With its high desert beauty, towering peaks, and endless miles of trails, Bend is easily one of the most celebrated destinations for hiking in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re setting out for a quick morning loop or carving out time for a full-day alpine adventure, the landscape delivers something special every step of the way. And with over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s easy to see why so many people consider hiking in Bend, Oregon, a way of life rather than just a weekend activity.
From volcanic overlooks to riverside pathways and deep forest explorations, the variety of terrain here is unmatched. Below, you’ll find some of the area’s most loved trails and what makes each worth a visit.
Pilot Butte
Located right in Bend, Pilot Butte is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can hike up a volcano within city limits. This extinct cinder cone offers a moderate climb to the summit, where sweeping views of the Cascade Range unfold in dramatic fashion. On clear days, you’ll see everything from Mount Hood in the north to Mount Bachelor in the south.
The trail to the top is short—just under two miles round-trip—but it's a steady climb, and you'll feel it. At the summit, interpretive signs help identify peaks and historical points of interest. It's the kind of hike that works well for a quick outing with a big payoff.
The trail to the top is short—just under two miles round-trip—but it's a steady climb, and you'll feel it. At the summit, interpretive signs help identify peaks and historical points of interest. It's the kind of hike that works well for a quick outing with a big payoff.
Tumalo Falls
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Bend, Tumalo Falls is as iconic as it gets. The 97-foot waterfall crashes into the canyon below, framed by tall evergreens and rocky outcrops. In summer, the viewpoint just steps from the parking lot offers instant gratification for those short on time. But if you’re up for a little more movement, multiple trails branch off to take you deeper into the forest.
For a longer adventure, follow the Tumalo Creek Trail for additional waterfalls and forested solitude. In winter, the road closes to vehicles, but snowshoeing in from Skyliner Sno-Park offers a peaceful, snowy experience with the falls frozen in place.
For a longer adventure, follow the Tumalo Creek Trail for additional waterfalls and forested solitude. In winter, the road closes to vehicles, but snowshoeing in from Skyliner Sno-Park offers a peaceful, snowy experience with the falls frozen in place.
The Upper Deschutes River Trail
For a more relaxed pace with stunning riverside views, the Upper Deschutes River Trail delivers. Beginning at the Meadow Day Use Area and winding past Lava Island, Big Eddy, and Dillon Falls, this trail system provides multiple access points and customizable distances.
It’s a favorite among locals for morning jogs, dog walks, or just a bit of fresh air after work. Sections of the trail lead you through lava flows, pine forests, and along the rushing Deschutes River. The trail is also popular with mountain bikers and trail runners, so sharing the space is part of the experience. Keep in mind that dogs must be leashed on certain sections during the summer season.
It’s a favorite among locals for morning jogs, dog walks, or just a bit of fresh air after work. Sections of the trail lead you through lava flows, pine forests, and along the rushing Deschutes River. The trail is also popular with mountain bikers and trail runners, so sharing the space is part of the experience. Keep in mind that dogs must be leashed on certain sections during the summer season.
Tumalo Mountain
If you want a hike that gets your heart pumping and rewards you with panoramic mountain views, head for Tumalo Mountain. This 3.8-mile out-and-back trail climbs steadily to the summit, where you’ll be greeted by one of the best viewpoints in Central Oregon.
From the top, the volcanic peaks of the Cascades—Broken Top, South Sister, and Mount Bachelor—form a jaw-dropping skyline. Because of the elevation gain, expect cooler temps and more wind at the top, even on a warm day. Bring a layer, water, and sturdy footwear. The trail is accessible in summer, while winter turns it into a popular snowshoeing route. Note that the trail is closed to dogs during winter months to protect sensitive wildlife areas.
From the top, the volcanic peaks of the Cascades—Broken Top, South Sister, and Mount Bachelor—form a jaw-dropping skyline. Because of the elevation gain, expect cooler temps and more wind at the top, even on a warm day. Bring a layer, water, and sturdy footwear. The trail is accessible in summer, while winter turns it into a popular snowshoeing route. Note that the trail is closed to dogs during winter months to protect sensitive wildlife areas.
Green Lakes Trail
West of Bend in the Cascade Lakes region, the Green Lakes Trail is a staple for hikers who want to soak up stunning alpine scenery. The trail begins at the Fall Creek Trailhead and winds its way through dense forests, past rushing waterfalls, and alongside obsidian rock flows. Eventually, you’ll reach the namesake lakes nestled between South Sister and Broken Top.
This is a longer trail—about 9 miles round-trip—but the moderate elevation gain and changing scenery make it feel approachable. It’s especially popular during the summer months when wildflowers are in bloom and the lake reflects the surrounding peaks. Dogs are welcome here, but must be leashed during the height of summer to minimize impact on sensitive areas.
This is a longer trail—about 9 miles round-trip—but the moderate elevation gain and changing scenery make it feel approachable. It’s especially popular during the summer months when wildflowers are in bloom and the lake reflects the surrounding peaks. Dogs are welcome here, but must be leashed during the height of summer to minimize impact on sensitive areas.
Year-Round Hiking Access
One of the many perks of hiking in Bend, Oregon, is its access to trails during all seasons. In the warmer months, high-elevation trails come alive with wildflowers and snowmelt streams. In fall, the high desert glows with golden hues, and cooler temps make longer hikes more comfortable. In winter, snowshoeing trails around Tumalo Falls, Swampy Lakes, and Virginia Meissner provide a completely different way to experience the landscape.
Local trail organizations and the Deschutes National Forest maintain updated trail conditions online, which can help you plan hikes around seasonal closures, wildfire updates, or weather shifts. Whether you're a resident or visitor, it's a good idea to check ahead.
Local trail organizations and the Deschutes National Forest maintain updated trail conditions online, which can help you plan hikes around seasonal closures, wildfire updates, or weather shifts. Whether you're a resident or visitor, it's a good idea to check ahead.
Trail Etiquette and Preparation
While most hikes around Bend are well-marked and relatively accessible, being prepared helps ensure a smooth outing. Here are a few tips to make the most of your adventure:
- Bring plenty of water, especially for high elevation or longer hikes
- Use sun protection. Even on cool days, UV exposure is high
- Pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles
- Stick to designated trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems
- Respect leash rules and pick up after pets
Discover Your Next Trail—and Your Next Home
If hiking is part of your lifestyle or something you hope to do more of, finding the right place to call home can make it easier to connect with the outdoors regularly. From neighborhoods near Pilot Butte to properties tucked closer to the Deschutes River, real estate in Bend offers unique access to nature at your doorstep.
The Christensen Collective understands the value of trail proximity, open space, and the rhythm of life that comes with living in Central Oregon. Whether you're relocating, upsizing, or simply exploring options, their local expertise can help match you with a home that complements your outdoor interests.
When you're ready to pair mountain views with a move that makes sense for your lifestyle, reach out to the Christensen Collective. They’ll help you navigate the real estate market in Bend with insight, strategy, and a shared appreciation for everything the local trails have to offer.
*Header image courtesy of Pexels
The Christensen Collective understands the value of trail proximity, open space, and the rhythm of life that comes with living in Central Oregon. Whether you're relocating, upsizing, or simply exploring options, their local expertise can help match you with a home that complements your outdoor interests.
When you're ready to pair mountain views with a move that makes sense for your lifestyle, reach out to the Christensen Collective. They’ll help you navigate the real estate market in Bend with insight, strategy, and a shared appreciation for everything the local trails have to offer.
*Header image courtesy of Pexels
