Experience Nature and Volcanoes in Deschutes

When looking for a hotel in Deschutes, you can start by considering whether you’re most interested in trails and landscapes, volcanic geology, wildlife viewing, or culture. Some specific places to explore include the views from Pilot Butte, the river landscapes along the Deschutes River, and the volcanic formations around Newberry Crater.

Trails, River Landscapes, and Views

At Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, three trails lead to an ancient cinder cone east of Bend. From the summit, panoramic views stretch across the high desert to the Cascade Mountains. Temporary trail notices may change; check current updates before setting out.

The Deschutes River Trail extends for more than 12 miles along the river, passing through forests of pine, juniper, and ponderosa pine, as well as canyons and basalt rimrock formations. The River Run Reach includes wetlands where osprey, songbirds, trumpeter swans, otters, and beavers live. In the Old Mill Reach, three pedestrian bridges connect the paths across the river, allowing for loop routes for hiking and biking.

Volcanic Landscapes and Day Trip Planning

Newberry Crater is an 18-mile-wide caldera with East Lake, Paulina Lake, Paulina Falls, and the largest obsidian lava flow in the country. At 1,300 years old, the Big Obsidian Flow is Oregon’s youngest lava flow. An easy, one-mile interpretive trail leads up and across the lava flow of obsidian and pumice.

The Lava Lands Visitor Center is the interpretive center for Newberry National Volcanic Monument and offers exhibits on the region’s geological and cultural history. Visitor amenities also include the fully accessible, paved 5.5-mile Sun-Lava Trail. Lava River Cave allows visitors to explore a one-mile lava tube on their own. Since seasonal operations and reservation requirements may change, check current updates in advance.

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway passes through mountains, lakes, and forests shaped by volcanism and glaciation. The 66-mile route typically takes three to five hours. It begins in the north in Bend or in the south at Crescent Lake; seasonal access may vary.

Activities by Season

LaPine State Park offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and floating on the water. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also possible on its trails; conditions may vary by season. At Mt. Bachelor, summer lift access is available to mountain biking trails, though seasonal operations may vary.

Tumalo Falls Day Use Area provides access to hiking and mountain biking trails and has picnic areas. Seasonal conditions may also vary there. These activities therefore differ by season and type of activity, among other things; check the relevant updates before your visit.

Culture and Flavor

The High Desert Museum brings together art, culture, wildlife, history, and science. The 184-acre Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is located along the Deschutes River and includes a river canyon and rimrock cliffs. Interpretive signs cover the reserve’s geology, history, and ecosystem.

The Sisters Rodeo is a community-owned nonprofit event held in Sisters since 1940. The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show has been a local tradition since 1975. The Old Mill District includes nine preserved original buildings, among them the mill’s former powerhouse and three distinctive smokestacks.

The Bend Ale Trail includes more than 30 tasting rooms across seven areas. These include breweries, distilleries, and cideries in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Prineville, and Sunriver; participating locations may change over time. The Bend Brew Bus takes guests to breweries and craft distilleries in Bend and offers tastings, appetizers, and informative tours. Check with the provider in advance about reservations and availability.

Free guided brewery tours are offered daily at the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room; check the schedule before your visit. At Immersion Brewing, participants can brew their own Oregon craft beer and take it home as part of the Brew-It-Yourself experience. Advance arrangements may be required.

Discover more destinations: Bend, Sisters, La Pine, Deschutes River Woods, Baker, Morrow County, Yamhill County and Douglas.

Go to the main travel overview: Oregon.