Sun River & Bend, Oregon

Central Oregon is a premier destination for recreation enthusiasts throughout the Northwest. The region offers year-round outdoor opportunities from rock climbing at Smith Rock and white water rafting on the Deschutes River to day hikes along the Pacific Crest Trail and golf at world-class resorts. Winter activities include skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor or cross-country skiing throughout the nearby national forests in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. At the heart of this recreation hotspot is Bend, a city that blends its western heritage with its passion for the outdoors. With its cultural museums, art galleries, outdoor eateries and shops with everything from outdoor gear to western attire; Bend offers something to indulge all of its visitors. Accommodations range from roadside inns to hotels and resorts with private golf facilities, all offering a chance to experience Bend's culture and amazing scenery.

For a panoramic view of Bend and the surrounding high desert, head to the top of Pilot Butte. This 511-foot volcanic cinder cone, on the eastside of town, offers a breath-taking vista of the Cascades and nine of its snow capped peaks; among them are the Three Sisters, Three-Fingered Jack, Broken Top and Mount Jefferson. The nearby Newberry National Volcanic Monument also offers spectacular views of the mountains, along with a chance to explore the distinctive volcanic features of Lava Cast Forest and the geological history of the region. Some visitors opt to go spelunking-cave exploring-in some of the monuments' caves or go mountain fishing in two of Oregon's finest lakes, Paulina and East.

Many who come to vacation in Central Oregon opt to stay in the resort community of Sunriver. Just 17 miles south of Bend, Sunriver is a relaxing setting for a weekend getaway or a weeklong ski trip. Housing accommodations range from the resort's spa hotel rooms to condominium and housing rentals that can lodge small families or large groups. A shopping village, grand lodge, 32 miles of bicycle paths and 54 holes of championship golf are all within this resort community.

World class skiing at Mount Bachelor is what draws many to Bend and Sunriver; both communities are less than a 30-minute drive from the mountain's ski parks. Mount Bachelor has 71 runs, 10 lifts, a half pipe built to Olympic standards and more than 3,500 skiable acres of snow for skiers and snowboarders. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can explore the mountain's 56 kilometers of trails.

Year round, Central Oregon is the Northwest's playground for everything from mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, white water rafting, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, golfing and much more. This recreation destination is a three and a half hour drive, 180 miles, southeast of Portland.

Related links:

Photograph taken by Niki Cassaro