The Top Outdoorsy Things to do in Bend, Oregon

If you're anything like us, you enjoy getting outside when traveling. We try to kick off each morning with some sort of outdoor activity before we head out to brewery hop for the day.

On our recent trip to Bend, OR, we made it a point to explore the beautiful scenery — and we wanted to share our list of the top things to do outside in Bend.

Since we only had a long weekend in Bend, we supplemented this list with a few ideas from our pals at Visit Bend. 

Hiking in Bend

There is no lack of options when it comes to hiking in Bend, OR. With the diverse landscapes of Oregon, you can enjoy hiking to waterfalls, mountain views, and even volcanic landscapes.

Here are a few hikes we recommend checking out:

PILOT BUTTE STATE PARK & VIEWPOINT

This steep 2-mile hike leads you to the top of Pilot Butte AKA Bend's "north star" — the spot that you can find from almost any point in town to help orient yourselves. This out-and-back trail leads you to some incredible views of Bend and Redmond from the top of the butte.

View the trail on AllTrails here.

TUMALO FALLS

Okay, technically you can just drive to the lookout point to check out the waterfall, BUT we highly recommend hiking the Tumalo Creek Trail to end up at the bottom of the falls. We clocked in almost 8 miles on this out-and-back trail that offers stunning mountain views along the way.

Make sure you wear good hiking shoes for this one — there was still snow on the trail in April!

View the trail on AllTrails here.

These were the top hikes we did while in Bend, but there are so many more available — learn about even more hikes in Bend, OR from Visit Bend here.

Rock Climbing in Bend

Bend is extremely well-known for its climbing scene. Smith Rock State Park, in particular, is home to an extensive variety of rock climbing routes (literally thousands of routes) to satisfy novice to advanced climbers.

We suggest combining a hike with your climbing day — and there are plenty of trails to choose from at Smith Rock State Park.

Never climbed before? (Or not experienced enough to climb on your own?) There are plenty of experienced guides you can hire to take you out on a day trip. Check out Chockstone Climbing Guides or Smith Rock Climbing Guides to schedule a fun (and safe!) climbing day!

You can learn more about rock climbing in Bend from Visit Bend here.

Biking & Cycling in Bend

Have a passion for cycling? Bend offers a variety of challenging mountain biking trails, scenic road cycling, and even an Urban Trail System. We highly recommend hopping on a bike and pedaling around town!

If you're visiting and need to rent a bike, there are plenty of options available.

Learn more about all of the biking & cycling adventures to be had from Visit Bend here.

Paddling in Bend

Looking to get out on the water? Bend offers kayaking and paddle boarding on the Deschute's River! While we weren't able to get on the water while in town (it was a bit too chilly!), Visit Bend says, "This crystal-clear river winds its way through the heart of the city, so you can savor your Bend sightseeing with a side of aquatic adventure."

This has to be the perfect Summer activity in Bend!

Disc Golfing in Bend

Disc golf is a popular sport in Bend, with a few public courses available within the high desert oasis, as well as in the nearby towns of Redmond and Prineville.

There is even a disc golf-themed brewery, Bevel Craft Brewing, which has a couple of baskets to practice your putting game after a beer or two. (Fun fact: the owners of Bevel, Nate and Valarie (Jenkins) Doss, are some of the most recognizable professional disc golfers in the world!)

There are so many things to do outside in bend, and the above list is just scraping the surface. Visit Bend has an extensive list of activities to help you pick what you'd like to do while exploring this scenic town.

Make sure to tag us in all of your outdoor adventures using #WorkForYourBeer and #RoamBetterBend.