Hiking Bend Oregon is something special. In fact, there are hundreds of amazing day hikes near Bend. All of these wonderful hikes near Bend are totally doable as a day hike.
As Central Oregon locals and hiking fanatics, we want to help you find the best day hikes near Bend and choose which one is best for you.
Whether you want to put down miles in the backcountry or looking for Bend trails closer to town, this list of the best hikes near Bend has something for everyone. Pack some snack and lace up your shoes as explore the best of hiking Bend Oregon.
Bend Trails Summary
All of the hikes near Bend mentioned in this article are listed in this table. You can click the name of the hike to learn more below.
| Hike Name | Distance From Bend | Difficulty | Known For | Cascade Wilderness Permit Required? |
| Tumalo Falls | 25 min | Easy | Short hike to stunning waterfall | No |
| Smith Rock State Park | 45 min | Variable | Impressive rock formations with great views and variety of trails | No |
| Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail | 45 min | Easy | Amazing lakeside views of Cascade Mountains | No |
| No Name Lake | Depends | Hard | Incredible alpine lake and expansive views | Yes |
| Green Lakes Trail | 35 min | Hard | Creekside hike to series of alpine lakes | Yes |
| Tam McArthur Rim Trail | 1 hour | Hard | Amazing mountain views | Yes |
| Paulina Lakeshore Loop | 50 min | Hard | Excellent loop around a large pristine lake with hot springs | No |
| South Sister Trail | 35 min | Hard | Hard climb to summit South Sister | Yes |
| Pilot Butte | 5 – 10 min | Medium | Great views of Bend and mountains | No |
| Deschutes River Trail | 5 – 10 min | Easy | Please riverside walk near town | No |
| Shevlin Loop Trail | 5 – 10 min | Easy | Please creekside walk near town | No |
| Riley Ranch to Tumalo State Park | 10 – 15 min | Easy | Great riverside hike close to town | No |
Best Hikes Near Bend
In this section, we’ll cover the best hikes outside of town. Later, we’ll discuss Bend trails closer to town.
Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls is a captivating waterfall along Tumalo Creek, a tributary to the mighty Deschutes River. In fact, Tumalo Falls is perhaps known as the best waterfall near Bend.
The primary attraction is the dazzling waterfall itself, which is nearly 100 feet high and cascades over the edge of a rugged canyon.
Distance From Bend: 14 miles, 25 minutes
Length: Variable (0.1 miles, 2 miles, 7-mile loop, 10-mile loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Variable
Known for: Striking waterfall and canyon, creekside hike
Day Use Permit Required?: No, just a northwest forest pass
The falls are very accessible as they are super close to the trailhead. Just a short walk takes you to the edge of the falls. Fortunately, you can keep hiking as long as you want, because there are a variety of trails in the area. We recommend the Tumalo Falls Loop as a pleasant medium-length hike.
Whether you just want some sights of a top waterfall near Bend Oregon, or you want to explore more of beautiful Tumalo Creek, this is a great hike for everyone.
Local Tip: The hiking lot at Tumalo Falls can be crowded during summer weekends. Get there early or later in the afternoon. You can also do this hike in the winter, but the road is closed which adds 2.5 miles to the hike. It may be worth it because Tumalo Falls looks amazing when half frozen surrounded by snow.
Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is a climbing, hiking, running, and sightseeing hotspot 45 minutes to the north of Bend. The park is popular and draws crowds from locals and visitors alike. It is understandable why people love it, as there are tons of unique rock formations on a huge scale.
Distance From Bend: 26 miles, 45 minutes
Length: Variable
Difficulty: Variable
Elevation Gain: Variable
Known for: Towering rock, beautiful sunsets
Day Use Permit Required?: No, just a $5 parking pass
Smith Rock has a variety of hikes depending on how long or intense a hike you are looking for. Whether you’re just sightseeing from the car or pushing long miles, there is something for everyone.
Perhaps the most popular hike is the Misery Ridge Loop, which gives you some beautiful views. We also like the Burma Loop Road, which takes you around the entire park. If you want even more miles, there are lots more trails to the north, outside of the park, that you can access.
