Savvy360-Bend-26v2

BEND

CURATED TRAVEL + LIFESTYLE

Mindful Traveler

Make

Sacred Blue

Enjoy Crater Lake, one of Oregon’s most humbling landscapes

Old Growth

A lumber empire clear-cut Central Oregon's forests but spared one canyon of ancient ponderosas

Ink & Vinyl

Inside the downtown shops where Bend still turns pages and drops needles

Community Connection

In a historic Bend building, ceramicists find inspiration in proximity at Mud Lake Studios

Destination: Old Mill

Built on the bones of Bend’s timber past, the Old Mill District reaches from sawmill smokestacks to riverfront stage

Hot Spot

Bend native Josh Podwils brings French-American comfort and hometown pride to Rosemary and Fox

What We Love Now

Trends on the culinary scene

Experience Central Oregon

Start planning your trip with our curated guides

PARK & FLOAT ON SIMPSON

Start at Park & Float on Simpson Ave. for parking, tube rentals, life jackets and shuttle service - everything you need for a great day on the river.

Start at Park & Float. Return via the shuttle. Gear up. Go float.

Rental and shuttle information, maps and more details at bendparksandrec.org/float

Free public parking at Simpson Ave. & Bradbury Way,

Ponderosa Pine

Press your nose to the sun-warmed bark of an old ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) and breathe in: some catch vanilla, others butterscotch. The scent comes from aromatic oils the bark releases in warm sun, and sniffing for it is the classic way to identify the tree. That bark, cinnamon-colored and cracked into jigsaw-like plates as much as 6 inches thick, doubles as fire armor. Low ground fires char the outer plates, they flake away, and the tree survives, often past 500 years.

Ponderosas built Bend. The Old Mill District takes its name from the sawmills that cut this yellow pine along the Deschutes a century ago. Because the tree needs full sun and won't grow in shade, ponderosas spread into open, parklike groves with grasses between the trunks rather than dense forest, a look frequent low fires once helped keep clear. Look for long needles in bundles of three, and on your next walk by the river, lean in and decide for yourself: vanilla or butterscotch?

Mule Deer

The mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) wears its name on its head: oversized, mulelike ears that swivel toward the faintest sound. Few animals are more closely tied to Central Oregon. You’ll see them browsing suburban yards in Bend, crossing a trail at dusk, or bounding off across the sage in the stiff-legged, all-four-feet-at-once gait called stotting, tail tipped in black.

Their year is a migration. The Deschutes herd winters low, among the juniper and bitterbrush near the river, then climbs each spring to summer range around Wickiup Reservoir and Mount Bachelor. After two decades of decline, many of those routes now cross busy roads. The stretch of Highway 20 between Bend and Suttle Lake sees more deer and elk hit by vehicles than anywhere else in Oregon, and a broad coalition of agencies, tribes, and conservation groups is planning wildlife overcrossings to address it. Slow down at dusk on the highway, and you’re already helping.

Tread Lightly

More than a trendy buzz phrase, “Leave No Trace” is about being a more responsible traveler, connecting with and caring about the world around us, and leaving a place the same if not better than we found it. Using education and stewardship, nonprofit lnt.org guides travelers in how to plan and be mindful of their minimal-waste travels and outdoor activities. Seven principles of “Leave No Trace” were created for all activities, whether you’re traveling or not.

1. Plan and Prepare

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

4. Leave What You Find

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

6. Respect Wildlife

7. Be Considerate of Others

No one is perfect, and yes, we will all produce some kind of waste, irrespective of how careful we are. But we all can take small steps to minimize our effect. To get involved and learn more, visit lnt.org.

Welcome to Central Oregon.

This is a place where old school meets innovation and ranchers, recreationalists, entrepreneurs, and retirees come together at the end of another momentous day to cheer over a locally brewed craft beer, cider, or kombucha. Whether you’re in Central Oregon for adventure in the mountains, hiking some of Oregon’s tallest peaks, riding Mt. Bachelor, kayaking, fly fishing, world-class mountain biking, trail running through ponderosa pine forests, or exploring lava caves and volcanic formations, Central Oregon has something for everyone. >>>

Image by Richard Bacon

Thrill seekers can zipline off Mt. Bachelor, crawl through underground lava caves, or rock climb at Smith Rock State Park. Those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground have hundreds of trails, parks, and nature preserves to choose from. Water lovers find plenty of river and lake access for floating, fishing, and swimming. If this all sounds too outdoorsy for you, no problem. Central Oregon is home to wineries and distilleries, luxury resort spas, community theaters, art fairs, and incredible museums like the High Desert Museum and the Deschutes Historical Museum. No matter what activity you choose, you’ll likely want to finish the day with a tasty drink, satisfying meal, and an unparalleled view of seven incredible mountains.

BRIEF HISTORY

Before European exploration, the incorporation of the Oregon Territory, and the establishment of Oregon as a state in 1859, eight Indigenous Nations — each with their own customs, movements, and traditions — first claimed this land. These include the Wascoes, Warm Springs, Northern Paiutes, and the Columbia River Tribes: Wasco (Chinookan), Tenino, Tygh, Wyam, and John Day (Sahaptin). This place, where high desert meets evergreen forests nestled in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountain Range, has been hugely significant to humans for thousands of years. In fact, archeological evidence shows Indigenous peoples have been living in Central Oregon since at least 13,000 years ago.

When Euro-Americans began colonizing this area in earnest in the early 1800s, they forever changed the relationships between land, people, and animals. Since then, Bend has morphed from a pre-colonial landscape to a single “Farewell Bend” Ranch to a robust logging town to a bustling outdoor adventure destination. With the arrival of two colleges (Oregon State University Cascades and Central Oregon Community College),

Bend continues to emerge as one of the most attractive places to live and visit — with unique intersections of culture, activity, and industry.

BEND

Whether it’s activity, food, or entertainment you’re after, Bend (aka Beer City, USA) offers it all. With a dreamy concoction of restaurants, outdoor activity, and art, it’s no wonder Bend has been one of the fastest growing towns in recent decades. With over 75 city parks, more than 25 breweries, and more food trucks than one can count, Bend is one of the most vibrant and progressive towns in Central Oregon. With cultural highlights like the High Desert Museum, headliner bands playing at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, performing arts at Tower Theatre and Cascades Theatrical Company, shopping at the Old Mill District, and a bustling downtown filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and style, Bend is home to myriad yearround events that means anytime is a great time to visit.

SISTERS

This sleepy town at the base of the Three Sisters Mountains entices visitors like a step back in time. Its 1880s, western-style buildings, wooden sidewalks, and tight-knit storefronts house local artists, the famed Sisters Coffee Co. and Sisters Bakery, and a noticeably friendly atmosphere. From this Gateway to the Cascades, take a short drive to Suttle Lake, or drive or cycle the 82-mile McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway through old-growth forests or the 37-mile Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway through sagebrush and juniper canyons. Don’t miss the annual Sisters Rodeo (June), internationally recognized Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show (July), Annual Country Fair (September), and plenty of community races, music shows, street festivals, and more throughout the year.

Image by Richard Bacon

THE TOWN OF SISTERS

Image by Richard Bacon

REDMOND

You really can tell a lot about a town by checking their events calendar. For Redmond, this includes an annual rodeo, brew festivals, BMX Nationals, summer concert series, art shows, and more than one car show on the books. No matter your interests, the “Hub of Central Oregon” offers something for everyone. Whether you’re here to golf, climb, hike, shop, relax, or all the above, Redmond is the place to be. With locally-owned shops, a vibrant yet historic downtown, parks, public art, and several outstanding breweries, wineries, and distilleries, Redmond ensures your dance cards are full. With the Redmond Caves to explore, walking tours, fishing guides, treasure hunting at antique shops, disc golfing, tennis, and cycling at Dry Canyon Park, this small yet happening town is giving Bend a run for its money.

TERREBONNE

Not only is Terrebonne known as horse country, it’s also the location for the world-famous Smith Rock State Park. Located a short six-mile distance north of Redmond, Terrebonne (“good earth”) exemplifies the outdoor lifestyle with its abundant opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, fishing, and even activities like bungee jumping, hot-air balloon

excursions, and golf at Crooked River Ranch GC. After your outdoor adventures, visit some of Central Oregon’s best-known wineries or take a self-guided tour at a working alpaca petting farm.

SUNRIVER

If the bustle of Bend is too much and the open vistas of Redmond don’t entice, then consider Sunriver where the Deschutes River meanders through lowlands, houses are tucked between ponderosa pines, and the mountain views are breathtaking. Nearby exploration sites include Newberry National Volcanic Monument, the Lava Cast Forest, and the underground trail at Lava River Cave. Local resorts and shops offer year-round activities like horseback riding, bike rentals, crosscountry skiing, golfing, and events, making Sunriver cute and casual.

No matter where you find yourself in Central Oregon, you’re likely in the right place. That is to say, you can’t go wrong here. So, relax, enjoy 300 days of sunshine, smile whenever you glimpse so many astounding mountain peaks and know that you’re welcome in Central Oregon anytime because this small-town feel has big-town dreams.

DOWNTOWN REDMOND

Image by Richard Bacon

SMITH ROCK

CAST AWAY

From crystal spring creeks to wild canyon rivers, Central Oregon’s fly-fishing waters run among the most storied in the West

words GREGG MORRIS images RICHARD BACON

The flowing river washes out all other sounds as the overcast sky drowns in the morning’s low light. The fly fisherman gathers their rod, reel, flies, and other gear to battle the river’s residents in one of the West’s grand arenas. They slowly wade into the water, searching for insects to emulate with their manufactured flies. They cast their line a few times as their attention turns to possible enemy hiding spots. A downed log provides the fish with a respite from the continuous current. The angler spots the trout and casts their line. The game is afoot.

This scene plays out every day in backcountry rivers and lakes throughout the world, with cities such as Bend welcoming anglers with open arms. Fly fishermen flock to mountain towns in search of beauty, solitude, and, of course, fish. The flyfishing method uses artificial flies of tied natural and synthetic materials, rather than live bait, to catch fish. Originating on the Astraeus River in secondcentury Macedonia, fly fishing was popularized in 19th-century northern England and Scotland, and then made its way to New York’s Catskill Mountains. The love of fly fishing quickly spread west to every mountain town with a backcountry lake or river, including Bend.

Though it takes years to fully master, beauty lies in the relatively straightforward basic fly cast. The overhead cast begins with a back cast that sweeps the fly line behind you, then a forward cast that snaps the rod to carry the fly into the water. The difficulty rests in perfecting the cast, choosing the appropriate flies and water location, and, finally, patience.

Though it takes years to fully master, beauty lies in the relatively straightforward basic fly cast.

Where to fly fish in Central Oregon Bend and its surrounding area offer many options for fly fishermen, in both lakes and rivers. Hosmer Lake, just off Cascade Lakes Highway, is known for its scenery and abundance of brook and rainbow trout. The scenic, fly-fishing-only lake attracts fishing vessels such as canoes and float tubes. Farther down Cascade Lakes Highway, off Forest Road 42, Crane Prairie Reservoir is famous for big brook trout and large rainbow trout, sometimes nicknamed Cranebows. East Lake sits in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and offers high-country fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee. All three lakes are about an hour from Bend, best fished in summer, and ringed by volcanic peaks and lush wildlife.

But it’s the rivers that draw anglers to Central Oregon. The Metolius runs west of Sisters and the Fall north of La Pine State Park, while a little more than an hour north of Bend, the Lower Deschutes and the Crooked River offer still more water to wade in and fish to catch.

Metolius River beauty

The spring-fed, crystal-clear Metolius River slices through Camp Sherman and challenges anglers in pursuit of its large bull trout and wild rainbow trout. This fly-fishing-only river does not allow professional guiding, and together those two rules help keep it one of the West’s most pristine. The surrounding forest’s pine trees lead down to the bank’s thick brush, with small trails leading into the water. The fish hold in the channels and deeper pools, waiting for the experienced angler to make their play.

If frustration sets in because the fish keep outsmarting you, reset by walking one of the many trails that wind along the banks and into the forest. While you’re there, visit the Head of the Metolius, where the river’s headwaters surface, and the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery, for a full understanding of how the river begins and stays healthy.

Lower Deschutes River’s epic canyon fishing Bend residents have a personal relationship with the Deschutes River as it winds through town. They marvel at its beauty, use it for recreation, and even owe the town’s name to one of its features. Though anglers test the waters close to home, it’s the Lower Deschutes — running some 100 miles from Pelton Dam near Madras to its mouth at the Columbia River — that draws those in the know. Designated a Wild and Scenic River, it’s renowned for its springtime salmonfly hatch and late-summer steelhead season.

Drive a little over an hour north of Bend on Highway 26 and launch your boat from the Warm Springs State Rec Site. The river weaves through towering walls of basalt pillars and green mesas. A wide range of birds patrol the area, from low in the bank’s bushes to high in the cloudless sky. Herds of elk and deer wander down to the river for a drink. And happy anglers find their spot, wading in the middle of the river or floating by in their drift boats.

Crooked

River’s abundant fish

The Crooked River, about an hour northeast of Bend along Highway 27, is well known for yearround fishing for redband trout and whitefish. The first 10 or so miles below Bowman Dam are considered the best water on this tributary of the Deschutes. If you want to make a weekend of it, Castle Rock, Palisades, Chimney Rock, and Big Bend are nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campgrounds where you can pitch a tent or pull up a trailer.

The Crooked is a perfect river for absolute beginners, with roughly eight miles of easily accessible water. The wading is tough but not dangerous, and, most importantly, the fish are everywhere. Still, check with a local outfitter for the right flies and rigs, and work on proper technique for the best results.

