A Perfect Weekend Adventure Getaway: Bend, Oregon - Sahalie Falls and Smith Rock State Park
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Arrival into Redmond Regional Airport and pick up the rental car
Start your adventure by exploring Bend's vibrant downtown area, strolling along Wall Street, and visiting the local shops and art galleries.
Rent bicycles from one of the many rental shops in town and take a leisurely ride along the scenic Deschutes River Trail.
Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at one of Bend's top-rated restaurants. Some popular options include Wild Rose, Podski, Ariana, 900 Wall, or Drake.
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Morning:
Embark on a day trip to Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls, located on the McKenzie River. Admire the stunning waterfalls, hike the scenic trails, and take in the beauty of the surrounding forest.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints along the trails. Make sure to stop at Sno Cap on the way out of Sisters to grab some homemade ice cream!
Afternoon:
Return to Bend and visit the famous Old Mill District. Explore the unique shops, catch some waves at the Whitewater Park, or take a leisurely stroll along the Deschutes River.
Evening:
Indulge in a brewery tour and beer tasting at one of Bend's renowned craft breweries, such as Deschutes Brewery, Warming Hut, or Bend Brewing Company.
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Morning:
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the charming cafes, like Chow or Sparrow Bakery.
Embark on an early morning adventure to Smith Rock State Park, located northeast of Bend. Hike the iconic Misery Ridge Trail for breathtaking views of the park's towering cliffs and the Crooked River winding through the landscape.
Afternoon:
Head back to the airport to catch your afternoon flight back home after a great weekend getaway
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Head to the High Desert Museum, located just outside of Bend, to learn about the region's rich natural and cultural history.
Spend the afternoon hiking or exploring the picturesque Shevlin Park, known for its lush forests, sparkling streams, and tranquil atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the scenic Drake Park. Take a walk around Mirror Pond, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the grassy banks of the Deschutes River.
Have yourself an adventure and check out the world class skiing at Mt. Bachelor
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Pacific Northwest, Bend, Oregon, offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes and a plethora of recreational activities, Bend has become a go-to destination for adventurers seeking a weekend getaway. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through a memorable weekend in Bend, focusing on our visits to the breathtaking Sahalie Falls and the rock-climbing paradise of Smith Rock State Park. Join us as we explore the wonders of nature in this captivating corner of Oregon.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration - Upon arriving in Bend, we immediately felt the embrace of its warm and inviting atmosphere. The town's charming downtown area offers a variety of local shops, art galleries, and mouthwatering dining options. We spent the day leisurely strolling through the streets, savoring delectable cuisine, and immersing ourselves in Bend's vibrant culture. The trip there is quite convenient making this destination a perfect weekend spot. Jordan has just started his flight training which means that we officially have access to SkyWest’s travel benefits! This was an adventure in itself. We jetted off around 6:15am from San Diego and arrived in San Fransisco. After a 3-hour layover, we boarded our 45-minute flight to Redmond. Redmond is the closest “major” airport which we would recommend flying into. From there, we rented a car and were off the plane and on our way within 15 minutes. Since this was a pretty last minute trip (booked at 11:50 pm the night before…) we didn’t have a solid plan for the weekend.
We decided to stay in the Mill District which is the main area within the city. The Mill District in Bend, Oregon, owes its name and historical significance to the lumber mills that once operated in the area, contributing to the town's growth and shaping its identity as a thriving timber industry hub. Things to do here include walking along the Deschutes River, watching the river surfers at the Whitewater Park, eating at the amazing restaurants, and walking through the REI which is located in the old sawmill. After checking into the Marriott Residence Inn, Jordan and I drove around the city and explored the different neighborhoods. One thing that stood out quickly is how close everything is. On the map, downtown looks “far” when in reality everything is separated by about 5 minutes.
Before choosing a restaurant for dinner, we had to check out Bend’s most famous landmark… the last-ever Blockbuster! The Last Blockbuster in Bend, Oregon, is like a nostalgic time machine where you can rewind to the days of VHS tapes and discover forgotten movie gems with a side of popcorn. Visiting the Last Blockbuster is not just about renting a movie; it's about experiencing a slice of cinematic history and reliving the joy of choosing the perfect film for an evening of entertainment. It serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of technology and media consumption, while also celebrating the enduring charm of physical movie rentals. Is it worth the visit? YES! It is about 2 minutes outside of the main downtown of Bend and it is worth it for the family shot infront of the iconic blue and yellow Blockbuster sign.
