Winter in Bend Oregon is a magical time when the city and surrounding mountains transform into a snowy wonderland.

When the cold arrives, there are so many fun Bend winter activities to enjoy such as skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating and hiking.

Don’t miss out on exciting Bend winter festivals and holiday events like Bend Oregon Winterfest and Christmas festivities.

As long time Bend residents, we’ve gathered our local knowledge for you here within this in-depth guide to winter in Bend Oregon.

We’ll help you make the most of your Bend winter visit by helping you choose which activities to do, where to eat, and also where to stay!

So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through the offerings of winter activities in Bend Oregon.

Contents

Things to do in Bend Oregon in Winter

There are so many fun things to do in Bend Oregon in Winter.

In fact, winter in Bend offers a whole new set of outdoor activities, events, and festivals that are not available during other seasons.

Overall Best Winter Activities Bend Oregon

These are overall our favorite things to do in Bend in winter.

Bend Ice Skating

Ice skating in Bend is accessible and fun for the whole family!

There are several ice rinks in and near Bend, and each one is unique!

Learn more about Bend Oregon ice skating.

Ice Skating at Sunriver Village
Ice Skating at Sunriver Village. Image from their website.

Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing Bend Oregon

Nording skiing at Swampy Lakes Sno Park
Nording skiing at Swampy Lakes Sno Park. Ungroomed tracks through deep snow!

Bend cross country skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to enjoy the outdoors during winter in Bend.

Nearby sno-parks offer easy access to miles of snowshoe cross country ski trails in Bend.

Learn more about Bend snowshoeing and cross country skiing near Bend Oregon.

Snow Tubing and Sledding in Bend Oregon

Bend snow tubing and sledding in Bend Oregon is a fun activity for the whole family.

There are several hills for sledding near Bend, and also snow tubing in Bend Oregon.

Learn more about the options for Bend Oregon snow tubing and sledding.

Tubing at Hoodoo Ski Resort
Hoodoo Ski Resort has an excellent tubing hill. Image from their website.

Dog Sledding Bend Oregon

Sled Dog Rides at Mt. Bachelor
Sled dog rides at Mt. Bachelor. Image from their website.

Dog sledding Bend is a fun way to get outside during the winter.

Bend dog sledding is a unique and memorable winter experience that you can’t do every day.

Learn more about dog sledding Bend Oregon.

Winter Hiking Bend Oregon

There are lots of trail options for winter hiking Bend Oregon.

Some winter hikes in Bend are higher-elevation and you can expect snow.

However, some are lower elevation and free of snow most of the winter.

Learn more about winter hiking Bend Oregon.

Skyliner Sno Park. Tumalo Falls in the winter.
Tumalo Falls in the winter is beautiful.

Bend Oregon Winterfest

The biggest winter festival in Bend is Bend Winterfest. Bend Oregon Winterfest has arts and crafts, live music, food, ice sculptures, and a light show.

Oregon Winter Fest
Oregon Winter Fest. Image from their website.

There are also amusement rides and a kids mini marshmallow run. Learn more about Bend Winterfest.

Snowboarding and Skiing Near Bend Oregon

Snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor
Snowboarding and skiing near Bend is a blast.

Of course, we can’t forget about the incredible ski resorts near Bend.

These Bend ski resorts include Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort and Hoodoo Ski Area.

There are few things more fun than cruising down the fluffy mountain slopes.

Learn more about skiing in Bend.


As you can see, there are so many fun winter activities in Bend Oregon and within a short drive. But there are still a lot more than we haven’t covered yet!

What is coming up next:
1. Outdoor winter activities in Bend
2. Indoor winter activities in Bend
3. Family-friendly activities
4. Winter festivals and holiday events in Bend
5. Where to stay during winter in Bend
6. Questions and answers about winter in Bend

Let’s continue to learn about the best winter activities in Bend!


Outdoor Winter Activities Bend Oregon

When winter arrives, Central Oregon transforms into a winter wonderland. Well, not exactly all of it. In fact, only the Cascade Mountains just west of Bend receive lots of snow.

A skier enjoying a sunny day on Mount Bachelor.
Abby enjoying a sunny day on Mount Bachelor.

Bend is mostly snow-free during winter, with the exception of a few larger storms (6-12+ inches of snow) and a scattering of dustings each winter.

