Central Oregon Fall Guides
Central Oregon is a one stop shop for all things adventure, the best food, festivals and so much more.
Get Your Pumpkin Spice Fix
Fall is PSL season. Grab your favorite pumpkin spice drink but make it local! Some of our favorite spots are:
Fall Hiking
Fall is a wonderful time to explore Central Oregon trails because of the cooler temps and bright colors. Luckily, you don't have to go far to enjoy a good hike. We recommend:
- Smith Rock
- Central Oregon Badlands
- Tumalo Falls
- Pilot Butte
- Riley Ranch Reserve
- Deschutes River Trail
Visit the Pumpkin Patch!
Wander through a corn maize, enjoy hayrides, and search for the perfect pumpkin all with Smith Rock as your backdrop at Smith Rock Ranch. The pumpkin patch is a family (and dog friendly) activity that you won't want to miss this season.
Check our DD Ranch for even more pumpkin patch fun, including pony rides, petting zoo and shooting galleries. There is something for everyone (except your dog).
Cast a Line
With Central Oregon’s 300 days of sunshine, fall is a great time to find an open bank to fly fish and social distance, naturally. Grab your waders and head to some of our favorite spots to cast your line:
Cozy Up by a Firepit
Fall is a great time to dine outside under blue, crisp skies and around the firepit. Plus, it has beers on tap, it is pet-friendly, and it offers a variety of eats—what more could you ask for? Here are some of our top picks to do just that:
Leaf Chasin'
See some of the prettiest colors in Central Oregon on your morning walk for coffee, a stroll by the river, a walk with your dog at the park, or an afternoon hike.
Fall Mountain Biking
Mountain bikers rejoice! Fall is the perfect time to find some new trails! If you didn't bring a bike with you, head to Project Bike Bend or Pine Mountain Sports for rentals. Some suggestions are below:
Disc Golf
Fall is a great time to play disc golf in Bend with the crisp air and changing scenery. Luckily, you don’t have to go far to find an amazing course. We recommend checking out:
Visit the Observatories
Fall is the perfect season to stargaze in Central Oregon, with clear skies and cool evenings. Luckily, you don’t have to go far to experience the night sky.
Go Caving
Fall is a perfect season for caving in Central Oregon, offering cooler weather for exploring underground wonders. You don’t have to travel far to find an unforgettable experience. For a unique adventure, we suggest checking out:
Clothing & Gear
Fall in Central Oregon offers cool, crisp days and chilly evenings, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures with the whole family. Layering is key to staying comfortable as temperatures fluctuate, whether you’re hiking, exploring vibrant fall colors, or enjoying other outdoor activities.
Clothing Essentials:
- Tops: Long-sleeve shirts, lightweight sweaters, fleece, or a hoodie.
- Outerwear: Insulated jacket or vest for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Bottoms: Hiking pants or leggings.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots (rain is possible).
- Accessories: Hat, gloves, beanie for cooler weather.
Gear for Fall Adventures:
- Hydration: Reusable water bottle or hydration pack.
- Weather Protection: Rain gear for early-season storms.
- Outdoor Fun: Camera for capturing fall colors, fishing gear for rivers and lakes.
- For Kids: A daypack with water and snacks, and a nature journal or sketchpad for inspiration.
Scenic Fall Drives
Fall in Central Oregon offers some of the most breathtaking scenic drives, with vibrant foliage and stunning landscapes around every turn. These drives provide the perfect way to take in the season's beauty at a leisurely pace.
- Ochoco National Forest: A hidden gem for fall foliage and tranquil landscapes.
- Willamette National Forest: Stunning fall colors along forested roads, particularly around Clear Lake.
Activities
Fall in Central Oregon offers a wide range of activities, from scenic hikes and mountain biking to enjoying the vibrant fall foliage. Whether you're exploring trails or cozying up by a fire, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
- Outdoor:
- Bike the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway.
- Photograph the golden aspen trees at Shevlin Park.
- Visit Smith Rock State Park to catch climbers in action and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Hiking lower trails (like Smith Rock) and biking in the cooler weather.
- Indoor:
- Enjoy fall-inspired menus at local restaurants.
- Warm up with a coffee at Looney Bean Coffee Roasters or a hot cider from the farmers market.
For the Dogs
Fall in Central Oregon is perfect for outdoor adventures with your dog. With cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery, it's a great time to explore trails and parks, so be sure to bring everything your dog needs for a comfortable outing.
- Lightweight jacket for chilly mornings.
- Poop bags and leash (check for leash regulations on trails).
- Towel for drying off after wet or muddy adventures.
- Collapsible bowl and water supply.
- Reflective gear for low-light conditions.
Plan Your Fall Stay
Golden Pheasant Chalet
This spacious home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, including two master suites—one with a jacuzzi tub and private hot tub access. Enjoy the fully stocked kitchen, cozy living area with vaulted ceilings, and stunning golf course views. Relax on the patio, unwind in the hot tub, or explore nearby walking trails. Perfect for family and friends, with plenty of space and comfort for everyone. Book your stay today!
Central Oregon Vacation Rentals
Central Oregon Vacation Homes has a robust lineup of cozy vacation rentals that will suit all of your vacation dreams. Relax next to the fireplace, soak in the hot tub, hear the trickle of the river out your window, or sip a cup of coffee at the local coffee shop. Your Bend vacation rental is waiting for you now!
Central Oregon Vacation Homes is a locally owned and operated vacation rental company and vacation rental property manager located in Bend, Oregon.