Fall

River’s spring-fed fun

About 30 minutes south of Bend, the Fall River runs a quick eight miles from its source near Pringle Falls before emptying into the Deschutes. This fly-fishing-only river holds a consistent temperature, which allows for year-round fishing. Though spring, summer, and fall bring reliable mayfly and caddis hatches, many anglers prefer the solitude of winter fishing, even in knee-deep snow.

As a quintessential example of spring-creek fishing, the Fall runs through lupine meadows and pine forests, giving anglers a quiet kind of peace. The fishing takes some knowledge and patience to coax a fish onto your line — but even a day without a catch is a good one on the Fall River.

The fishing takes some knowledge and patience to coax a fish onto your line — but even a day without a catch is a good one on the Fall River.

Pack your gear

Gone are the days of tying a wool thread, hook, and worm to a sapling and heading to the local fishing hole. Today, synthetic performance materials raise your odds of catching a fish — along with the cost of your gear.

For Central Oregon, choose a rod between four- and six-weight and about nine feet long. Longer rods cast farther; shorter ones cast more accurately. Match your reel to the rod. Then build your line system: backing, coated fly line, leader, and tippet.

Beyond the basics, a few extra tools make an outing more successful. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are essential for a day in the sun. Hemostats remove hooks, nippers clip knots, nets land bigger fish, and fly boxes carry your ties. Depending on your adventure, waders and boots handle cold-water fishing, while canoes and other watercraft get you off your feet.

Locally, a handful of fly shops can outfit you for a day or weekend on the water: Confluence

Fly Shop in the Old Mill District, Bend Fly Shop on Scott Street, Patient Angler Fly Shop on 3rd Street, and Fly & Field Outfitters on Century Drive all offer a wide selection of gear, classes, guide services, and hatch reports.

Tie your own flies

Though the rod may be the most expensive piece of fly-fishing gear, the greatest weapon in your quiver is the fly itself. Handmade flies, or lures, are widely available, but traditionalists insist on tying their own. The four types are dry flies, which float and imitate adult insects; wet flies, which sink and imitate pupae; nymph flies, which imitate insects in their immature stage; and streamers, which mimic minnows and other swimming prey. Fly-tying pros work with thread, sculpin wool, moose hair, and more, at benches set with a vise, bobbin, scissors, and other tools. But for those short on time or knowledge, stop by a favorite fly shop, ask which flies work best for your adventure, and head to the water.

SHARED CURRENT

New access points make recreation safer while protecting riparian habitat for wildlife

words MEGHAN ROBINS images RICHARD BACON

By day, thousands of people play, paddle, and picnic at Miller’s Landing, a 4.7-acre riverside community park tucked neatly within the Deschutes River’s S-curve that winds through Bend’s urban center. At night, local wildlife overtakes the area, reclaiming what once was primarily theirs.

In 2021, the Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD) Board of Directors approved the Deschutes River Access and Habitat Restoration Plan, a guiding document focused on improving recreation and ecological values of the Deschutes River in equal measure throughout the city of Bend. The plan identifies 28 projects to be completed over the next 10 years.

As of 2025, Miller’s Landing Park now includes new hardscaped river access points with grouted boulder terracing, stairways with handrails leading users gently in and out of the water, and strategically placed in-water boulders that create safe buffer zones separating floaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders from those recreating along the banks.

Notably, this new design also includes three innovative access options: a dry ramp, a wet

ramp, and a roller launch. The dry ramp allows users to walk or roll to or below water level and transfer directly into the river while keeping gear and mobility devices relatively dry. The wet ramp offers a gentle slope directly into the river with stabilizing handrails on either side. The roller launch invites users to place their water devices on a series of rollers, transfer to dry ground, then launch independently from the rollers into and out of the river.

“We didn’t want to overengineer or overcomplicate the structures we were building,” says Ian Isaacson, BPRD Landscape Architect and Lead Project Manager for the Miller’s Landing Park Project. “Our main goals were to make access to the river more sustainable and more welcoming, make safer access points that won’t erode over time, and improve ecological uplift in areas where we have the opportunity.”

After talking with hundreds of community members during the design process, including technical stakeholder groups, local organizations, nonprofits like Oregon Adaptive Sports, and individual community members with various lived experiences and ability

levels, Isaacson and his team looked for examples of innovative water access points throughout North America. While they found parts and pieces, they never did see all these elements — dry ramp, wet ramp, roller ramp, boulders, shade, transfer benches, and staircase access points — all in one location.

“We didn’t want to be too prescriptive of how someone was supposed to use any part of the access point,” says Isaacson. “We wanted to create elements that were dynamic in nature and allowed different people of varying abilities, of different lived experiences, of different water experiences, the ability to use the space in a way that was most beneficial, comfortable, and safe for them.”

BPRD owns roughly 50 percent of the river frontage through the city of Bend. In addition to making access to the river safer, more welcoming, and more sustainable for humans, another important goal is for these river projects to improve ecological uplift by protecting nearby riparian areas (the vegetated corridors that line the riverbank) so wildlife can thrive beside daily human activity.

The first Euro-American to file a claim on these exact acres was Stephen Staats in 1877, whose namesake street still exists a few blocks away. After hosting a ranch, hotel, and post office, the acreage was later purchased in 1924 by a man named Harry Miller, who used the riverfront as a lumber holding site for Miller Lumber Company. Timber milled upstream by two competing companies, Shevlin-Hixon and Brooks-Scanlon, at what’s now called the Old Mill District, floated downstream to be collected, packaged, and staged for sale and delivery. Eventually, logging technologies changed, and the timber industry dwindled, and this land was used primarily by residents as an unofficial river access point.

Fast-forward to 2011, when BPRD purchased the property from the Miller family and Brooks Resources Corporation with the help of the Trust for Public Land, community fundraising, and local government grants. As Bend’s population grew, so did the desire for convenient river access. BPRD saw the need and opportunity to protect the river, wildlife, and those enjoying it.

As with all projects, some residents resisted change. The project required closing portions of the park for just over half a year, bringing in heavy machinery, using large sandbags to isolate and

dewater the work area that extended into the river during specific allowable seasons, and, of course, securing the funds to complete the vision. Now that the park has reopened, Isaacson says, “People are using the space in more phenomenal ways than even the design team could come up with. This reinforces the idea that we achieved our main goal of creating a space that people can use in ways that best fit them and their families.”

Cedar split-rail fencing around newly protected riparian areas has greatly reduced the wear and degradation of riverbanks between the access points. “Hardening the access points themselves allows us to have a more controlled entry for people recreating in the river,” Isaacson says. “It also reduces the sedimentation load going into the river and reduces natural erosion, which is a real issue. Quality river access and quality ecological habitat do not have to be mutually exclusive. They can happen side by side, and with projects like these, we’ve set out to prove that.”

Miller’s Landing Park is the first completed of three similar projects slated for this section of the Deschutes River corridor. Upcoming are the McKay Park River Access and Restoration Project (design in process) and the Columbia Park River Access Project (slated for 2027 completion). Both access points are located on the opposite shore from Miller’s Landing and will soon include similar hardscape treatments and cordoned-off riverbanks to reduce erosion from overuse and protect riparian areas for ecological uplift.

“Personally, what excites me the most is the ecological side of these projects,” Isaacson says. “You can go down to Miller’s Landing and see osprey and beaver. I saw a deer swimming across the river a few times during the project. Thousands and thousands of people come through during the day, and then in the evening, right before dark, the critters come right back out again. It’s this kind of balance within an urban environment that I think is pretty spectacular.”

Miller’s Landing includes a spacious lawn, rentable picnic shelter, picnic tables, public restrooms, community garden, and paved riverside trail connecting to the Old Mill District. Visit BPRD’s website (bendparksandrec.org) for information about hours, fishing, recreation, dog leash rules, and more details regarding ways to use the dry ramp, wet ramp, and roller launch.

SACRED BLUE

Enjoy Crater Lake, one of Oregon’s most humbling landscapes

words

GREGG MORRIS

Roughly 7,700 years ago, the southern Cascades’ stratovolcano, Mount Mazama, erupted and blew its 12,000-foot peak into debris spread across the Pacific Northwest. The cone collapsed into itself, leaving behind a caldera more than five miles in diameter, awaiting the collection of centuries’ worth of rain and snow. The Klamath people — the Makalak band chief among them — witnessed the mountain’s collapse, and the lake it left behind, known as Giiwas, became a sacred site for prayer and vision quests that endures today.

Today, that caldera is known as the 1,943-foot-deep Crater Lake — the deepest lake in the United States and the focal point of the eponymous Crater Lake National Park The 286-square-mile park sits about a two-hour drive from Bend, south on Highway 97 and west on Highway 62. More than half a million people visit Oregon’s only national park each year, with the lion’s share arriving between late June and mid-September.

Visit the Visitor Centers

Before you chase the views, stop in at the Rim Village Visitor Center or the Steel Information Center, where park rangers are ready to help you make the most of your time. The nonprofit Crater Lake Natural History Association operates the park stores as a way to fund educational and scientific services. Whether you’ve come for the scenery, the trails, or just to see what all the fuss is about, the knowledgeable staff will point you in the right direction.

If Crater Lake is the crown jewel of the park, then the historic Rim Drive is Oregon’s Imperial State Crown. Circumnavigating the lake, Rim Drive is a 33-mile loop with five picnic areas, six trailheads, and 30 overlooks that frame the lake and its surrounding forests. Originally built in 1913 as the Rim Road, it evolved into Rim Drive in 1931. Today, the road sees cars, bicycles, and even skiers and snowshoers when it shuts down for the winter around November 1.

Drive the Rim

Behind the wheel, one trick makes the drive: go clockwise, and the lake stays close on your right, with pullouts arriving just when you want them. When you find yourself on the West Rim Drive section, pull into Watchman Overlook where Wizard Island rises from the water — a volcano within a volcano. Feeling restless? Find the trailhead and take the short trail up to Watchman Peak. The hike leads to an old fire lookout, where the whole caldera opens up beneath you. Bonus points if you plan the climb for sunrise or sunset, when low light gilds the surrounding forests. On the opposite side of the lake, the Cloudcap Overlook sits at an elevation of 8,000 feet above sea level, high above the east end of Rim Drive. Skip the driving altogether and book a trolley tour through Crater Lake Trolley. The twohour tour runs along the Rim Drive, with photo opportunities at several significant overlooks.

Cycle the Rim Drive

Cyclists earn their views here. Rim Drive’s 33-mile loop is the marquee route, though it means sharing a narrow, shoulderless road with traffic and grinding out nearly 4,000 feet of climbing. Bikes aren’t permitted on park trails, but Grayback Drive offers a quieter alternative: eight miles of unpaved, vehicle-free road on the park’s south side, well suited to mountain biking in summer, with water and parking nearby at Park Headquarters. Farther afield, the technical North Umpqua Trail in Umpqua National Forest and the scenic Diamond Lake Loop make rewarding day trips. Because roads and trails shift with the seasons, check current conditions before setting out.

Ski the Rim

Though Crater Lake rarely freezes over, the park receives over 500 inches of snow each winter, prompting jealousy among ski resorts in Bend and on Mount Hood. Highway 62 and the road to the park headquarters are plowed daily, as is the road from the headquarters to Rim Village, although sometimes heavy snow closes the road for days or

even weeks at a time. Your best starting point for Nordic skiing or snowshoeing is Rim Village. The surrounding winter wonderland beckons snow worshipers to enjoy the bounty and then head into the Rim Village Café and Gift Shop for some hot cocoa. Each year, many brave souls spend a few days in the backcountry and ski the 30 miles around the lake. Always check the weather reports and webcams, and don’t forget your warm clothes and winter essentials.

Hike the Park

On foot, Crater Lake runs the range from gentle to grueling. Six trails stay under two miles, two are all-terrain wheelchair accessible, and five welcome leashed pets. The Rim Trail is the most popular trail, offering lake and island views, wildflowers, and whitebark pines. For a bigger challenge, several trails climb from the rim to over 7,000 feet. The 3.6-mile switchback-heavy Garfield Peak Trail, the 1.6-mile round-trip Watchman Peak Trail, and the 4.4-mile round-trip Mount Scott Trail all repay their lung-busting climbs with wide-open views over the lake. Backpacking is very popular in the park, including along the 33mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the park. Don’t forget to pick up a free backcountry permit before heading out.

For a complete park experience, try the selfguided Rim Village tour. Walk along the stone wall outlining the Rim Village Promenade, a historic district listed in 1997 on the National Register of Historic Places. Don’t forget to stop in the Kiser Studio, Community House, and Mather Observation Bay. Also of note, the Cleetwood Cove Trail — the park’s only trail down to the water — is closed for rehabilitation through 2028.

Enjoy Nature in the Park

The park’s wilder residents tend to keep to its quieter corners — Roosevelt elk, mule deer, black bear, bobcat, marmot, and squirrels among them, plus birds from bald eagles to peregrine falcons. Stargazing has become an increasingly popular activity in the park, due to its lack of light

pollution and high elevation. Many visitors head to Watchman Overlook or Sinnott Memorial Overlook to watch the Milky Way put on a show. Check the website calendar to see when the park rangers are hosting summer night sky programs. During the summer days, wildflowers bloom in the park’s meadows and wetlands. Please avoid picking or stomping on the flowers, which bloom throughout the summer depending on elevation.

Eat & Sleep in the Park

When trail mix and PB&J lose their charm, the park has three places to eat. The Rim Village Café handles grab-and-go, with snacks and sandwiches for the trail. In Mazama Village, Annie Creek Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual dining setting. The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room is the dressed-up option, with white tablecloths, windows onto the lake, and quality meals. Reservations are recommended for the main dining hall, while small plates, appetizers, and cocktails are served in the Great Hall and Terrace between lunch and dinner.

