Welcome to the breathtaking Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, a picturesque journey through the heart of Central Oregon’s natural wonders.
Brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure along this iconic highway, where stunning lakes, majestic mountains, amazing hikes, and scenic campgrounds, await at every turn.
So, buckle up, roll down the windows, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s cruise into the ultimate guide to exploring the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway! This is a long article, so check out the table of contents to get what you need.
Overview of Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, also known as Cascade Lakes Highway, is a meandering ribbon of road that stretches approximately 66 miles through the mesmerizing Cascade Mountain Range in Central Oregon.
This renowned National Scenic Byway offers a kaleidoscope of landscapes, from serene alpine lakes to rugged volcanic peaks, showcasing the unrivaled beauty of this region.
As you embark on your Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway adventure, prepare to be captivated by the crystal-clear lakes that dot the landscape near Bend, Oregon.
These sparkling gems, such as Elk Lake, Devils Lake, and Clear Lake are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, boating, or simply basking in the sun.
But the journey doesn’t stop at the lakeshores. This article will take you beyond the water’s edge, revealing an array of exciting activities and attractions easily accessible from the byway.
From some of Oregon’s best hiking and open vistas, to campsites tucked away in nature’s embrace, to charming lakefront cabins offering cozy retreats, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway has something for everyone.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Statistics
- 66 miles of scenic roadway
- 14 lakes with road access (and hundreds more within hiking distance)
- More than 150 hikes
- 24 campgrounds (most are lakeside)
- 7 lakeside resorts
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Map
This map displays all of the viewpoints, lakes, hikes, campgrounds, and other things to do mentioned in this article.
Viewpoints and Roadside Stops Along the Way
Although the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway provides access to stellar hiking, lake activities, and camping, you can see so much without taking 10 steps away from your car!
These are some of the best spots to stop and take in the view from a roadside viewpoint. We’ll go into detail about all lakes, hikes, and camping spots in more detail later.
Most people start in Bend and head west on the byway, so that is the order these viewpoints will be presented. After about 30 minutes of steadily increasing elevation, you will be granted a fantastic view of Mt. Bachelor as you round a turn.
However, there really isn’t a great spot to pull off until a bit later. So just enjoy the view from the car and continue forward.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
One of the first of many potential stopping points is Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort. This buzzing ski resort in the winter turns into a summer mountain biking, zip-lining, chair-lift-riding adventure zone in the summer.
It is worth a quick stop to get up close and personal with the mountain so many people love. We recommend a quick stop in the Sunrise Lot and consider some of the other fun activities here. We’ll talk more about those later.
Soda Creek Campground
A short way further is Soda Creek Campground which is a nice spot to pull off, stretch the legs, and soak in the view of the surrounding mountains.
This small campground is best known for its views of Broken Top and South Sister to the north and Mt. Bachelor to the south.
Sparks Lake Day Use Area
If you have some time, it is worth a short drive on a dirt road to Sparks Lake Day Use Area. Use the same turnoff for Soda Creek Campground but go south for a few minutes to the day use area.
Sparks Lake is great for paddling, swimming, and hanging out lakeside with the same great views of the surrounding mountains. There is a short lakeside hike called the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail that is totally worthwhile.
We think Sparks Lake is one of the best lakes near Bend, and perhaps in Central Oregon overall. In fact, we have an entire article about Sparks Lake.
Green Lakes Trailhead Overflow Parking
This small turnoff is just past Soda Creek Campground and provides more of the same great views as Soda Creek Campground and Sparks Lake.
If you stopped at either Soda Creek Campground or Sparks Lake you can probably skip this one. Green Lakes trailhead is the start of many great hikes which are mentioned later in this article.
Devils Lake
There are a few spots to pull off near Devils Lake and there is also an actual parking lot. All of the above are great options. Devil’s Lake is a bright bluish turquoise color that makes for great paddling and swimming.
There’s also a small campground. If you’re just here for the day, consider lunch at one of the picnic tables. There’s also a nice short hike around the south side of the lake.
Elk Lake
Follow the road south towards Elk Lake, a relatively large lake with several campgrounds, a resort, and at least three day-use areas.
