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Beyond the Big Stuff

Central Oregon has lots of well-known outdoor destinations and many other equally stunning spots, too. Here’s where to go to stay away from the pack
Avatar photo Nicole Vulcan

The beauty and outdoor adventures that await in Central Oregon are probably some of the big reasons you find yourself visiting here. It’s why we live here, too—and very likely why the people in the Airbnb next door to you are here as well. With the region’s reputation comes lots of people, looking to enjoy […]

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Winter Paradise

Cabins, cocktails and winter fun await at Elk Lake Resort in the Cascades
Chris Miller

Plenty of locals have only been to Elk Lake in the summer. The views and the abundant trails and camping make this area fun—but crowded. But if you love snow sports—and snow in general—winter at Elk Lake can be a paradise. The route to Elk Lake from the Dutchman Flat Snopark, along Century Drive near […]

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Go with the Float

Everything you need to know before floating the Deschutes River
Bron Wickum

After adventuring the Cascades and exploring the Old Mill District, it’s time to relax. Grab an inflatable donut and meet at Riverbend Park to enjoy one of Central Oregon’s most popular and majestic attractions the right way. Sit on your biscuit and float your way through downtown Bend taking in all the beautiful scenery—but just […]

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Pole Pedal Paddle

A scenic race showcasing Bend’s inclusive outdoor culture, from Mt. Bachelor to the Deschutes River
Avatar photo Keely Damara

Central Oregon is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Runners and athletes need only throw a stone and hit various athletic events, from races for runners and skiers, in the same weekend. But there’s a race that embodies the best that Bend has to offer, all wrapped neatly into one event. From skiing and running to kayaking […]

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Fun with the Kids

10 spots to take the family in Central Oregon
Annette Benedetti

Central Oregon is full of activities for adults, but there’s plenty for kids to as well. Here’s where adventure-loving parents—and their kids—are guaranteed to up the fun-factor in any family outing.

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10 Mountain Bike Rides near Bend

Trails to ride, from beginner to expert
Katy Bryce

Central Oregon is a mountain bikers dream come true. From family friendly cruiser trails that start near Bend, to remote, high elevation rides, there’s something for everyone. Below are my top 10 rides, from beginner to expert, two hours or less from Bend. For more inspiration, check out Mountain Bike Bend: 46 Singletrack Routes, Bend’s […]

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Keep Calm and Float On

Read this before you float the Deschutes River
Avatar photo Magdalena Bokowa

Exhausted from all that mountain biking/hiking/rock climbing you’ve been doing in Central Oregon? Time to kick back, climb into a rubber donut, soak in those 300(ish) days of sunshine and float 90(ish) minutes through downtown Bend. It’s the perfect excuse to experience our brilliant river without the fear of getting knocked off by a rogue […]

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10 Hikes in Central Oregon

When in Bend or beyond, here’s where to hike and breathe that fresh mountain/desert air
Brittany Manwill

Central Oregon boasts no shortage of hiking trails. These 10 options include easy-to-follow paths and showcase the variety of terrain the high desert has to offer. From beginner to advanced, pick your poison. More information on these hikes and many others can be found in Brittany’s book, Day Hiking Bend & Central Oregon – available […]

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Getting Out and About?

Here’s what you need to get before you hit our trails and sno-parks
Chris Miller

Sno-park Info: Shoes, water, snacks, itinerary left with a friend—check, check, check, check. Now don’t forget your parking permit. They’re required in the Deschutes National Forest parking areas including Tumalo Falls, Dillon Falls picnic site and Benham West Trailhead. They’re $5 per day or $30 for the season. Buy them online and print at home, […]

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Snow Fun

A primer on our beautiful mountains
The Source Staff

MT BACHELOR Mt. Bachelor Resort has been open to the public since Dec. 19, 1958. It opened with one lift available to the public and now there are seven! It’s now grown to one the sixth-largest ski area in the U.S. Phone: 541-382-1709 Acres of Terrain: 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain/ 4,318 Skiable acres (with […]

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