Home to 71 hotel rooms, Crater Lake Lodge opened in 1915 and underwent a major remodel in 1995. Known for its prime lake real estate and native stone facade, the lodge offers Lofts, Standard Lodge Rooms, and Deluxe Lake View accommodations from mid-May through midOctober. Grab your reservations early, as the rooms get snatched up quickly. The 10 Cabins at Mazama Village and its neighboring campgrounds

provide a more rustic overnight experience in the ponderosa pines. Located seven miles south of Rim Village, the Mazama lodging options are situated near the Annie Creek Restaurant and Gift Shop for lunch and park gifts, and the Mazama Village Store for your everyday camping needs. When park accommodations fill up, check the expansive Running Y Resort, Lake of the Woods Resort, or Klamath Inn. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, spend the night at the Kla-Mo-Ya Casino.

Need-to-Know Facts

• Entrance fees run from $15 to $30 for a sevenday pass, depending on whether you arrive by car, motorcycle, or on foot; children under 16 enter free, and the park is cashless.

• The park’s three main entrances include Oregon Highway 62 from the west (Medford) or south (Klamath Falls), and Oregon Highway 138 from the north, which is closed during the winter.

• Pets must be leashed.

• Many areas within the park are wheelchair accessible. Check the website for more information.

• Though the park is a heavily visited site, animals do still roam the grounds. Always respect the native species and give them plenty of room.

For more information, nps.gov/crla

OLD GROWTH

A lumber empire clear-cut Central Oregon's forests but spared one canyon of ancient ponderosas

words MEGHAN ROBINS

In 1916, two competing logging companies opened mills within a month of each other on opposite banks of the Deschutes River: Shevlin-Hixon in March and Brooks-Scanlon in April. That same year, Deschutes County incorporated, electing local officials such as county judge, commissioners, district attorney, sheriff, treasurer, county clerk, and school superintendents, with the city of Bend (established in 1905) as the county seat. By 1920, the small dot on the map once known as Farewell Bend Ranch had become a logging town with a population of over 5,000 and growing.

Reportedly, the new mills were producing up to 750,000 board feet of lumber per day, an economic boom that transformed this small ranching region practically overnight. But how did two lumber companies, both from Michigan, amass so much land? Fifty-seven years earlier, in 1859, Oregon was admitted to the Union after colonizers had taken advantage of the 1841 Preemption Act, which invited squatters to purchase 160 acres of Indigenous lands for just $1.25 per acre. In 1862, Congress passed the Homestead Act, hoping more northerners would populate and make the western lands more productive for the benefit of eastern industrial markets.

The Indigenous Nations who already lived here, including the Wasco, Warm Springs, and Northern Paiute Nations, had little say in the matter. When select members of nearly a dozen bands marked their names with an X on the Treaty of 1855, they did so under the encouragement of Oregon Territory’s

Superintendent Joel Palmer, whose instructions were to clear the lands of Indigenous inhabitants and make room for American settlers. The Treaty of 1855 ceded nearly 10 million acres of Indigenous lands in Central Oregon while maintaining 578,000 acres of what is now the Warm Springs Reservation, as well as harvesting, fishing, and hunting rights in the usual and accustomed places.

As Western Indigenous Nations were being removed, killed, and relocated, businessmen in the East were licking their chops. The call to buy cheap land in the West was heard by many, including Minneapolis businessman Thomas H. Shevlin. Born in New York in 1852, Thomas cut his teeth in the lumber industry at age 15 and eventually founded Shevlin-Carpenter Company in 1892.

In 1906, he sent his 23-year-old son Thomas “Tom” L. Shevlin to Oregon to assess the quality of timber stands on land he had purchased from the US government. A recent Yale graduate and famed four-time All-American selection, Tom Shevlin lived like the wealthy son of an East Coast timber baron, fancying race cars and elite social events.

When he returned home with glowing reviews of the wealth of Oregon’s forests, his father partnered with old-time acquaintance and Wisconsin banker Frank Hixon to finance what became Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company. In 1912, after the unexpected death of his father, 29-year-old Tom suddenly found himself in charge of 13 lumber companies and two Minneapolis banks, according to Bend Park and Recreation’s park history page.

Soon, the Shevlin timber holdings included 200,000 acres of previously unmolested timber stands, which they cut swiftly and indiscriminately. The wealth of Central Oregon’s ancient ponderosa stands was deemed to provide a 30-year supply at peak cutting rates. According to the Oregon Historical Society, the combined landholdings of the Shevlin-Hixon and Brooks-Scanlon lumber companies comprised billions of board feet. This sudden timber boom and the investment from Midwest companies skyrocketed Bend’s population while devastating nearby forests.

Tom, meanwhile, ever the sportsman, occasionally returned to Yale to coach his old alma mater, leaving his Oregon responsibilities of overseeing the mill’s construction and planning in the hands of trusted employees. On one such sojourn, he was coaching at Yale and contracted pneumonia on the sidelines. He died a month later in December 1915 at age 32. News hit Central Oregon hard, but the Shevlin-Hixon company still had a skilled and compassionate manager, Tom McCann, and co-owner Frank Hixon to keep things running.

Around this same time, residents of Bend were looking to relocate their fish hatchery because the mills’ log ponds on the Deschutes were impairing the existing hatchery’s efficacy. Citizens suggested Tumalo Creek as a better location, and in 1919, the Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company donated 13.5 acres along the creek. Shortly after, the Oregon State Game Commission constructed what is now Aspen Hall and a dedicated fishing pond. Today, Aspen Hall serves as a beautiful and affordable events venue owned and operated by Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD).

As citizens began to enjoy the hatchery grounds and beautiful nearby Tumalo Creek, they advocated for more protected parklands to be available to the public. Luckily for all of us, Shevlin-Hixon manager Tom McCann also believed in protecting lands for enjoyment and recreation, having seen what unchecked logging did to the forests in the Midwest.

But the city could not afford to buy land so rich in timber, and even Deschutes National Forest

supervisor, N. G. Jackson, was trying to figure out ways to protect what’s now Shevlin Park. He suggested a land swap — today’s Shevlin Park for an equal amount of national forest ready to be cut.

But then Frank Hixon, president of Shevlin-Hixon, decided that in honor of his late business partner, Tom Shevlin, the land would be donated. He even negotiated with nearby landowners to consolidate the checkerboard ownership and secure a single, comprehensive parcel that became a 350-acre park.

The deed transferring these lands to the City of Bend, dated 1921, stipulates that this park should forever be known as Shevlin Park, that its lands be used for lawful public recreation and enjoyment, and that Shevlin-Hixon and its appointees maintain the right to build a railroad through the park, which did come to fruition in 1941.

Despite preserving this section of forest, ShevlinHixon and Brooks-Scanlon lumber companies rapidly stripped the rest of Central Oregon’s forests throughout the early 20th century. With constant rotating shifts, they kept the mills running practically 24 hours a day and produced nearly 500 million board feet per year at peak production. As timber stands were cut farther from the mills and the Deschutes River that once carried them, various other companies made fortunes building logging railroads that spiderwebbed throughout the region.

By 1950, Shevlin-Hixon had cut all they were able to cut of the timber stands they owned, and finally, they shuttered their mill, selling what was left to Brooks-Scanlon. Brooks-Scanlon continued cutting well into the 1990s, having been absorbed by larger logging companies like Diamond International and then Crown Pacific Ltd. With production unable to justify the costs of running a mill, the Brooks-Scanlon mill closed in 1994.

After nearly 100 years of indiscriminate clearcutting without the forethought to replant or consider sustainable harvesting practices, the mills along the Deschutes closed for good. What remains of the Shevlin-Hixon legacy is Shevlin Park — a rare jewel of untouched forests where you can still find 300-year-old ponderosas reaching up to 200 feet tall just on the northwestern outskirts of town.

After Shevlin-Hixon sold to their competitor Brooks-Scanlon Lumber Company, the park remained under the ownership and care of the City of Bend and then BPRD. Untouched forests are hard to find in Central Oregon, exactly because of benefactors like the Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company. But a group of citizens advocating for the preservation of public lands made this section of the river canyon untouchable.

Today, Shevlin Park includes nearly 1,000 acres owned and operated by Bend Park and Recreation District, with miles of trails meandering north and south along the river canyon. Vigorous aspen groves have become favored backdrops for photographers taking nature shots and family portraits, especially in the fall. Typically in October, generous stands of western larch trees shine like golden beacons as these uniquely deciduous conifers shed their bright yellow needles in preparation for winter.

Shevlin Park is always alive with wildlife, anglers, trail runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and families and children exploring, and yet it rarely feels crowded. The undulating terrain, winding river canyon, and thick stands of untouched ponderosa pines make this a true gem of Central Oregon. With so many trails and offshoots to explore, so

many hidden nooks to sit quietly by the river, and plenty of picnic tables and resting spots along the way, this park offers a perfect respite for everyone. While some trails climb steeply up the canyon walls and many footbridges crossing Tumalo Creek have wooden or rocky steps leading up and down, the main canyon corridor offers a paved road (closed regularly to cars) and a wide, well-graded trail that is more accessible to those with varying mobility levels.

Two parking lots bookend NW Shevlin Park Road on the north and south sides. Both are free and open unless an event is in progress at Aspen Hall. The Shevlin Fishing Pond near Aspen Hall has a wheelchair accessible boardwalk overlooking the shallow, trout-filled pond and is open only to anglers 17 years or younger and those with a disability.

Before you visit Shevlin Park, please check the Bend Park and Recreation District website (bendparksandrec.org/park/shevlin-park/) for details on trails, maps, picnic areas, dog leash laws, fishing rules, and helpful sustainability practices. For more information about Shevlin Park’s history, visit the Deschutes County Historical Museum, located at 129 NW Idaho Avenue in downtown Bend.

INK & VINYL

Inside the downtown shops where Bend still turns pages and drops needles

words GREGG MORRIS images RICHARD BACON

Along Bend’s downtown streets, basement staircases, and Old Mill storefronts, shelves of books and bins of records are a fixture. As a cornerstone of home entertainment, books and music have always been important to a community, and Bend has the shops to keep its artistic side engaged. Whether the goal is a book club’s next selection or the new release by a favorite artist, these bookstores and record shops have it covered.

On the Page

DUDLEY’S BOOKSHOP CAFÉ

Located in the heart of downtown, Dudley's Bookshop Cafe has been Bend's go-to independent bookseller since 2008, when it took over a Minnesota Avenue storefront that had housed a bookstore since 1973. The two-story bookshop stocks new and used books for the whole family. Visitors check out its Wall of Fiction upon entering, but regulars know to look both downstairs and upstairs for the classic finds. Its selection appeals to young and old alike through picture books, young adult series, and just about every genre of fiction. There are plenty of seating options in the approximately 2,000-square-foot shop, along with a café serving drinks and treats to enjoy while deciding on the next book.

Its Trail and Field Guides section is popular among adventurous locals, and exploration tales await those who just want to read about adventure. If a title can’t be found, Dudley’s offers to special-order anything available. The shop also buys books to stock its used section. It even offers a consignment program for local authors. As a matter of distinction, Dudley’s was the first bookstore in the country to partner with 1% for the Planet, donating 1 percent of its sales to local and regional environmental nonprofits.

135 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend

Dudley’s opened a second location in the Old Mill District this summer. The 900-square-foot location expands its commitment to the community and its dedication to introducing more people to books.

655 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend

ROUNDABOUT BOOKS & CAFE

Locally owned Roundabout Books & Cafe has served the community since Cassie Clemans opened its doors in 2016. The bright and airy bookstore features a cafe and tables, as well as cozy couches and chairs for guests to dive right into their new purchases. But where the 2,500-square-foot independent bookstore shines is in its connection to the neighborhood. Located in the middle of the NorthWest Crossing community, much of its space is dedicated to book clubs, local authors, and children’s books. Rounding out the store are tables of newly released books and shelves filled with a wide range of reading materials. To top it all off, Roundabout’s staff is always ready to offer up a staff pick or help locate books from a summer reading list.

The shop hosts weekly book clubs, author events, and other community groups, such as knitting circles. Parents, caregivers, and kids love its Hello Storytime! classes every second and fourth Wednesday. Geared toward kids five and under, the 30-minute get-together includes readings, songs, and movement activities. Adults look forward to its Ink and Insights speaker series, which brings together local community leaders to discuss global ideas.

900 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Suite 110, Bend

UNDERGROUND BOOK GALLERY

Tucked below the hustle and bustle of downtown’s busy restaurant scene and around the corner from craft breweries, the Underground Book Gallery stands out for its ability to be inconspicuous. Located on Oregon Avenue, sharing the basement with The Cellar, a pub serving English-style ales, this independent bookseller draws people in with its inviting atmosphere. The 600-square-foot space is packed with 20,000 used books of every genre, from sci-fi and poetry to the classics and antiquarian prizes.

Owner Justin Schlosberg has crafted a welcoming space for all who enjoy reading. The gallery hosts author signings and classes, such as Make Your Own Upcycled Book Journal. Downtown Bend First Fridays could see musicians sitting down at the piano tucked in the corner, or unconventional alcohol pours for the guests. This subterranean spot is truly another world.

206 NW Oregon Ave., Unit A, Bend

BIG STORY BOOKSTORE

Standing tall on Greenwood Avenue, just east of downtown, Big Story Bookstore offers a curated selection of books, as well as vinyl records and movies. Owners Rian and Alyssa Heim spread the gospel of how books help shape the world and maintain a mission to share their love of reading with the community. The 25,000-strong selection of new and used books ranges from important authors of the classics to contemporary writers and new releases.

Locals know the Big Story location by the huge mural on the side of the building asking people to “Expand Your Mind.” Book lovers know the bookshop as the spot to find a classic or discover a new author. Visitors to Bend appreciate its partnership with the Redmond Municipal Airport in creating the Flybrary kiosk. Books in the display are free for travelers passing through the airport.