For the best views of the mountains, go to the South Beach picnic area. If you want to rent a paddleboard and swim, head to the resort. Elk Lake is a great place to rent paddle craft, set up the beach towel, or just go for a swim.
Those are some of the best viewpoints and quick stops along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. However, if you have the time, continue reading to learn more about lake activities, hiking, and camping!
Cascade Lakes Highway – Lakes and Water Recreation
There are lots of amazing lakes on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. These lakes near Bend are a big part of what makes the area so special.
Some are great for fishing; others are great for paddling! Some allow motorboats and some do not. Each one is unique, and we’ll cover them all here to help you find which one is best for you!
Sparks Lake
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Great for: Views, short hike, picnic, swimming, paddling
Sparks Lake is a magical lake that is overall one of our favorite lakes near Bend. As we mentioned before, the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular, and the uniquely shaped lake has so many interesting islands, inlets, and bays to explore by paddling.
Don’t have a watercraft you can paddle? No problem! Pick your spot on one of the several beachy areas a short walk from the parking lot and take a dip in the cold water.
If you feel like a nice walk, we highly recommend the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail which is a beautiful and mellow hike that lets you explore lava fields and the lake. There are also a number of free car camping sites, but they are usually full during the summer.
Devils Lake
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Great for: Short hike, picnic, swimming, paddling
Devil’s Lake is a small, shallow, and pretty lake right off the Cascade Lakes Highway. There is a nice day use area and camping area. The lake is a gorgeous turquoise color that gives it a magical feeling.
There is not a ton of beach space, but there are some picnic tables and a decent swimming area. However, it is best explored by paddling.
In addition, there is a short hike that goes around the south side of the lake. Overall, this is a great lake near Bend for paddling, swimming, and hanging lakeside.
Elk Lake
Distance from Bend: 55 minutes
Great for: Families, amenities, watercraft rentals, camping, swimming, paddling
Elk Lake is one of the most popular lakes near Bend. It is a large lake with multiple day-use areas, campgrounds, and boat launches.
There is also a resort with a restaurant and accommodation (cabins and glamping tents). Needless to say, Elk Lake is established, especially at the main day use area.
While you won’t find maximum solitude, you can rent paddle boards and other paddle-able watercraft, which is a big plus for convenience. You can even rent a pontoon boat.
Swim platforms are another nice benefit. Also, ice cream! All around a great family lake but can get crowded so get there early on summer weekends.
Hosmer Lake
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: Paddling, camping, fly fishing
Hosmer Lake is overall our favorite lake for paddling adventures. Hosmer has a long skinny shape, with lots of nooks and crannies to explore.
In fact, it’s really more like a stationary river than a lake. As a result, it is perfect for exploring via paddling. Also, it is a great spot for fly-fishing.
There is not really a beach space, so don’t expect to set up camp anywhere not on the water. Rather, the boat launch is where you park and launch. That is, unless you are camping at Mallard Marsh Campground or South Campground.
Lava Lake and Little Lava Lake
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 5 minutes
Great for: Paddling, swimming, fishing, camping
Lava Lake
Lava Lake is on the Cascade Lakes Highway. The lake is relatively large with great views of the surrounding mountains. There is a campground, boating site, and small RV resort complete with a small store and tackle shop.
Fishing is popular at Lava Lake: Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout are the main fish in Lava Lake. Fly fishing, trolling, floating methods, lures and using bait are effective methods at Lava Lake. Motorized boats are allowed.
Little Lava Lake
Little Lava Lake is the source of the mighty Deschutes River. This small lake is mostly a roundish shape, and it has great views of the mountains. Little Lava Lake is not as popular as some of the other lakes and there are some tiny beaches you can get to by paddling or boating.
In addition, Little Lava Lake is known for its fishing. The lake is a medium size and has a maximum depth of 20 feet. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed. Launching is done via a gravel boat ramp. Also, there is a small campground.
Crane Prairie Reservoir
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: Fishing, birdwatching, paddling, camping
Crane Prairie Reservoir is a beautiful body of water along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout. Visitors can also enjoy boating, kayaking, and peaceful hikes in the surrounding area.
There are three campgrounds and a boat launch area where you can launch motorized and non-motorized boats. Overall, Crain Prairie a great lake for fishing and birdwatching with excellent views of the mountains.
Cultus Lake
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: High speed boating, boat-in camping, car camping
Cultus Lake is large and mostly known for motor boating activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing. It is also known for boat-in camping. In fact, there are three different boat-in campgrounds. Talk about a fun experience!
You can car camp at Cultus Lake Campground or boat-in camp at Little Cove Campground, Big Cove Campground, or West Cultus Campground. There is also a resort/hotel you can stay at.
Davis Lake
Distance from Bend: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Great for: Fishing, camping, solitude
Davis Lake is a smaller lake with a characteristic lava flow on the north east side. There are two campgrounds and some views of the surrounding mountains.
However, the water level can drop depending on the time of year which makes it less than ideal for water activities. One of the less popular lakes, Davis Lake is often overlooked, but still has things to offer.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Hiking
Lace up your boots and explore the stunning trails that wind through the picturesque Central Oregon landscape. From leisurely nature walks to challenging summit hikes, there’s something for every level of hiker.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Three Sisters Wilderness and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas, lush forests, alpine meadows, and sparkling lakes along the way.
These Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway hikes are in order as you drive the highway west and south starting in Bend.
Mt. Bachelor Area
Distance from Bend: 30 minutes
Mt. Bachelor Trail
Length: 6.5 miles
Great for: Unique views of ski resort in the summer
Mt. Bachelor Trail starts at the west parking lot and makes its way up the side of Mt. Bachelor ski resort. Don’t worry, in the summer you won’t have to dodge speeding skiers. If you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with great views.
Tumalo Mountain Trail
Length: 4 miles
Great for: Mid-length hike with great views near Bend
Tumalo Mountain Trail is right across the highway from Mt. Bachelor. In the winter, this is a backcountry ski and snowboard area. In the summer, it’s a great medium length hike near Bend right off the side of the highway with great views at the top.
Todd Creek Trailhead
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Todd Lake Loop Trail
Length: 1.5 – 2 miles
Great for: Short lake hike near Bend
Todd Lake Loop Trail is a short hike around beautiful Todd Lake. The lake is quite pretty with lovely grass meadows, amazing views of the lake, and up-close views of the mountains, especially from the north end of the lake. Overall, Todd Lake Loop Trail a great short lake hike near Bend.
Todd Lake to No Name Lake
Length: ~13 miles
Great for: Alpine lake dip, breathtaking views
There is a more ambitious hike that also starts from Todd Creek Trailhead goes to No Name Lake. Get ready to climb over 2,500 feet, starting in lush forests by Todd Lake and rising up above the tree line.
Enjoy the epic views of the amazing landscape as you continue to No Name Lake, a spectacular alpine lake with turquoise blue water you’ve probably seen on Instagram. In fact, we have an entire article about No Name Lake.
Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Length: 2.5 miles
Great for: Lakeside hike with mountain views that also embraces lava flows
The Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail starts at Sparks Lake Day Use Area and meanders through lava fields before hugging the side of Sparks Lake. Hikers are presented with excellent views of the lake and nearby mountain peaks.
This is one of our favorite short hikes along the entire Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway! It is also partially paved which is great for elderly folk.
Green Lakes Trailhead
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Green Lakes Trail
Length: 9 miles
Great for: Longer hike along creek to amazing lake and mountain views
Just a few minutes further west from Todd Creek Trailhead and Sparks Lake is Green Lakes Trailhead, where several trails begin including the popular Green Lakes Trail.
This is a stunning trail that is forested for the first half of the climb before emerging above the tree line to great views. Get up close and personal with Green Lakes, a series of 3 crispy lakes, that reflect the sisters and Broken Top wonderfully.
Moraine Lake via Green Lakes Trailhead
Length: 5 – 6 miles
Great for: Medium length high along creek to rugged alpine lake
Start at Green Lakes Trailhead and hang a left instead of going north to Green Lakes. You will end up at Moraine Lake, a rugged and beautiful mountain lake with few trees. This is a great option for a mid-length hike to a cool lake with great mountain views.
Broken Top Summit via Green Lakes Trailhead
Length: 13 miles
Great for: Beginner level alpine rock climb
To summit Broken Top from Green Lakes, be prepared for an adventure. Set aside a full day and bring your alpine gear for the tippy top. This is a beginner level alpine rock climb with lots of toasty exposure. People also like to camp a night at Green Lakes and summit the next day.
