The Perfect Winter Weekend in Bend Oregon
There’s no shortage of outdoor adventures around Bend, Oregon, no matter the season. But winter? That’s when this place really shines. Here is how to spend the perfect winter weekend in Bend Oregon!
We’ve been making an annual winter pilgrimage to Bend for the past five years, and every time, we find new ways to make the most of this snowy wonderland. While our main goal is skiing at Mount Bachelor, we always squeeze in a few extra adventures along the way.
So, if you’re planning a winter weekend getaway in Bend, here’s a list of epic outdoor activities, stunning views, and cozy spots to unwind.
What to Wear on Winter Adventures:
The area around Bend can get cold in the winter. Sometimes pretty frigid, other times, the sun is just enough to keep you feeling warm. For most of these outdoor activities, dressing right and being prepared is essential. Here are my FAVORITES to keep me going on my winter adventures!
Worlds WARMEST Gloves: Outdoor Reasearch Coldfront Down Mittens
Warm Wool Socks - Darn Tough Hiking Socks
Rain Jacket: Black Diamond Fineline Stretch Shell
Jacket Midweight puffer jacket – REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket
Heavyweight puffer jacket – REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie
Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400
Microspikes / hiking crampons: Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
Gators to Hike in Snow: Outdoor Research Crocodile Gators
🥾 Hike Up Lava Butte for Sunset
Lava Butte Lookout is one of the best spots for a winter sunset near Bend. We have hiked up a few times and it always seems to deliver. The short but steep trail leads to a historic fire lookout, where you’ll get panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and the surrounding lava beds bathed in golden light.
It’s a relatively easy walk along a road that wraps around Lava Butte. And from the top you can also check out the crater – how cool is that!?
🎒 Explore the Lava Lands at Newberry Volcanic Monument
If you love geology and adventure, don’t skip this. The otherworldly landscapes of Newberry Volcanic Monument are especially stunning when dusted with snow. (We went in early April, so it was a bit warmer than in winter – next year seeing it under snow is a must!) I have driven by in winter and the contrast between the dark rock and the snow looks wild.
There are several paved trails that you can walk through the jagged volcanic rock formations—a remnant of Oregon’s explosive past. It’s a relatively easy outing, but definitely a must-do!
💦 Snowshoe to Tumalo Falls
This mellow 6-mile round-trip trek takes you to one of Oregon’s most stunning waterfalls—a nearly 100-foot cascade surrounded by snow. In the winter, the road is closed, so you’ll simply snowshoe or ski along the road next to the river, surrounded by beautiful pine trees. It’s an easier adventure that’s perfect for a winter day.
Start early or head out just before sunset for a more serene experience. I set off an hour before sunset and only saw three other people. On weekends, it can get crowded, so try visiting either during the week or at that magical time just before sunset. This is definitely a must-do when you’re in Bend!
Tumalo Falls Distance: 6.4 miles | Elevation Gain: 557 feet | Link: AllTrails Link
⛰️ Hike Up Tumalo Mountain for Epic Views
For one of the best winter hikes in Central Oregon, head up Tumalo Mountain. It’s a short but steep 3-mile round trip, leading to stunning 360° views of Mount Bachelor, the Three Sisters, and Broken Top. If you can swing it, go for sunrise. It requires 45 minutes or so in the dark but its well worth it!
Pro tip: This is a solid workout, so bring layers—you’ll heat up fast on the climb!
Tumalo Mountain Distance: 2.6 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,423 feet | Link: AllTrails Link
🐇 Check Out the High Desert Museum
Need a break from the cold? The High Desert Museum is a great indoor spot where you can learn about the region’s wildlife, history, and Indigenous cultures. Plus, there are live animal exhibits, including raptors and river otters!
It’s great for families, (my kids LOVED it!) but honestly, it’s a fun stop for anyone.
⛰️ Go Hiking at Smith Rock
Smith Rock is famous for rock climbing, but it’s also an epic winter hiking destination. The park offers jaw-dropping views of the Crooked River and towering rock formations. And in winter? Fewer crowds and crisp, clear air make it even better.
Arguably the best trail is the Misery Ridge and Summit trail. Don’t let the name deter you, it has incredible views and really gives you the best overview of the park.
Misery Ridge Distance: 6.2 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,761 feet | Link: AllTrails Link
⛷️ Ski at Mount Bachelor
Mount Bachelor, just 22 miles from Sunriver, is your gateway to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Oregon. With over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain and incredible views of the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find trails for every skill level. You cant go on a winter weekend to Bend Oregon and not experience Mount Bachelor. (if you dont alpine ski, they also have nordic ski options!)
We have been skiing here for the past 5 years and its become our FAVORITE mountain. Its friendly, more affordable than most and the views as mentioned are epic from almost anywhere on the mountain. My kids have become so comfortable with it that at 9+10 they can ski by themselves.
And if you purchase your ski tickets ahead of time, they have great 2 for 1 Kids ski FREE deals. Check out the latest conditions, trail map and deals here.
Pro-tip – Kids LOVE dilly dally alley so check it out. And Spring skiing there can be the absolute best.
Where to Stay: Sunriver for the Win
While Bend has tons of great accommodation options, we always rent a house in Sunriver, just 20 minutes south of town. Its our favorite stay for a winter weekend in Bend. Here’s why:
✔️ Affordable for longer stays (perfect if you’re making it a full week)
✔️ Bigger rental options if traveling with family or friends
✔️ A recreation pool to relax after skiing
✔️ An ice skating rink to enjoy winter nights
✔️ Close to all the best winter activities
When Are You Booking Your Trip?
Bend is the ultimate winter playground, whether you’re here to ski, snowshoe, hike, or just soak in the stunning scenery. With so many adventures packed into one weekend, you’ll leave already planning your next trip back.
So, when’s your Bend winter weekend happening? What’s your favorite winter activity in Bend?
Want more Oregon Adventures – Check out these Waterfall Hikes!
