oregon hiking - EpicBend https://epicbend.com Live Your Best Life in Bend Oregon and Frederick Maryland! Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:57:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://epicbend.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/241208-EpicTotal-Logo-1-150x150.png oregon hiking - EpicBend https://epicbend.com 32 32 The BEST Hikes Near Bend Oregon, Can’t Miss Stunners! https://epicbend.com/hikes-near-bend-oregon/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hikes-near-bend-oregon https://epicbend.com/hikes-near-bend-oregon/#respond Sun, 04 Jan 2026 17:07:30 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=11061 Read About the BEST Hikes Near Bend Oregon. We rank our favorite hikes around Bend so you can prepare you for your outing!

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It’s hard to find a place with a greater diversity of amazing hikes than Bend.  Of all the fantastic outdoor things to do around Bend, simply heading out on a hike is probably our favorite. 

In this article, Nicole and I list what we consider the Best Hikes near Bend, Oregon, and give you all the info you need to enjoy them as we have.

Keep in mind, building a list like this is impossible.  Bend has many of the best hikes in Oregon.  Ranking them is subjective and personal.

Rankings: Best Hikes Near Bend Oregon

Part of the reason there are so many amazing Bend hikes is that there are multiple areas around Bend with beautiful natural scenery.  

The Cascade Lakes / Three Sisters Wilderness is a wonderland with enough beautiful hikes to last a lifetime. But the Misery Ridge hike at Smith Rock is also magical and totally different, as are the hikes in the Oregon Badlands.

A smiling man and woman wearing sunglasses pose on a sunny, snow-covered mountain during one of their favorite Bend hikes. Behind them are pine trees, a blue lake, and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Between the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the Buttes, Bend’s ancient volcanic history also offers fascinating hiking landscapes. 

Plus, despite being in a high desert environment, there are plenty of hikes near Bend that involve water and getting wet.

Two Weathered Wooden Trail Signs Stand in a Sun dappled Forest Guiding Hikers on Green Lakes Tr 17 and Moraine Lake Tr 17 Surrounded by Pines This Spot Marks One of the Classic Bend Hikes for Those Exploring Trails Near Bend Oregon

Map of Hikes Near Bend Oregon

Did we miss a place? Did we rank something too high or low?  Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

1. Green Lakes / Soda Creek Loop Hike

a Clear Blue Alpine Lake is Surrounded by Green Pine Trees Beyond the Lake a Rugged Mountain with Patches of Snow Rises Against a Bright Blue Skyclassic Scenery Found on the Best Bend Hikes for Those Seeking Peaceful Wilderness

Rating:  Difficult

Why Do It: This is our favorite loop hike in our favorite area around Bend, the Cascade Lakes region.  The Green Lakes are stunning and symbolic of the gorgeous lakes in the high country above Bend.

While there are several routes to reach Green Lakes, we suggest the Green Lakes / Soda Creek Loop Trail.  This is a rather long hike, but a stunner that makes a loop starting and ending from the Green Lakes trailhead.

This hike also offers plenty of views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mount Bachelor. An optional 2.1-mile spur to Moraine Lake is highly recommended.

This is a popular trail starting from a busy parking lot, so plan accordingly.  You’ll need a Day Pass or Northwest Forest Pass to park and a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit to hike between June 15 and October 15.

2. Tam McArthur Rim Trail

a Woman Stands on a Rocky Mountain Trail Near Steelhead Falls Looking at Distant Snow capped Peaks and Green Forests Below She Wears a Black Tank Top Shorts Sneakers and Carries a Pink Rolled up Mat Patches of Snow Dot the Ground Beneath a Clear Blue Sky

Rating:  Difficult

Why Do It:  You could easily rate this the most epic hike near Bend, or in all of Oregon.  No other hike gives you the experience of being in the Three Sisters Wilderness and views of so many stunning peaks as the Tam McArthur Rim hike.

