Bend, Oregon

Starting from Scott Lake in the Willamette National Forest, take the Benson Lake Trail head that starts at the end of the road. This climbs gradually up to Benson Lake, a large, deep, cold lake. From there follow the trail up until you see a junction and a sign to Tenas Lakes. Follow this trail u...

NOTE: There is no development of viewing areas or trails, which makes for more of a wilderness experience than other waterfalls in the region. There may also be fallen trees blocking the trail, making this adventure more challenging.  Hiking to Linton Falls accounts for the two larger waterfalls...

This is one of the most amazing waterfalls in Oregon. The size is unbelievable – especially when you’re standing right underneath it, which I would recommend anyone to do (just be prepared for a misty shower) The hike is Easy! It’s only about 2 miles round trip. I remember going here when I was ...

If there were a river in heaven it would be the Metolius. This gem located near Sisters Oregon offers year-round fly-fishing (only) to anyone who wishes to do so. The area offers multiple types of accommodations from tent camping to staying in resort-like cabins on the river. The best time to go...

Cache Mountain offers amazing views of Mt Jefferson, 3 Fingered Jack, Mt Washington and the North and Middle Sisters. In the summer months, it is also known as one of the best single track mountain biking spots in Central Oregon. This is a great spot for a multi-day camping trip; set up camp and ...

Crane Prairie Reservoir is one of the top-producing rainbow trout fisheries in Central Oregon. The record rainbow to date weighed just over 19 pounds, so there is a good chance of catching some lunkers while visiting here.The lake is located on the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 30 mile...

This is a viewless hike until you reach Substitute Point. You are then rewarded with an amazing view. From the trailhead (#3511) you will travel 4.3 miles on an unmaintained trail into the Three Sisters Wilderness to the junction of Substitute Point. The trail has lots of fallen trees you must c...

Beginning at the Suttle Lake Lodge just off Highway 20, the Suttle Lake Loop follows a wide dirt path that circumnavigates the entire lake. Hug the lake whenever the trail opens up to camping areas or pavement - it's nearly impossible to become lost on this track. Pass campsites, kayakers, and r...

The West Metolius River trail is one of the finest river trails in Central Oregon due to its easy terrain, beautiful blue water, volcanic spring fed waterfalls, and forest views.  The hike starts just downstream from the Lower Canyon Creek Campground, where there is a bathroom and some picnic tab...

The crystal clear waters of Big Lake sit at an elevation of 4,600 ft. in the Willamette National Forest, on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range. The Big Lake Campground (N 44 22.439 W 121 53.599) lies on the western shore of Big Lake, at the top of the Santiam Pass near Hoodoo Ski Re...

This is an easy access, fairly short backpacking trip to a high mountain lake, which is good for kids. A super dusty, dry and smoke permeated trip to the base of Three Fingered Jack. Forest fires raging throughout the northwest poured smoke in to the entire western half of the state during this A...

Begin this 2-3 day backpacking trek at the Santiam Pass trailhead off Highway 20, 31 miles east of Detroit and 21 miles west of Sisters, Oregon. You can begin the loop either north on the PCT or East on trail #4014 towards Square Lake (as it is a loop) I would recommend heading east. It's a 2.2 ...

This hike is truly spectacular from the moment you step foot out of your car. Jack Lake lies at the beginning of the trail, and provides a beautiful sample of what's to come. Stop and take pictures if you feel so inclined, but don't stop here to camp, because it gets a LOT better!Follow the trail...

This is a popular, family friendly spot, complete with two pools, indoor lodging, RV and tent camping, and hiking trails. The pools are kept at 185-195 degrees, with the smaller of the two being reserved for overnighters only. Day visitors are charged an hourly fee.

Unlike many other springs you'll find, this pool has basically no barriers to entry – it is accessible via a short hike, has no fee, and is available year-round. While the temperature is less than 100 degrees, the scenic surroundings make up for the slightly less than hot water.

This loop might be on the shorter side, but the hike is more than worth it for the scenery. Start at Sahalie Falls, a 100-foot tall waterfall pouring into the river below and covering the moss-covered valley with cool mist. Continue down the trail, walking past the 70-foot Koosah Falls, and finis...