This central Oregon town along the Deschutes River draws skiers and mountain bikers to its Cascade peaks, while its downtown buzzes with local brewpubs and art galleries.
Bend, a city of 99,000 people in Central Oregon, sits along the Deschutes River at the edge of the Cascade Range. You'll find yourself skiing through powder snow at Mount Bachelor, cycling past sagebrush on high desert trails, and sampling IPAs at Deschutes Brewery. The city has unexpected surprises too - browse movies at the world's last Blockbuster video store or catch a wave at the urban whitewater park downtown.
Climate and Location in Central Oregon
At 3,623 feet elevation in Oregon's high desert, Bend's climate creates perfect conditions for year-round activities. The semi-arid weather brings only 11 inches of annual rainfall, with about 24 inches of snow in winter. You'll experience more than 300 days of sunshine annually, with summer temperatures reaching 80°F (27°C) and winter dropping to around 20°F (-6°C).
Mountain Activities at Mount Bachelor
Mount Bachelor rises 9,065 feet above sea level, spreading across 4,300 acres of skiable terrain with 101 runs. You can ski and snowboard from November through May, then switch to mountain biking and hiking in summer. The Nordic center has 56 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails throughout winter, ranging from beginner loops to challenging backcountry routes.
Deschutes River Recreation
The Deschutes River runs through downtown Bend with multiple access points for water activities. At the Bend Whitewater Park, you'll find three channels: one for kayaking and surfing with artificial waves, another for casual tubing, and a third dedicated to wildlife. Paddle board the calm stretch from Riverbend Park to Drake Park, or cast a line for trout at dozens of fishing spots along the riverbank.
Craft Beer Scene
Deschutes Brewery, the eighth-largest craft brewery in the United States, started Bend's beer revolution. Follow the Ale Trail to discover more than 12 local breweries, each making their own signature beers - from Crux Fermentation Project's experimental brews to Boneyard Beer's hop-forward ales. Time your visit for annual events like Bend Oktoberfest or Bend Brewfest to sample both local and regional craft beers.
Getting Around Bend
Fly into Roberts Field Airport (RDM) in Redmond, 18 miles north of Bend, with connections to major West Coast cities. Drive the Bend Parkway (US-97) through the city, or take US-20 for east-west travel. While local buses run regular routes through Bend, a car helps you reach remote trailheads and recreation areas. Within the city, bike lanes and dedicated paths connect many breweries and downtown attractions.
