Central Oregon Spring Guides

Plan Your Spring Stay

Spring Skiing At Mt. Bachelor

Don't underestimate a day of spring skiing at Mt. Bachelor. Start your day on the hill with bluebird skies, and finish with après ski. With a little bit of preparation, your powder day will be all fun and no fuss!

• Step One: Check Road Conditions (Tripcheck.com)
• Step Two: Order Your Passes (MtBachelor.com)
• Step Three: Show Up Early for First Come, First Serve Parking
• Step Four: Ski Down (be sure to wear a face covering) and sunscreen!

Hike Central Oregon

Spring weather is ideal for hiking—it's not too hot, and it's (usually) not too cold. We recommend:

• Smith Rock
• The Oregon Badlands
• Cline Butte
• Deschutes River Trail
• Steins Pillar
• Chimney Rock
• Alder Springs Trail
• Metolius Preserve
• Big Obsidian Flow 
• Tumalo Mountain Trail
• Tamolitch Blue Pool

Bring the Dogs!

Vacationing with the dogs this spring? Here are some great, dog friendly trails to checkout:

• Pine Nursery Park
• Rim Rock Good Dog
• The Oregon Badlands
• Deschutes River Trail
• Steelhead Falls
• Horse Butte
• Green Lakes Trail
• Chush Falls

Patio Season

Central Oregon's food scene has many great options for outdoor dining. A few of our favorite places to dine under the sun are below. All pet friendly!

• Crux
• River's Place
• General Duffy's
• On Tap Bend
• Midtown Yacht Club
• Sunriver Brewing
• Spork
• Jackson's Corner

Golf

Central Oregon offers scenic, world-class golf courses for all skill levels. Here are some of the top spots to tee off:

• Glaze Meadow
• Brasada Canyons Golf Course
• Awbrey Glen Golf Course
• River's Edge Golf Course
• Eagle Crest Golf Course
• The Greens at Redmond 
• Aspen Lakes Golf Course

Waterfalls

Central Oregon is home to stunning waterfalls, each offering a unique experience. Here are some of the must-see falls in the area:

• Tumalo Falls
• Cline Falls
• Paulina Falls
• Salt Creek Falls
• Sahalie & Koosah Falls
• Proxy Falls
• Steelhead Falls 
• Toketee Falls

Bird Watching

Central Oregon is a paradise for bird watchers, with diverse habitats and a wide range of species. Here are some top spots to catch a glimpse of local wildlife:

• Old Mill District
• Deschutes River Trail
• Hatfield Ponds
• Shevlin Park
• High Desert Museum
• Pilot Butte
• Ancient Juniper Trail
• Cougar Woods Loop

Rock Climbing

Central Oregon is a rock climber’s dream, with towering cliffs and rugged terrain perfect for all skill levels. Check out these top climbing spots in the area:

• Smith Rock State Park (Outdoor)
• Trout Creek Climbing Area (Outdoor)
• Meadow Camp Climbing Area (Outdoor)
• The Circuit (Indoor)
• Boardworks (Indoor)
• Bend Rock Gym (Indoor)
  

Paddle Board

Central Oregon offers perfect conditions for paddleboarding, with serene lakes and rivers to explore. Here are the best spots to get out on the water:

• Suttle Lake
• Todd Lake 
• Deschutes River
• Clear Lake
• Crescent Lake
• Prineville Reservoir
• Lake Billy Chinook
• Twin Lakes

Snowmobile Adventures 

Octane Adventures offers exhilarating snowmobile experiences that showcase Central Oregon’s stunning winter landscapes. Specializing in guided snowmobile tours, they provide top-quality equipment and expert guides to lead you through pristine, snow-covered trails, from towering mountain ridges to serene forest paths. Octane Adventures adds an adrenaline-packed edge to winter getaways, allowing guests to embrace the thrill of the season while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a first-time rider or an experienced snowmobiler, these tours are the ideal way to make the most of winter in Central Oregon!

Clothing & Gear

Spring in Central Oregon is a time of transition, with mild days and cool evenings. Light layers are ideal for daytime activities, while a warmer jacket or sweater is perfect for crisp nights. Be prepared for changing weather to make the most of the season.

Layers: Lightweight fleece, long-sleeve shirts, and moisture-wicking T-shirts.
Outerwear: Waterproof jacket and pants (rain is possible).
Bottoms: Hiking pants or leggings for daytime, jeans for casual outings.
Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots and trail shoes.
Accessories: Gloves, hat, and sunglasses for changing weather conditions.

Gear for Outdoor Adventures:
Essentials: Daypack for hikes, waterproof covers for gear, and a reusable water bottle.
Trail Support: Hiking poles for muddy trails.
Activity-Specific: Pack for lower-elevation hikes and mountain biking. If snow remains in the mountains, bring snowshoes or cross-country ski gear.

Scenic Spring Drives

Spring in Central Oregon is an ideal time for scenic drives, with blooming wildflowers and lush landscapes around every turn. These drives offer a relaxed way to take in the beauty of the season and explore the region's diverse scenery.

• Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (Partial): Opens as snow melts, offering views of lakes and snow-capped mountains.
• McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway: Typically opens mid-spring, with winding roads through lava fields and breathtaking vistas.

Spring Lodging Special

Our homes are family-friendly, pet-friendly, and many feature hot tubs and fireplaces, perfect for any season. Plan your stay this Spring and receive 20% off a stay of 3 or more nights. 

Wood Carvers Cabin

Escape to Wood Carvers Cabin, a beautifully remodeled log home just south of Sunriver, where adventure and relaxation await. With easy access to the Deschutes River, a private hot tub, and a fully fenced yard for your pups, this cozy retreat is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're unwinding by the fire after a day on the slopes or launching kayaks from the nearby community dock, this home offers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure.