If you love Bend just as much as we do, you may have seen a lot of what there is to do in the area. When that happens for the locals, they enjoy taking a short day trip away from the city and exploring other parts of Oregon. Bend is a great home base destination, as there are quite a few popular day trip locations nearby. Take a look at the best ideas for a day trip to Bend, Oregon that locals actually recommend:
Crater Lake National Park
If you are looking to check off national parks on your bucket list, you simply cannot pass up the opportunity to visit Crater Lake National Park. This is the furthest recommended day trip from Bend, as it is almost two hours away. While the drive may be long, you will find that the destination and journey are well worth it. Crater Lake National Park is exactly as it sounds: a large crater found deep within in its park perimeter. Crater Lake was formed by a volcanic explosion that erupted over 7,000 years ago. Since then, the crater has formed what is now the deepest lake in the United States.
A visit to Crater Lake National Park is a wondrous experience that everyone should see with their own two eyes. The lake surrounds a landmass in the middle that gives it a unique and incredible perspective. On top of that, the water is the bluest and clearest lake water you will find. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your visit to Crater Lake National Park. You can explore the 90 miles of hiking trails that will take you through the forest environment. One of the most popular ways to enjoy the visit is to drive along the historic 33-mile Rim Drive that circles around Crater Lake. You can stop off at over 30 overlook spots to find the perfect picture landscape. More advanced planning can also provide you with stargazing and fishing options too. You will pay a single vehicle fee to enter the park or use your national park annual pass if you have one. The park has snow most months of the year that can restrict some trails and overlooks so plan your visit accordingly.
Smith Rock State Park
Another outdoor day trip that can be found a bit closer to Bend is Smith Rock State Park. This local park is the complete opposite of Crater Lake National Park and is instead found in the high desert environment. You will arrive and be greeted by deep canyons and towering rock formations. Simply put you will be surprised that you are still in Oregon! Smith Rock State Park is only about 35 minutes outside of Bend is where locals go to enjoy rock climbing and hiking. In fact, you will find thousands of climbs here in the park. There are a variety of hiking trail difficulties from easy to challenging. The most popular trail, the Misery Ridge Trail, is considered moderate to challenging due to initial steep inclines and elevation. However, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the park. Other trails to look out for include River Trail, Canyon Trail, and Wolf Tree Trail among others. Smith Rock State Park is hotter than other day trip destinations so make sure you start your hiking early and bring plenty of water with you.
Sisters
While Bend is not the biggest city out there by far you may still find yourself wanting to explore a smaller, historic town. When the locals are feeling this they will make the short drive over to Sisters. This charming town is found west of Bend and is best known for its western theme. Here you will find the Sisters Rodeo, the “biggest little show in the world” that continues this western theme. Some events that take place in Sisters include Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show and Sisters Folk Festival. You will find that The Barn Food Carts & Beer Garden is a great place to try local food vendors while having a craft beer. The High Desert Museum features exhibits focusing on the area’s natural and cultural history. Walk around downtown where you can find locally owned restaurants and boutiques. There are plenty of outdoor activities too including hiking and scenic drives.
More Fun to Be Found Around Bend
All of these day trips are within reach when you book a stay at one of our Bend vacation rentals. Enjoy lavish amenities and close proximity to the best that Bend has to offer. Find your favorite vacation rental with us today and get to planning.