228 NE Greenwood Ave., Bend

CENTRAL LIBRARY

The big news out of Bend this year has been the opening of the new, 100,000-square-foot Central Library. The building itself is on track to become LEED Platinum certified and includes meeting rooms, co-working spaces, a children’s discovery area, creative zones, art installations, and even a Thump Coffee café. The focal point is an art installation by John Grade, titled “Juniper,” suspended by 1,440 cables and made with 8,456 individual pieces of Alaskan yellow cedar.

Inside, the three-story library offers everything a city the size of Bend needs. Level 1 has the coffee café, large meeting rooms, and the book drop-off and pick-up station. Level 2 is set aside for children and teens with exploration spaces, a storytime area, and quiet reading spots. Level 3 houses the adult library collection, meeting and DIY spaces, and a wide array of seating and study areas.

61956 SE Santorini St., Bend

Sounds of Bend

Though streaming has taken over as the most popular way to listen to music, the resurgence of vinyl records has kept record stores in business and enabled new ones to open. Vinyl purists point to both the quality of sound and the enhanced listening experience when discussing music, while the downtown business associations concede the need for record stores to add culture to any downtown area. While some bookstores, such as Big Story and Barnes & Noble, offer records for sale, Bend has two record stores for all new and classic listening needs.

SMITH ROCK RECORDS

In 2020, Patrick Smith took over Downtown Bend’s Ranch Records and renamed it Smith Rock Records. Since then, audiophiles and music lovers have flocked to the record store for all of their vinyl, CD, or memorabilia needs. Each Record Store Day sees people lining up early in the morning to get their hands on special releases.

This year saw Smith Rock Records combine with Stereo Planet to sell both records and hi-fi stereo equipment — a natural pairing under one roof. The new location is warm and inviting to those looking to spend time perusing new and used records. Concert tickets to local shows are available on the way out.

1008 NW Bond St., Bend

VINYLSTOP RECORDS

VinylStop Records moved into its Greenwood location in 2025, providing Bend with another option for record shopping. The shop also sells Pokémon items, VHS tapes, and other memorabilia. Bargain hunters can grab a cheap mystery bag of vinyl records or something from the $2 bargain record sale. And for those who would rather not leave the couch, a Friday night livestream record sale and auction runs online.

155 NE Greenwood Ave., Bend

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

In a historic Bend building, ceramicists find inspiration in proximity at Mud Lake Studios

words MEGHAN ROBINS

images RICHARD BACON

Mud Lake Studios & Supplies, located in the Old Iron Works Art District on SE Scott Street, is home to more than 80 clay-working artists. Some rent dedicated spaces. Some are cubby members. Others bring homemade pieces to be fired in professional kilns.

Though the variety of artistry ranges, the medium at Mud Lake Studios is primarily clay. Within that medium is a plethora of choices: What type and color of clay? Do you hand-build or throw on the wheel? Will you glaze or carve? What type of glaze? What color and mineral content will you choose? Do you fire in the gas or electric kiln? Most importantly, how will all of these elements and decisions interact to create a unique and beautiful final piece?

When Alder Harkin joined Mud Lake Studios, first as a cubby member, then as a studio artist, he was 18 years old and fresh out of high school. His obsession with ceramics led him to join Mud Lake Studios, where he found himself surrounded by over 80 other artists. “My progress just skyrocketed once I got here,” Alder says. “Because here, there’s infinite inspiration. If I saw something I really liked, I could just go up to that artist and ask, ‘How’d you do that?’”

Alicia Renner

Over time, Alder has developed a unique style: intricately carved vases with precise detail inspired by European cathedral windows. “I call them my window pieces just because I put windows on them,” Alder says. “I like making intricate work even though it takes a ton of time.” Playing with techniques, Alder throws clay on the wheel — turning vases, bottles, mugs, bowls, and teapots — then hand-carves intricately symmetrical designs, which require multiple levels of skill and a specialized set of tools that could easily be found in a dental office.

His work also requires patience. Peeling one sliver of clay out at a time is meditative but finicky, and the learning curve is steep. “It would be nice to make more window mugs, but hand carving takes a ridiculous amount of time, so I’m currently not making as much functional work with all these crazy designs,” he says. When you see a mug in the retail store priced a little higher than the others, look at the handwork, the texture, the detail, and the precision. Most likely, it’s one Alder has spent hours perfecting.

Another resident studio artist is Titia Barnett, a retired art teacher originally from Holland who has spent her career making, teaching, and talking ceramics. She still teaches seasonal classes as well as private lessons at Mud Lake Studios, encouraging students to follow their inspiration while guiding them through various technicalities. Primarily focused on hand-building, Titia manipulates chunks of clay into shapes and figures largely inspired by nature.

Currently, she’s working on a collection of crows, whose depth and personalities take up

space in ways words on this page simply can’t. Her collection of underwater-inspired pieces doubles as vases and bowls or simply as artwork to enjoy. “That’s an inverted puffer fish bowl,” she says with a laugh, pointing to a bowl with sharp spikes lining the inside. “For people who like sweets too much.”

In her career, Titia has been commissioned to make life-sized sculptures of humans, block pillars, and abstract pieces. With such breadth of experience, she makes art profusely and prices her pieces reasonably. “Because I’m retired, I don’t need to sell pieces as much now,” she says. But when you visit her studio at Mud Lake, don’t bother asking about the two-foot-tall alligator handbag sitting in the corner — a whimsical and bold statement about fashion and animal cruelty — because that’s one piece she’s not willing to sell (I already asked).

Other artists, like Michelle Horstman of Miche’s Pieces, are busily cranking out functional art and putting their particular spin on things. A crowd favorite for Michelle has become a mainstay of her brand. Imagine drinking tea from a mug conspicuously missing its handle, but instead, your hands rest easily and happily on a pair of perky yet realistic breasts. “Boob mugs, is what I call them,” says Michelle, who first made them for a naughty Valentine’s Day sale hosted by Mud Lake Studios. “Since then, I started getting requests for them, and people kept asking, ‘Can you make more? Can you make more?’ So finally I just started making them as my regular thing, and they just sell themselves.”

In addition, Michelle makes beautiful mugs (with and without handles), pots for plants, ring

Alder Harkin

Titia Barnett

Michelle Horstman

holders, and other cozy, colorful additions for your home. Her inspiration comes from the natural world, and her work features bold, bright colors that combine raw clay with glazes. “I really like this clay I’m using right now called dark chocolate,” she explains. “It’s like mud, and I just love it. It fires really, really dark. I don’t do anything too crazy with my glazing. Like this one here is just white and dark clay, and I love its earthy feel, its simplicity.”

Walk into Mud Lake Studios, and you feel the variety immediately in the front room gallery. Customers are also invited to wander the back hall to see artists in their studios and shop the hallway retail section.

Originally called Cindercone Clay Center, named after the iconic cinder cone on Mt. Bachelor, this artist collective opened in 2002. When current owner Alicia Renner joined as a studio member in 2015, she was focused on building her sewing and clothing company Howl Goods, located just a few doors down. In 2019, Alicia took full ownership and rebranded the space to Mud Lake Studios & Supplies. “Hosmer is my favorite lake,” says Alicia. “And Hosmer Lake used to be called Mud Lake.

You can see the cinder cone from there, so it just fits.” The name is a clever and generous nod to the original owners and Alicia’s way of keeping their intentions always in sight.

Above and beyond the 80 artists finding home at Mud Lake Studios, the greater community also enjoys this social hub. “I always wanted people to feel comfortable to just come in and talk shop,” says Alicia. “Like the bait shop guys next door, except with ceramics.”

And people do. Grab a coffee and pastry at neighboring Café des Chutes. Walk through the studios and retail gallery. Talk shop with any artist you see. Attend their myriad events, including the seasonal Thrown Together Dinner, where guests enjoy a four-course meal served on four custom place settings made by various Mud Lake Studios members. Or join a class, a seconds sale, or a community event hosted in conjunction with the Old Iron Works Art District.

For more information, visit mudlakestudios.com, and try your hand at working with clay. Like many of these artists, you could just find your next calling.

DESTINATION

OLD MILL

words GREGG MORRIS

As the Deschutes River quietly flows by Bend’s Old Mill District, under the watchful eye of Cascade Mountain peaks, its flowers carry a sweet fragrance. A national recording artist performs at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater as visitors enjoy shopping and a bite to eat. The sprawling, 270-acre hub for shopping, fitness, and the arts is widely considered to be the spark that jump-started Bend’s 21st-century economic boom. Paralleling the Deschutes River between SW Reed Market Road and the Bend Whitewater Park, Bend’s Old Mill District fully encapsulates the spirit of Central Oregon’s unofficial capital city.

Longtime Bend residents know the Old Mill District as the cornerstone of local developer Bill Smith’s Central Oregon legacy. Smith, who passed away in 2022, began his Bend life working at the Old Mill site for the Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill, moved to the position of president of their newly created development company, Brooks Resources Corporation, and then founded William Smith

Properties. Smith’s work includes some of the bestknown developments in the area, such as Black Butte Ranch, Awbrey Butte, and Mount Bachelor Village. But he was proudest of the work he did bridging the gap between Bend’s former and current economic mainstays, timber to tourism.

Timber production ruled the area for nearly a century before the Old Mill District opened in 2000, anchored by Regal Cinemas, REI, and Ben & Jerry’s. At its peak, Brooks-Scanlon and its rival ShevlinHixon together employed more than 2,000 Central Oregonians and held the distinction of being the largest pine sawmills in the world. However, the slow but steady downfall of the timber industry wiped out the timber operations in 1994, leaving behind the three iconic smokestacks standing tall above what is now the REI location.

Though shopping is the focal point of the Old Mill District, its strength lies in the diverse options for the entire family. As a city within a city, the Old Mill District is a destination in itself. Visitors will

find plenty of places to sit down for a bite to eat, grab a drink, get some exercise, see a show, and, of course, shop the nearly 70 local and national chain stores. So, whether you’re in town for the day, weekend, or week, Bend’s Old Mill District has plenty of options to fill your time.

The shopping is no exception. More than 40 local boutiques and big-name stores sit along the river. In addition to the food and drink options, they sell clothes, makeup, jewelry, gear to get you on the trails, and art in the outdoor mall. The picturesque brick sidewalks, paved trails, and footbridges lead the way for locals looking for a last-minute item and weekend shoppers alike.

Those familiar with Bend and the Old Mill District have probably photographed the REI building, with its three brick smokestacks rising above the storefront. The flagship gear shop for the Old Mill District, REI still sells everything you need for an afternoon or month-long adventure.

Just north of the smokestacks, Saxon’s Fine Jewelers has been a locally owned fixture since 1983, its cases set with names like Hearts on Fire, Roberto Coin, and William Henry. Saxon’s buyers travel for much of the stock themselves — diamonds out of South Africa, colored stones from gem safaris in Sri Lanka and Thailand.

The original site of the Old Mill was the home of Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill; the smokestacks still rise from the REI building; shop for the perfect gift at Saxon's Fine Jewelers.

Confluence Fly Shop has outfitted Central Oregon anglers since Tye Krueger founded it in 2013, stocking rods, flies, and tackle and running casting clinics and private lessons on the Deschutes. Guided fishing and hunting trips come through a partnership with Deep Canyon Outfitters. A recent remodel added an eight-tap bar — beer, cider, and kombucha on rotation — with a sliding glass door opening onto patio seating.

National clothing and makeup brands lining the Old Mill District street include American Eagle, Anthropologie, Lush, Sephora, and Claire’s Boutique. Kara’s Kitchenware and Top Hat Spice Shop have everything needed to stock your kitchen. Round out the day at Lubbesmeyer Art Studio & Gallery, Tumalo Art Co., or one of the other galleries for something to adorn your walls.

The Old Mill District is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of locals and tourists alike. Shops opening in 2026 include Dudley’s Bookshop Café’s second location, out-of-town stores Madewell and Portland Gear, and Old Mill District’s first vintage

Test out your casting skills at Confluence Fly Shop; browse local art at Tumalo Art Co.; get your adrenaline rush at the Bend Whitewater Park; take a paddle with a kayak rental at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe.

shop, Elk Vintage. And, if you’re still looking for more shopping, head to the Upper Old Mill’s Box Factory, with 35 more shops and restaurants to choose from.

For entertainment, the Hayden Homes Amphitheater anchors the west bank of the Deschutes, accommodating up to 8,000 concertgoers and hosting more than 50 shows each summer season. A complete upgrade in 2021, from structural capacity and accessibility to sound quality, has lured some of the biggest names in music and comedy to Central Oregon. The 2026 season started in May and runs through October.

Locals know to buy their discounted tickets at the Old Mill District’s Ticket Mill, located on the second floor above J. Jill and Hello Sunshine.

If indoor movie fun is your preferred theater experience, check the listings for Regal Old Mill ScreenX & IMAX on the south end of the center. While it originally opened as a 10-plex with the opening of the Old Mill District in 2000, the movie theater has expanded to 16 screens, including IMAX and ScreenX formats.

For exercise, the draw is the Deschutes itself, its cold, clear current threading through the heart of the district. This section of the river runs from Farewell Bend Park to McKay Park, through Miller’s Landing Park and the Bend Whitewater Park, before heading toward downtown Bend.

Most summer Bend visitors know this stretch of the river as perfect for a lazy float, as they drift along with the current from the Old Mill to downtown’s Drake Park. Others know it as a great place to spend the day paddleboarding or kayaking. If you need to rent or buy gear, stop by Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, conveniently located on the water at the Colorado Bridge, for all your water recreation needs, including a Bend Paddle Trail Alliance Deschutes Paddle Trail River Guide map. Be careful of the crowds escaping the summer’s heat, and plan your trip accordingly if solitude is what you desire. Watch, too, for the river’s residents — beavers, otters, and the threatened Oregon spotted frog.

