A high desert Oregon city on the Deschutes River, ringed by volcanic peaks and dozens of craft breweries.
Why Visit Bend
Bend sits in Oregon’s high desert on the banks of the Deschutes River, with the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range, including the Three Sisters, visible from downtown. It has become one of the most concentrated craft brewery destinations in the country, alongside year round outdoor recreation from skiing to whitewater floating on the river that runs through town.
Top Experiences
- Bend Ale Trail: A self guided brewery trail connecting Bend’s dense concentration of craft breweries.
- Deschutes River floating: A summer tradition of floating the river through downtown Bend on inner tubes or rafts.
- Smith Rock State Park: Dramatic rock spires and canyon walls popular with rock climbers and hikers, just north of the city.
- Mount Bachelor: A major ski resort just outside the city, with summer mountain biking and hiking as well.
Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Bend.
Practical Tips
- Summer floating trips down the Deschutes are extremely popular, arrive early on weekends.
- Smith Rock is one of the birthplaces of American sport climbing, worth visiting even for non climbers.
- Bend sits at elevation and has a dry, high desert climate distinct from Oregon’s rainy coastal image.
FAQ
Is Bend Oregon good for breweries?
Yes, it is one of the most concentrated craft brewery destinations in the country, connected by the self guided Bend Ale Trail.
What is Smith Rock State Park known for?
Dramatic volcanic rock spires considered a birthplace of American sport climbing, also popular for hiking.
Is Bend good for outdoor activities year round?
Yes, it offers skiing at Mount Bachelor in winter and river floating, hiking, and climbing in summer.
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