21 Beautiful Hikes Near Bend, Oregon to Check Out For Yourself
There’s no doubt that the Pacific Northwest is the ultimate destination for outdoor lovers and adventurous souls.
And when looking for the best hikes near Bend, Oregon, you’ll be blown away by how much incredible beauty there is in the area!
Between the towering mountains, the desert-like landscape, flowing waterfalls, rolling plains, and more, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the state.
On your next visit to Bend, Oregon, check out a few of these absolutely epic hikes.
Easy Hikes Near Bend, Oregon
If you aren’t up for summitting a mountain but still want to get out and enjoy the wilderness, then one of these hikes will be perfect for you.
They’re short, have low elevation, and still feature epic views.
1. Tumalo Falls
Distance: 0.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 25 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Deschutes National Forest
Distance from Bend: 25 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: May-October
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This 89-foot waterfall is undoubtedly one of the most popular in central Oregon, due to the pure beauty that surrounds it.
The blue, glacial waters drop over the cliff of rocky, ridges, surrounded by trees.
From the parking lot, you’ll only have to walk just a short distance to reach it.
Just a bit further down the trail, you can stand right next to the top of the waterfall, admiring the river from high above.
If you’re up for some more hiking, you can also take a 2-mile roundtrip hike past Tumalo Falls and along Tumalo Creek.
On this hike, you’ll also pass by Double Falls, making this journey a 2-for-1!
This hike is perfect in the summer when the roads are clear of snow, but in the winter, the road to the parking lot closes, making it closer to a 6 mile hike.
2. Lava River Cave
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 20 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Newberry Volcanic National Monument
Distance from Bend: 20 minutes
Pass Required: National Parks Pass
Best Time: May-September
AllTrails Map
One of my personal favorite parts of Oregon is the diverse landscape that you’ll find, including impressive caves scattered around the state.
Just about 20 minutes from Bend, you’ll find Lava River Cave, the longest lava tube in Oregon!
Lava River Cave was formed after volcanic eruptions that are thought to have happened over 80,000 years ago.
The one-mile-long cave is open for self-guided tours after you’ve attended a super short orientation with a park ranger.
During this, they’ll just give you some information on how to protect the bats in the cave and etiquette while you’re inside.
Once you’re inside, there are some stairs to descend into the cave, and it eventually turns into a dirt pathway.
The cave is pitch black, so remember to either bring a headlamp or be prepared to rent a lantern for $5 from the park!
3. Paulina Hot Springs
Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Newberry Volcanic National Monument
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Pass Required: National Parks Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
There’s nothing better than embarking on a hike that has some sort of incredible view or a fun adventure waiting at the end for you.
But, why not have both? On the Paulina Hot Springs hike, you can!
You’ll hike for about 1.5 miles along the shores of Paulina Lake, before reaching a spur trail marking the way to the hot springs.
There are about 5 pools, all of which are natural and are unmaintained, so they aren’t very deep, but they are warm!
You may need to shift the rocks around to make the pool a bit more comfortable for yourself!
On a clear day, you’ll have views of the surrounding mountains and Paulina Peak on the opposite side of the lake.
It’s truly a stunning hike and you have something awesome to look forward to in the middle!
4. Pilot Butte
Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Pilot Butte State Park
Distance from Bend: In town
Pass Required: Oregon State Parks Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
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Pilot Butte is a hike in Bend, not too far from the city center, making for the perfect after-work adventure.
It’s a short hike with a steady incline, that boasts fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes and the beauty that is Oregon.
Along the trail, try to identify the different trees and foliage that surround the area. Juniper trees are among them.
From the summit, you can see many mountains and ranges such as Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Three Sisters, and many buttes.
You’ll also see much of the city below, offering a unique viewpoint of the adorable town.
5. Salt Creek Falls
Distance: 1 mile
Elevation Gain: 250 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Willamette National Forest
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 20 minutes
Pass Required: None
Best Time: May-October
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Another of the best waterfalls in Central Oregon, Salt Creek Falls is one of the tallest in the state!
Measuring 286 feet, this is the second tallest single-drop waterfall in Oregon.
My favorite part of Salt Creek Falls is the greenery that surrounds the entire waterfall and the views of the mountains in the distance.