If you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, check out the Bend Whitewater Park, located just north of the Colorado Bridge. Owned and operated by the Bend Park and Recreation District, this river recreation park is set up with three distinctly different channels. The Habitat Channel is closed to humans and exists

to enhance river health and protect the local and migratory wildlife, while the Fish Ladder adds gentle rapids to your float. However, the main spectacle of the park is undoubtedly the center Whitewater Channel’s four wave features, catering to all levels of whitewater enthusiasts. Most summer days see a lineup of wetsuit-clad surfers and boogie boarders waiting to drop into the manufactured waves, as well as many onlookers watching the tricks and inevitable crashes. Engineered river-surfing parks like this one are rare, and on a hot afternoon the Whitewater Channel draws as many spectators as surfers.

For those looking to stay dry, trails on both sides of the river await hikers, runners, and cyclists. This section of the Deschutes River Trail, named the Old Mill Reach, runs just under three miles, with three footbridges connecting the two sides to provide convenient loops for adults and kids alike. If you’d like to rent a bike for a few hours or a full day, stop by Wheel Fun Rentals. Not only do they rent

HAYDEN HOMES

AMPHITHEATER

cruisers and e-bikes, but they also have surreys for family fun. In summer, Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play moves its yoga outdoors to the riverbank — and back inside, it pairs adult fitness classes with a kids’ ninja-warrior gym and open play, childcare included.

Hungry or thirsty visitors are spoiled for choice — a quick bite or a full meal to linger over at sunset, all within a short walk.

Start your day with a cup of joe from Sisters Coffee Company, and grab a bagel sandwich if you need fuel for the day. Lunchtime could take you to the new Stacks Diner and Delicatessen for a taste of New York City deli food made with farm-fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients. Hola! Old Mill’s Peruvian- and Mexican-inspired bites, paired with margaritas or mojitos, are perfect for a late-afternoon happy hour.

Overlooking the Deschutes from a patio at the water’s edge, Pastini offers 24 made-fromscratch pasta dishes that are Italian-inspired and crafted with local ingredients whenever possible. If a Prohibition-era-style cocktail is more your speed, drop by the Lady Bird Cultural Society. Stop by for happy hour or experience the restaurant’s eclectic dinner menu, which puts a refined spin on the farm-to-table concept, from caviar and oysters to handmade pastas and artisan wood-fired sourdough pizzas. If you are looking to transport yourself from the high desert to a tropical island experience, be sure to check out Rapa Nui Tiki Bar, where you can enjoy fresh-pressed cocktails and Asian fusion tapas-style bites. And when the family can’t decide what they’re craving, two cart pods just beyond the shops settle it — The Podski, between the Old Mill and downtown, and Crosscut – Warming Hut No. 5, a taproom with chef-run carts at the district’s upper edge. By evening, the smokestacks catch the last light, paddlers drift the final stretch toward Drake Park, and the amphitheater stirs to life. From timber to tourism, the Old Mill District is where Bend’s two centuries meet the water.

Kickstart your day at Sisters Coffee Company; fulfill your Italian cravings at Pastini; close out the day with dinner and craft cocktails at Lady Bird Cultural Society.

Old Mill District; 520 SW Powerhouse Drive, #624, Bend; (541) 312-0131; the district’s shops, galleries, and restaurants — including those mentioned here — are listed with current hours at oldmilldistrict.com

Saxon’s Fine Jewelers; 360 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 110, Bend; (541) 389-6655; open Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; saxonsfinejewelers.com

Confluence Fly Shop & Craft Beer Bar; 375 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 100, Bend; (541) 6785633; open Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; confluenceflyshop. com

Hayden Homes Amphitheater; 344 SW ShevlinHixon Drive, Bend; 2026 season runs May–October; tickets at bendconcerts.com or the district’s Ticket Mill

Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe; 805 SW Industrial Way, Suite 6, Bend; (541) 317-9407; open daily, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; tumalocreek.com

Bend Whitewater Park; 166 SW Shevlin-Hixon Drive, Bend, at Colorado Avenue; operated by the Bend Park and Recreation District; bendparksandrec.org

Wheel Fun Rentals; 769 SW Columbia Street, Bend; (541) 408-4568; open daily, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (seasonal); wheelfunrentals.com

Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play; 320 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 150, Bend; (541) 241-3919; class schedule at freespiritbend.com

Crosscut – Warming Hut No. 5; 566 SW Mill View Way, Bend; open daily, noon to close; crosscutbeer.com

The Podski; 536 NW Arizona Avenue, Bend; open daily, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; thepodski.com

The Fox Returns

There’s a certain kind of confidence that only comes from cooking in the same town for decades. Chef Josh Podwils has spent more than 25 years in Central Oregon kitchens, building a loyal following one plate at a time. Now, with the opening of Rosemary and Fox in Bend, the longtime local chef has created a restaurant that feels deeply personal: refined but approachable, hospitality-driven, and unmistakably tied to the community that raised him. We sat down with Podwils to talk about hometown pride, French-American cooking, the realities of restaurant life, and why feeding people still matters after all these years.

words DONNA BRITT images RICHARD BACON

First of all, congratulations. This is beautiful. You’ve been doing this a long time, and now you have your own place. For somebody who doesn’t know your story, what’s the nutshell version of where you are right now?

I’ve been cooking for about 25 years, with probably 20 of those spent running kitchens in different places around Bend. I went to culinary school at Cascade Culinary Institute and started running kitchens pretty quickly after that. My first big stint was at The Victorian Café for more than a decade, then Brother Jon’s, and later Jackalope Grill. I also took a couple of years away from cooking to focus on my kids and family. Bend has always been home for me. I love skiing, snowboarding, hiking — all the outdoorsy stuff. I even married a local Bendite, which feels pretty rare these days. I’ve always loved cooking here, and thankfully, people seem to love my food.

What was the beginning of your love affair with food?

I took a culinary elective at Mountain View High, just to fill a slot in my schedule, and completely fell in love with it. That’s where I found my passion. After that, I started working at Ernesto’s back in the day and worked my way up from barback to lead line cook in about three years.

Had you imagined a different career before that? I wanted to be an architect.

Which honestly still fits. There’s a little architecture in cooking. Exactly. You’re building something. Just with food instead of buildings.

Was owning your own restaurant always the dream?

Yes, it was a dream. When I started Loyalty as a pop-up, that was really the beginning of making the dream feel possible.

What do you love most about feeding people? Creating great food and making sure people are happy and having a good time. Hospitality is huge for us. We want that next-level hospitality where guests feel genuinely taken care of. That’s a big part of creating a memorable dining experience.

How would you describe your style of cooking? French-American, with a strong focus on local, seasonal, and clean ingredients.

Do you still enjoy being in the kitchen every day? I’m on the line every day. I’m a very hands-on chef, and I truly believe if you’re going to lead a kitchen, you should be cooking in it. To me, that’s a big thing — it’s a big part of my life.

What’s the biggest challenge in the restaurant business right now?

Cost of goods, without question. Compared to 10 years ago, everything has changed. Food costs,

labor costs, operating costs — all of it has gone up dramatically since I started in the late ’90s. Back then, it was easier to survive as a restaurant. Now margins are incredibly tight. We’re making it work, but it takes a constant balance between keeping prices reasonable and still turning a profit.

Tell us about the menu at Rosemary and Fox. It’s seasonal, farm-to-table, and very ingredientdriven. We work with as many local farms as possible and source clean, responsibly raised products whenever we can. Our meats, for example, are sourced without hormones or antibiotics and raised humanely. We put a lot of thought into where everything comes from. A prime example would be our duck legs, which come from Culver Duck Farms in Indiana. Our wild boar is truly wild boar from Texas.

The patio feels like a hidden garden in the middle of town.

We wanted it to feel private and comfortable, almost like an escape. Right now, we have seven tables outside, surrounded by flowers and greenery. Happy hour runs from 4 to 5:30 p.m. with a smaller menu that includes duck fat fries, chimichurri steak bites, burgers, salads, and fried green beans, which are our little homage to 900 Wall.

There has to be a story behind the name Rosemary and Fox. Rosemary has always been one of my favorite herbs. We had a storyboard, and we just kept going through name after name after name, probably 30 different names that we were considering. Then one

day I went down the rabbit hole of looking for local animals and got on a website and found we have the Sierra Nevada red fox here, which hadn’t been seen in Central Oregon for years and is suddenly showing up again. My wife Kate and I are both true Bend natives, which feels increasingly rare too, so the fox idea really resonated with us. Rare, local, and still here. So, we ran with that theme and put the fox with rosemary.

What advice would you give young chefs coming up in the industry?

I see a lot of people bouncing from restaurant to restaurant very quickly. My advice is to find a chef and a restaurant where you can really learn, then stay for a few years and absorb everything you can. Build relationships with restaurant owners and mentors. Show up early. Ask questions. Be willing to learn even when there’s nothing immediately in it for you. That’s how you grow.

Chef Josh Podwils is a Bend native and graduate of Cascade Culinary Institute who has spent more than two decades leading kitchens throughout Central Oregon. Known for his ingredient-driven French-American cooking and warm hospitality, Podwils built a loyal local following at The Victorian Café, Brother Jon’s Alehouse, and Jackalope Grill before opening Rosemary and Fox, his first restaurant, in the former Jackalope Grill space.

Rosemary and Fox; 750 NW Lava Road, #139, Bend; (458) 343-7055; Tuesday–Saturday, 4 p.m.–9 p.m.; rosemaryandfox.com

A Proper Tavern

Three Finger Jack Tavern feels like the kind of place that’s been around forever in the best possible way. The ranch-inspired tavern opened in 2025 with a simple promise painted right into its tagline: “Steak. Seafood. Firewater. Friends.” Inside, old westerns flicker on the televisions, the cocktails come strong, and the atmosphere strikes a sweet spot between mountain town hangout and classic roadside tavern.

The menu leans toward hearty, unfussy fare, full of bold flavors and comfort food done right. The Mountaintop Meatloaf, wrapped in bacon with a whiskey-kissed ketchup glaze, has already developed a local following for good reason. Equally memorable is the bone-in pork chop sourced from Sisters Meat and Smokehouse, served with Grandma Harriet’s old-school applesauce, a sweetsavory side dish with a hint of mystery spice that keeps diners guessing.

There’s plenty more to love, from Tequila Shrimp Tacos to the Smokehouse Burger on a Sisters Bakery brioche bun, plus playful starters like fried alligator: “Gator Spurs.” Dessert is practically mandatory. Granny Rhonda’s Got a Gun — an apple crisp splashed with Bulleit Bourbon and topped with vanilla ice cream — is big enough to share but tempting enough not to.

With warm service, local roots, and a welcoming western spirit, Three Finger Jack Tavern captures the easygoing heart of Central Oregon dining right now. —Donna Britt

Three Finger Jack Tavern; 411 E. Hood Ave., Sisters; daily from 11 a.m.; threefingerjacktavern.com

The Gathering Place

In downtown Redmond, Blacksmith Public House has pulled off something increasingly rare: a place that genuinely feels built for everyone. Housed inside a reimagined former blacksmith shop, the sprawling public house hums with the easy conviviality of a modern town square, where families, retirees, beer nerds, dancers, trivia buffs, and road-tripping visitors all seem to find common ground.

Inside, the atmosphere strikes that elusive balance between polished and relaxed. Historic touches nod to the building’s industrial past, while the spacious interior invites lingering over pints, cocktails, coffee, and conversation. A professional stage and sound system anchor a lively calendar of events that ranges from live music and karaoke to trivia nights and line-dancing lessons. On any given evening, the dance floor might fill with two-steppers, birthday revelers, or kids burning off energy while parents settle in for another round.

Outside, the scene feels distinctly Central Oregon. A ring of rotating local food trucks surrounds a manicured lawn and fire pit, creating an alfresco gathering space that’s equal parts beer garden and neighborhood backyard. Children roam freely, dogs lounge nearby, and groups of friends cluster around picnic tables long after sunset.

The food, drinks, and entertainment all deliver. But the draw is the unmistakable sense of welcome. In an era of carefully curated experiences, this is a place devoted to simple pleasures: community, culture, conversation, and the joy of gathering. —Donna Britt

Blacksmith Public House; 308 SW Evergreen Ave., Redmond; Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; blacksmithpublichouse.com

Smooth Sips

In a town that takes its coffee seriously, Bohemian Roastery (BoRo) is quietly doing something radical. No flashy café, no daily walk-ins. Just a family-run roastery and a growing presence on local shelves. What they’re offering feels less like a trend and more like a shift.

Here, coffee is roasted over wood fire in small, eight-pound batches. Not as a throwback, but as a rethink. BoRo is one of only a few committed roasters in the U.S. using this ancient method versus petroleum-fired heat. Founder-driven and engineer-minded, the operation leans into the natural properties of hardwood, particularly its moisture content, to shape the roast. That subtle infusion of water vapor creates a gentler, more enveloping heat. The result lands in the cup as something notably smoother, with rounded acidity and a more integrated flavor.

Anchored by responsibly sourced, organic beans, the lineup ranges from the lighter Ethiopian Yirgacheffe to the darker Vietnamese Robusta with honey, sesame, and cacao flavors. There are also the intriguing coffee/mushroom blends that feel very at home in Central Oregon’s wellnessmeets-adventure ethos. While the roastery itself is not open to the public, you’ll find their beans at Central Oregon Locavore, Newport Avenue Market, and Local Acres Marketplace, among other retail outlets throughout the area, plus a steady rotation of summertime farmers’ markets and special events year-round.

In a coffee world optimized for speed and sameness, BoRo’s approach embraces the Bohemian philosophy of bringing like-minded people together for a common good … over a memorable cup of coffee. —Donna Britt

Bohemian Roastery; bohemianroastery.com; @BohemianRoastery

Elevate Your Trip

INTERACTIVE

EXPERIENCE

SEE + DO GOLF EAT + DRINK SHOP + STYLE

LIVING MAPS

TRAVELOGUE

DOWNLOAD THE SAVVY360 APP

This link will take you to the appropriate app store to install the app, where you can create a trip, start building your itinerary, collaborate with friends, and more.

