Detour to Bend

5 Reasons to Include Bend on your PNW Roadie

Bend is a small city in the middle of Oregon with a lot to offer. But, even with an increased buzz around the mountain town, Bend is often overlooked during the planning stages of a Pacific Northwest trip. So here’s a glimpse of why we think Bend is the perfect base location to explore some of Central Oregon’s iconic landmarks.

Around Town 

Even though there is plenty to see and do within an hour drive of Bend, a full weekend could be dedicated to exploring the nooks or corners of downtown Bend. Local storefronts, art galleries, restaurants, breweries and coffee shops are scattered amongst the quaint, historic four block grid. Live music and local beers by the riverfront are the norm almost any day of the week, and likely during a happy hour special.

The Old Mill District is another prime shopping area if you’re searching out a chain store like REI. The scenery is just as beautiful along the river, with the Les Schwab Amphitheater nearby to catch an outdoor concert

Beer Town USA 

With around 28 micro breweries, it’s clear that Bend has a knack for craft beers–and the area’s super clean, crisp water is a key ingredient for making such tasty brews. If it’s too difficult to pick and choose which ones to try out on your visit then you can hop on the Bend Ale Trail, and take a stab at visiting all 16 breweries on the list. And if you stay at Bunk+Brew we will set you up with a free local beer at check-in from Silver Moon to get you started on your beer journey.

Mount Bachelor
Hike, Bike, Ski or Take a Lift  

Mt. Bachelor is a year-round destination for fun and amazing views. Ski or Snowboard in first-class conditions from November through May on one of the largest ski terrains in North America. Once the season changes and the snow melts away, Mt. Bachelor quickly transforms into a mountain bike paradise with miles of downhill trails. Hiking, heli tours or simply taking the chair lift up this volcanic structure is a great way to enjoy the views and all that Mount Bachelor has to offer.

Smith Rock   

Considered the birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock offers thousands of established routes, bringing climbers from all over the world to have a go on the bold, basalt rock formations. The allure of Smith’s volcanic crags and dramatic river valley landscape attracts more than just climbers. Hikers, bikers and sightseers flock to the state park to enjoy and admire the spires, walk along the Crooked River or hike Misery Ridge. Don’t forget to grab a beer at the local gear shop  on your way out.

Endless Day Trips 

Bend is an ideal base location to explore central Oregon with the seemingly endless day trip opportunities. Hike mountain summits from Broken Top to South Sister, bike some of the 400+ miles of mountain bike singletrack in Central Oregon, or camp in the Jefferson Wilderness and explore the valleys of Three Finger Jack.

Spend the day driving through the Cascade Lakes for a leisurely walk and a dip in Todd lake, or continue driving south to be inspired by the flawless beauty of Crater Lake, one of the deepest, most iconic lakes in the U.S.

The options of hikes, lake days, rafting trips, mountain summits and scenic drives are almost endless and just a short drive away from your home away from home in Bend.