The first viewpoint of the waterfall is just a short distance from the parking lot, although to get a frontal view, it’s a bit further.
Start from the parking lot and follow the path up and down a few sets of stairs and switchbacks to get another great view.
In the winter, the road to the waterfall is closed, so it’s a tough walk through the snow to reach it.
6. Big Obsidian Flow
Distance: 0.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Type: Lollipop
Location: Newberry Volcanic National Monument
Distance from Bend: 50 minutes
Pass Required: National Parks Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
Newberry Volcanic National Monument is home to the largest volcano in Oregon and has many fun hiking trails to check out.
The Big Obsidian Flow trail is one of those, and it’s a very unique trail.
This lava flow is only 1,300 years old ( I know, only 1,300…😉 ), making it the youngest in the entire state!
While walking on this trail, you’ll be passing over pieces of pumice and obsidian, which is basically black glass.
Informational signs line that path, teaching you about how the lava flow was formed, what you’re seeing around you, and more.
It’s an extremely unique place to visit and you’ll be so glad that you did!
It’s best to leave your furry friends at home and wear closed-toed shoes for this one because you’re pretty much walking on broken glass.
7. Steelhead Falls
Distance: 1 mile
Elevation Gain: 250 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Deschutes Canyon Wilderness
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
The short 1-mile hike is located in a very desert-like area, somewhere that you wouldn’t expect a waterfall and river to be flowing through.
But, Steelhead Falls and the Deschutes River do just that, forming a beautiful scene to take in.
A beautiful backdrop of green trees and rocky cliffs is seen behind Steelhead Falls, making for a beautiful photo spot.
Because of its short distance, it’s great for many skill levels, including beginner hikers and children!
It’s also very close to the ever-so-popular Smith Rock State Park, which is the perfect place to add to your itinerary.
Moderate Hikes in Central Oregon
All of these moderate hikes are unique in their own ways and still aren’t too terribly difficult.
From mountains to hot springs to caves, there’s something for every type of adventurer right here, all with only a little extra effort.
8. Tumalo Mountain
Distance: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Deschutes National Forest
Distance from Bend: 30 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: May-October
AllTrails Map
Now don’t get me wrong here- I love challenging hikes with epic views. But, if I can find a shorter, easier hike with just as epic views, count me in!
And that’s exactly what this trail is, located just 30 minutes from Bend.
This beautiful and moderately challenging hike leads you to the top of Tumalo Mountain, sitting at 7,776 feet above sea level.
Starting at the trailhead, all the way to the top, you’ll be surrounded by incredible scenery, especially if you visit this beautiful area at sunrise!
Mount Bachelor is just across the street, while the Three Sisters and Broken Top can be seen in the distance.
These are some of the most beautiful mountains in central Oregon, and this trail is one of the easiest ways to gain incredible views of them!
In the winter, the trail is covered in snow and you’ll need to take the winter route, which sometimes is too snow-covered to attempt.
Nearby is the Cascade Lakes Highway, which is the perfect road to explore and drive after you’ve completed the hike.
9. Hidden Forest Cave
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 50 feet
Type: Loop
Location: Bend
Distance from Bend: 30 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
As I mentioned earlier, I love exploring caves, because they’re so unique, and they make the perfect rainy day outdoor hike.
(You can’t get rained on if you’re underground! 😅)
Hidden Forest Cave is a bit different than others that I’ve been to because it’s a bit harder to find and really is hidden.
From the parking lot, take the path and just continue walking straight, avoiding the many spur trails along the way.
Eventually, you’ll come across a giant hole in the ground, which is where you’ll find Hidden Forest Cave.
Walk around the entire rim until you find a short trail leading into the cave. From here, explore as you please and come out the other side!
While you’re visiting, also make a stop at Arnold Ice Cave, which is at the same trailhead, and Boyd Cave, just a short distance down the road.
10. Cleetwood Cove
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 650 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Crater Lake National Park
Distance from Bend: 2 hours 10 minutes
Pass Required: National Parks Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
Crater Lake National Park is definitely a bit further away from Bend than most of the others on this list, but this hike deserves a spot!
There aren’t many ways to get down to the lake, except via the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which allows you to be right on the shoreline.
This hike is definitely a challenging one, as you’ll have a very steep descent to the lake and ascent back up.