This makes for an amazing combination of accessible snow-activities and snow-free fun outdoors at lower elevations.

Bend Oregon Skiing and Snowboarding: Bend Ski Resorts

There are three Bend Oregon ski areas within a reasonable drive of town. These are Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, Hoodoo Ski Area, and Willamette Pass Ski Resort.

Mt. Bachelor Chair Lift
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is just 30 minutes from Bend and has over 4,000 skiiable acres.

Mt. Bachelor is the closest, largest, and most expensive. Willamette Pass is the furthest, smallest, and cheapest. Hoodoo is right in the middle!

Comparing Ski Resorts Near Bend

Ski ResortMt. Bachelor Ski ResortHoodoo Ski AreaWillamette Pass Ski Resort
Distance From Bend22 miles44 miles70 miles
SizeLargestSmallest
Night SkiingNoYesNo
Cross-Country SkiingYesYesYes
Snow TubingDepends on the year (check the website)YesNo
RatesMost Expensive
See Prices
See PricesLeast Expensive
See Prices
Lessons and RentalsYesYesYes
Comparing the three ski resorts close to Bend.

Whichever Bend ski resort you choose for skiing near Bend Oregon, you are sure to have a good time!

Central Oregon is known for its dry and cold winter climate, which produces lots of big snow storms and also plenty of sunny powder days.

Snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor
Ski resorts near Bend are just so much fun. We’ll see you on the slopes!

Learn more in our full article about skiing near Bend.

Cross Country Skiing Bend Oregon

For those seeking a slower-paced winter excursion, Central Oregon’s snow-covered landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for Bend cross-country skiing

Cross Country Skiing at Miessner Snow Park
Us cross country skiing at Virginia-Meissner Sno-Park near Bend.

Cross country skiing near Bend Oregon offers serene trails that wind through the Deschutes National Forest, taking in the beauty of frosted pine trees and the hush of snow-laden meadows.

There are about a dozen sno-parks near Bend that provide access to miles of cross country ski trails near Bend Oregon.

Nording skiing at Swampy Lakes Sno Park
Nording skiing at Swampy Lakes Sno Park. Ungroomed tracks through deep snow!

There are both groomed and ungroomed classic trails as well as groomed skate ski trails. Did we mention how awesome the warming shelters are!

We love cross country skiing Bend Oregon. Learn more in our full guide to cross country skiing near Bend.

Us cross country skiing at Skyliner Sno Park
Us cross country skiing at Skyliner Sno Park.

Local tip: Before you hit the trails, be sure to stop by one of the great coffee shops in Bend for a brew!

Ski Rentals Bend Oregon

In addition to renting at the ski resorts themselves, you can make a stop on your way out of town at one of these places for Bend ski rentals (which is usually more affordable).

  • Powder House Ski & Snowboard: As one of the long-standing Bend local shops, Powder House is a go-to for ski rentals.
  • Mountain Supply: Mountain Supply has been a fixture in Bend for over 40 years and offers a wide selection of ski and snowboard rentals.
  • Pine Mountain Sports: In addition to rental equipment, Pine Mountain Sports also offers lessons and guided tours.

Snowshoeing Bend Oregon

Snowshoeing in Bend Oregon immerses you in an incredible winter wonderland. Explore pristine trails blanketed in snow, with options suitable for all skill levels and goals.

Snowshoeing
Bend has lots of dedicated (marked) snowshoe trails nearby.

Where to Snowshoe Near Bend

The most common places to snowshoe near Bend are at snow parks (more commonly written as sno-parks).

In fact, there are lots of Bend sno-parks with dedicated and marked snowshoe trails including Virginia Meissner Sno-Park, Wanoga Snow Play Area, Swampy Lakes Sno-Park, Vista Butte Sno-Park, Kapka Butte Sno-Park, and Edison Butte Sno-Park.

Three Creek Snow Park warming hut
The warming hut at Three Creek Snow Park.

That is quite a few options! To help you decide, check out our full article about snowshoeing near Bend.

We also go into options for snowshoe rentals Bend Oregon. Learn more about sno-parks in our full article about sno-parks near Bend.

Winter Hiking Bend Oregon

Just because the weather is cold (and maybe some snow), doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy winter hiking in Bend.

In fact, Bend in winter is a great time for certain hiking trails, although those at higher elevation will be covered in snow.

