4 Must-Do Activities in Bend, Oregon During January

Located on the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains, Bend, Oregon is a great destination for winter activities. With its moderate temperatures and a plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities, Bend is an ideal spot for those looking for a winter getaway. Whether you are a visitor or a local, here are four places to visit in Bend during the month of January.

Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint: Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint is located at the summit of Pilot Butte, a 500-foot cinder cone that offers spectacular views of Bend and the surrounding area. From this lofty vantage point, visitors can see Mt. Bachelor to the west and Smith Rock to the east. There are several trails leading up to the summit and several benches at various points along the way for those looking for a rest or just a spot to take in all the natural beauty.

High Desert Museum : The High Desert Museum is one of Bend’s most popular attractions and is open year-round. The museum features exhibits that explore Central Oregon’s unique history, culture, and wildlife. It also includes interactive displays and live animals such as otters and birds of prey, making it a great place to learn about Central Oregon’s diverse landscape.

Tumalo Falls: Tumalo Falls is one of Bend’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The 97-foot waterfall cascades down from Tumalo Creek into a deep pool surrounded by steep cliffs and lush vegetation. It takes roughly 30-minutes to get to Tumalo Falls from downtown Bend, so it makes a perfect day trip. Head west of town on Skyliners Road until it forks into Tumalo Falls Road (to the right). During the winter season, the gate at the main road will be closed to vehicle traffic. You can access the falls by hiking 2.4 miles (on a gravel road) to get there, and be rewarded with an epic snowy wonderland and plenty of opportunities to for photo ops! If there is a lot of snow, you may want to strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis.

Bend Ale Trail: The Bend Ale Trail showcases some of Bend’s best breweries with more than 20 stops across town featuring local craft beers ranging from lagers to IPAs and everything in between. Each brewery has its own unique atmosphere— from cozy pubs with fireplaces to lively taprooms with live music—so there’s something for everyone here! A few of our favorites along the trail are Deschutes Brewery , Oregon Spirit Distillers, and Humm Kombucha ! Plus, you can pick up a passport at any participating brewery which will get you exclusive discounts along your beer-sampling journey throughout town!?

Bend is an idyllic mountain community year-round, and we’re proud to say that even in the dead of winter, this community is alive with activities like snowshoeing or sampling craft beers on the Bend Ale Trail.?

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