If you’re visiting in the summertime, wear a swimsuit on your hike and consider taking a dip into the frigid waters of the deepest lake in the US!
Some people even cliff jump off of one of the cliffs, which is about 35 feet above the lake.
After you’re done hiking, spend more time exploring Oregon’s only national park, because it is filled with beautiful viewpoints!
11. Umpqua Hot Springs
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Umpqua National Forest
Distance from Bend: 2 hours 10 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: May-October
AllTrails Map
If you’ve seen anything about hot springs in central Oregon, then you’ve probably seen many photos of Umpqua Hot Springs.
This popular spot is a great place to take a short hike and then relax under the canopies of trees and enjoy the sounds of nature.
After a short but steep 1/2 mile hike you’ll reach the small, blue pools known as Umpqua Hot Springs.
There are a few pools for visitors to soak in, so don’t forget your swimsuit!
At the top, you’ll find the hottest pool, and the lower you go, the cooler they get.
I love the surroundings of the pools, as you’ll see the North Umpqua River below and towering trees above. Plus, the color of the water is outstanding.
You’ll likely see plenty of other people here, and summer days get busy, so arrive early. Also, do be aware that clothing is optional.
12. Green Lakes
Distance: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Deschutes National Forest
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
Starting not too much further up the road from Tumalo Mountain and Mount Bachelor is the Green Lakes Trail.
The beginning of the hike winds through the forest and along Fall Creek, where you’ll soon see Fall Creek Falls.
You’ll see three Green Lakes, all of which are different sizes and offer different viewpoints of the area.
From the largest lake, you can see the reflection of South Sister, which is an incredible photography shot.
You’ll also get to see Broken Top and may even have glimpses of Mount Bachelor on your way back to the trailhead.
Lava fields also line the trail, which has formed from past eruptions of the nearby volcanoes.
13. Koosah & Sahalie Falls
Distance: 2.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Type: Loop
Location: Willamette National Forest
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 10 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state, then look no further than Koosah and Sahalie Falls.
These two incredible waterfalls have an impressive flow rate and allow you to see both of them in just under 3 miles.
Park at the Sahalie Falls viewpoint and walk just a short distance to see the waterfall, which you can hear roaring from your car.
Sahalie Falls drops 100 feet into the McKenzie River before continuing downstream.
Just about 3/4 mile down the trail, you’ll come to Koosah Falls, another extremely impressive waterfall, with a height of 70 feet.
The trail then loops around to the other side of the McKenzie River and past another viewpoint of Sahalie Falls before bringing you back to the parking lot.
14. Toketee Falls
Distance: 0.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Umpqua National Forest
Distance from Bend: 2 hours
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
As you can see from this list of best hikes in Bend, there are tons of amazing waterfalls all over the state.
Toketee Falls is one of them, with two tiers of teal water dropping a total of 113 feet into a giant pool.
Because of the amazing gorge that the water flows down through, it makes this waterfall one of the most beautiful ones around.
The hike itself is fairly easy, with some elevation gain and stairs, which leads you to the main viewpoint.
Some hikers take the very steep, rugged, and tough trail down to the water where you can get a closer look at the falls.
This path is hard to walk on due to large rocks and exposed tree roots, so use extreme caution if you choose to do it.
Toketee Falls is the perfect addition to a hike to Umpqua Hot Springs because it’s just down the road.
While you’re in Umpqua National Forest, you may even enjoy checking out parts of the Pacific Crest Trail that winds through the area.
15. Tamolitch Blue Pool
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Type: Out & Back
Location: Willamette National Forest
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 10 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
Tamolitch Blue Pool is definitely one of the most popular hikes in Central Oregon.
The moderately challenging but short hike leads you through the forest and past lava fields.
After about 1.25 miles of hiking, you’ll emerge out of the woods and will spot the pristine waters that makeup Tamolitch Blue Pool.
Sit down on one of the rocks and admire the amazing, still turquoise waters within the pool that is crystal clear.
Thousands of years ago, a lava flow buried part of the Mckenzie River, and the Blue Pool is where it begins again.
Now, the water seeps through the lava near Tamolitch Falls and creates the incredible teal water that you see.
