Winter in Bend Oregon is a magical time of year when the city and nearby 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 fun activities, where to eat, and lodging options!
So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through the offerings of winter activities in Bend Oregon.
Things to do in Bend Oregon in Winter
There are so many fun things to do in Bend Oregon in Winter, including a variety of fun activities (indoors and outdoors), events, and festivals!
In this article, we’ll discuss things to do in Bend during winter, broken up into the following sections:
– Outdoor winter activities in Bend
– Indoor winter activities in Bend
– Winter festivals and holiday events in Bend
– Where to stay during winter in Bend
– Questions and answers about winter in Bend
Let’s continue to learn about the best Bend winter activities!
Outdoor Winter Activities Bend Oregon
When winter arrives, central Oregon transforms into a winter wonderland. Well, not exactly all of it.
Actually, Bend itself is mostly snow-free during winter, with the exception of a few larger storms (6-12+ inches of snow) and perhaps a dozen or so light dustings each winter.
In contrast, the Cascade Mountains just west of Bend, where Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is located, receive lots of snow between December and April.
The variation in altitude and snow level makes for an amazing combination of accessible snow-activities and snow-free fun at lower elevations.
That means you can ski on a volcano in the morning and bask in the winter sun on the outdoor patio of your favorite restaurant, brewery, cafe in the afternoon!
Bend Oregon Skiing and Snowboarding
Central Oregon is known for its dry and cold winter climate, which produces lots of big snowstorms and also plenty of sunny powder days.
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.
The table below compares the three ski areas near Bend. Each one is unique and has its advantages and shortcomings.
| Ski Resort | Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort | Hoodoo Ski Area | Willamette Pass Ski Resort |
| Distance From Bend | 22 miles | 44 miles | 70 miles |
| Size | Largest | Smallest | |
| Night Skiing | No | Yes | No |
| Nordic Skiing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Snow Tubing | Sometimes | Yes | No |
| Rates | Most Expensive See Prices | See Prices | Least Expensive See Prices |
| Lessons and Rentals | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Mt. Bachelor is the closest, largest, and most expensive among the ski resorts near Bend. Willamette Pass is the furthest, smallest, and cheapest. Hoodoo is somewhere in the middle!
Learn more in our full article about skiing near Bend.
Cross Country Skiing Bend Oregon
For those seeking an engaging but slower-paced winter excursion, Central Oregon’s snow-covered landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for Bend cross-country skiing.
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.
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.
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.
The most common places to snowshoe near Bend are at snow parks (more commonly written as sno-parks). In fact, there are several Bend sno-parks with dedicated and marked snowshoe trails.
Our favorites are Virginia Meissner Sno-Park, Wanoga Snow Play Area, Swampy Lakes Sno-Park, and Three Creek Snow Park.
For more information, check out our full article about snowshoeing near Bend and 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 lower elevation hiking trails when those at higher elevation are covered in snow.
The table below shows our favorite winter hikes in Bend Oregon.
| Bend Winter Hike | Drive Time from Bend | Round-Trip Distance | Overview |
| Tumalo Falls | 15 minutes | 6 miles | Iconic waterfall. Snow on ground likely. |
| Deschutes River Trail | In town | Variable | Riverside trail in town. Urban and natural sections. |
| Pilot Butte | In town | 2 miles | Amazing 360-degree views. |
| Smith Rock State Park | 45 minute | Variable | Stunning rock formations. |
Hiking during winter near Bend is a great way to get outside and take advantage of the usually snow-free trails at lower elevations or opt for a snowy trail at higher elevations.
There are tons of other great winter hikes near Bend. Learn more in our full article about winter hiking in Bend.
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.
Ice skating in Bend is one of the best family-friendly ways to embrace the winter season!
Snow-Tubing and Sledding Near Bend
The best place for sledding near Bend is Wanoga Snow Play Area. There is a dedicated sledding hill as well as a warming shelter which is perfect for socializing and getting out of the cold.
For tubing Hoodoo Ski Area is the best option. They usually build a snow-tubing hill, or as they call it, an “Autobahn Tubing Park” that is all-around amazing!
Snowmobiling Bend Oregon
Snowmobiling near Bend is a popular winter activity for locals and visitors alike because you can access incredible winter landscapes that can be difficult to reach otherwise.
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, Kapka and Edison Butte.
There are several places for snowmobile rentals, including Cascade Lakes Adventures (also does highly rated tours) and Adrenaline Rentals.
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.
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.
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, Restaurants, and Food Truck Lots
When the winter chill sets in, cozy up in one of Bend’s renowned breweries, a delicious restaurant, or one of the many food truck areas.
In the last 30 years, Bend has built a strong reputation for excellent craft beer, produced in over a dozen dedicated breweries.
Explore the iconic local flavors and try seasonal brews! Most of the breweries in Bend Oregon have tasty food, even though the real focus is on the hops.
The table below lists most of the breweries in Bend.
| Brewery | Est. | Short Summary |
| Deschutes Brewery | 1988 | Local 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 Project | High quality ingredients. Amazing outdoor area with a view of the Cascade Mountains. Very family friendly. Food trucks. | |
| Silver Moon Brewery | 2000 | Excellent outdoor seating area. Great beer. Food trucks. Keep an ear out for live music. Trivia on Thursdays. Best during warmer weather. |
| GoodLife Brewing Co. | 2011 | Year-round and seasonal brews. Nice family friendly outdoor area. Pub food. Great spot to hang before a concert at the Volcanic Theatre. |
| 10 Barrel Brewing | 2006 | Great beer and quality pub food to match. Nice outdoor patio with firepits. Diverse beer selection. |
| Worthy Brewing | 2013 | East 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 Pub | 2010 | Reputation 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 Brewing | 2012 | Reputable brewery in Bend. They have a great westside pub location with good food, great beer, and a nice outdoor patio. |
| Bend Brewing Co. | 1995 | Amazing downtown location on the river. Award winning beer. Great food. Second oldest brew pub in Bend. |
| Ale Apothecary | 2011 | Barrel 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 Brewing | 2019 | Disc golf themed brewery with a variety of creative brews including the dark and roasty Cascadian Dark Ale. |
There are tons of amazing restaurants in Bend as well, serving a diversity of cuisines and price-points.
Food truck lots in Bend are also a great place to spend a winter evening, as most have enclosed spaces with heaters and fires.
The Lot is Bend’s first food cart lot and offers a cozy and comfortable space. In the winter, they enclose the seating area while gas fireplaces and heated benches ensure maximum coziness!
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.
| Bend Museum Name | Description |
| High Desert Museum | A 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 Museum | Delve 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 Center | A 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. |
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.
| Volcanic Theatre Pub | Classic 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 Room | Simple 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 Theatre | Neat 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.
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.
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.
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.
Festivals and Winter Events in Bend Oregon
Bend winter events and festivals are a great way to bring some cheer and celebrate this special time of year. Don’t let the cold keep you inside!
Bend Oregon Winterfest 2026: Feb 13 – 15
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 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.
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.
From whimsical artwork to charming décor and even a secret bar, every corner of this hotel tells a story.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Does it snow a lot in Bend Oregon?
Bend typically 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.
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.
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 January and March.
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.
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.
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.
In addition, you may also be interested in learning about more things to do in Bend and our other articles about central Oregon.
Also, subscribe to our YouTube and follow us on Instagram for more inspiration for exploring the PNW. Happy roaming!