The beautiful scenery at Skyliner Sno Park on a sunny day
The beautiful scenery at Skyliner Sno Park on a sunny day

That said, there are some great trails for winter hiking in Bend, including both mid-elevation trails (often with some snow), and lower-elevation trails (usually no snow).

These are some of our favorite winter hikes in Bend Oregon:

Tumalo Falls Winter Hike

A favorite Bend winter hike of many, the Tumalo Falls trail showcases a stunning frozen waterfall surrounded by snow-covered trees.

Skyliner Sno Park. Tumalo Falls in the winter.
Tumalo Falls in the winter can be access from Skyliner Sno Park ski and snowshoe trails.

The trailhead is easily accessible from Bend. The road closure in the winter makes this a 6-mile hike, but well worth it. Just expect some snow on the trail, although it is usually well trafficked and packed down.

Deschutes River Trail

For a more mellow Bend winter hike, consider the Deschutes River Trail. In fact, there are a lot of trails along the Deschutes River both in Bend and outside of town, with both paved and dirt options.

Deschutes River Trail
The Deschutes River Trail is a beautiful and accessible hike.

For a casual hike in town, but still with some nature if you want it, we recommend parking at Riverbend Park and doing the Deschutes River South Canyon Trail, a 3-mile loop completely along the river.

Deschutes River Trail
The Deschutes River Trail is mostly paved near the Old Mill District.

Alternatively, you can do one of the many options near the Old Mill District, which is a great option for a paved trail that shows a lot of the best parks in Bend. Check out one route variation here.

Learn more in our full article about the Deschutes River Trail.

Pilot Butte

For a short winter hike with panoramic views, ascend Pilot Butte. Don’t expect it to be a breeze though, the steep grade will get your heart rate up.

However, the views at the top are fantastic and well worth the effort. In the warmer months you can drive to the top, but you will find the road closed during winter.

The trail offers a unique perspective of Bend, especially during the quieter winter months.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a world-renowned hiking and rock-climbing destination. The main draw is the incredible rock formations at a large scale.

The entry sign at Smith Rock State Park.
The entry sign at Smith Rock State Park.

In addition, the landscape views from the top of said rocks are equally impressive on a clear day and are sure to stick with you after you visit.

If you have a sunny morning, drive the 45 minutes from Bend to visit Smith Rock. It is so worth it. There are lots of hike options of varying intensity. Plus, you can see a lot within just a short walk of the parking lot, making many views quite accessible.

We absolutely love Smith Rock and probably visit around 30 times a year. To be fair we live in Redmond just 15 minutes away.

Smith Rock has impressive rock formations and usually stay snow free most of the winter.

Local Tip: If you have some extra time, consider stopping for a bite to eat at one of the great restaurants in Redmond.

Don’t worry! This is just scratching the surface of winter hiking near Bend. In fact, there are tons of other great winter hikes near Bend. Learn more in our full article about hiking in Central Oregon.

Snowmobiling Bend Oregon

Snowmobiling near Bend is a popular winter activity for locals and visitors alike.

Snowmobiling lets you access incredible winter landscapes that can be difficult to reach otherwise, especially if you do one of the Bend snowmobile tours with a knowledgeable guide.

Snowmobiling Bend Oregon
Image from Cascade Lakes Adventures Facebook.

With miles of groomed trails and expansive backcountry areas, you can’t go wrong with snowmobiling near Bend, no matter your skill level.

Choose one of the sno-parks near Bend that has snowmobile trails to launch from including Wanoga Sno-Park and Edison Butte Sno-Park.

Snowmobile Tours Bend Oregon and Bend Snowmobile Rentals

There are several places for snowmobile rental Bend Oregon, including Cascade Lakes Adventures (also does highly rated tours) and Adrenaline Rentals.

Learn more in our full article about snowmobiling near Bend Oregon.

Indoor Winter Activities in Bend Oregon

In addition to all the great ways to get outside during winter in Bend, there are also no shortage of indoor activities if the weather is particularly chilly.

Bend Breweries and Tap Houses

When the winter chill sets in, cozy up in one of Bend’s renowned breweries and tap houses.

Bend Brew Bus Tours
Image from Bend Brew Bus website.

Bend is often hailed as the “Beer Town USA,” and for good reason. With an abundance of craft breweries, it’s a paradise for beer lovers (like us).

