Explore Oregon’s High Desert: Bend and Beyond
One of the most marvelous treasures that the Pacific Northwest has tucked up its lush green sleeve is Oregon’s High Desert. A tapestry of sagebrush and sandy dunes, punctured by basalt cliffs and laced with rivers, it’s a uniquely Oregonian tableau that extends eastward from the waves of the Pacific to the slopes of the Cascades.
Located smack dab in the center is the gem that is Bend. Known for its craft breweries and stunning landscapes, Bend is more than just the gateway to Oregon’s High Desert—it’s the bustling hub of it.
Bend: A High Desert Hub
Bend is the kind of place where folks come for the weekend and end up buying a house – the appeal is that potent. Its name is a throwback to the “Farewell Bend” moniker originally used by pioneers, indicating where the Oregon Trail bid adieu to the Deschutes River. For locals, mentioning “The Old Mill” refers not just to the collection of shops and restaurants, but to the city’s timber mill history too.
Downtown Bend and the Old Mill District beckon visitors and locals with their eclectic mix of boutique shops, cheering pubs, and notable nosh stops like Deschutes Brewery and Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails. Also, for hardcore java lovers, make sure to grab a cup from Thump Coffee to truly taste a local brew.
But at heart, Bend is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Check out Smith Rock State Park, a natural cathedral of basalt cliffs jutting out of the desert floor. Climbers, hikers, and Sunday strollers alike can bask in an awe-inspiring 360-panorama of the Cascades. And when the rare and fabled Oregon sunshine beats down, head to the city’s crown jewel, the Deschutes River, for paddle boarding, kayaking, or an afternoon float.
Farther Afoot: Sisters and Sunriver
Just 20 miles northwest of Bend lies the charming town of Sisters. As you stroll down the main drag, you might think you’ve been teleported to a John Wayne movie set, with its “Wild West” storefronts and the dramatic backdrop of the trio of snow-capped mountains, rightfully named The Three Sisters.
The Sisters region is feathered with numerous trails, including the grueling but rewarding Black Crater hike. The hike is challenging for sure, but the breathtaking vista of the Cascades at the top is your well-earned reward.
In stark contrast to Sisters, Sunriver, located south of Bend, is a hub of civil modernity. This high desert resort community is home to golf courses and luxury lodges, but it isn’t all manicured lawns and sparkling pools. Check out the Sunriver Nature Center and Oregon Observatory for a starlit education in astronomy along with some family-friendly wilderness fun.
Journey to Prineville and Further East
Keep heading east, and you’ll stumble upon Prineville. Once the economic powerhouse of Central Oregon, Prineville marks the beginning of the region’s farther reaches. The Crooked River, curves through the town and is met by Ochoco Creek; a favorite local fishing and boating spot. Hungry after a day at the river? Sink your teeth into a juicy slice of homemade pie from the iconic Tastee Treet.
The journey through Oregon’s High Desert wouldn’t be complete without tipping your hat to the Painted Hills, located further east in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Don’t be fooled by the name – the hills aren’t just painted, they’re a natural masterpiece on an open-ended exhibit.
The Wild End of the Road
Oregon’s High Desert is a land of contrasts, revealed along lonely stretches of highway or on winding trails. It’s those ancient juniper trees shaped like gnarled elders of the desert, whispering tales of the land. It’s the lingering scent of sage after a rainstorm. It’s the sunsets that set the sky ablaze, revealing layers of stars. It’s full of gritty charm and silent spaces that appeal to anyone with wanderlust in their veins.
The rhythm of High Desert life, with its larger-than-life landscapes and unhurried pace, appeals to those in tune with the ebb and flow of nature’s clock. No matter the season, this geologic wonderland never fails to astonish and inspire.
Next time you’re pondering where to go for your next adventure, consider Oregon’s High Desert. From the lively city of Bend to the quiet reaches beyond; this region offers an infinite array of the Pacific Northwest’s charm. Always carry with you the mantra of Oregon explorers: to soak in the stillness, breathe in the beauty, and tread gently on the rugged lands that we’re fortunate to call home.