COVH Journal

Five Fall Hikes In Bend, Oregon You Don't Want To Miss

🏡 What You Need to Know About Bend, Oregon Vacation Rental Requirements 

🛍️ Where I Shop in Downtown Bend: A Local’s Guide to the Best Boutiques & Finds

New Listings in Sunriver and Eagle Crest Ready for Summer Booking

 Date Night Options in Redmond, Oregon

What You Need to Know About the Concerts at Hayden Homes Amphitheater

🛠️ Essential Maintenance Inspection Checklist for Your Central Oregon Vacation Rental

🏕️ Two New Sunriver Vacation Homes to Explore: Oregon Loop Getaway & Buckboard Lodge – Book Your Summer Escape Now! 🌞

Early summer hikes in Central Oregon are magical with waterfalls at their peak flow and wildflowers in full bloom. Learn where to enjoy the best hikes.

Central Oregon may be known for its breweries, but that doesn't mean there aren't excellent options to enjoy wine tasting in Central Oregon.

Cruising the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: A Local’s Guide to the Best Stops Near Bend, Oregon If you’re visiting Central Oregon, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is an absolute must-do — and as someone who’s called Bend home for over 40 years, I can tell you: there’s no better way to soak in the soul of this place than with your windows down and a picnic packed. Winding past alpine lakes, lava flows, and snow-capped peaks, this iconic route delivers postcard views and hidden gems that you won’t find on your average travel brochure. Here’s your local guide to making the most of your drive: 🗺️ The Route: Where to Begin Start your drive in **Bend**, heading west on Century Drive. This road becomes the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway — a 66-mile route that ends near Crescent Lake, if you’re up for the full trip. You’ll gain elevation fast, so check TripCheck.com before you go — especially in spring or fall when snow or downed trees can pop up. 🌲Local Favorite Stops Along the Byway 1. Mount Bachelor Just 20 minutes from town, it’s worth a stop even in summer. Take the Pine Marten Lift for panoramic views, or grab a coffee at the base lodge and breathe in that crisp mountain air. If you have an extra night during your stay plan for the sunset dinner at the lodge, the views are definitely worth it! 2. Todd Lake This quiet alpine lake is often overlooked, but it’s a local favorite for paddleboarding, wildflowers, and peaceful picnics. A short hike from the parking area makes it an easy go to for families. Great for swimming in late summer — just be prepared, it’s cold! 3. Sparks Lake The best early-morning reflection shots of South Sister come from here. Rent a kayak or bring your own. Golden hour is our absolute favorite from here! It's absolutely unreal and one of the best lakes in the region for paddling. Another great lake for those just learning how to paddle or with young ones as there are many parts of the lake that are quite shallow. 4. Devils Lake Shallow, clear, and an unbelievable turquoise in color — this one is a showstopper. Great for a cold dip or paddling around with minimal effort. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for calm waters. This lake is one of coldest and while there is easy access with a larger parking lot it fills up fast due to the many trail heads leaving from the area. 5. Elk Lake Resort Ready for lunch or a drink? Pull into Elk Lake Resort for a casual meal on the deck. They often have live music in summer. There is now a charge for parking on the weekend in the main parking lot. The lake is also ideal for swimming and relaxing beach time with the family. There are multiple day use beach areas around the lake, past the resort area. 6. Hosmer Lake Just past Elk, this lake is beloved by locals for quiet, no-motor paddling. With its narrow channels and views of Mount Bachelor, it’s like gliding through a mountain dreamscape. A great lake for all kinds of adventures, including paddling and fishing. Note that the parking is limited. 7. Lava Lake and Little Lava Lake Quieter than Elk or Sparks, these lakes offer peaceful fishing, paddling, and classic campfire picnics. Look for deer, osprey, and bald eagles in the early morning. Little lava is perfect for a family friendly cool off and great day of paddling. Lava Lake Resort has a great little store for getting an ice cream or last minute item for your picnic! 🏞️ Lake Recommendations by Activity 🏊‍♀️ Best Lakes for Swimming Cultus Lake – Warmer waters and a sandy beach area make this one of the best for swimming. Little Cultus Lake – Smaller, quieter, and warmer than many high mountain lakes. Many shallow areas, a small day use area and no cell service. Elk Lake – Family-friendly with calm water and a resort nearby. Todd Lake – Great for a cold plunge after a short hike. 🛶 Best Lakes for Paddling Devils Lake – Calm, shallow, and stunningly clear. Sparks Lake – Big open views and great reflections. Hosmer Lake – Serene, scenic, and off-limits to motors — a paddler’s paradise. 🎣 Best Lakes for Fishing Crane Prairie Reservoir – Known for trophy trout and big catches. Wickiup Reservoir – Great for bass, kokanee, and trout. Davis Lake – Fly-fishing heaven in a peaceful, less-developed setting. Beautiful Views. 📸 Pro Tips for the Perfect Drive Go early. Parking fills fast at Sparks, Todd, Hosmer and Devils Lake on weekends. Pack layers. Even in summer, mornings and high elevations are chilly. Be prepared with high quality bug spray and sunscreen. Bring snacks and water. Download offline maps. Cell service is spotty in many areas. Leave no trace. Pack it in, pack it out — these wild places need our care. Look up! Nights are dark and perfect for stargazing. Plan for a lunch stop at one Elk Lake Lodge or Cultus Lake Lodge! 🚗 Make It Part of Your Stay When you stay with Central Oregon Vacation Homes , you’re just minutes from the start of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Whether you're in a luxury lodge or a cozy cabin, you'll have the perfect home base to return to after a day of lake hopping, hiking, or stargazing.