Please enjoy Central Oregon responsibly. Be respectful and reduce your impact.

SEE + DO

BEND WHITEWATER PARK water activity

FLOAT THE DESCHUTES water activity

DESCHUTES HISTORICAL MUSEUM museum

LARKSPUR TRAIL hiking & park

RILEY RANCH NATURE RESERVE hiking & park

DESCHUTES RIVER TRAIL - OLD MILL REACH hiking

PILOT BUTTE STATE SCENIC VIEWPOINT sightseeing & hiking

DRAKE PARK & MIRROR POND park

PINE NURSERY PARK & TRAIL park & hiking

ALPENGLOW PARK park

SHEVLIN PARK park

SHEVLIN LOOP TRAIL hiking

SMITH ROCK STATE PARK sightseeing & hiking

TUMALO FALLS sightseeing & hiking

BOYD CAVE sightseeing & hiking

Bend Whitewater Park

› OPEN DAILY FROM 5AM–10PM!

› MULTIPLE WAVE FEATURES THROUGHOUT TWO DISTINCT CHANNELS

Located on the Deschutes River near the Old Mill District, the Bend Whitewater Park entertains whitewater users and river surfers with manmade waves, while giving river floaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders a mild whitewater thrill. Owned and operated by the Bend Park and Recreation District, this river recreation park was created in partnership between the district and the Bend Paddle Trail Alliance. Popular activities include river bodyboarding, river floating, river surfing, whitewater kayaking, and whitewater paddling. Depending on your experience and comfort level, there are two channels to access the water. The Fish Ladder is perfect for those who want to experience mild rapids while floating. For the experienced kayakers, paddleboarders, and surfers, the Whitewater Channel has four wave features to test your expertise and sense of adventure.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendWhitewaterPark.com 166 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

Float the Deschutes

A must-do summer activity that is fun for the whole family is floating and tubing the Deschutes River. A favorite activity with Bendites and visitors alike, beat the summer heat by cooling off in refreshing waters while you float through the Old Mill District to Drake Park. To float the river there is free parking, a shuttle service, and equipment rentals at Park & Float on Simpson Ave. and Bradbury Way. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe rents river tubes, paddleboards, kayaks, and complimentary life jackets for all ages. The shuttle begins and ends at Park & Float with stops at Riverbend Park, where floaters put in the river, and Drake Park, where they exit. Services are available June 20 to September 7.

› TUBE RENTAL RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED › BE READY TO GET WET!

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • bendparksandrec.org 1001 SW Bradbury Way, Bend (Map C, PG 142)

Deschutes Historical Museum

MUSEUM in BEND

› OPEN TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10AM–4:30 PM

› EXPLORE STORIES AND LEARN ABOUT THE RICH HISTORY OF THE HIGH DESERT

Located south of historic downtown Bend between Wall and Bond Streets, the Deschutes Historical Museum is home to the Deschutes County Historical Society. Inside the hundred-year-old Reid School building, exhibits celebrate the stories of life in the high desert country — the traditional homelands of the Molalla, Warm Springs, Wasco, Paiute, and Klamath peoples. From the early attraction of outdoor recreation and roadside tourism to a time when irrigation, the railroad, and lumber mills created new cities and towns during the early 20th century, visitors to the museum will discover the rich and unique history of this area — a living legacy that grows with each new generation. Put some history in your future.

Deschutes Historical Museum (541) 389-1813 • DeschutesHistory.org

129 NW Idaho Ave., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

Larkspur Trail

HIKING in BEND

Larkspur Trail is in the heart of East Bend and runs four miles north and south, connecting the Central Oregon Historic Canal Trail, Larkspur Park, Pilot Butte Neighborhood Park, and Pilot Butte State Park. South of the state park, the trail loops around Pilot Butte Scenic Viewpoint, which is an additional one mile to the summit of Pilot Butte. North of Larkspur Park, the trail leads to the Pinewood Natural area, where you can take in views of the local wildlife, ponderosa pines and juniper trees. Amenities at the neighborhood park at the butte’s base include a picnic shelter, playground, restrooms, and drinking fountain. The Coyner Trail is also nearby and connects to Ponderosa Park and Juniper Park.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

Access from Larkspur Park or Pilot Butte Neighborhood Park (Map B, PG 149)

› OPEN DAILY FROM 5AM–10PM

› DOGS MUST REMAIN LEASHED

› A VARIETY OF OPTIONS FROM THIS TRAIL

Riley Ranch Nature Reserve

› CONNECTED TO TUMALO STATE PARK

› NO DOGS OR BIKES ALLOWED

› OPEN DAILY FROM 7AM–7PM

Running alongside the Deschutes River on the northwest edge of Bend, the 184acre Riley Ranch Nature Reserve features miles of trails through open grasslands, juniper and pine forests, lava flows, deep river canyon, and riparian habitats. Even though Riley Ranch is within the Bend city limits, you’ll feel like you’re miles away, surrounded by nature with dramatic views of the river canyon, distant Cascade Mountains, and an abundance of wildlife. There is a loop trail that features 1.57 miles of gravel and soft surface above the canyon and a more rugged trail on the 1.25-mile-long Canyon Loop. Another loop is made up of two smaller loops: Juniper Loop and Sage Flats Loop. Both loops are under one mile. The trail that heads down the canyon rim is called Robin’s Run and links to the Canyon Loop.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

19975 Glen Vista Rd, Bend (Map B, PG 141)

HIKING & PARK in BEND

Deschutes River Trail - Old Mill Reach

This easy, level, off-street loop trail along the Deschutes River is very popular for walking, trail running, dog walking (on leash), skateboarding, and bike riding. Part of the Deschutes River Trail (DRT), the Old Mill Reach is located from Farewell Bend Park to McKay Park and the Bend Whitewater Park and meanders through the Old Mill District, which was once the home of two large lumber mills, and now boasts some of the best shops, restaurants, parks, and trails in Central Oregon. Open year-round, the scenic stretch of paved and unpaved trail running parallel to the river is dotted with residences, businesses, wildlife habitats, and forests. Some sections of the trail are on private property, so stay on the designated trail. Parks and trails are open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Dog “rest stops” provide disposable bags and trash cans.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

1000 SW Reed Market Rd., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

› EASY ACCESS FROM FAREWELL BEND PARK, RIVERBEND PARK, BEND WHITEWATER PARK & OLD MILL DISTRICT

HIKING in BEND

Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint

SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in BEND

› DRIVE, BIKE OR HIKE TO THE SUMMIT

› AMAZING CENTRAL OREGON VIEWS

› CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN BEND

Pilot Butte is a popular hiking spot for locals and encompasses the Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, and Nature and Base Trails. A lava dome created from an extinct volcano and rising about 450 feet in Bend, it offers spectacular views of the snowcapped Cascade Mountains and high desert landscape. Hike up to the viewpoint on one of three trails that wind past juniper trees and sagebrush. The paved summit road for driving access is seasonal and closed in the winter from November through mid-April. But there is year-round access from the east side parking lot via all the trails. Whether you drive, ride a bike, or hike to the summit, once you make it to the viewpoint, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views, as well as informational signs that highlight the region. Amenities include benches and restrooms.

Located near downtown Bend (541) 388-6055

NE Greenway Ave./Hwy. 20 just east of downtown (Map B, PG 141)

PHOTO

Drake Park & Mirror Pond

One of Bend’s best-known parks with locals and visitors, this popular, downtown community recreation area features open lawns, public restrooms, bike racks, picnic tables, a riverfront boardwalk, and viewing areas. Fronting the Deschutes River at Mirror Pond, Drake Park is serene and idyllic, with its majestic ponderosa pines and deciduous hardwood trees scattered across its 13 acres. The outdoor stage and acres of open lawns are usually bustling with community events throughout the spring, summer, and fall, including walks/runs, Munch and Music, and the Bend Park and Recreation July 4th Pet Parade. Popular summer activities also include fishing and cooling off by floating the river. Connected to other riverfront parks by bridges and the Deschutes River Trail, it's within easy walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and other businesses in beautiful downtown Bend, and street and paid parking are available.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

› ALSO HOME TO TWO PUBLIC ART PIECES

› DO NOT FEED THE GEESE & WATERFOWL

› OPEN 5AM–10PM

PARK in BEND

Pine Nursery Park & Trail

HIKING & PARK in BEND

› OPEN 5AM–10PM

› DOG-FRIENDLY

› MILES OF PAVED TRAILS

Pine Nursery Park and Trail is an easy, paved 1.25-mile loop trail in northeast Bend. Located in a former tree farm, this trail is a quick walk, averaging about 30 minutes to complete, and great for walking, running, rolling, and biking. Most of the trail is relatively flat with a gentle slope in areas and navigable for those with wheelchairs and strollers. Incredible vistas abound along this trail: Pilot Butte, Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters can all be seen as you follow the trail. The community park is a large 159 acres and open year-round, with beautiful expansive green space, 4.5 miles of paved trails, fishing pond, a disc golf course, 16-acre off-leash dog park, athletic fields, pickleball courts, playground, picnic shelter, and sand volleyball courts. Picnic tables are along the trail and throughout the park, and seasonal amenities include drinking fountains.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

3750 NE Purcell Blvd., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

Alpenglow Park

This 37-acre park is in one of Bend’s rapidly growing areas and serves as a hub for recreation activities, community gatherings, opportunities to enjoy nature, and connections to trails. Alpenglow Park includes an open lawn area, bouldering, accessible playground with wheelchair swing, seasonal sprayground, event pavilion, off-leash area and obstacle course for dogs, future demonstration garden, and several accessible trails and multi-use pathways. There are 2.2 miles of ADAaccessible paved paths, including a 0.9-mile perimeter loop path. There are 1.3 miles of soft surface natural trail too.

› SEASONAL SPRAYGROUND

› GREAT VIEWS OF THE CASCADES

› BOULDERING AREA

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

61049 SE 15th St., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

PARK in BEND

Shevlin Park

› BIKES & DOGS ALLOWED

› TRAIL COVERS FOREST TO HIGH DESERT

› SEVERAL TRAILS TO DISCOVER

Shevlin Park is a 981-acre park of old-growth forest and high desert sage-covered land located about four miles from Bend and features multiple trails including Tumalo Creek Trail, Loop Trail, and Mountain Bike Trail. Popular activities are nature watching, running, hiking, biking, and dog walking; and during the winter months, locals take out the snowshoes and cross-country skis. The Tumalo Creek Trail is 2.5 miles and follows the creek upstream, joining the Deschutes National Forest trail system. The 6-mile Loop Trail follows the canyon rim and crosses Tumalo Creek twice. A preferred route for bikers is the Mountain Bike Trail, which follows the canyon and connects with the Forest Service Mrazek Trail. The park is also the site of Aspen Hall (an event venue), Aspen Meadow picnic shelter, and Fremont Meadow (reached via the Tumalo Creek Trail).

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

18920 NW Shevlin Park Rd., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

PARK in BEND

Shevlin Loop Trail

Shevlin Loop Trail is in Shevlin Park, which is about four miles west of downtown Bend, and offers a mostly easy trail that is peaceful and often populated with bikers, runners, and dog walkers. At nearly 1,000 acres, Shevlin Park’s trail system connects to other paths and lies along Tumalo Creek. The 4.75-mile Shevlin Loop Trail follows the canyon rim, has 240 feet of elevation change, winds through tall ponderosa pine forest, sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and manzanita, and crosses Tumalo Creek twice. The trail is level at first, and arterial connections to other trails are well marked, so follow the signs to continue around the loop. As you make your way along the loop hike, enjoy some of the best views over Tumalo Creek and the forest below.

Bend Park & Recreation District (541) 389-7275 • BendParksAndRec.org

18920 NW Shevlin Park Rd., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

› GREAT VIEWS FROM TRAIL

› BIKES ALLOWED

› A DIVERSE LANDSCAPE

HIKING in BEND

Smith Rock State Park

SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in TERREBONNE

› ALWAYS STAY ON THE TRAIL!

› CAMPING OPEN EARLY SPRING–LATE FALL

› PARK OPEN DAILY FROM 7AM–7PM

The famous Smith Rock State Park is 26 miles northeast of Bend in the small town of Terrebonne. Known for its various outdoor activity opportunities — hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, trail running, camping, horseback riding — the park covers over 650 acres with Smith Rock hovering around 3,000 feet in elevation. Popular for sport climbing, the park attracts climbers from all over the world who are looking to challenge themselves on the hundreds of climbing routes. With miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, there is no shortage of opportunities for scenic views of deep river canyons and wildlife such as beaver, river otter, golden and bald eagles, and mule deer. Fishing is also a popular activity, with fishermen flocking to the upper areas of the Crooked River for some of the best fly fishing in Central Oregon.

Located near Terrebonne Take Hwy 97 to Smith Rock Way and follow the signs (Map A, PG 140)

Tumalo Falls

SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in BEND

Located within the Deschutes National Forest, about 10 miles west of Bend, the Tumalo Falls area has several stunning waterfalls and scenic trails to explore. The 4.1-mile round trip hike with 550 feet of elevation change is a popular hiking area and includes a scenic overlook. The first waterfall is the tallest at 97 feet, while the second, Double Falls, drops 30 feet and then 20 feet with additional falls upstream along Tumalo Creek and its tributary, Bridge Creek. The best times to visit are May through October, and dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. In the winter months, the trailhead is blocked to vehicles. Trails that connect from this site are North Fork Trail (which passes Tumalo Falls), Bridge Creek Trail, Tumalo Creek Trail, and Farewell Trail.

