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The city of Bend, OR, is a hiker’s paradise. No matter what type of hike you’re in the mood for, Bend has you covered. It’s a difficult thing to narrow down Bend’s best hikes, but we’ll give it a shot.
1. Tumalo Falls
There are many great waterfalls near town, but we give the edge to 95-foot Tumalo for its accessibility. From the parking lot, visitors only need to walk a few minutes up a gently sloping trail to reach the lookout point.
More adventurous folks can choose to keep going, as the trail continues to follow the river. A little further in, hikers are rewarded with views of a second waterfall, Middle Tumalo Falls. This beauty is a double fall and is nearly 60 feet in height.
2. Deschutes River Trail
You can’t beat this hike for convenience as it’s located right in town. A good place to start is at Farewell Bend Park. Head south for a wilder trail that takes hikers up a slope past native vegetation like the manzanita and Oregon grape. The river picks up the pace and as hikers cross the small bridge to loop back, it rushes past underneath.
Head north for a more civilized stroll past the Old Mill shopping district. The path is paved here and dives under roads in colorful tunnels painted with murals. Signage informs walkers of the logging industry past that once defined Bend.
3. Big Obsidian Flow Trail
Maybe you’ve seen a chunk of the black glass-like substance that is obsidian, but we guarantee you haven’t seen this much obsidian in one place. The Big Obsidian Flow trail is the easiest option: a quick half-mile walk from the parking lot to an overlook.
For a more immersive experience, choose the Lost Lake Trail. This winds through the forest up gentle switchbacks until suddenly the trees clear, and you are standing at the base of the obsidian flow. Paulina lake floats in the background. It’s breathtaking, but remember, hands-off: it’s illegal to take the obsidian home.
4. Lava Butte
Another site that looks like something out of this world is the Lava Lands Visitor Center. Hikers have two great choices. Follow the wonderfully named Trail of Molten Lands through cooled lava formations and tubes.
Or, grab your water and hike up Lava Butte, a cinder cone topped with a massive crater. The majority of the hike follows the road, and there is some shade. At the top, the trail winds around the rim of the crater. Visitors can then climb a fire lookout tower if additional height is desired.
5. Sparks Lake
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway passes many lakes, but Sparks is one of the most beautiful. Kayakers adore the peaceful lake, but hikers can get in on the action too. We suggest going at sunset to see the mountains reflected in the orange and red lake.
You’ll need a dependable car for all these hikes. Stop by Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today and view our extensive inventory of vehicles. We’ll help you get into the car of your dreams.
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