Top 6 Things to Do in Bend Oregon — Outdoor Adventures and Tours

Photo by Dylan M Howell

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As one of the top travel destinations in Oregon, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with the number of options of things to do in and around Bend. One of the best aspects of Bend is it’s geographic location and the diversity in landscape this lends. As the Cascade Mountains meet the High Desert in Central Oregon, a diverse and dramatic landscape beckons to be explored. From hiking, rock-climbing, skiing and snowboarding, camping and whitewater rafting, there are tons of tour options to explore for the adventurous soul.

Here are the top things to do in Bend from a local:

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If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, check out The Campfire Hotel. This classic mid-century modern accommodation comes complete with an enormous heated pool and campfire pit, ready to welcome you.

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1. Hiking and Rock Climbing at Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock is one of Oregon’s Natural Wonders. Millions of years ago, a combination of volcanic, sizmic, glacier movement carved this dramatic landscape in the high desert. Located 35 minutes outside of Bend, this iconic destination is renowned for its towering rock formations, deep river canyons, and panoramic vistas. Trails wind through rugged terrain, offering hikers of all levels the chance to explore the park's diverse landscape and groves of juniper.

From leisurely strolls along the Crooked River to challenging ascents up Misery Ridge, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from. Smith Rock is also one of the top rock climbing destinations in the Pacific NorthWest. Smith Rock is known as the birthplace of sport climbing in the U.S. perfectly formed solid walls of rock make for an ideal scenario for belay climbing or bouldering.

For hiking: it can be as easy as walking down a dirt path for about a quarter mile, to as difficult as traversing up rugged and rocky trails. There’s something for everybody. There’s even a paved pathway from the parking lot to the first and primary viewpoint, making Smith Rock State Park fully enjoyable and accessible.

2. Travel with First Nature Tours

First Nature Tours is an LGBTQ+ owned and operated outdoor adventure company with a variety of tours from white-water rafting, thrilling hikes, and camping adventures. Check out a few of their top tour offerings in Central Oregon and Bend below:

Image courtesy of First Nature Tours

• Bend Outdoor Retreat

  A 6-day outdoor adventure that includes exhilarating activities such as whitewater rafting and an optional bungee jumping experience, in addition to relaxing and rejuvenating activities like yoga in the park and a sunset picnic. This tour is perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts!

• Central Oregon Outdoor Family Adventure

  This elevated, family-friendly adventure combines luxury experiences with the great outdoors. Embark on a safari-style camping trip along the Deschutes River, followed by a stay at the extravagant Brasada Ranch. Enjoy exciting activities such as horseback riding, lava tube exploration, whitewater rafting, and more!

• Central Oregon Regenerative Corporate Retreat

  Embark on a transformative corporate experience with an emphasis on regenerative travel. Teams will engage in a reforestation stewardship project along the Deschutes River, participate in team-building exercises at Smith Rock State Park, and embark on an underground cave and distillery tour.

• Fly-Fishing Weekend in Central Oregon

  Perfect for those that love being on the water, this weekend getaway includes a variety of activities from fly-fishing, rafting, and camping along the river. Go beyond the water with exciting activities such as mountain biking or rock climbing, making the most of the great outdoors.

Image courtesy of Wanderlust Tours

3. Guided Snowshoe & Bonfire with Wanderlust Tours

This is something you won’t want to miss. As someone new to snowshoeing, trekking through the mountains beneath the starry sky seemed truly enchanting, but I was nervous about how difficult it could be. Once you start, you’ll realize that it’s a pretty easygoing activity. The journey guides you to a beautifully crafted snow amphitheater, where snow-carved chairs circle a warmly glowing bonfire. Treats and drinks are waiting — hot cocoa, forest desserts, and even better: Hazelnut Espresso Vodka to enhance your cocoa. Savor the serenity of the Deschutes National Forest by night, and enjoy this leisurely hike amongst the stars.

4. Experience the Outdoors at Fir Haven Retreats

Scheduled to launch in August 2024, Fir Haven Retreats is an LGBTQ+ owned and run project established in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Spanning 20 acres, the property will contain 14 contemporary A-frame cabins nestled amidst lush pine forests, as well as designated areas for traditional tent camping. With a focus on fostering regenerative tourism, guests can partake in stewardship activities such as salmon restoration and trail maintenance. A shared base-camp facility will offer wellness amenities including an onsen-style cedar hot tub, a sauna with a cold plunge, a yoga platform for stargazing, and a communal campfire area. Fir Haven Retreats prides itself as a Pacific Northwest hub for eco-conscious travelers.

5. Celebrate Pride at Winter PrideFest in Bend

Since 2018, OUT Central Oregon has organized Winter PrideFest each March. Winter PrideFest is a celebration of Pride, Inclusivity, and a shared passion for nature and the outdoors. Starting at their first Pride celebration in 2018, just 150 attendees gathered in the mountains. Now, Winter PrideFest draws over 1,500 participants to the stunning Cascades in Central Oregon for an array of festivities and parties. For details and frequesntly asked questions about Winter PrideFest, check out our FAQ section and full guide on attending Winter PrideFest.

6. Ski and Snowboard at Mt. Bachelor

As one of the top skiing and snowboarding destinations in the Pacific NorthWest, Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort offers an unparalleled adventure amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. Located just 21 miles from Bend, approximately 25 minutes drive, this iconic resort boasts over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain, catering to all skill levels from beginners to seasoned experts. With its consistent snowfall and diverse terrain composed of groomed slopes, bowls, and gorgeous tree runs, Mt. Bachelor provides endless opportunities for exhilarating runs and unforgettable moments on the slopes. If you’re a beginner, Mt. Bachelor offers ski and snowboard lessons daily along with a variety of bunny-hills to practice. Whether carving through pristine powder, navigating through glades, or enjoying panoramic views from the summit, Mt. Bachelor has something memorable to offer anyone who visits.

There are virtually endless options when it comes to outdoor activities in Bend Oregon. The region of Central Oregon is where the Cascade Mountains meet the High Desert. With access to volcanos, caves that cut deep into the earth, state and national forests, mountains and ski resorts, dramatically carved rock structures, and rivers perfect for white water rafting. Whichever activities fit your travel schedule and your budget, it’s sure to be a great addition to your itinerary.

Bend’s LGBTQ+ community is up and coming. Many gay-friendly and gay-owned businesses are starting to open in Bend’s downtown and Old Mill Districts. With Winter PrideFest being a major highlight of the winter season, LGBTQ+ business owners are setting up shop and expanding the network of gay-friendly travel destinations in Oregon.

For gay-friendly places to stay in Bend, check out the Campfire Hotel, and many more below:

If you’re already traveling through Oregon, make sure to spend some time in Portland. Check out our city guide to some of the best places to eat, stay, and see in Portland Oregon.

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