In my snow-loving biased opinion, winter is one of the best times to visit Bend, Oregon! Do you like fun? Do you like adventure? A cute, small-town vibe with the amenities of a larger city? Yeah, head to Bend.
I only recently discovered the magic of Bend in person on this year’s multi-month snowmad winter roadtrip. It’s been on my mountain town bucket list for a while now, but admittedly it isn’t the easiest to get to. (Though now, there are more direct flights from major airports like LAX being offered into the local airport in Redmond—only about 30 minutes north of Bend.)
Whether or not you’re a ski bunny, I can confidently say that there is no shortage of things to do during this time of year. Here are some of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon, during the winter season.
Hit the Mountains
From fresh powder to frozen trees right out of a storybook, Mt. Bachelor is where to get your skiing fix. Boasting over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain and an average snowfall of 370 inches. With 101 runs, four terrain parks, and 11 lifts, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. (Just check the wintry road conditions before heading out and make sure your car is up for the journey!)
Another nearby option is Hoodoo. While I can’t speak to skiing Hoodoo personally, I hear it’s easy to access and a bit more affordable, while still having good terrain for intermediate and above skiers.
Warm Up in the Hot Springs
After a day of skiing or snowshoeing, there’s nothing quite like soaking in a natural hot spring to relax. Oregon is home to several hot springs that are accessible from Bend during the winter season. One fan favorite is the Belknap Hot Springs, which is located about an hour and a half from Bend. The hot springs are surrounded by beautiful forest scenery, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. Check out this great round-up of 11 Oregon hot springs worth exploring.
Trek the Bend Ale Trail
If you’re a beer fanatic, you definitely already know this. And if you like beer at all—you’re in the right place. After all, rumor has it that beer tastes better in Bend.
Bend is known for its fantastic craft beer scene, and winter is a great time to explore the Bend Ale Trail. The trail features 22 breweries and is a great way to sample some of the best local brews. You can choose to explore the breweries on foot, by bike, or by car. I highly recommend grabbing a Bend Ale Trail paper passport for $5 from the Bend Visitor Center to keep track of your brewery visits and to earn some swag. Otherwise, there’s an app you can download to track the fun!
Visit the High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Bend, Oregon, during the winter season. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the natural and cultural history of the region. During the winter season, the museum hosts several special events, including birding walks and wildlife encounters. It’s a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna and to gain a deeper understanding of the unique ecosystem of the high desert.
Climb or Hike Smith Rock
Just 30 minutes from Bend, outside Terrebonne, is the famed climbing destination Smith Rock. Thanks to its typically mild winter weather, it’s open for climbing and hiking year-round. If you have the flexibility, midweek clear winter days offer some of the best times to visit this popular spot. If you’re climbing, you’ll want to follow the sun where it’s easily 10-15 degrees warmer, so feel free to sleep in and let the rock warm up a bit. (Hand warmers are also your friend.)
Get Your Thrift On
Bend offers over a dozen thrift stores to choose from, you can find anything from fashionable hand-curated clothing to vintage cowboy boots, kid’s clothing, and used outdoor gear.
For high-quality consignment clothing, Flipped Consignment Boutique, Cosa Cura, and Revival Vintage have got you covered. If you’re in the market for outdoor gear like snowboards, bikes, or waterproof layers, head to Gear Fix or Latitude 44. Not sure what you want or want it all? Check out Goodwill, REgroup Thrift Store, and the Humane Society of Central Oregon Thrift Store, where proceeds go to deserving causes.
Hit the Town
For a town far outside any major metropolitan area, Bend has quite a few events of note and prominent (albeit maybe nostalgic) musical guest visitors. (For example—I may be dating myself, but—tonight I’m going to see MIMS at Silver Moon Brewing. MIMS as in the “This Is Why I’m Hot” legendary NYC 00’s rapper. And Soulja Boy will be there in June!) For a full list of upcoming events, check out Visit Bend’s event calendar.
Enjoy a Slow Morning at a Cute Coffee Shop
If you know me, you know 1) I love my iced oat lattes, and 2) I love to try out all the local coffee spots. Maybe you’re in recovery from a rowdy night Soulja Boy-ing, maybe you’re working remotely, or maybe finally diving into that new book you’ve been carrying around—Bend has a plethora of cute coffee shops for you to enjoy. Some of my favorites so far include Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe, The Sparrow Bakery (their croissant breakfast sandwiches…omg), Backporch Coffee Roasters, Thump Coffee, and Looney Bean of Bend.
What are your favorite things to do in Bend? Do you have a favorite season? Let me know! Leave a comment below or shoot me a message on Instagram 🙂
