Central Oregon is a place that is well known for its diversity and beauty. It has something to offer virtually everyone with its outdoor splendor. It does not matter if you are a trail hardened hiker or a family out on day trip because you will find your passion in either the snow capped mountain peaks that line the area or the Juniper and Sage laden high desert of the valley floor. No matter what landscape you prefer it will be easily found in this stunning area of the United States.
There are three simple hiking trails that can capture the flavor of the area and offer ease for young and old alike. No trip to the area is complete if you do not set aside a day for one of these outings with your family. You will not be disappointed.
I have spent close to forty years calling Central Oregon home. This has given me the unique opportunity to take my weekend exploring and enjoying my own backyard. During that time period I have taken advantage of the many easy day trips for an outing close to home where I could truly partake in nature.
1) Benham Falls
One of my favorite daytime trips is quite close to the thriving town of Bend. Head approximately 14.5 miles south from Bend on Highway 97. You will soon see Lava Butte rising on your right. At the base of this small volcanic butte sits Lava Lands Visitors Center. Take a right and head onto forest road 9702. This road will wind its way down towards the Deschutes River for 4 miles. You will end at a large parking lot which is your gateway to Benham Falls trail head. Come prepared with five dollars to pay for the use of parking per vehicle.
Once arriving at the parking lot you will hear the rushing of the Deschutes river and spy the water. All along this area is various picnic sites that contain roughhewn tables. The area is a popular fishing place for the locals and also boasts a boat launch. This is your gateway to the two trail heads that this location has to offer.
The first trail is a short walk filled with wonderful plaques that describe the area and the history that transpired in and around Benham Falls. Its a window into the logging industry of Central Oregon and the role the river and railroad played in the building of Bend in the early days. I highly recommend taking your time to read the plaques and familiarize yourself with the history because its a part of the flavor of the area.
The second trail will follow the old Shevlin Hixon Railroad grade and will take you across a footbridge that was originally built in the 1920’s and was a part of the railroad mainline into Bend. The trail is quite easy to follow and wide to permit easy access. You will wind along the Deschutes River until you eventually arrive at what is known as Benham Falls which is an area of extreme breathtaking white water.
2) Todd Lake
Approximately 25 miles from Bend down the Cascade Lakes Highway you will come to Forest Road 46. Take a right and a short ways down you will find an area to park. This is the start of your short walk to Todd Lake. This gem of a mountain lake is tucked back in lush forests. Due to the fact that no motors are allowed on the lake it retains that gorgeous blue color that no words can describe. Its a popular place for fishing in the summer time due to the abundance of Brook Trout. In the winter many will brave the harsh weather to snowshoe the trails around the lake.
Once you leave your car you will have no problem hiking the various trails around the lake. This is an area for a leisurely stroll or perhaps to bring a small blow up boat on your hiking trip so you can also take a few moments to float the lake if the mood strikes you . I’d suggest packing a picnic lunch to sit on the banks of the Sapphire water and truly enjoy nature. The lake tends to not be too crowded so its easy to loose yourself in the feeling of isolation that the area can bring you.
You will need a wilderness pass to park.
3) Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock sits north of Redmond Oregon outside the small town of Terrebonne. From Highway 97 you can easily follow the signs to the park. It is well marked and extremely easy to locate. Just follow the wonderful signs. Even the drive to the state park is unique and quite nice.
This is one of my favorite places in the entire United States. The sheer beauty of the canyon and red rock are breathtaking. There is nothing to describe a sunset in Smith Rock State Park. The rocks will turn rosy in color and the sky the deepest of blue. Its truly awe inspiring.
The road leading to the area is paved all the way. It will cost you $3 to park and spend the day. But it is well worth every penny. This area attracts climbers from around the world. It is very popular. You will spy many people trying their hands at the sheer rock face areas. With over a thousand climbs available it appeals to many in the sport.
The trails lead down to the river and along the canyon walls. The trail down is quite steep and will require a bit of effort for the return trip up. But there is an extreme trail and also a very easy pathway that winds its way upward when returning to your car. Once at the valley floor you will cross a foot bridge. Now is a wonderful time to pause and just look around. Take in the rugged beauty of the canyon because it is truly beyond words to describe it. If you are lucky you will see one of the many Golden Eagles that make their home in the area. Their nests are suspended off the sheer rock walls. In the evening and early morning you will also normally see Mule Deer coming down to drink from the river which boasts not only fish but otters and beaver.
Its a wonderful place to plan a full day of hiking or just an evening stroll to watch the sun set. If you do plan a day outing then be sure to pack a lunch and plenty of water since the summer days tend to get quite hot.
This is just a sampling of the many trails that Central Oregon has to offer. There is truly something for everyone in the area.
