Smith Rock State Park
Dramatic orange cliffs above a canyon.
Bend
A sunny high-desert town with many breweries, skiing on Mt. Bachelor and volcanic lava fields, at the edge of the Cascades.
The Deschutes River runs through the town. Smith Rock, a famous climbing spot, is close by, and the Ale Trail links over 30 breweries.
- Best Time
- June to September, December to March
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- About 3 hours from Portland.
What to See
0 of 4 are freeLava River Cave
A mile-long tube within Newberry Volcanic Monument.
Deschutes Brewery
The original craft beer stop.
Mt. Bachelor
Skiing into late spring.
Know Before You Go
- It's often windy and dry, so check for summer fire restrictions.
- Book in ski season.
Where to Stay
Stay downtown or near the Old Mill.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Pacific Northwest list.