Explore the flavors of locally crafted brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all while enjoying the lively atmospheres that these breweries are known for.

Deschutes Brewery
Deschutes Brewery is a pioneer in Central Oregon. Image from Deschutes Brewery Facebook.
A Summary of Breweries in Bend Oregon

The table below shows most of the Bend Breweries.

BreweryEst.Short Summary
Deschutes Brewery1988Local craft beer that goes way back. Pub house and brewery that can be toured. Seasonal beers and classics. Full food menu at pub house location in downtown.
Crux Fermentation ProjectHigh quality ingredients. Amazing outdoor area with a view of the Cascade Mountains. Very family friendly. Food trucks.
Silver Moon Brewery2000Excellent outdoor seating area. Great beer. Food trucks. Keep an ear out for live music. Trivia on Thursdays. Best during warmer weather.
GoodLife Brewing Co.2011Year-round and seasonal brews. Nice family friendly outdoor area. Pub food. Great spot to hang before a concert at the Volcanic Theatre.
10 Barrel Brewing2006Great beer and quality pub food to match. Nice outdoor patio with firepits. Diverse beer selection.
Worthy Brewing2013East side of Bend. Live music events at an amazing outdoor space. Great beer and amazing food. Solid pizzas, salads, and burgers. Powered by solar!
Boneyard Pub2010Reputation for solid beers that have won lots of awards. Great place to watch a football game on Sunday. Founded in 2010, they have made their name in the Bend craft beer scene.
Sunriver Brewing2012Reputable brewery in Bend. They have a great westside pub location with good food, great beer, and a nice outdoor patio.
Bend Brewing Co.1995Amazing downtown location on the river. Award winning beer. Great food. Second oldest brew pub in Bend. 
Ale Apothecary2011Barrel aged beer using Oregon-grown ingredients. 100% naturally carbonated, with Oregon honey or fruit juices. Mashed in oak, boiled in copper, open-fermented in wood vats, then aged in barrels. The real deal!
Bevel Craft Brewing2019Disc golf themed brewery with a variety of creative brews including the dark and roasty Cascadian Dark Ale.
A summary of breweries in Bend Oregon.

Learn more about the best breweries in Bend.

Food truck lots in Bend are also a great place to spend a winter evening, as most have enclosed spaces with heaters and fires.

Local tip: The Lot is probably our favorite Bend food truck lot during winter. They go above and beyond with heated seats!

Museums in Bend

Bend museums are a great way to escape the winter chill while immersing yourself in the culture and history of Central Oregon. Discover captivating exhibits, art collections, and interactive displays at Bend’s museums. 

High Desert Museum live bird of prey presentation
A live bird of prey demonstration at the High Desert Museum. Image from their Facebook.
Museum NameDescription
High Desert MuseumA dynamic museum that combines art, wildlife, and history to provide a hands-on exploration of the high desert region. Discover exhibits on native wildlife, cultural history, and engaging outdoor experiences.
Deschutes Historical MuseumDelve into the rich history of Bend and Central Oregon through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Explore exhibits that tell the story of the region’s pioneers, logging industry, and growth into a vibrant community.
Bend Art CenterA hub for contemporary art, featuring rotating exhibits by local and regional artists. It’s a place to appreciate diverse artistic expressions, attend workshops, and connect with the thriving art scene in Bend.
Deschutes Historical Museum
The Deschutes Historical Museum on a snowy day. Image from their Facebook.

Learn more about in our full article about museums in Bend.

Indoor Concerts and Theaters

Live music is commonplace in many of Bend’s breweries and bars. However, there are also permanent performance venues and theaters that host concerts.

Tower Theater Bend Oregon
Tower Theatre in downtown Bend.
Indoor Concerts and Theaters in Bend Oregon 
Volcanic Theatre PubClassic and intimate concert venue without the embellishments. This place has a dance floor and theater seats. Many a jam sessions have sounded in its halls.
Midtown Ballroom / Domino RoomSimple small to medium sized concert venue. Second floor adds to the atmosphere. Lots of music variety. Standing room on main floor. One of the largest indoor venues in Bend.
Tower TheatreNeat and clean venue in downtown Bend. Seating room only. No standing space. A variety of performances. Many suitable for the whole family.

Local tip: Learn more about upcoming live music and other events at The Bend Bulletin event’s page.

Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory

When the nights are clear, venture to the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory for a unique indoor and outdoor experience. Fun fact: it is the largest publicly accessible observatory in the nation.

During the day, the nature center has nature exhibits and activities involving live animals that call Central Oregon home. At night, the observatory offers a unique start-gazing experience.

Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory
Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory. Image from their website.

Gaze at the night sky through powerful telescopes, and learn about the mysteries of the cosmos from knowledgeable astronomers. It’s an educational and awe-inspiring activity that’s perfect for a winter evening.

Local tip: While the observatory is a great family friendly activity, start-gazing is also quite romantic and makes for a solid date night.

Family Friendly Winter Activities in Bend Oregon

Bend has a lot of young families who reside and visit here, and therefore a lot of family-friendly activities.

Many of the restaurants and breweries in Bend are family friendly (including the pup). That said, there are so many more family friendly Bend winter activities!

Three Creek Snow Park warming hut
The warming hut at Three Creek Snow Park.

Bend Ice Skating

When it comes to Bend Oregon ice skating, you have three great options for family-friendly ice-skating rinks.

  • The Pavilion: Located in the heart of Bend, The Pavilion features a spacious ice-skating rink that is covered and suitable for all ages and skill levels.
  • Seventh Mountain Resort Ice Rink: This rink, located 10 minutes from Bend at Seventh Mountain Resort, offers a delightful outdoor ice-skating experience.
  • Sunriver Village Ice Rink: Just a short drive from Bend, Sunriver Village offers a charming, covered ice skating rink in a festive village setting.
Seventh Mountain Resort Ice Skating Rank
The ice rink at Seventh Mountain Resort. Image from their Facebook.

Ice skating in Bend is one of our favorite ways to embrace the winter season. Learn more in our full article about ice skating Bend Oregon.

Sledding and Snow Tubing Bend

There are two main options for snow tubing and sledding near Bend.

Wanoga Snow Play Area Sno-Park

Wanoga Sno-Park and Play Area is just a short drive from town (about 20 minutes) and is considered by many to be the best sledding hill near Bend.

There is almost always snow here during the winter months. The hill isn’t huge, but you can still get a lot of speed.

There are some Nordic/cross country trails as well as a sledding hill. Dogs can also run around here. You will need to purchase a Sno-Park Permit.

Local tip: There is a cozy warming shelter at the bottom of the sledding hill that is the perfect place to warm up and meet other people. Level up your experience with chairs, a fire pit, and some food and beverages!

Hoodoo Ski Area Tubing Park

Located about an hour drive from Bend, Hoodoo Ski Area offers a tubing park where you can zoom down groomed lanes with ease. It’s the best option for snow tubing near Bend.

Tubing at Hoodoo Ski Resort
Tubing at Hoodoo Ski Area is a blast! Image from their website.

There are a few other sledding hills sprinkled around Bend, but we’ll leave you to find those on your own!

Trampoline Park

For high-flying, gravity-defying family fun, one of the two trampoline parks in Bend is a fantastic choice. Choose between Mountain Air Trampoline Park and Trampoline Zone and Adventure Park

Mountain Air Indoor Trampoline Park
Kids (and adults) love trampolines! This is Mountain Air Trampoline Park from their Facebook.

These are indoor wonderlands where kids and adults alike can leap, flip, and bounce to their hearts’ content. The parks offer a variety of trampolines and features like foam pits and dodgeball courts.

Sled Dog Rides at Mt. Bachelor

Experience the exhilaration of a true winter adventure with sled dog rides at Mt. Bachelor. Imagine the thrill of being pulled through the snow by a team of eager sled dogs.

Sled Dog Rides at Mt. Bachelor
Sled dog rides at Mt. Bachelor. Image from their website.

At Mt. Bachelor, hop aboard a sled and let the experienced mushers guide you through a winter wonderland. It’s a hands-on experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Sled dog rides are suitable for kids above 3 years old, making it a fantastic family activity

Winter Festivals and Events in Bend Oregon

Bend Oregon Winterfest 2025: Feb 14 – 16

Bend Winterfest is a highlight of the winter calendar in Bend. This annual festival transforms the Old Mill District into a vibrant winter wonderland. Here, you’ll find a wide array of festival activities for all ages, including:

  • Live Music
  • Ice Sculptures
  • Hot Cocoa Run
  • Fire Pits
  • Local Food and Drink
  • Art Exhibits
Oregon Winter Fest
Oregon Winter Fest. Image from their website.