Devils Lake Trailhead
Distance from Bend: 40 minutes
Devil’s Lake Trailhead is the start to several great hikes as well as the lake itself we covered above. There is also a campground we’ll talk about in the next section. For now, check out these hikes!
South Sister Summit
Length: 12 miles
Great for: Hard climb to amazing views
South Sister Summit is a 12 mile climb to the top of South Sister, a scree-covered mountain of rock. This is a popular summit of one of the peaks in the area. There is no technical climbing and just pure grit will get you to the top. But get ready to clear gravel out of your shoes near the top.
Devils Lake Trail
Length: 1.5 miles
Great for: Short hike with views of beautiful lake
Devils Lake Trail is a short hike along the south side of Devil’s Lake, a stunning turquoise lake that is pleasing to the eyes. While not necessarily the best lake for mountain views, Devils Lake is just off the highway and is great for paddling and swimming. Overall, Devils Lake Trail a great short hike and picnic spot as well as nice for camping.
Wikiup Plane Loop Trail
Length: 5.7 miles
Great for: Medium length hike with mountain views
This is an overall solid medium distance hike with a little bit of lake and a little bit of views. In addition, there is a bit of forest and a lot of exposure, make sure to pack some sun protection. Overall, the Wikiup Plane Loop Trail a nice hike that is worth your while!
Moraine Lake via Devils Lake Trailhead
Length: 5.1 miles
Great for: Moderate hike to alpine lake with nice views
The hike to Moraine Lake from Devil’s Lake Trailhead is pleasant and rewarding. This is a nice hike with decent exposure but also some good shady forest sections. Moraine Lake is great for a cold dip before heading back to the trailhead.
Six Lakes Trailhead
Distance from Bend: 40 minutes
Six Lakes Trail
Length: Variable
Great for: Gently sloped hike that passes several lakes
Six Lakes Trail is a great day hike and backpacking trail. There are at least 6 lakes along this trail at different distances and all are beautiful. The parking lot is large, and the trail is gently sloped. Overall, Six Lakes Trail is a great backpacking trail near Bend and forested day hike where you can go as far as you want!
Lucy Lake Trailhead
Distance from Bend: 45 minutes
Lucy Lake Trail
Length: 3 – 4 miles
Great for: Short day hike to a pleasant lake
Lucy Lake is a pretty lake that is a short hike from the trailhead. Overall, Lucy Lake Trail is an easy 400-foot climb to Lucy Lake. This is a great hike near Lava Lake Campground.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Camping
Camping is quite popular in central Oregon due to the inviting climate and depth of accessible outdoor recreation. Almost all campgrounds along the Cascade Lakes Highway are on lakes or streams. These are some of the best Cascade Lakes Highway campgrounds.
Soda Creek Campground
Distance from Bend: 35 minutes
Great for: Mountain views, nearby hikes and lakes, close to Bend
Soda Creek is a small campground of 10 sites resting alongside a creek that flows into Sparks Lake, one of the most popular lakes near Bend. The main draw for Soda Creek is the views and proximity to amazing hiking and lake activities.
Soda Creek Campground is right off the highway and next to a pleasant marsh/meadow.
Sparks Lake is beautiful and great for paddling, swimming, and hanging out lakeside. The campground itself is not directly on the lake, but a short drive will bring you to the day use area with a great beach spot. The Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail is a nice short hike along the lake.
The mountain views are the main attraction at Soda Creek campground. Note there is no potable water and some of the campsites are close together and lack privacy. Of course, bugs can be bad in the spring and Sparks Lake can be low in the late summer. Otherwise, this is a great campground that is relatively close to Bend.
Devils Lake Campground
Distance from Bend: 40 minutes
Great for: Picturesque turquoise water, close proximity to Bend, free camping
Local Tip: Bring a wagon to haul your gear to the site from your car
Devil’s Lake looks like the artist embellished a bright turquoise hue in a painting of a lake. The clear, vibrant water of Devil’s Lake is the main attraction, and contrasts sharply with the dark green pine trees and dusty rocks. The lake is frigid so unless it is a hot day I wouldn’t expect to swim. Paddling is a nice alternative.