The hike starts from Three Creeks Lake (beautiful itself), at high elevation, and only goes higher.  This means snow along the trail, even into late summer.

But the views of Broken Top, the Three Sisters, and Mt. Bachelor are stunning.  On a clear day, Nicole and I have easily seen Mt. Washington, Three-Fingered Jack, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Rainier.  Fabulous!

If you can get a wilderness pass late in summer for this hike, do it!

3. Smith Rock - Misery Ridge Loop Trail

Misery Ridge Loop Trail at Smith Rock State Park

Rating:  Difficult

Why Do It: The Bend area has so many phenomenal hikes in beautiful places. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning area than Smith Rock State Park. The Misery Ridge Loop Hike at Smith Rock is the signature hike in the area, and if you are a visitor to the Bend area, it’s a must-do.

It’s a challenging hike, with almost 1,000 feet in elevation gain up and over the Misery Ridge.  But the total distance is not too bad (about 4 miles), and the rewarding viewpoints make it all worthwhile.

The Smith Rock area has a distinctive terrain shaped by the Crooked River.  The top is a great place to eat lunch, and on the back side, you’ll see the interesting Monkey Face rock and likely lots of rock climbers.

This hike starts and ends at Smith Rock State Park’s main parking lot and trailhead. You need an Oregon State Park Pass, which you can buy in advance or onsite.

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4. Broken Top and No Name Lake

Two People Sit on a Rocky Shore Beside a Turquoise Alpine Lake Surrounded by Rugged Snow patched Mountainsone of the Breathtaking Sights to Discover on Bend Hikes Patches of Snow Linger by the Waters Edge Under the Clear Blue Sky

Rating:  Difficult

Why Do It:

Another hike in the Three Sister Wilderness.  Broken Top is a peak that lies just underneath the Three Sisters, which contain the glacier-fed green No Name Lake at the summit.  A stunning hike with amazing views.

The hike is challenging. You’ll do about 6 miles out and back and climb 1,400 feet up Broken Top Mountain.

The most challenging part of the hike might be getting to the trailhead. The Broken Top Crater Trailhead sits on a poorly maintained forest road that is often closed. If it’s open, you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle to drive there.

You can alternatively do this hike from the Todd Lake Trailhead, but this almost doubles the hike’s distance.

You’ll also need a Cascades Wilderness Permit for this hike from June 15 to October 15.

5. Ray Atkeson Trail at Sparks Lake

Ray-Atkinson-Loop-Hike-Sign

Rating:  Easy

Why Do It: For an easier hike that also provides a great introduction to the Cascade Lakes area near Bend, check out the Ray Atkeson Loop Trail at Sparks Lake. This relatively easy and short trail packs in a lot of scenery.

Sparks Lake is one of the prominent Cascade Lakes, and on this trail, you pass multiple vistas over the lake with South Sister and Broken Top in the distance. The trail itself travels through lodgepole pine, and you’ll notice interesting lava-formed rocks.

The Ray Atkeson Trail actually has multiple loops. You can decide which ones to do or do both of them. This trail starts from the Sparks Lake Day Use area, which can get crowded during busy times, and you’ll need a day-use parking pass.

6. Deschutes River Trail

a Metal Walkway with a Railing Winds Through a Rocky Forested Area Under a Clear Blue Sky Tall Pine Trees and Black Rocks Line the Pathone of Many Scenic Bend Hikes That Showcase Oregons Peaceful Natural Beauty

Rating:  Easy

Why Do It: The Deschutes River Trail is another trail that almost anyone can hike. It is well-maintained and follows the Deschutes River throughout the entire Bend area.

This trail offers an endless number of routes and hikes, as it’s accessible from 8-10 spots within the Bend area. A popular place to start is the Meadows Day Use Area in south Bend. From here, you can hike further south toward Dillon Falls and Benham Falls or north toward town.

Old Mill, Tumalo State Park, and Dillon Falls are other popular places to access the trail and begin a hike.

Most of the trail is relatively flat, though you’ll climb to an occasional overlook.