Located in the Deschutes National Forest

From Bend, take Skyliners Rd. west for about 11 miles, then go west on Forest Road 4603 for about 2.5 miles

(Map A, PG 140)

› RECREATION PASS REQUIRED AND AVAILABLE ON-SITE FOR $5

› RESTROOMS AT THE TRAILHEAD

Boyd Cave

SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in BEND

› GREAT CAVE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL AGES

› PLEASE RESPECT THE OUTDOORS BY PRACTICING "LEAVE NO TRACE"

Boyd Cave is a natural lava tube within Deschutes National Forest on the northern flank of Newberry volcano. Located approximately twelve miles southeast of Bend, Boyd Cave is an 1880-foot-long lava tube with well-preserved basalt formations and is reached by a short 0.8-mile out-and-back trail. As you descend into the cave via a metal staircase that goes down into the cave about twenty feet, you will be completely immersed in darkness, so make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp. The chilly cave is at a constant temperature just below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so be prepared with a sweater or jacket. Because of animal-borne pathogens and diseases affecting the bat population found in this cave, dogs are not allowed inside Boyd Cave or surrounding caves. Check for recent road closures before going.

Located near Bend

Take Arnold Ice Cave Rd. from US-97 for about 15 miles (Map A, PG 140)

GOLF

PARSCRIPTION GOLF golf equipment + simulator

BRASADA CANYONS golf course

PRONGHORN CLUB - NICKLAUS COURSE golf course

TETHEROW GOLF CLUB golf course

Parscription Golf

GOLF EQUIPMENT + INSTRUCTION in BEND

› CUSTOM FITTINGS AND LESSONS

› GOLF EQUIPMENT + APPAREL

› STATE-OF-THE-ART GOLF SIMULATOR

Since opening in 2006, Parscription Golf is Central Oregon’s only complete golf store, offering the largest selection of name-brand golf equipment and apparel for men and women, full-service golf club repair by certified technicians, custom club fitting, and personalized instruction for beginners to experienced players from PGA professional and owner Andy Heinly and assistants. Voted Bend’s No. 1 golf shop, their goal is to ensure all customers have a great shopping experience with their demo clubs available to try, indoor state-of-the-art golf simulators, and expert service. Gift cards are available. Parscription Golf is conveniently located in Bend River Plaza next to WinCo Foods, close to Highway 97. Call to book appointments for custom club fittings and individual lessons.

Located in Bend River Plaza (541) 593-4653 • ParXGolfBend.com

100 NE Bend River Mall Dr #102, Bend (Map B, PG 149, #9)

Brasada Canyons

As undeniably one of the most beautiful and enjoyable courses in the Pacific Northwest, don't let the panoramic mountain views distract you from the course itself, where the fairways are pristine, and the greens are fast. Privacy, views, and lightning-fast greens are just a few of the recurring accolades. It's also great for all levels of players with five sets of tees, and yardages stretching from 4,722 yards to 7,295 yards from the tips. Brasada Canyons also boasts a 5-acre practice facility featuring a two-tiered driving range, all-new Golf Shed with a state-of-the-art Foresight Golf Simulator and heated hitting bays to accommodate practice in all weather conditions. Play at Brasada Canyons Golf Course is reserved for members, member guests, and resort guests.

Located at Brasada Ranch (541) 526-6380 • Brasada.com 16550 SW Brasada Canyons Dr, Powell Butte (Map A, PG 140)

› A VERY SCENIC AND WELL-MAINTAINED GOLF COURSE

› STATE-OF-THE-ART PRACTICE FACILITIES

GOLF COURSE in POWELL BUTTE

Pronghorn Club - Nicklaus Course

› CONSISTENTLY RANKED IN THE GOLF DIGEST LIST OF THE TOP 100 PUBLIC GOLF COURSES

Designed by master golfer Jack Nicklaus, Juniper Preserve's signature golf course plays firm and fast and accommodates golfers of every skill level. This public course provides a minimalist experience with an emphasis on the golf game itself, combining strategy with playability, beautiful transitions, and true putting surfaces. Ancient lava rock ridges and outcroppings intertwine with natural landscapes and accent magnificent views of the Cascade Mountains. The Nicklaus course is also the first “desert-style” golfing experience in the Northwest. The 7,460-yard par 72 championship layout is complete with views of the Cascade Mountains, Smith Rock, and numerous buttes — offering a challenging, yet strategically designed course for enjoyment at all ability levels.

Located at Juniper Preserve (855) 998-9382 • JuniperPreserve.com 65600 Pronghorn Club Dr., Bend (Map A, PG 140)

GOLF COURSE in BEND

Tetherow Golf Club

Repeatedly voted a Top 100 Course in the USA by Golf Digest, luxury golf resort

Tetherow boasts an 18-hole, championship, semi-private course with a distinctive layout by award-winning architect David McLay Kidd — the architect of Bandon Dunes and Castle Course in Scotland. Located only seven minutes from downtown Bend, this visually striking, heathland-style, par 72 course offers a unique and diverse golf game while taking full advantage of the stunning panoramic views of the Cascade peaks, including Three Sisters, Broken Top, and even Mt. Hood on a very clear day! True to the heathland style, Tetherow’s golf course meanders through a cleared forest rich with wildlife and native vegetation and has attained full status as an “Audubon Certified” golf course.

Located southwest of downtown Bend (844) 431-9701 • Tetherow.com

61240 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

› A DAVID MCLAY KIDD DESIGN

› LINKS STYLE GOLF IN THE HIGH DESERT

› FINN SCOOTERS & GOLFBOARDS

GOLF COURSE in BEND

EAT + DRINK

BRICKHOUSE STEAKHOUSE steak & seafood

NEWPORT AVE. MARKET grocery & specialty market

HOLA! mexican & peruvian cuisine

PASTINI italian cuisine

BOS TAURUS steakhouse

HABLO TACOS mexican cuisine

MIYAGI RAMEN ramen & izakaya

HIDEAWAY OREGON gastropubs

THE VICTORIAN CAFÉ brunch

RANCH HOUSE farm-to-table cuisine

ROAM regional cuisine

SUNRIVER COUNTRY STORE & SUNRIVER MARKETPLACE grocery & market

LOS JALAPEÑOS mexican

Brickhouse Steakhouse

Brickhouse Steakhouse is a fixture of Central Oregon’s dining scene and for good reason. Located in the Historic Firehall Building in downtown Bend, Brickhouse offers a modern take on the classic steakhouse with its friendly, professional service, comfortable booth seating, very well stocked bar, and a wine list winner of Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Excellence.” Along with the original location in the heart of downtown Redmond, Brickhouse features USDA Prime Steaks, American Kobe, and Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef and specializes in prime, fresh, and wild-caught seafood. Their fresh fish is flown in daily from around the Northwest, Alaska, and Hawai‘i. Enjoy daily specials from their culinary team led by Executive Chef Sharon Fabiana and Head Chef Jake Phillips. USDA Prime is the highest grade of beef produced in the U.S., with less than 2 percent graded with that distinction.

Newport Ave. Market

Newport Ave. Market, a vibrant grocery store in Bend celebrating 50 years in the community, is a true hub where employee-owners share their love for food. Voted “Best Grocery Store” in Central Oregon more than 30 times, it offers a remarkable selection of high-quality local products and gourmet items. The deli offers a range of maderight-here meals to fit any dietary requirement. Meal options abound with twice-daily rolled sushi, just-caught seafood, and locally sourced meat. Explore their Great Wall of Beer with over 600 selections and receive expert wine pairing advice. The market also boasts a bakery featuring more than a dozen local bakeries, just-picked produce, and over 16 feet of specialty cheese and artisan meats. With unique kitchenware, local gifts, pet goodies, and abundant floral choices, Newport Ave. Market is the ultimate shopping destination for the curious! Life is short. Eat good food.™

Located in River West in Bend (541) 382-3940 • NewportAveMarket.com

1121 NW Newport Ave., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

› OPEN DAILY FROM 7AM–10PM

› ONSITE DELI & BAKERY

› GREAT SELECTION OF LOCAL ITEMS

Incorporating traditional Mexican and Peruvian cooking techniques and ingredients into their culinary philosophy, the chefs at Hola! draw on traditions to create delectable dishes with a tangible sense of time and place with a twist of fun. Their ode to Mexican favorites includes dishes like the Mole Poblano, made from a 75-year-old family recipe, and probably the best reminder of their reverence to historical cooking methods, and their Carne Asada, which you can’t go wrong with, especially when combined with chimichurri sauce and fresh tortillas. Their traditional Peruvian dish Ceviche Tradicional is one of several mouth-watering seafood dishes that must be tried.

Pastini

Inspired by the farms, vineyards, and waters of the Pacific Northwest, Pastini in the Old Mill District is dedicated to serving up two of life’s greatest pleasures — pasta and wine. This local Italian bistro, with restaurants in Bend, Corvallis, Eugene, and Portland, specializes in classic and contemporary made-from-scratch pasta dishes that are seasoned with laughter and great wine! Overlooking the Deschutes River with a beautiful patio, Pastini has something for every pasta aficionado, from classics like Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken and Five Cheese Lasagna with Meat Sauce, to specialties like Tortellini Gorgonzola and Linguini Misto Mare. Complementing their over 25 pastas on the menu (including gluten free and vegetarian dishes) are antipasti, crisp salads, and handcrafted tiramisu. Enjoy Italian and Northwest wines from their carefully curated list or try a craft cocktail. At Pastini, each entrée is handcrafted to order using fresh ingredients.

Located in the Old Mill District (541) 749-1060 • Pastini.com

375 SW Powerhouse Dr. #3436, Bend (Map C, PG 142) › 10 VEGETARIAN DISHES › FULL KIDS' MENU › TAKEOUT + DELIVERY

ITALIAN CUISINE in BEND

Bos Taurus

This stylish, contemporary steakhouse in the heart of downtown Bend was launched in 2017 with a mission to redefine the steakhouse experience. No one can deny the appeal of a perfectly prepared, sizzling cut of meat, and Bos Taurus delivers in spades. Embark on a sensational journey unique to Bos Taurus’s oeuvre with a menu that explores steak options from Japanese A5 Wagyu to Australian Bavette cuts and everything in between. Starters and sides include unique dishes like patatas bravas, white truffle pommes frites, and foie gras florets — a beautifully composed dish that delivers complex, rich flavors in every bite. With its modern and energetic vibe, world-class service, and library of thoughtfully curated wines and spirits, Bos Taurus invites you to a culinary experience you won’t find anywhere else. Outdoor seating available.

Located in downtown Bend (541) 241-2735 • BosTaurusSteak.com 163 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

› DINNER DAILY 4–9PM

› RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED

› A STEAK LOVER'S DREAM

STEAKHOUSE in BEND

Hablo Tacos

› DAILY SPECIALS

› BREAKFAST BURRITOS FROM 8AM DAILY

› NO RESERVATIONS

If you speak taco, Hablo Tacos on Bend’s Eastside speaks your language. Combining Oregon’s locavore sensibility with the traditional Mexican taqueria experience, Hablo Tacos serves up crave-worthy tacos of barbacoa, carnitas, rockfish, and al pastor cut fresh off the trompo. The options continue with vegetarian tacos, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, and birria. For a unique take, try a Vampiro, which, if you’ve never had one, think “tostada sandwich.” This colorful and energy-rich setting also serves burritos, bowls, salads, and other classic Mexican dishes. From the cocktail list, perfect your dining experience with a margarita made with fresh lime juice, paloma, or go for one of the many Mexican Cervezas on ice. And don’t forget to look over the tequila and mezcal offerings if you need a little extra fiesta to go with your tacos! Open Daily.

(458) 202-4205 • HabloTacos.com 1462 NE Cushing Dr., Ste. 130, Bend (Map B, PG 141)

Miyagi Ramen

Are you a ramen lover? Look no further than Miyagi Ramen if noodles are what you’re after. Located in the eclectic Box Factory shopping center near downtown, Miyagi serves up flavor-packed bowls in an energy-packed setting with a style all its own. From traditional Tonkotsu and Spicy Miso to the vegetarian smoked mushroom hazelnut, their ramens are full of that mouth-watering umami flavor you crave when ramen is on the brain. Want to explore away from noodles and broth? Miyagi has you covered with its sought-after pork belly or fried chicken sandwiches. And don’t forget about the Miyagi-style fried rice, Yakisoba, steamed buns, and many other Izakaya-style dishes. But it doesn’t stop there; grab a Japanese soda or rice-lager from the cooler. Cocktail person? How about a Whiskey Hi-Ball or Yuzu Margarita to wash it all down?!

Located in the Box Factory (541) 797-7700 • MiyagiRamen.com

550 SW Industrial Way, Ste. 102, Bend (Map C, PG 142)

›

› VEGAN DISHES

› NO RESERVATIONS

RAMEN & IZAKAYA in BEND

KIDS' MENU

Hideaway Oregon

With their sports bar vibes, delicious food, substantial beer selection, and awardwinning Bloody Marys, Hideaway Oregon’s three locations are the quintessential neighborhood hangouts. Whether it’s sipping artfully crafted cocktails or knocking back one of the rotating 18 beer varieties on tap while cheering on your favorite sports team, Hideaway’s pubs are ideal for laid-back indoor and outdoor dining all sports season long! Hang out on comfortable leather couches and watch games on big-screen TVs adorning the walls, while chomping down on some progressive dishes like Tempura Fried Mushrooms, Stromboli, gourmet pizzas, Buffalo Cauliflower, or their famous half-pound burgers and hand-cut fries. Whether you are looking for a local sports bar filled with like-minded sports fans, searching for an inspired menu, or simply desire a dining destination with a casual,

ambiance, Hideaway Oregon checks all these boxes.

