor. On the journey, you’ll pass several waterfalls that drop from cliffs up to 100 feet high. At the higher elevations, there are extensive meadows with wooded areas surrounding them on both sides. On the route’s western slope there are two switchbacks; they are the only switchbacks you encounter on the entire journey. You will pass an outlet creek from the lakes near the end of the trek, with a ridge on the other side containing obsidian. There are views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mount Bachelor at both ends of this hike.
Hiking Devil’s Lake
Discover this 1.6-mile out-and-back path in Sisters, Oregon. It’s considered a Moderate trek, taking around 36 minutes to complete on average. This is a popular trail for birding, camping, and hiking, but you may still get some peace and quiet at quieter times of day. The peak season is May through October, and dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash.
Mirror Lake
Sisters Mirror Lake Loop is an easy, scenic hike that takes you around Sisters Mirror Lake. This is a great option if you’re looking for a short hike with stunning views.
