Hiking in Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extraordinary blend of high desert terrain, dense forests, alpine lakes, and snow-capped peaks. The city’s natural surroundings create an ideal backdrop for hiking year-round, with trail options suited for casual strollers, experienced trekkers, and everyone in between. Whether you're seeking a peaceful riverside walk or a challenging ascent with sweeping mountain views, this guide unveils the best hiking trails in and around Bend.

Flowing right through the heart of Bend, the Deschutes River Trail is a local favorite offering both accessibility and natural beauty. The full trail spans over 12 miles, but popular sections, like those near Farewell Bend Park or Drake Park, provide excellent short hikes. Expect views of cascading rapids, basalt cliffs, and dense stands of ponderosa pine. This trail is especially appealing to beginners and families due to its flat terrain and easy access from downtown.

Just miles west of Bend, the Tumalo Falls Trail is a must-see. The 6-mile round-trip hike to the main viewpoint offers dramatic views of the 97-foot waterfall, especially impressive in the spring and early summer. For those wanting more, continuing along the North Fork Trail opens up access to several smaller falls and eventually leads into the Three Sisters Wilderness. The initial trail section is well-maintained, making it ideal for casual hikers seeking a high reward for minimal effort.

Located off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, the Green Lakes Trail offers a moderate 9-mile round-trip hike through old-growth forest, lava flows, and wildflower-filled meadows. Hikers will gradually ascend alongside Fall Creek to reach the alpine Green Lakes basin, tucked between South Sister and Broken Top. This trail is a top choice for those seeking a half-day backcountry experience with pristine lake views and panoramic mountain scenery.

An extinct cinder cone rising over 500 feet above Bend, Pilot Butte offers a short but steep hike with one of the best panoramic views in the region. The 2-mile round-trip Summit Trail is paved on one side and gravel on the other, catering to various hiking preferences. At the summit, hikers can take in sweeping vistas of the Cascades, including Mt. Bachelor, Three Sisters, and even Mt. Hood on clear days. It’s particularly popular for sunrise and sunset hikes.

Located on the northwest edge of Bend, Shevlin Park encompasses more than 650 acres of pine forest, meadows, and Tumalo Creek. Its trails range from short loops to longer treks, such as the Tumalo Creek Trail, which offers shaded walking through serene wooded landscapes. The park is perfect for casual hikes, trail running, and wildlife viewing. It’s also a popular year-round destination, with snowshoeing options in the winter.

Following a scenic stretch of the Deschutes River, the Benham Falls Trail offers a 1.5-mile hike (each way) to the dramatic Class V whitewater falls. The trail is mostly flat and gravel, making it accessible to families and casual hikers. Interpretive signs along the way provide insight into the area’s volcanic geology and river ecosystem. The thunderous sound of the falls at the trail’s end is a dramatic reward.

Situated within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, the Lava Butte Trail gives hikers a chance to explore Central Oregon’s volcanic past. The paved interpretive trail winds around the rim of the Lava Butte cinder cone, providing views of expansive lava flows and the surrounding high desert. While the hike is short, it’s packed with educational value and scenic overlooks. Visitors can pair it with a stop at the Lava Lands Visitor Center for additional context.

A challenging yet iconic hike in the region, the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park rewards effort with jaw-dropping scenery. The steep 3.6-mile loop climbs rapidly from the Crooked River to the top of the park’s famous rock formations, offering views of Monkey Face and the Cascade Range. While steep and rocky in places, the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. It’s a must for experienced hikers seeking a dramatic Central Oregon adventure.

For those wanting a quieter hike within city limits, Riley Ranch offers 184 acres of rugged canyon, basalt cliffs, and open meadows. Several interconnected loop trails allow for shorter or longer hikes depending on preference. The Canyon Trail, in particular, offers dramatic descents into the Deschutes River Canyon with minimal crowds. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, hawks, and river otters, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Beyond individual trails, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a destination in itself. This stretch of road connects a number of trailheads accessing alpine lakes like Sparks Lake, Todd Lake, and Devils Lake. Each offers varying hiking opportunities—from easy shoreline walks to steeper climbs toward South Sister. During the summer months, wildflowers bloom in abundance, and the lake reflections of surrounding peaks are nothing short of stunning.

Thinking about making Bend your permanent base for adventure? Whether you're dreaming of a mountain retreat, downtown condo, or family-friendly neighborhood, contact Team Fitch Real Estate to find the perfect home close to trailheads, rivers, and mountain views.