There are 10 or so campsites on the west side of the lake and many have picnic tables. The campsites are nicely nestled in the trees, but you will have to walk your gear up to a few hundred feet from the car.
Parking at Devil’s Lake Trailhead requires a Northwest Forest Pass but the campground itself is free and first come first serve. That being said the campground is full most weekends and many weekdays so make sure you have a backup plan
Elk Lake Campgrounds
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: Rentals and restaurant at Elk Lake Lodge
Elk Lake is probably the most popular lake to visit near Bend. It is a large-ish lake with multiple day use areas, campgrounds, and boat launches. There is also a resort with a restaurant and accommodation (cabins and glamping tents). Needless to say, Elk Lake is established, especially at the main day use area.
While you won’t find maximum solitude, you can rent paddle boards and other paddle-able watercraft, which is a big plus for convenience. You can even rent a pontoon boat. Swim platforms are another nice benefit. Also, ice cream! All around a great family lake but can get crowded so get there early on summer weekends.
The two campgrounds are Point Campground and Little Fawn Campground. Point Campground is right next to the lake but also close to the highway. Little Fawn Campground is more secluded but not right next to the water if the water level is lower (as it often is later in the summer).
Hosmer Lake Campgrounds
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: Paddleboarding, kayaking, fly-fishing
Hosmer Lake is overall our favorite lake for paddling adventures. Hosmer has a long skinny shape, with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. In fact, it’s really more like a stationary river than a lake. As a result, it is perfect for exploring via paddling. Also, it is a great spot for fly-fishing.
There is not really a beach space, so don’t expect to spend much time not on the water. Rather, the boat launch is where you park and launch. That is, unless you are camping at Mallard Marsh Campground or South Campground, which both have great access to Hosmer Lake.
Lava Lake Campgrounds
Distance from Bend: 1 hour
Great for: Boating, paddling, swimming, rentals
Lava Lake Campground and Little Lava Lake Campground are two great lakeside camps to spend a weekend hiking, swimming, paddling and basking in the mountain views. An all-around great lakeside escape, there also is a small store where you can buy ice, firewood, and rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Hike right from the campground on the east side of Lava Lake and the north side of Little Lava Lake to get great views of both beautiful lakes.
Crane Prairie Reservoir Campgrounds
Distance from Bend: 1 hour (via 97)
Great for: Camping, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, paddling, swimming
Crane Prairie Reservoir is renowned as a prime wildlife viewing destination, attracting a variety of nesting and migrating bird species. One notable spot to visit is Osprey Point, where you can find informative signs about the local fauna and witness artificial osprey nesting platforms that were erected after natural snags fell due to age.
In addition to its rich wildlife habitat, Crane Prairie Reservoir is famous for its “cranebows” and is considered one of the top rainbow trout fisheries in Central Oregon. Designated as a Wildlife Management Area, Crane Prairie Reservoir also attracts majestic species such as ospreys, bald eagles, and various waterfowl, offering nature enthusiasts a remarkable experience in a picturesque setting.
The three campgrounds on Crane Prairie Reservoir are Crane Prairie Campground, Rock Creek Campground, and Cow Meadow Campground.
Cultus Lake Campground
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 5 minutes
Great for: Boating, swimming
Watersports enthusiasts and high speed boaters will enjoy Cultus Lake Campground. Cultus is a large lake located just over an hour’s drive southwest of Bend. The lake actually has multiple campgrounds, but the main one described here is the only one you can drive to. Big Cove campground requires a boat to access!
Cultus Lake is great for waterskiing, wakesurfing, and other boat activities such as sailing and jet skiing. There is a walk-in boat launch located at the campground and a developed launch at the day use area.
Most of the 55 campsites are well shaded and many are right against the water. Overall, Cultus Lake Campground is best for those looking to enjoy a day on the lake in their watercraft.
Davis Lake Campgrounds
Distance from Bend: 1 hour 15 minutes (via 97)
Great for: Less crowds, wildlife viewing, unique lava flow
Davis Lake is small but beautiful, with great views, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There is a large lava flow on the northeast part of the lake. The water level fluctuates greatly based on the time of year.
The two campgrounds are East Davis Lake Campground and Lava Flow Campground. These are less popular campgrounds but cool nevertheless, in addition to less crowds, East Davis Lake Campground is right next to a pleasant creek while Lava Flow Campground is directly adjacent to a rugged lava flow.
Other Exciting Things to Do
Mt. Bachelor Activities
Although Mt. Bachelor is primarily known for skiing and snowboarding, there are a ton of fun things to do at Mt. Bachelor in the summer. Take a scenic chairlift ride part way up the mountain and do some hiking. Have a pleasant dinner at the upper lodge with incredible views. Try out mountain biking or a series of zip lines to get your heart rate up! You can also camp in the parking lot in your RV.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway – Lodging and Accommodation
Depending on your goals, you might consider staying in a lakeside lodge or a resort closer to Bend. In this section, we’ll cover where to stay along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.
Lakeside Lodges and Resorts
| Resort Name | Amenities | Great for |
| Elk Lake Resort and Marina | Cabins, glamping tents, and bar/restaurant. Boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. | Proximity to Bend. Lots of amenities plus restaurant. |
| Lava Lake Resort | Resort with small store and boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. RV sites. | RV camping. Just the basics. Nearby hiking. |
| Crane Prairie Resort | Small store, boat, kayak, paddleboard rentals. Fishing guides. Cabins, yurts, RV sites, and teepees! | Fishing and wildlife viewing. |
| Cultus Lake Resort | Small store, cabins, restaurant and watercraft rentals. | High speed boating activities. Swimming. |
| Twin Lakes Resort | Small store, cabins, RV sites, restaurant and watercraft rentals. | Overall great resort. Lots of amenities. Nearby hiking. |
| Odell Lake Lodge and Resort | Lodge rooms, cabins, tent and RV sites. Boating, jet skiing, paddling, hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding. Restaurant. | Tons of accommodation and recreation options. Lots of amenities and restaurant. |
| Crescent Lake Resort | Cabins, general store, equipment rentals, bar and grill. | Boating, swimming, hanging out lakeside. |
Accommodation in Bend
Bend is within an hour and a half of most places to visit along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. There are too many options to mention here, but we have other articles about the best resorts near Bend and the best places to stay in Bend.
Seasonal Closures
The Cascade Lakes Highway is closed during the winter, when snow blankets the road. This is typically between December and March but is variable with each year. Likewise, opening and closing of resorts and campgrounds also vary based on the year.
Check the Deschutes County page for current information. Also, Trip Check is a great tool when planning any road trip in Oregon.
Weather Considerations
Central Oregon weather can be both pleasant and harsh. As a high desert climate, the days can be hot and the nights cold. It is not uncommon to see temperature swings of 40 degrees F or more between highs and lows. For example, it could be 40F at night and 80F during the day. Long story short, pack layers!
Central Oregon sunshine is a special thing. There are over 300 sunny days here each year. However, all that sunshine can be dangerous during summer months. Make sure you use sun protection or you will regret it.
Permits and Reservations
Most campgrounds require reservations during peak season (July – September) as spots fill up at most campgrounds. Campsites cost between $10 and $30 per night, although there are some campsites that are free. Reserve a campsite using Recreation.gov.
Many hikes (yes even day hikes) now require a Cascade Wilderness Permit to limit crowded trails and impacts to sensitive natural areas. Learn more about the permits required in the Deschutes National Forest.
Planning Your Trip to Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
When planning your trip, it can be helpful to make an itinerary, depending on how much time you have. Consider your goals. Do you want to hang out on a lake all day, go for a nice hike, or stay in a lakeside resort or campground?
We hope this article is a helpful resource for you when planning a trip along the Cascade Lakes Highway. Have a great time enjoying this beautiful area!
As always, be sure to pack enough food and water. Be sure to check ahead that a campground has potable water. Take more water than you think you’ll need. The dry climate seems like it wants to suck all the moisture out of you.
Conclusion
Hopefully you learned all you need to know about the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway before you go explore for yourself!
If you are visiting Bend, welcome! We hope you enjoy your time here. If you’re still in the planning stages, be sure to check out our other articles about visiting central Oregon. You also might want to know some other things to do in Bend.
Also, subscribe to our YouTube and follow us on Instagram for more inspiration for exploring the PNW. Happy roaming!
