Nature and outdoor buffs should look no further than a trip to Central Oregon. The unique landscapes of the destination give way to a wide range of volcanic peaks, lava flows, waterfalls, and scenic rivers. The region is bordered by the Cascade Range to the west and the High Desert to the east which creates a natural abundance of hiking opportunities through its thousands of miles of trails and hundreds of trailheads.
No matter where you are—the center of Bend (a small city along the Deschutes River) or deep in the wilderness—you’re close to a trail. This accessibility is one of the area’s biggest draws. In fact, Bend-based nonprofit Oregon Adaptive Sports hosts hiking programs and events that ensure everyone can get out on the trail, in addition to providing additional equipment, instruction, and support to hikers.
There are hundreds of trails planted in several areas including the Deschutes National Forest, Cascade Lakes, the Three Sisters Wilderness, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, River Canyon Country, and the Oregon Badlands. No matter if you crave a calorie-kicking hike with plenty of elevation or waterfall and lava flow scenes taken in from the car, there are a plethora of accessible routes in Central Oregon to explore.
If you’re looking for a scenic drive...
Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls in Central Oregon
You don’t even have to set out on a hike to witness some awe-inspiring landscapes. A 97-foot waterfall awaits at Tumalo Falls, located a quick drive (20 minutes) from downtown Bend. You can see the falls splashing even from the parking area. If you want to get closer, it’s about 0.25 miles of moderate incline up to the top of the falls for a bird’s eye view.
Old McKenzie Highway and Dee Wright Observatory
Central Oregon is packed with volcanic landscapes. The Old McKenzie Highway—once the only connection between Central Oregon and Eugene—winds through an ancient lava flow. It’s the type of landscape that might make you wonder if you somehow landed on the moon. Note that the highway is closed during the winter and spring months (approximately November through July) due to snowfall and weather conditions. The drive is beautiful, but if you are looking for fresh air, there are a few short trails in the area. After parking (there are ADA parking spaces in the lot), head a quarter-mile down the paved trail to the Dee Wright Observatory, where you can surround yourself with views of the Cascade Range and the lava flow. Note that the roof-level of the observatory is only accessed by stairs.
If you're looking for a shorter distance...
Big Obsidian Flow
The drive through the moonscape near the Lava Lands Visitor Center is like a trip to outer space. In fact, the area was once a training ground for NASA. If you’re looking for a short, accessible route, there’s a one-mile, wheelchair-friendly loop through the Big Obsidian Flow nearby. Note that it is quite a drive from the main highway, but the views are well worth the detour. Parking is free for recreation pass holders, or $5 for those who don’t have one. You can obtain a pass at the Lava Lands Visitor Center.
Pilot Butte
Geology buffs will enjoy a stop at Pilot Butte: a 500-foot lava dome left behind by a now-extinct volcano. Considered Bend’s most recognizable landmark, hikers can also trek a popular two-mile loop that features some of Central Oregon’s best urban views and scenes of the surrounding plains. Beginning at the parking lot, the trail is paved and wheelchair-accessible, and there’s an ADA-compliant playground along the way. Parking is free.
Dillion Falls to Benham Falls
Gaining a mild 407 feet of elevation, the 6.8-mile roundtrip from Dillon Falls and Benham Falls offers a stop at a waterfall and opportunities for birdwatching and horseback riding during or after a hike. This wide, paved path is a popular route for cyclists, so keep an eye out for passersby. There are also a number of steep points along the gorges. You will need a recreation pass to park and access this area.
Metolius River
With only 100 feet of elevation, the 5.7-mile family-friendly hike along the Metolius River provides spectacular views of the sapphire-colored waters of the river, Wizard Falls Hatchery, and vibrant wildflowers and fall colors. The narrow, unpaved path begins at the Canyon Creek Campground, guiding hikers along the west side of the Metolius River. At the end of the trail, Candle Creek Campground awaits. It’s free to access this trail.
If you’re looking for strenuous physical activity...
Paulina Peak Trail
The Paulina Peak Trail spans 6.2 miles and features 1,610 feet of elevation gain. The route culminates 7,984 feet above sea level—the highest point of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument (you’ll remember the views for a lifetime). Just past Paulina Lake, you’ll pass an archeological site featuring a 10,500-year-old home. While many of the trail segments can be tough to navigate, the Paulina Peak Overlook is wheelchair accessible and offers a great view of East Lake, Paulina Lake, Obsidian Flow, and the Cascade Mountain Range. During the summer, there is a shuttle at the visitor’s center that will take visitors to the overlook at the summit.
Another nearby option is to ascend the 1,560-foot, 2.5-mile pancake-flat summit of Black Butte. You will be rewarded with views of Broken Top, North and South Sister, Mount Washington, and on a clear day, Mount Hood to the north. You will need a recreation pass to park and access this area.
Green Lakes Trail
A 1,200-foot elevation gain with gorgeous forested vistas of pine, hemlock and Douglas fir, the Green Lakes Trail along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a nine-mile out-and-back hike where thundering waterfalls await as well as spots where you can see historic massive lava flow. The hike ends with an arrival to the Green Lakes basin and sweeping views of Broken Top and South Sister. You will need a recreation pass to park and access this area.
South Sister
For those really looking to get out there, take on one of the region’s most iconic routes. With nearly 5,000 feet of elevation over 5.5 miles, the 12-mile advanced South Sister hike is considered a rite of passage in Central Oregon. Long and steep, the hike will require you to summit 10,358 feet above sea level, where you can finally catch your breath. Be warned: Fast-changing weather can quickly take over this trail and knowing how to use an ice pick is necessary during the colder months. The trail is not paved and often requires a bit of a scramble. You will need a recreation pass to park and access this area.