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7. South Sister Summit

Two Hikers Stand on a Rocky Reddish Mountain Slope Taking in Sweeping Views of Blue Alpine Lakes and Distant Forests a Snow capped Peak Towers Aheadshowcasing the Breathtaking Scenery Found on Bend Hikes

Rating:  Very Difficult

Why Do It:  Only for advanced hikers!  South Sister is the third-highest peak in Oregon, and it can be hiked without requiring technical climbing skills.  However, the hike is no joke – a 12+ mile adventure with 5,000 feet of elevation gain.  There is scrambling, switchbacks, and sandy areas…enough to challenge even strong hikers.

If you are up for it, can plan accordingly, and are acclimated, you’ll be rewarded with an epic hike. The views are tremendous, and from the summit, it feels like you can see the entire Cascade range, including Mount Jefferson, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams.  (Many of the same peaks you see when flying into Redmond/Bend.)

You’ll want to start early, bring plenty of water, and bring high-energy snacks for this trek. Check the weather in advance and watch it carefully; this is one hike you don’t want to be on during a storm.

8. Trail of the Molten Lava (Newberry)

a Woman in Athletic Wear Stands on a Paved Path Surrounded by Black Volcanic Rocks and Sparse Green Shrubs Under a Blue Sky This Sunny Scene Showcases the Beauty of Bend Hikes with Rocky Hills and Scattered Pine Trees in the Background

Rating:  Easy

Why Do It:  The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is one of the a must-do active ities in Bend.  It’s a place of natural wonder shaped by volcanic eruption 75,000 years ago.

There are a series of trails in the area, but an easy trail that gives you a great introduction to the area is the paved Trail of the Molten Lava.  The short ~1 mile trail starts and ends from the Lava Lands Visitor Center and is suitable for anyone (approximately 1/3 of the trail is universal accessible).

You’ll see fascinating landscapes with interpretive signs that tell the ancient history of how these lands were created. Along the way, there’s a great viewpoint of the Cascade Range in the distance.

9. Matthieu Lakes Loop Trail (via PCT)

a Man Wearing White Sunglasses Takes a Selfie Near a Clear Lake Surrounded by Evergreen Trees Capturing the Essence of Bend Hikes His Reflection Along with the Scenic Landscape is Visible in His Sunglasses Highlighting This Peaceful Outdoor Setting

Rating:  Moderate

Why Do It:  This is another loop hike in the Three Sisters Wilderness, but in a very different area with a different vibe.  Departing from Lava Lake Camp Trailhead, about 1 hour northwest of Bend, this hike utilizes the Millican Crater Trail, Lava Camp Lake Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) to create a stunning loop trail.

You’ll encounter ancient lava flows, both the South and North Matthieu Lakes, and gorgeous vistas that give you a feel for what hiking the PCT is all about. On clear days, Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Washington, and Three-Fingered Jack can all be seen.

Insect repellant is recommended, and a wilderness pass is required if you do this hike between June 15 and October 15.

Both lakes have designated campsites if you want to turn this hike into a backpacking trip.

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10. Pilot Butte

a Hazy Orange Sunset Illuminates a Town Nestled Among Hills with Silhouetted Trees in the Foreground Distant Mountains Near Bend Hikes Rise Against the Sky While a Green Lens Flare Enhances the Serene Scene at Dusk

Rating:  Moderate

Why Do It: One of Bend’s more interesting topographies is
Pilot Butte, a volcanic cinder cone formed 200,000 years ago that now sits right in the middle of downtown. It serves as a landmark for residents and visitors, orienting them wherever they are in the city.

Hiking to the top of Pilot Butte is well worth it. The view of the Cascade Range from there is one of the best in the city, especially at sunset.   The hike up is moderately steep but generally not strenuous.

Be warned: You can also drive to the top of Pilot Butte (and many do every day).  However, this still makes it a worthwhile hike; parking is easy and free, and you can beat the location (right in downtown Bend!).