After driving and exploring the city, we were ready for some yummy dinner. The food scene in Bend is by far the best surprise in this small town. We started off at Miyagi Ramen for a warm bowl of ramen before heading to the Warming Hut to try some of the famous brews around Bend. After this, we walked about this shopping center and found ourselves in the only Black Dimond stand-alone store in the US. If you are a rock climber, this is definitely worth the stop. We continued our food tour over to the downtown area to try the iconic Bend Brewing Company which was my highlight of the food in Bend! Even though it may be crowded, this spot is well worth the wait. I would recommend the fish and chips! Make sure you do not miss out on their back patio as there is a wonderful view of the river.
Day 2: Majestic Beauty at Sahalie Falls - On the second day of our adventure, we set out to explore the natural wonders surrounding Bend, starting with a visit to Sahalie Falls. Located just a 1 hour drive from town, Sahalie Falls is a spectacular 100-foot waterfall that cascades into the pristine McKenzie River. In order to get to the falls, we needed to pass through the town of Sisters. Sisters, Oregon, is a charming Western-themed town nestled in the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, offering a delightful blend of outdoor adventure, cozy shops, and a welcoming community. The main highlight for us was the Sisters Coffee Co. where Jordan go THE BEST caramel, bourbon oat-milk latte. 1000% worth the quick stop on the way to the chilly mountain. Next stop, Sahalie Falls.
As we hiked along the well-maintained trail leading to the falls, we were greeted by the harmonious sound of rushing water and the fresh scent of the forest. The trail provided breathtaking viewpoints, allowing us to witness the sheer power and beauty of Sahalie Falls from different angles. The emerald-green water thunderously plummeted over the rugged rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's force. The trail is an easy trail accessible to most.
After spending some time marveling at the falls and capturing photos to commemorate the moment, we continued our hike to Koosah Falls, another nearby gem. The 70-foot Koosah Falls offered a serene and tranquil setting, complementing the grandeur of Sahalie Falls perfectly. We couldn't resist dipping our toes into the cool, crystal-clear water and relishing the peacefulness of the surroundings. As you drive back down to Bend, it is worth stopping at some of the various lakes and viewpoints along the way back. Leave time to explore the incredible forest area!
After a long day of exploring the waterfalls and lakes, the day would not be complete without a stop at Sno Cap Drive-In for some warm hamburgers, crispy onion rings and of course, homemade ice cream to top it off. We headed back down to Bend and took a quick nap before heading out on the town for some dinner. We walked along the river again exploring the various shops in the mill district and watching the paddle boarders peacefully float the river. We stopped at the Deschutes Brewing Company for a beer and played some darts before heading to Jackson’s Corner for homemade bread and pizza. We ordered the Jackson’s Bakery Bread with homemade butter, the Mixed Greens salad which was incredible, and the Margherita with some local sausage on top. Jaskson’s corner is a local sustainable bakery that offers an array of grocery staples, grab-go items, and coffee. At night, the lights turn down and the place is lit by candle offering a romantic and peaceful cafe vibe with an amazing menu made with locally grown ingredients.
Day 3: Adventure at Smith Rock State Park - On our final day in Bend, we headed to the renowned Smith Rock State Park, a haven for rock climbers and hikers alike. Located along the banks of the Crooked River, this geological wonderland boasts towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and breathtaking vistas.
We embarked on the popular Misery Ridge Trail, which rewarded us with panoramic views of the entire park. The challenging ascent was well worth it as we reached the summit and took in the awe-inspiring sight of the Crooked River winding through the dramatic cliffs. The park's iconic Monkey Face formation captured our attention—a rock pillar resembling a monkey's face—adding an element of whimsy to the awe-inspiring landscape.
Smith Rock State Park offers various trails catering to different skill levels and interests. From the peaceful riverside trails to the exhilarating rock climbing routes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. As we hiked back down, we couldn't help but be grateful for the opportunity to experience such an incredible natural wonder.
Conclusion: Bend, Oregon, is a true outdoor paradise, and our weekend getaway left us in awe of the beauty that this region has to offer. From the thundering majesty of Sahalie Falls to the breathtaking vistas of Smith Rock State Park, we were treated to an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, Bend should undoubtedly be at the top of your travel list. Plan your visit, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes!