The Best Hiking in Bend, Oregon

Have you heard of Bend? I had not until we decided to explore Oregon in 2016. Located in center of the state in the high desert, it is a oasis for the outdoor enthusiast. You can access trails right from town, a 15 minute drive can have you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere and there is a river running through. While people come here for many reasons, I love it for the hiking. There are hundreds of trailheads to choose from and thousands of miles of trails to explore.

The Best Hiking in Bend, Oregon

Bend is truly one of my most favorite places to go to get lost in the mountains or in the forest. You can be out there for hours and then when you grow tired and need more than granola bars and electrolytes, you can easily find a great bite to eat and a pint in town.

Here are a few of our favorites that should not be missed.

Deschutes River Trail

If you want to stay close to town then this is one of the best trails you can be on. The first trail head to access this amazing trail is Lava Island Day Use. From here your hike can be as short or up to about 24 miles round trip.

You can also access a section of this trail at the Old Mill. Take a step and be in the forest, take another and you are back into town. This can be done in a 5 mile loop or 2.5 mile loop. There are a few vertical gains but nothing that you can’t handle on this leisurely hike along one of the most beautiful rivers in Oregon.

Todd Lake Loop

This is my favorite family friendly loop. It is around the entire lake with multiple places to bring a chair and cooler to relax. It is almost entirely flat and only 2 miles! During the week you might even have the entire place to yourself!

Moraine Lake Trail

If you are interested in something a little more challenging and to a beautiful alpine lake in the mountains, than this is it. At just under 5 miles and 1,480′ in elevation gain, it may not seem that bad but the trail head sits at about 6,000′. If you want to read more then CLICK HERE! The parking lot for this trail head is at Devil’s lake which is one of the most beautiful turquoise blue alpine lakes in Oregon. Bring a SUP and a picnic to relax at the lake afterwards!

Green Lakes Trail

This is one of the most popular trails in Central Oregon. You will need a permit to enjoy this trail. We have never had an issue getting one, so just make sure to follow their timing and you should be fine. A lot of people have complained about this permit system, but let me tell you how much more enjoyable it is to hike it. Speak with the volunteers who actually take care of the trails and they will tell you it has almost taken care of trash, feces (human and dog) and plants being destroyed. The journey isn’t just getting to the lake at the end, but getting to see the multiple waterfalls, river along lava rock and other stunning landscapes. There is about 1,200′ in elevation gain but spread over 10 miles it makes it a fun hike through the forest.

Broken Top to No Name Lake Trail

This is my absolute FAVORITE hike in Central Oregon. It has the best alpine lake, stunning views and thigh burning miles all in one stellar hike! At only 4.5 miles, it might not seem like much but the elevation gain is all together and will have your heart rate up at the 7,000′ altitude. But take your time, take in the views going both ways, you can see all the way to Green Lake on your way back! You do need a permit for this hike as well, so make sure to plan, but you will not be disappointed. It will be the highlight of your trip. Pro tip: you will need 4×4/high clearance to get to the trail head.

Hikes not to miss in the area

Central Oregon as a whole has so many amazing hikes. From Terrebonne, all the way south to La Pine. Here are a few extra hikes to add to the list if you are in the area.

Misery Ridge Loop

North of Bend and located in Smith Rock State Park, this is best done on a clear day. It isn’t called Misery Ridge for no reason. This trail is done in a loop and either way you take it you will have a decent ascent. If you make it to the top on a clear day you can watch the rock climbers and see for miles to the south and north. During the summer, you will need to make sure to bring enough water on this 6.2 mile and 1,700′ elevation gain trail.

Paulina Lake Loop

To the south from Bend, this trail is another great family friendly loop! it is 7 miles, but with only 300′ in elevation gain it is a walk in the park around a beautiful lake in the mountains. The highlight of this trail is about midway, there is a hot springs. Not always guaranteed hot, nor are there always pools, but if you make it when the hot water is flowing you can build up your own pool.