The Victorian Café

An award-winning Bend stalwart all-day breakfast, brunch, and lunch dining institution, The Victorian Café serves traditional food fare with a modern spin. Voted No. 1 breakfast in Bend for 15 years, The Vic’s menu blends classic breakfast dishes that include 10 different kinds of Eggs Benedict, omelets, French toast, and pancakes. Weekly specials include three versions of Eggs Benedict and other unique dishes with creative recipe twists that will surprise your taste buds into an unforgettable experience. Their indulgent breakfast options are just the beginning: lunch choices include sandwiches, burgers, salads, and bowls, with vegetarian and vegan options that break free of the diner stereotype. Enjoy a true Central Oregon brunch experience with their full bar that has been serving up award-winning Bloody Marys for 17 years running (The “Proud Mary” 23-oz. libation) and the legendary (and tasty!) “ManMosa” — a 16-oz. mimosa crafted with their private-label champagne.

Located on the west side of Bend (541) 382-6411 • VictorianCafeBend.com 1404 NW Galveston Ave, Bend (Map B, PG 141)

› OPEN DAILY 7AM–2PM

› OUTDOOR HEATED SEATING + FIRE PITS

› INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING AVAILABLE

Ranch House

FARM-TO-TABLE in BEND

› OPEN DAILY FOR DINNER AND WEEKDAYS FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH

› CHECK OUT THE WEEKEND BRUNCH

If you're looking for a casual, warm, family-friendly space that serves up ranchto-table dining alongside handcrafted drinks, signature s'mores by the outdoor firepit, and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, Ranch House at Brasada Ranch definitely checks all the boxes. Open daily for dinner and weekdays for breakfast and lunch service, Ranch House also offers a weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. With excellent comfort food options, a great selection of wines and microbrews, the culinary experience is framed with amazing views of the Cascade peaks and high desert from the restaurant's wrap-around deck. An evening at Ranch House is never complete without enjoying their famous signature s'mores around the cozy fire pit. Dinner reservations are recommended.

Located at Brasada Ranch (541) 526-6870 • Brasada.com 16986 SW Brasada Ranch Rd., Bend / Powell Butte (Map A, PG 140)

ROAM

Inspired by the sustainable food movement, ROAM offers a variety of urbanorganic dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Small plates, charcuterie, pasta dishes, and the freshest local seafood, meats, and produce are complemented by an eclectic list of fine wines, craft beer, cocktails, and desserts. Seasonal menus draw upon flavors from around the globe and fresh, local ingredients to create a unique culinary experience. Custom furnishings and casually elegant décor define the space — designed with elevated comfort in mind. Small and shared plates define the ROAM experience, where individuals and groups can sample a variety of flavors. A curated wine and cocktail list provides the perfect pairing for dinner or dessert. Indoor, patio, and bar seating available.

Located at Oxford Hotel Bend (541) 382-7626 • RoamBend.com

10 NW Minnesota Ave., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

› INDOOR, BAR & PATIO SEATING

› SEASONAL MENUS

› OPEN DAILY FROM 7AM–10PM

REGIONAL CUISINE in BEND

Sunriver Country Store & Sunriver Marketplace

The family-owned Sunriver Country Store, nestled in The Village at Sunriver, is your go-to destination for everything you'll need during your Central Oregon getaway. Its sister location, Sunriver Marketplace on Cottonwood Rd., serves the north end of Sunriver. Both full-service markets thoughtfully curate organic meats, fresh seafood, crisp produce, and hot and cold deli offerings — including some seriously delicious BBQ. Find gluten-free options, locally sourced dairy, CBD products, fine cigars, and one of Oregon's most impressive wine collections in their onsite liquor sections. Convenience runs deep with lottery sales, faxing, photocopying, Sno-Park permits, ATMs, and Wi-Fi. The Marketplace goes further, with a Shell station, propane services, and a post office. Visit their new website for more information on all they offer — from the pump to the pantry to the party, they have you covered.

Los Jalapeños

Since opening in 1994, Los Jalapeños has been beloved by Bendites and considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. Paying homage to his roots in Tlaxcala, east of Mexico City, owner-chef Gonzalo Morales prepares dynamic, fresh, and authentic dishes for every meal of the day. Working from fresh, local ingredients, Morales has cultivated a diverse menu with something for everyone. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus feature traditional savory options as well as several glutenfree, vegan, and vegetarian dishes. In addition to indoor seating, meals and drinks can be enjoyed outside on the bricked patio in the shade of an umbrella. Los Jalapeños is located north of Juniper Swim and Fitness Center on Greenwood Avenue.

› CASUAL DINING

› DELICIOUS MARGARITAS + HAPPY HOUR!

› OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY

Located just northeast of downtown Bend (541) 383-1402 • LosJalapenosBend.com 601 NE Greenwood, Bend (Map B, PG 141)

MEXICAN CUISINE in BEND

SHOP + STYLE

CASCADE VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER shopping center

LONE CROW BUNGALOW gift shop

FAVEUR BOUTIQUE boutique

REVIVAL VINTAGE apparel & accessories

DESERT ROSE CACTUS LOUNGE plant nursery

Cascade Village Shopping Center

SHOPPING CENTER in BEND

› OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM–9PM

› SPACIOUS, OPEN-AIR LAYOUT

› A VARIETY OF SHOPPING & DINING OPTIONS

Cascade Village Shopping Center is situated on 34 acres on the north side of Bend with beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains and offers an environment that has an Oregon chalet-inspired, craftsman architecture. The shopping center’s openair environment boasts pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, a Village common area, and outdoor dining. Cascade Village Shopping Center has created an assembly of tenants to create a diverse shopping and dining environment to fit every need: from World Market, Dick’s Sporting Goods, PetSmart, Ashley Homestore & Outlet, Best Buy, and Trader Joe's to many more, not to mention a vast selection of dining such as El Rancho Grande, Shinsei Sushi, Moose Sisters, Black Steer Steakhouse & Saloon, Little Pizza Paradise, Taco Del Mar, and treats from See’s Candies and Crumbl Cookies.

Located in Bend (541) 388-1495 • ShopCascadeVillage.com 63455 N Hwy 97, Bend (Map B, PG 141)

Lone Crow Bungalow

This mountain-centric mercantile has been a staple business in downtown Bend for more than 20 years. You will find an array of rustic gifts and goods that reflect the spirit of the Northwest. Home decor items like cozy Pendleton blankets and wool pillows are perfect for your cabin in the woods (or any nest, really). Find soaps, candles, and room sprays with scents inspired by the surroundings. Handpainted pottery, travel posters, and expertly crafted furniture are curated by artisans from Bend and beyond. The shop is chock-full of unique finds that you’ll want to gift, covet, or keep all to yourself. And if you can stop in at Christmastime, you’ll be glad you did, as the shop turns into a true winter wonderland, bursting with festive finds.

Located in downtown Bend (541) 383-2992 • LoneCrowBungalow.com 937 NW Wall St., Bend (Map C, PG 142)

› GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

› KNOWN FOR HANDCRAFTED GOODS

› OPEN DAILY

GIFT SHOP in BEND

Faveur Boutique

› LOCATIONS IN BEND & SISTERS

› HAND-PICKED STYLES

› DOG FRIENDLY!

Discover why discerning women of all ages and shapes love shopping at Faveur Eclectic Unique Boutique. With two convenient locations in downtown Bend and Sisters, the timeless style of clothing, scarves, hats, shoes, handbags, and jewelry is combined with exceptional service and affordability in this lifestyle boutique. Choose from modern twists on romantic, bohemian, vintage, European, and eclectic styles, all hand-picked by the owner. Helping women see their beauty and walk in confidence is what Faveur is all about, as well as imparting a positive, full sensory experience while shopping. For the dog moms, Faveur is dog friendly. If you’re looking for great style at fantastic prices and friendly service, Faveur invites you to discover why they are one of Central Oregon’s favorite fashion boutiques.

Revival Vintage

Fans of yesteryear will want to make a point to pop into Revival Vintage, a somewhat hidden gem of a boutique. This hip haunt has received the title of “Best Vintage Boutique” three years in a row, according to readers of The Source Weekly Expect to find carefully curated pieces for adults and kids — everything from denim to sequins, silk to flannel, and plenty of velvet. You’ll even find an awesome array of accessories, swimwear, home decor, and one-of-a-kind gifts. In addition to being a treasure trove of back-in-the-day duds, Revival Vintage is your go-to for renting an outfit for a special occasion, or to consign your own goods. Get ready for summer Porch Parties, including live music, guest vendors, drinks, snacks, and plenty of vintage finds.

Located on West Side off Galveston (503) 702-3552 • RevivalVintageBend.com 550 NW 12th St., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

› FULL OUTFIT RENTALS

› 40% CONSIGNMENTS

› CURATED APPAREL & HOME DECOR

Desert Rose Cactus Lounge

› CHECK OUT THEIR SITE FOR EVENTS

› HAVE YOUR NEXT PRIVATE PARTY AT THE POTTING BAR!

Plant lovers, unite! Desert Rose Cactus Lounge is a must-stop plant shop that is as aesthetically pleasing as it comes, not to mention, full of life! But don’t expect to find your run-of-the-mill flowers; the focus here is on unusual and hard-to-find succulents and cacti, tropicals, as well as those coveted houseplants that thrive in the high desert. You’ll find plenty of plants and just as many beautiful vessels to put them in. For a hands-on experience, you can visit the shop’s potting bar, which is available for making your own terrarium or potting your plants. If you’re not looking to get your hands dirty, when you purchase a plant and a pot online, someone from the Desert Rose team will pot it for you for a small fee.

Located in the Old Iron Works Art District in Bend (541) 323-7585 • DesertRoseBend.com

50 SE Scott St., Bend (Map B, PG 141)

HIGH DESERT LIVING

Brasada Ranch

Amid the sweeping mountain vistas and rugged terrain of Central Oregon, discover a sanctuary crafted with unparalleled tranquility and adventure in mind. Brasada Ranch connects you and yours to panoramic living and memorable experiences year-round. Find your inspiration among The Ranch’s wide- open spaces. Reconnect to what matters most. Attend one of many curated events. Indulge in deluxe resort amenities. All while enjoying the vibrant spirit and natural setting of the region. With over 1,800 acres to explore, each day at Brasada Ranch is primed for discovery. Follow your adventurous spirit to thrilling outdoor excursions, award-winning golf, and seasonal experiences that evoke a wild sense of wonder. Find your sanctuary within a range of thoughtfully designed homes, ready for rental, vacationing, or full-time living.

RESORT LIVING in POWELL BUTTE

Juniper Preserve

Juniper Preserve is the pinnacle of perfection for luxury living in beautiful Bend, Oregon. An oasis among the ancient juniper forest, the resort offers the perfect balance of a peaceful retreat and community while enjoying all that Central Oregon has to offer. Find your next home along one of the 18-hole golf courses, the coveted Tom Fazio or Jack Nicklaus signature courses. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence or a vacation home, Juniper Preserve is a great place to stay for a lifetime! Don't miss the opportunity to live where others vacation. Conveniently located less than 30 minutes to the airport or Bend’s attractions, Juniper Preserve offers a secluded feel, while maintaining a pragmatic proximity to Bend's resources. Surrounding the resort on all sides is 20,000 protected acres of juniper wilderness that safeguards your quiet sanctuary.

(503) 449-4422 • JuniperPreserve.com

65600 Pronghorn Club Drive, Bend

(Map A, PG 140)

› GREAT PROXIMITY TO BEND

› COME LIVE ALONG ONE OF THE COVETED PRONGHORN GOLF COURSES

Bend Whitewater Park

Float the Deschutes River

Deschutes Historical Museum

Deschutes River Trail - Old Mill Reach

Drake Park & Mirror Pond

Old Mill District

Peterson Contemporary Art

Mockingbird Gallery

Saxon's Fine Jewelers

Faveur Boutique Hello Sunshine REI

The Box Factory

Lone Crow Bungalow

Hola! (Downtown)

Hola! (Old Mill) Pastini

Sisters Movie House

Sisters Coffee Co.

The Open Door Wine Bar

Sisters Meat and Smokehouse

Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill

Boone Dog Pizza

Sisters Bakery

The Cottonwood Café

R Spot Takeout & Eatery

Angeline's Bakery & Café

The SweetEasy Co.

Chops Bistro

Cascade Street Distillery

Faveur Boutique

Five Pine Lodge & Spa

Ski Inn Tap House Hotel

The Scout Boutique Cottages

Rancho Viejo

Brickhouse Steakhouse

Xalisco Latin Cuisine Hola!

Diego's Spirited Kitchen

Wild Ride Brewing Co.

One Street Down Cafe

Hideaway Tavern Carnaval Mexican Grill

TRAVELOGUE

NOTES + SKETCHES document your travel adventures, the places you visit, experiences you encounter, or something weird you saw on the river...

ITINERARY PLANNER prefer to keep it analog? You can still get the most out of your trip and start planning your itinerary here, just grab a pen and do it old school.

DOWNLOAD THE SAVVY360 APP

This link will take you to the appropriate app store to install the app, where you can explore our Central Oregon experience guides, create a trip, start building your itinerary, collaborate with friends, and more...

DATE / /

What do you want to do today?

Central Oregon MY TRIP

BREAKFAST

MORNING

LUNCH

AFTERNOON

DINNER

EVENING

DATE / /

DATE / /

BREAKFAST

MORNING

LUNCH

AFTERNOON

DINNER

EVENING

DATE / /

DATE / /

What do you want to do today?

Central Oregon MY TRIP

BREAKFAST

MORNING

LUNCH

AFTERNOON

DINNER

EVENING

DATE / /

DATE / /

BREAKFAST

MORNING

LUNCH

AFTERNOON

DINNER

EVENING

DATE / /

STYLE

in every home.

SOUL

in every street.

STRENGTH

in every connection.

Where connection comes naturally. Nestled on Bend’s west side, Discovery West is where good company and good living meet. Neighbors gather for impromptu happy hours, kids roam nearby parks, and trails invite you to slow down and breathe. It’s a neighborhood designed for real life—full of warmth, convenience, and the little joys that make a place feel like home. Learn more at discoverywestbend.com, visit the Sales Center at Discovery West or call (541) 383-4360.