Central Oregon is one of the most dramatic hiking landscapes in the American West — volcanic peaks, old-growth ponderosa pine, crystalline alpine lakes, and canyon walls that rise 800 feet straight out of the high desert. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or moving here permanently, these ten trails belong on your list.
A Note on Conditions
Most trails in the Cascades and Central Oregon are snow-covered from November through late May. Always check recreation.gov and the Deschutes National Forest website for current conditions before heading out. A free Northwest Forest Pass ($30/year) is required at many trailheads.
1. Smith Rock Misery Ridge Loop
The signature hike of Central Oregon. Misery Ridge earns its name with a steep, exposed climb up 800 steps of compressed gravel, but the payoff — panoramic views of Crooked River Canyon, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters — is worth every step. Continue the loop via the River Trail for a full circuit. Arrive before 9am on weekends to beat the crowds. Dogs allowed on leash.
2. Tumalo Falls to Happy Valley
Starting at the base of Tumalo Falls — a stunning 97-foot cascade just 12 miles west of Bend — this trail climbs through mixed forest past five additional waterfalls into a high alpine basin. The lower 1-mile stretch to the main falls is paved and accessible. Extend the trip to the Double Falls for bragging rights. Winter visits offer spectacular ice formations.
3. Green Lakes Trail
One of the most photographed trails in Oregon, Green Lakes follows Fall Creek through old-growth forest before opening into a glacial basin below Broken Top and South Sister. The three emerald-green lakes sit at 6,500 feet and are surrounded by wildflowers in July and August. A permit lottery is required June–September due to heavy use — plan well in advance.
4. Tam McArthur Rim
Near Sisters, this trail climbs through forest before breaking out onto a sweeping ridgeline with some of the best Cascade views in the region — Three Creek Lake below, South Sister and Broken Top straight ahead, and Mount Jefferson to the north. The payoff-to-effort ratio is exceptional. Wildflowers in late July are world-class.
5. Paulina Peak Summit
The highest point in Newberry Volcanic Monument at 7,985 feet, Paulina Peak delivers one of the most mind-bending views in Oregon: Paulina Lake and East Lake sitting inside a 500,000-year-old volcano caldera below you, with the Cascade Range from Shasta to Rainier on the horizon. You can drive to the summit or hike the south rim trail. Do both directions if you can.
6. Deschutes River Trail — Bend to Big Eddy
This is Bend’s backyard trail — 22 miles of paved path following the Deschutes River from the Old Mill District north through rapids, pine forest, and lava rock canyon. Perfect for beginners, families, runners, and cyclists. The Big Eddy stretch near Tumalo State Park offers class IV rapids views and a swimming hole locals love.
7. South Sister Summit
Oregon’s third-highest peak at 10,358 feet, South Sister is a legitimate alpine climb that non-mountaineers can complete in a day — no technical gear required after snowmelt. The summit crater holds the highest lake in Oregon. Start at the Devils Lake trailhead and allow 8–10 hours. Permits required June–October.
8. Todd Lake Loop
The easiest alpine lake hike in the area, with views of Broken Top reflected in the water. This is a perfect first hike for families with young kids or visitors who want the mountain experience without the effort. The campground here fills up fast in summer — reserve well in advance. Fall colors in late September are stunning.
9. Horse Ridge — Badlands Rock
The high desert alternative to Cascade hiking. The Badlands Wilderness east of Bend offers a completely different landscape — ancient juniper forest, lava rock ridges, and wide desert skies. Perfect for shoulder season (March–April, October–November) when the mountains are snowed in. The eerie twisted juniper forms here are unlike anything else in the region.
10. Phil’s Trail Network
Primarily known as a mountain biking destination, Phil’s Trail on the west side of Bend has outstanding hiking too — wide pine-covered singletrack with minimal technical difficulty. The network connects to the Cascades Lakes Highway and offers route options for all fitness levels. Dogs are allowed, and the open ponderosa forest makes navigation intuitive even without a map.
Practical Tips for Hiking Central Oregon
Water sources on most trails are limited. Filter all surface water — giardia is present throughout Oregon’s backcountry. Most Central Oregon trailheads require a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass. The America the Beautiful Pass ($80/year) covers all federal lands and pays for itself quickly if you plan to visit multiple times.
For real-time trail conditions, closures, and permit information, follow @BendTrailstewards and check the Deschutes National Forest trail alerts page before every trip.
Planning a Trip to Central Oregon?
Whether you’re scouting for a visit or considering a move, Team Homeward Found knows every trailhead, neighborhood, and hidden gem in the region. Let’s talk.