Oregon Winterfest is an annual highlight, bringing the community together to celebrate the beauty and excitement of winter in Bend.

Holiday Events in Bend

Bend takes the holiday season to another level with a host of festive activities and events.

  • Christmas Parade: Don’t miss the annual Christmas parade through downtown Bend, featuring twinkling lights, festive floats, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.
  • Holiday Markets: Explore holiday markets and craft fairs, perfect for finding unique gifts and handmade treasures.
  • Tree Lighting Ceremony: Witness the magic of the season at the official tree lighting ceremony, complete with caroling and hot cocoa.
  • Holiday Concerts: Enjoy special holiday concerts and performances that capture the spirit of the season.

Stay up to date on holiday events in Bend on the Bend Bulletin events page.

Where to Stay in Bend Oregon in Winter

When you visit Bend during the winter, where you stay affects your experience. For example, you may want to

Bend Hotels and Hostels

Hotels in Bend are a great option for a place to stay in Bend during the winter.

McMenamins Bend Oregon: Unique and Cozy

McMenamins Bend Oregon is a unique hotel and brewery in downtown Bend. It occupies a former elementary school in downtown Bend, and each room is a testament to creativity and imagination.

McMenamins Bend Oregon
The rooms are unique and cozy at McMenamins hotel in Bend. Image from their Facebook.

From whimsical artwork to charming décor and even a secret bar, every corner of this hotel tells a story. 

McMenamins Old St. Francis School Bend
The soaking pool at McMenamins. Image from their Facebook.

Enjoy on-site dining at their brewpub and explore the various themed spaces, including a soaking pool and a movie theater.

Bunk and Brew Bend – Best for Socializing

For travelers seeking a lively and communal atmosphere, Bunk and Brew Bend Oregon offers a vibrant lodging experience.

Bunk and Brew Bend
Bunk and Brew always has something fun happening. Image from their Facebook.

This boutique hostel and hotel brings people together through shared spaces, events, craft beer, and food trucks.

Hampton Inn and Suites Bend – Standard Hotel with Good Location

The Hampton Inn and Suites is a top choice for a hotel in Bend, all things considered. The balance of quality and affordability is in line with what most people enjoy.

The location is excellent: close to the river and shopping in the Old Mill District. This is a perfect place in Bend to stay when attending a concert at The Hayden Homes Ampitheatre.

The Oxford Hotel – Higher-End Hotel with Great Location

Looking for something a little more classy? Look no further than the Oxford Hotel. This boutique eco-friendly hotel offers suites with unique designs and luxurious amenities.

The Oxford Hotel Bend
The Oxford Hotel is located in downtown Bend. Image from their website.

Guests can enjoy access to a restaurant and bar, and a central downtown location for exploring the city’s attractions. The Oxford even made the Trip Advisor top 25 list for hotels in the U.S.

Lodges and Resorts in Bend

Bend lodges and resorts are a great way to add extra amenities during your winter stay in Bend. These lodges and resorts in Bend are great for skiing and other winter activities, but also golfing and other summer activities.

Seventh Mountain Resort – Great for Proximity to Skiing

First on the list is Seventh Mountain Resort, which is an affordable and inviting resort just 10 minutes west of Bend.

Seventh Mountain Resort Ice Skating Rank
The ice rink at Seventh Mountain Resort. Image from their Facebook.

Seventh Mountain is especially optimal for skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor because of its proximity to the mountain.

Skiing near Bend is a large draw for visitors and locals alike in the winter months. Seventh Mountain is the closest place you can stay to Mt. Bachelor without sleeping in the parking lot. 

Seventh Mountain has comfortable units with standard kitchenettes and other amenities.

Seventh Mountain Resort
Seventh Mountain Resort. Image from their website.

There is a solid outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as an ice-skating rink, and restaurant/bar that has after skiing specials all winter.

They also have a shuttle to Mt. Bachelor. Overall, Seventh Mountain is great for families and ski trips with friends.

Sunriver Resort – Great for Skiing and Extra Amenities

While not the closest to Bend, Sunriver Resort does win the prize for most amenities. This large resort has golf courses, indoor (year-round) pool, and a spa.

Sunriver Resort
Sunriver Resort has an awesome indoor pool. Image from their website.

In addition, they also have tons of unique events including yoga, horseback riding, and summer concerts. 

Throw in a restaurant, brewery, and ski shuttle to Mt. Bachelor and you can see why Sunriver Resort is ideal for the entire family.

LOGE Bend

LOGE Camps is a unique hotel/resort chain that offers an outdoor-adventure focused experience to its guests.

Their location is a great spot in between town and Mt. Bachelor. In the warmer months, the Bend location has on-site gear rentals, including paddleboards, kayaks, and tubes for floating the Deschutes River.

The Bend LOGE is in a great location between the cascade mountains (close to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort) and town with lots of great trails nearby.

The hotel chain donates 1% of its top line revenue at each location to local non-profits that support environmental conservation and responsible outdoor use.

Vacation Home Rentals

For travelers seeking a home away from home during their winter visit to Bend, short-term home rentals provide an excellent option.

Bend offers a variety of vacation homes, cabins, and condos that can be rented for short stays, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of home while experiencing all that the city has to offer. Check out Airbnb, VRBO, and Vacasa.

Winter in Bend Oregon FAQ

What is Bend Oregon like in the winter?

Winter in Bend, Oregon, is a picturesque season with snowy landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The city comes alive with winter activities and festivals, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Does it snow a lot in Bend Oregon?

Yes, Bend experiences a significant amount of snowfall in the winter months. The city’s elevation and proximity to the Cascade Mountains create ideal conditions for winter sports and activities. 

A skier going down a run at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort.
Abby going down a run to the bottom of the Outback Lift.

Bend gets about 2-3 big storms each year which dump 1-2 feet of snow in town. Other than that, there are about a dozen smaller storms that result in a few inches that melt quickly.

Usually, there is no snow on the ground in town in winter. The mountains are covered in deep snow all winter long.

Do you need chains to go to Bend Oregon?

During heavy snowfall or icy conditions, it’s advisable to carry chains or traction devices when driving to Bend, especially over the passes in the Cascades. Road conditions can vary, so it’s essential to be prepared.

Do you need winter tires in Bend Oregon?

While winter tires are not mandatory in Bend, they are recommended for enhanced safety and traction in snowy or icy conditions. They can significantly improve your winter driving experience.

Cars in the West Village Parking lot at Mt. Bachelor.
Cars in the West Village Parking lot at Mt. Bachelor.

How many months of winter does Bend Oregon have?

Bend typically experiences winter conditions from November to April, with the peak of the season occurring between December and February.

What is the coldest month in Bend Oregon?

January and February are usually the coldest months in Bend, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It’s the perfect time for snow sports and cozy indoor activities.

Is Bend fun in the winter?

Absolutely! Bend offers a wide range of winter activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and winter festivals. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or indoor relaxation, there’s something for everyone.

The warming hut at Three Creek Sno Park
The warming hut at Three Creek Sno Park.

Is it safe to drive from Portland to Bend in the winter?

Driving from Portland to Bend in the winter can be safe if you are prepared for winter road conditions. Check weather and road reports, carry necessary equipment, and drive cautiously in snowy or icy conditions.

What are winters like in Bend Oregon?

Winters in Bend are characterized by snow-covered landscapes, clear blue skies, and a vibrant outdoor scene. It’s a season for enjoying the beauty of the Central Oregon winter wonderland.

Two people cross-country skiing at Three Creek Snow Park
Cross-country skiing is popular in central Oregon.

Winter Bend Oregon: Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful when planning your activities in the winter in Bend Oregon. There truly are so many fun things to do in Bend in winter.

We call Central Oregon our home and are excited to share our knowledge with others, to help them make the most of this wonderful place.

Abby and I hiking to Paulina Falls in the winter.
Abby and I hiking to Paulina Falls in the winter.

In addition, you may also be interested in learning about more things to do in Bend, including Bend’s best coffee and cafes, restaurants, and breweries!

If you’re visiting or living in Bend, check out our other articles about Central Oregon and our Bend travel itineraries. Happy adventuring!

Author

Logan moved to Central Oregon in 2022 with Abby who has lived here most of her life. They love exploring and building a deeper connection with this region and the people who live and visit here.

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