11. Todd Lake Loop

Two People in Shorts Enjoy One of the Scenic Bend Hikes Standing Near a Grassy Area with a Lake and Snow capped Mountain in the Background Tall Trees Line the Lake Under a Cloudy Sky Capturing the Beauty of Hikes Near Bend Oregon

Rating:  Moderate

Why Do It: If you are looking for an easy hike the whole family can do in the Cascades Lake area, then the

Todd Lake Loop is perfect.  Todd Lake is in the same area as Sparks Lake and Devils Lake, a beautiful spot right underneath the Sisters Mountains with gorgeous views of Mount Bachelor.

This was the first hike I took my kids on in Bend. It’s a gentle, short loop around the lake with postcard photos in every direction. While you need a Day Pass or Northwest Forest Pass to park, if you are here in summer, you don’t need a Wilderness Permit as you do in most of the Three Sisters Wilderness.

The Todd Lake area can get crowded quickly, and parking can be tight, so try to get there early.

12. Tumalo Mountain

a Brown Wooden Sign in a Forest Marks the Tumalo Mountain Trail No 38 One of the Scenic Bend Hikes the Summit is 17 Miles Away Below a Red and white Sign Lists Restrictions Tall Pine Trees and a Dirt Path Surround the Sign

Rating:  Difficult

Why Do It: If you don’t mind an intense climb,
Tumalo Mountain is a classic Bend hike with dramatic, rewarding views.  Tumalo sits basically across from Mount Batchelor, and the summit views of Batchelor, Three Sisters, and Broken Top are iconic.

The two-mile climb to the top feels straight up; you’ll climb 1,400 feet up this volcanic peak.  Tumalo is a trendy winter snowshoe venue, and while I’ve never done it, locals rave about the experience of snowshoeing up Tumalo on a crisp winter day.

Parking for the trailhead is located at the Dutchman Sno-Park, which requires a permit from November to April.

13. Steelhead Falls

a Woman and Man in Hiking Clothes Stand Smiling by a Rocky Riverbank on One of the Scenic Bend Hikes with a Small Waterfall and Lush Greenery Behind Them Sunlight Sparkles on the Water As Pine Trees and Rugged Hills Frame This Hike Near Bend Oregon

Rating:  Easy

Why Do It: More of an excursion than hike, Steelhead Falls is an off-the-beaten path spot on the Deschutes River that is all about getting wet.

The hike is only about 0.5 miles long and starts just west of Terrebonne, north of Bend. It takes you to a beautiful set of falls on the Deschutes and one of the best swimming holes in Central Oregon.

Do this on a warm day, bring a picnic and your swimwear.  You can cliff jump into the water, swim up to the falls, and explore the canyon.  There’s an option to continue down the trail down the river if you want to enjoy more

The hike, water, and scenery make Steelhead Falls is one of the best excursions around Bend.

Things to Consider When Hiking Around Bend

As you consider where to hikes around Bend, here’s some important general information about these hikes that will help you prepare.

Weather.  Bend enjoys a high desert climate, which means plenty of clear days and bountiful sunshine.  But Bend does get storms in both summer and winter, and they can be severe.  Check the weather forecasts in advance, especially if you are heading on an extended hike deep into the backcountry.

Parking.  Depending on the hike you choose, the parking situation at the trailhead can be busy.  In the Cascade Lakes area, where many of the Bend hikes below begin, parking lots at trailheads fill up very fast on weekends.  Get there early and have a backup plan if your planned parking lot is full.  Also, read below for more on parking permits.

Misery Ridge Loop Trail Summit

Seasons and Snow.  The conditions of the hikes in this list can vary tremendously throughout the year.  Some higher-elevation areas, like the Cascade Lakes/Three Sisters Wilderness, are virtually under snow from fall until late spring.