Local Tip: Smith Rock is often crowded during weekends. Be sure to get there before 9:00 for the best chance of a parking spot. Although there are many parking spots, they fill up fast. Also, grab some huckleberry ice cream at the shop on your way out of the park!
No Name Lake
No Name Lake is a beautiful alpine lake that has glaciers most of the year. The most popular version of this hike is from Todd Lake Trailhead, although other options are possible.
Distance From Bend: 24 miles, 38 km
Length: 13 miles, 21 km
Difficulty:
Elevation Gain:
Known for: Glacier lake, alpine views
Day Use Permit Required?: Yes
The hike itself is around 13 miles round trip. It starts at Todd Lake in the forest before winding north and climbing in elevation. Eventually, the path rises out of the trees and ultimately ends at No Name Lake.
The views from the ridge on the other side of the lake are spectacular. The lake is a beautiful turquoise blue that contrasts well with the sparkling white glaciers. Take a dip in the ice-cold water if you dare!
Green Lakes Trail
Green Lakes Trail is a beautiful out-and-back hike that connects into many other popular trails nearby. Starting at the Green Lakes/Soda Creek Trailhead and ending at the scenic Green Lakes, this is a beautiful summer and early fall hike.
Distance From Bend: 25 miles, 35 minutes
Length: 9.2 miles to lakes, 11.2 miles including loop around lakes
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,187 feet
Known for: Beautiful lakes, views of the cascades
Day Use Permit Required?: Yes
There are a number of campsites at the lakes but overnight use requires an overnight permit. The trail Fall Creek and provides views of rivers, alpine lakes, fall creek falls, and the Cascade Mountains.
The hike is 9.2 miles to the lakes and back round trip on well-established gradual trails. This is definitely a go-to, so get there early in the summer to beat the crowds and the heat.
Tam McArthur Rim Trail
Tam McArthur Rim Trail is an exciting and rewarding hike that starts at a nice lake (Three Creek Lake) and ascends along a ridgeline. The views improve as you gain elevation until you can see expansive views of the Central Oregon landscape, especially to the North.
Distance From Bend: 26 miles
Length: 5.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Known for: Expansive views of central Cascades, unique topography
Day Use Permit Required? No
Round-trip, the hike is around 5.3 miles and moderately difficult. The grade is reasonable and even welcoming for the average hiker. Overall, this is a great hike near Bend for everyone!
Local Tip: Don’t forget your camera! This hike has some of the best views in Central Oregon.
Paulina Lakeshore Loop
Paulina Lakeshore Loop circumnavigates Paulina Lake, which is a fairly large lake located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Paulina Lake is one of two lakes located in the area, which is actually the caldera of an active volcano!
Distance From Bend: 40 miles
Length: 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Known for: Mid-length lake loop with an optional hot spring soak
Day Use Permit Required? No
Don’t worry, it won’t blow up while you’re there (probably). However, you can appreciate the evidence of historical volcanic activity in the lava fields and the unique topography of the area. You can also see evidence of current geological happenings in the hot springs located on the northeast side of the lake.
The trail is about 7.5 miles long and passes not only the hot springs but also three campgrounds and a lodge, all the while presenting views of the surrounding caldera and forest. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk in the great outdoors, the Paulina Lake Loop is sure to impress.
Local Tip: Try car camping at Paulina Lake at one of the three campgrounds located there: Paulina Lake Campground, Newberry Group Campground, or Little Crater Campground. These are great campgrounds and Paulina Lake offers a variety of activities other than hiking such as paddling, swimming, and boating.
South Sister Trail
South Sister Trail is known for its grueling ascent up South Sister mountain. Hikers set off at Devil’s Lake Trailhead, cross the Cascade Lakes Highway, and start the climb.
Distance From Bend: 24 miles
Length: 12 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain:
Known for: Grueling ascent and vast scree fields that lead to rewarding, 360-degree views
Day Use Permit Required?: Yes
The first couple miles are forested before you break out into the open and are greeted with nice views of the surrounding mountains. However, to achieve a 360-degree vantage of Central Oregon, you must make the summit!