This hike is also sometimes known as Tamolitch Falls, but the falls are typically only seen in the springtime.
During the other months of the year, the Blue Pool is fed water through underground springs from the lava flow.
16. Proxy Falls
Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Type: Loop
Location: Willamette National Forest
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 35 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
Proxy Falls is a beautiful waterfall about 1.5 hours from Bend, that truly showcases the beauty of Oregon’s forests.
You’ll wander through the Willamette National Forest and admire the ferns, mosses, and wildflowers in the summer.
Just as many of the other hikes in this area, lava fields surround the area, allowing you to see the aftermath of many volcanic eruptions.
The beautiful waterfall cascades 200 feet down a mossy wall and is the perfect short hike to enjoy central Oregon.
Hard Hikes in Central Oregon
If you’re looking for something a bit longer and more challenging, then you’re in the right place!
These 5 hard hikes are longer and have a substantial amount of elevation gain.
But every single one of them is worth the effort because they provide phenomenal views of the surrounding areas.
17. Misery Ridge
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Type: Loop
Location: Smith Rock State Park
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Pass Required: Oregon State Parks Pass
Best Time: Year-Round
AllTrails Map
Smith Rock State Park in Terrebonne is like something straight out of Utah or Mars, but certainly not something that you would expect from Oregon.
The huge rock formations jutting out of the ground are extremely impressive.
Misery Ridge is a very popular and challenging hike within the state park that showcases this beauty.
Once you reach the top, you’ll have incredible views of the rock formations, as well as over 5 mountains in the distance.
You’ll pass by the popular Money Face rock, which is a great place to take photos.
This hike loops up around the summit of Misery Ridge and then back around the Crooked River before returning to the trailhead.
19. Broken Top & No Name Lake
Distance: 15 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Location: Deschutes National Forest
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
If you’ve ever visited Bend, then you’ve probably seen the incredible Broken Top peak and the Three Sisters.
Here’s your chance to go for a hike and get up close and personal with the beautiful 9,000-foot volcano.
Once you reach the top, you’ll have phenomenal views of the cascade range surrounding the area.
No Name Lake sits at over 8,000 feet above sea level and is the most beautiful turquoise color when it’s melted out during the summer months.
Behind the lake is the amazing Broken Top Mountain, which is one of the most spectacular sights that you’ll ever see.
I know that this hike is pretty long for a day-hike, so if you have a high clearance 4×4 vehicle, you can start at this trailhead and cut it down to just 5.5 miles instead!
Either way, Broken Top and No Name Lake is one of the best hikes near Bend, Oregon.
19. Paulina Peak
Distance: 6.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Location: Newberry Volcanic National Monument
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Pass Required: National Parks Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
If you’re visiting central Oregon, you must make a stop at Newberry Volcanic National Monument and check out Paulina Peak.
This epic hike takes you up and above Paulina Lake and East Lake.
From the top, you can see the Three Sisters, Mount Jefferson, and Mount Hood on a clear day.
You’ll also get to admire the Big Obsidian Flow from the top before you head down to explore it from the ground.
This is the highest point within the monument, and rests on Oregon’s largest volcano, although it definitely isn’t the highest peak in the area.
In the summer, you can start a bit closer to the peak and cut the trail down to about 4.5 miles, but during the winter you’ll need to take the longer route.
If you prefer not to hike but still get those expansive views, you can drive to the summit of Paulina Peak, but only after the snow has melted, typically in July.
20. South Sister Summit
Distance: 11.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000 feet
Location: Three Sisters Wilderness
Distance from Bend: 40 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
When in Bend, it’s almost impossible to miss the absolutely mesmerizing views of the Three Sisters and Broken Top Mountain.
Which is why summiting South Sister is one of the best trails around for those experienced hikers.
The climb to the summit is long and filled with plenty of elevation gain, so don’t take this one lightly!
But once you’ve completed the tough climb, all of your efforts will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views.
North and Middle Sister, Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson. Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Bachelor are just a few of the mountains that you’ll see from the summit.
At the top, Tear Drop Lake sits. This small lake made of glacial runoff is the highest in the state.
And, to think that you’re sitting atop Oregon’s 3rd highest mountain, at 10,358 feet is pretty darn cool!
