Making time to enjoy a journey to Sunriver is bound to be packed with opportunities for fun on-site. A visit this way is also a chance to explore surrounding areas when you include a day trip or two on your itinerary. The following fantastic stops are all well within reach and worth checking out for fun day trips from Sunriver, Oregon the next time you’re here.
Visit North & South Twin Lakes
You don’t have to go far to find spectacular lakeside scenery when you plan a day trip from Sunriver to North & South Twin Lakes the next time you’re in town. Simply follow South Century Drive west about 24 miles and you’ll find yourself at Twin Lakes Resort at 11200 South Century Drive. Set your sights on the recreation here to make the most of the fun! Many day trippers head to the North & South Twin Lakes to enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking as this non-motorized lake offers up a tranquil setting in which you can take life at your very own pace. The water is crystal-clear and shallow enough that it’s a great option for new and experienced water adventurers alike. There’s a beach area to enjoy here as well and convenient parking options too. There are also great lakeside dining options after a day of fun to savor a moment before heading back to Sunriver.
Make It a Day at Mt. Bachelor
No matter what season you arrive in Sunriver to enjoy a stay, planning a day trip to Mt. Bachelor is always a great choice. Just under 20 miles north from Sunriver, this destination doesn’t take long to reach and there’s a shuttle that can make the trip even more convenient if you’re looking to leave your personal vehicle behind. Once you arrive, begin by hopping on the chairlift and enjoy spectacular views from 7,775 feet. This is a ride you simply won’t want to forget your camera for. At the summit, there are ample food and hiking options as well as opportunities to grab photos that are sure to last a lifetime. From winter ski fun to summer trekking, Mt. Bachelor has the best of it all and is well within easy reach of Sunriver.
Explore the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway
Even if you choose not to make it a day at Mt. Bachelor, the road leading in that direction puts you right in line with the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway. This makes for an amazing driving day trip from Sunriver complete with breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities to top at overlooks to soak up the sights at your own pace too. Start by driving west towards Mt. Bachelor along the 45 road. While you’ll follow signs toward Mt. Bachelor, you’ll end up circling around the mountain and linking up with the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway instead. The highway is prime for both wildlife watching and stopping to take in the sights of glimmering mountain lakes too. All in all, it’s one of the most scenic Oregon day trips you can add to your itinerary.
Spend time Enjoying Fort Rock On Your Day Trips from Sunriver, Oregon
While many visitors to Sunriver plan Oregon day trips to see and explore Smith Rock State Park, a good alternative that’s typically less crowded in the summer is Fort Rock. Just 55 miles southeast of Sunriver, Fort Rock is a great and gorgeous area to spend time enjoying wildlife watching as well as exploring the State Natural Area. The highlight is certainly the soaring circle of towering rock walls that resemble a fort. It’s believed that in prehistoric times, the area was home to a shallow sea, leaving behind unique formations that are truly fascinating and great for photo opportunities too.
Lake Hop Your Way to Fun
If a day of lakeside living is what you’re looking for, you can easily enjoy time at both East Lake and Paulina Lake when you plan your day trip from Sunriver along Highway 97. Head south from Sunriver and it won’t be long before you find yourself on Paulina Lake Road. This leads directly to the Paulina Creek Falls day-use area where many visitors stop to take photos of the cascades and to enjoy some time hiking as well. From here, it’s just under 4 miles to reach the Big Obsidian Flow. There are plenty of signs that lead the way, so you don’t have to worry about getting off track. There’s a 1-mile loop to explore here as well as plenty of benches for making the most of the beautiful area views. The last stop on this route is Paulina Lake and East Lake. Here, the water is clear, the shores are scenic and if you happen to be an angler, the fishing is fantastic too. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering longer than you originally planned!
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