If you have what it takes, tackle this 12-mile out and back to earn some of the best views in Central Oregon. This is a great hike for the go-getter who is prepared to put in some work
Local Tip: There is a lot of scree (small rocks) on this trail that will get into your shoes. If you have them, it is recommended to wear gaiters. Otherwise, be prepared to empty your shoes of rocks a few times!
Best Day Hikes Close to Bend
Sometimes you are limited on time and can’t dedicate a full day to driving and hiking. Fortunately, Bend has some super fun and accessible hikes close to town! These are the best day hikes near Bend.
Pilot Butte
Pilot Butte is a steep but short hike located on the east side of Bend. The hike winds up Pilot Butte’s east and north sides before arriving at the summit and rewarding you with great views!
Distance From Bend: In Bend
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy to medium
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Known for: Accessible and expansive views of Bend and the Cascade Mountains
This is a great hike for most people, as it is intense but also short, with a round-trip length of fewer than 2 miles. This means you don’t need to take a full day to enjoy a nice hike near Bend.
Overall, this is a great option for those looking to get some exercise and expansive views without the commitment of a long drive outside of Bend.
Deschutes River Trail
The Deschutes River Trail lines the Deschutes River for several miles within and outside of Bend. There are several sections of the Deschutes River Trail, with some being closer to Bend than others.
Distance From Bend: Depends on the section
Length: Variable, depending on the section
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Very little
Known for: Riverside walk close to town
Perhaps the most popular section is the Old Mill Reach, which starts in the Old Mill District and goes into a more natural section of the river south of town. There are also many more parts of the Deschutes River Trail further south (upstream).
Shevlin Loop Trail
The Shevlin Loop Trail is a 4.5-mile trail located in Shevlin Park, which is a natural and forested park in northwest Bend. Shevlin Park is another great natural space near Bend, which offers excellent trails along a pleasant creek, without the need for a long drive.
Distance From Bend: 5 – 10 minutes
Length: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Known for: Shaded creek-side stroll with various loop options
Hikers can choose from multiple routes, but all follow the general idea of a loop paralleling the creek. There are also numerous additional trails outside of the park if you want to add more miles. Overall, the Shevlin Park area has great hiking close to Bend!
Riley Ranch to Tumalo State Park
The Riley Ranch to Tumalo State Park trail is a pleasant path that follows the Deschutes River and connects the two natural areas. The trail is a 7-mile round-trip that is a favorite mid-length hiking and running location among the Bend locals.
Distance From Bend: 10 – 15 minutes
Length: 7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Known for: Pleasant walk along the Deschutes River in a natural area
Overall, this is a good option if you like a nice riverside hike out of town, but not too far out of town.
Other things to Consider When Hiking Near Bend
The Central Oregon climate and landscape can be intense, rugged, and unforgiving. At the same time, it is precisely those qualities that lend to its beauty and appeal for many hikers.
That said, it is of the highest priority that hikers prepare adequately for their hikes. Don’t forget to do these things before going hiking near Bend.
Prepare for the Weather
Central Oregon’s high desert climate can change up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit between the highs and the lows. This means a hot day can turn into a frigid night once the sun goes down. For this reason, we recommend bringing extra layers even during a hot summer day.
Bring Extra Water
Just bring extra water on your hike. The hot dry summer days can be no joke and will dehydrate you quickly. Don’t get caught out on a hot dusty trail without enough water!
Get a Permit (If Needed)
Many hikes require a permit, not only for parking at the trailheads but also for hiking the trail itself. Recently, a Day Use Central Oregon Cascade Wilderness Permit is required for day hiking in many areas. Learn more about Central Oregon Cascades Permits’.
Conclusion
These are just a handful (though in our opinion the best) of day hikes near Bend. Hopefully, you feel inspired, informed, and excited to get out there and enjoy the amazing hiking this region has to offer.
Central Oregon also has some amazing backpacking trails which allow you to immerse yourself more deeply into the backcountry experience. Check out the best backpacking trails near Bend.
If you’re visiting Bend, check out more things to do in Bend and our Bend travel itineraries. Enjoy your trip!