Currently, permits are required to use many trails in the Three Sisters Wilderness for both day and overnight use, which you can find here.
21. Three Sisters Loop
Distance: 47.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 7,000 feet
Location: Three Sisters Wilderness
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Pass Required: Northwest Forest
Best Time: June-October
AllTrails Map
The Three Sisters Loop is of course very long, so this is more like a backpacking trip rather than a day trip.
But if you’re a backpacker, this is a beautiful hike to experience some of the more beautiful areas of the Three Sisters Wilderness.
You’ll loop right around the base of North, South, and Middle Sister.
Aside from the three beautiful mountains, you’ll also get to see the rest of the surrounding mountains in all their glory.
If you’d prefer not to backpack, you can of course hike in as far as you’d like and then turn around.
The trail actually starts at the Green Lakes trailhead, so you’ll get to experience that as well!
Map of Hikes Near Bend, OR
When is the Best Time to Hike in Bend?
Choosing when to head out on these hiking trails near Bend can be tough because there’s really such a broad answer to this question!
Some of the hikes on this list, the ones at lower elevations, are typically open year-round and can be hiked whenever you feel up to it.
Others are only open or accessible in the summer months, making them completely un-doable (is that a word?) in the winter.
But for the best hiking conditions, I recommend waiting until summer to hit the trails.
This will ensure that the trails are clear of snow (mostly!), trailheads are open, and the weather is warm.
Fall is also a great time to hike because the leaves on trees begin to change colors, making for an absolutely marvelous show.
Tips for Hiking in Bend
Where to Stay in Bend, Oregon
When you’re all done with adventuring for the day and are ready to find somewhere to rest your head, book a stay at one of these great stays in Bend.
The Cascade Lodge is a beautiful stay, just 20 minutes from Mount Bachelor and so many of the other amazing adventures in bend.
The Campfire Hotel is decorated like the outdoors, has an outdoor pool, firepit, and is located right in the city center.
Or, if you prefer a bit more privacy, this gorgeous rental home is complete with a hot tub, game room, and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy.
What to Pack for Oregon Hikes
When you’re heading out for a hike in Oregon, there are a few things that you should always have with you for a safe trip.
Here are a few of the best things to bring with in your day pack!
Water: Carry about 1/2 liter of water for every hour of hiking that you’ll be doing. I love my water bladder because it helps me to easily store and drink plenty of H2O.
Snacks/Meals: It’s super important to have snacks and meals with you when you’re hiking, to keep yourself fueled and energized.
Extra Clothes: Pack extra clothes such as a jacket, hat, and gloves, because you never know when the weather will change, especially in the mountains.
Rain Jacket: It seems to be always raining in the Pacific Northwest, so do yourself a favor and carry along a good rain coat, like this one from Outdoor Research.
Headlamp: Caves are always pitch black and cell phone flashlights just don’t work. Carry along a headlamp, such as this one that I bring whenever I hike.
Sunscreen: Always protect your skin, even if it’s not sunny out! The sun can reflect off of snow or water and burn you badly. Apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses.
FAQs: Hikes in Central Oregon
What Pass do I Need to Park at the Trailheads?
The most common passes for trailheads in Oregon are the Northwest Forest, America the Beautiful, and Oregon State Parks pass.
In addition to these passes, some trailheads within the Central Cascades Wilderness require a permit. Some of these are issued at the trailhead, while others can be reserved online.
What Mountains Can You See From Bend, Oregon?
On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Three Sisters, Broken Top, Mount Bachelor, and Mount Jefferson pretty clearly.
Further in the distance, you may also catch a few glimpses of Oregon’s tallest mountain, Mount Hood.
From a higher elevation, Mount St. Helens can be seen, as well as many other peaks scattered around in the distance.
Do I Need a Permit to Hike to Tumalo Falls?
As one of the most popular trails near Bend, it’s understandable why you might be curious of this.
Currently, no permits are required to hike to Tumalo Falls.
Conclusion: Hikes Near Bend, Oregon
I think it’s safe to say that central Oregon has some of the most phenomenal views in the Pacific Northwest.
After completing a few of these epic hikes near Bend, Oregon, I think that you’ll be agreeing with me!
From caves to mountain tops to waterfalls and forests, there is something out there for every nature lover.