Whether you're looking for the perfect patio sunset or a relaxed vibe to enjoy a beer with friends, these are the best patios in Central Oregon

These are a few of our top lunch spots in Bend, Oregon. From mouthwatering smash burgers to authentic Thai cuisine, find the perfect spot for your next lunch.

It's farmers market season. Discover the 5 most popular ones in Central Oregon, including which Bend Farmers Market is our favorite.

Book your stay this June and take advantage of our vacation rental specials in June 2025. Stay in June and enjoy a 15% off discount on your stay.

Essential Amenities for Your Central Oregon Vacation Home- Part 3

Marcello's Cucina in Sunriver is an excellent dining option for Central Oregon vacations. See our recommendations and tips on what, when, and how to eat there.

View the Hayden Homes Amphitheater May 2025 concert calendar, packed with artists like Brad Paisley, The Black Keys, Khruangbin, James Taylor, and more.

Our essential amenity series, we get down to the nitty gritty!

These are the top destinations for spring kayaking and paddleboarding in Central Oregon. From Clear Lake to Prineville Reservoir and everywhere in between.

Read our best tips on how to furnish a vacation rental property to attract more guests and garner positive reviews. We offer vacation property management too.

The Central Oregon Mural Trail is a great way to explore the area on your next vacation. Read how to see the best murals and outdoor artists in the area.

Craving a slice of 'Za? Here are our top 9 picks for the best pizza in Central Oregon to bring back to your vacation home after your epic adventure.

Here are the best vacation home amenities and things to consider to help you increase revenue, stay booked up, and provide the best experience to your guests.

Are you a coffee lover like us? Here are Central Oregon's top coffee shops and roasters in Bend, Sisters, and Redmond. Plus, what you should order at each.

Visiting Central Oregon this spring? View our curated list of the top spring events in Central Oregon, from Sky Hunters to the High Desert Stampede.

Spring in Central Oregon offers a diverse range of hiking from waterfalls to desert and everything in between. These are our top spring hikes in Central Oregon.

From scenic rides to thrilling downhills, these are Central Oregon's top biking trails in spring. This is our handpicked list of the season's best rides.

These are our top five spring photos to capture in Central Oregon. From wildflowers to bald eagles, learn where to capture the best photos in spring.

Central Oregon is great for many types of vacations. Whether you're looking for a cozy retreat or adventurous escape, we have great rental options for you.

Read about the best dog-friendly Spring adventures in Central Oregon. Plus, see our dog-friendly vacation rentals too.

The top two things you should consider before investing in short term rentals in Central Oregon, plus our local vacation rental management insights.

Our top 10 kid friendly spring break activities in Central Oregon from lava caves to petting llamas, there's so much to do in the area this spring break.

Winter in Central Oregon is nothing short of magical. Enjoy the season more on one of our top five winter adventures in Central Oregon. Learn more.

From the Bend Winterfest 2025 live music schedule to events like the wine walk and ice sculpting competition, make the most of your time at Winterfest.