Summer time is amazing and usually great for all the hikes below.  For other times of the year, the best advice is to check the status of roads, parking lots, and trails online before heading out.

a Clear Blue Lake in the Foreground Reflects a Tree covered Slope Behind It a Rugged Mountain with Snow Patches Rises Under a Bright Blue Skyone of the Stunning Views You Can Find on Bend Hikes

Passes and Permits Needed for Hiking Around Bend

Understanding the appropriate pass and permit needed for parking and simply accessing a hiking area is important and can be confusing, especially for visitors. 

Here is a summary of the permits that might be needed, and for we indicate what you need for each hike above. 

Day Use Pass. Many National Forest Recreation areas (such as Sparks Lake or Tumalo Falls) require a Day Use Pass. This pass costs $5 and can be purchased onsite or online in advance.
 
Northwest Forest Pass. This is an annual pass good at all National Forest Recreation sites in Washington and Oregon. It is basically a way to buy Day Use Passes for a year in advance (and avoid the hassle each visit). If you are a local or plan to visit more than a few sites, it’s well worth buying.  Purchase Online.
an Orange Annual Northwest Forest Pass from the Usda Perfect for Bend Hikes or Hikes Near Bend Oregon with Months Listed Vertically on the Right Display Instructions a Space for Signature and Barcodes Serial Number and Logos at the Bottom Valid for One Year
Central Cascades Wilderness Permit – Day Use.  Many of the best hikes around Bend are in the Central Cascades Wilderness / Three Sisters Wilderness area.  This includes many of the Bend hikes below.  You need a permit in advance if you plan to hike in this area between June 15 and October 15.  Note:  these sell out fast, especially in the best areas.
A pint glass of hazy, golden beer from one of the best breweries Bend has to offer sits on a wooden railing outdoors, with greenery, parked cars, and snow-capped mountains beneath a sunny blue sky in the background.

Post Hiking Rewards - Bend Breweries!

Another great thing about hiking in Bend?  The post-hike beer at a Bend brewery!  Besides hiking, Bend is known for beer, so plan which brewery fits your day hike itinerary in advance.

So, you’re ready to go for a hike in Bend!  Below is our updated list of favorite hikes in the Bend area.

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A brown wooden sign reads “Rimrock Trailhead, Sirius Trail No. 65.1, Jct. Dog Leg Trail 1/4.” Surrounded by pine trees and a trail map, this scenic spot is perfect for those seeking classic Bend hikes or memorable hikes near Bend Oregon.

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A woman and man stand side by side on a dirt path near a lush river and waterfall, surrounded by green trees and rocky hills. Both wear sunglasses and casual hiking clothes, soaking up the sun on one of many scenic Bend hikes.

Steelhead Falls: An Amazing Hike and Swim Excursion Near Bend

Steelhead Falls is yet another amazing excursion close to Bend for hiking, swimming, cliff diving, and more.

A weathered wooden trail sign stands in sandy terrain, surrounded by rocks. It points left to Flatiron Rock Trail and right to Ancient Juniper Trail. Juniper trees and dry grass are visible under a partly cloudy sky in the background.

Ancient Juniper + Flatiron Rock Loop: Intro Hike to the Oregon Badlands

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A clear, blue alpine lake is surrounded by green pine trees. Beyond the lake, a rugged mountain with patches of snow rises against a bright blue sky—classic scenery found on the best Bend hikes for those seeking peaceful wilderness.

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Read Why the Green Lakes Hike Near Bend Oregon is the Can't Miss Hike in the Area. A Dreamy Mountain and …

A calm lake in the foreground reflects a clear blue sky, with patches of green grass and scattered pine trees on the shore. In the background, two snow-patched mountains rise above dense forest—perfect for hikes near Bend Oregon in a serene, natural landscape.

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A person climbs stone steps along a dry hillside under a clear blue sky—a classic scene from hikes near Bend Oregon. Below, a winding river flows past green grass, while tall, jagged rock formations and walking paths define the stunning landscape.

The Stunning Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park

The Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park is one of the best day hikes around Bend Oregon.

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