TRAILHEAD JUNE/JULY 2019 | VISITCENTRALOREGON.COM
umme
A D V E N T U R E
C A L L S
IS HERE!
01.
A LIST OF OUR FAVORITE CENTRAL OREGON LAKES DESTINATION: PRONGHORN
DOG TOWN, USA
WHERE TO TAKE YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS THIS SUMMER
IN THIS ISSUE WHAT’S THE OFFICIAL KICK-OFF TO A CENTRAL OREGON SUMMER? It could be the first outdoor concert at Les Schwab Amphitheater. (We’ll see you at Jason Isbell and Father John Misty on June 9!) Maybe the season starts after the final weekend of skiing at Mt. Bachelor (when you can mountain bike and ski on the trails in the same day, if muscles allow.) Perhaps it really starts way back when you book your summer trip here. (We’ll keep the beer on ice for you.) Whenever your summer starts, Central Oregon is the perfect place for your adventures. In this issue, we’re exploring new ways to get to know the region that boasts more sunshine than the average Oregon city. Bend is reaching more dogs per capita than people, and we’re sharing our favorite places to bring the whole family, including the dog, from hiking trails to craft breweries. Our friends at Eat Drink Bend have shared the foodie gems of Prineville that are perfect stops on a day-trip in the area. There are lakes where you can cool down in the water and lounge shoreside. Plus, a modern lodge has given us just one more reason to book a long summer weekend at Pronghorn and make it our basecamp for exploring east. This season, we’re making the most of every day and experiencing new places in the region. We put some great ideas in here, but you can also head to our website to find even more. From easy family hiking trails to ideas for a romantic date night on the town to lodging that provides all the gear you’ll need for adventures, we know Central Oregon like the back of our hand, and we want to share it with you. We’ll see you when you get here. Visit Central Oregon
JUNE/JULY 2019
DOGTOWN, USA If your dog didn’t go with you, was it really a family vacation? We’ve got the list of the best places you can take your four-legged friends in Bend.
EAT DRINK PRINEVILLE
Take your foodie experience off the beaten path and into Prineville, the OG city of Central Oregon that’s giving new meaning to the local food movement.
SPOTLIGHT
The Old Mill District is the place to go to experience everything Central Oregon has to offer. And bonus, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
DESTINATION: PRONGHORN
The new Huntington Lodge has us booking a getaway to Pronghorn faster than you can say “not an antelope.”
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Before the iconic Pet Parade, there was the Bend Water Pageant. (P.S. There’s giant swans involved.)
LOCAL PICKS: Staff Picks Calendar
TRAILHEAD
Produced by Visit Central Oregon Email us: trailhead@visitcentraloregon.com
3
GREAT LAKES
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK
Lake Billy Chinook is a large reservoir near Culver and Madras that draws visitors all summer to swim, hike, camp, boat, fish, paddle and more. Make Cove Palisades State Park your basecamp for a long weekend. There are campgrounds for tents and RVs as well as yurts, cabins and houseboats available to rent. Test the waters in the swimming area and lounge on the sandy shore. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, canoe and more at the marina to explore the huge lake. There are plenty of fish in the lake that bring out anglers throughout the season. Cap off a day on the water by eating ice cream on the deck of the marina cafe where you can soak in the sun and the views overlooking the lake.
THREE CREEK LAKE Alpine lakes are Central Oregon’s calling card, and Three Creek Lake near Sisters is no exception. Surrounded by forest at the base of Tam McArthur Rim, Three Creek Lake is an idyllic place to cool off on a hot summer day. You’ll probably be sharing the lake with anglers and boaters but the absence of motors keeps the location tranquil. Set up beach chairs and an umbrella to relax on the sand and rock shores of the lake or bring a paddleboard for the water. There’s a shack next to the lake that rents boats and sells snacks and treats.
EAST LAKE & PAULINA LAKE South of Bend near La Pine, East and Paulina lakes are within the Newberry Caldera and known as the Twin Lakes. Paulina is the larger of the two and is open all summer for swimming, boating (though not more than 10 miles per hour, to maintain the serenity of the atmosphere) and fishing. Make it a day trip by fitting in a morning hike nearby, then relax on shore and in the cool water. East Lake is the smaller of the two and is popular with swimmers and anglers. Float in the water or hang out on shore. There’s also a small dock where you can launch kayaks or paddleboards and paddle the lake.
Paulina Lake
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
Dog Town,
USA
In Bend, family vacations can include the dog, too. We rounded up some the best dog-friendly places in town, from where to eat to where to stay. DOGS ARE AS MUCH A PART of the Central Oregon ethos as
The owners have created dog accommodations that rival hotels
craft beer, Subarus and puffy jackets. They are our buddies on
for humans. There are indoor and outdoor play areas with
high desert and co-workers in the office. Bend is even the home
multiple splash pools, a “spaw” with dog “pawdicures,” and
of Ruffwear, a company that makes high-quality gear for dogs.
even a mini-bar with raw goat milk and bone broth. Dogs have their own rooms with DoggyTV inside. Owners will have peace-
In May, a new luxury dog daycare and boarding service opened
of-mind knowing that their dogs are getting a five-star
in Bend. Dig Dog Hotel is open all day, every day of the year.
treatment.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
Tips for Dogs in Central Oregon Always carry a leash and cleanup bags
Always keep dogs on leash in town and at restaurants
Keep your dog in sight and voice control
Don’t leave your dog in the car on hot days
If your dog isn’t friendly, keep them on leash
Carry extra water for dogs on trails
As for adventures, most trails in Bend require dogs to be on leashes throughout the year. Bend has eight fenced dog parks, but there is one off-leash area where dogs can roam and their humans can hike. Known as Good Dog, the park is an informal network of trails that leads from Cascade Lakes Highway to the Deschutes River. Pick a path and wander a couple miles down to the river, letting your dog run free and wild. There is a mix of open areas, which can get hot in the summer, and tree-covered trails. DogPac, a nonprofit in Central Oregon that advocates for dogs, provides cleanup bags and helps maintain the area.
Summer is a great time to bring the dog on vacation in Bend. At many craft breweries with large lawns and outdoor tables, you’ll see almost as many dogs as people. Most breweries with outdoor seating areas, including Crux Fermentation Project, Bend Brewing Company, 10 Barrel, GoodLife and Worthy Brewing, allow dogs on leashes at their outdoor seating areas. Sip on a beer while you and your furry friend enjoy the sun.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
EAT, drink ,PRINEVILLE
The tastemakers behind Eat Drink Bend whip up their favorite recommendations for where to eat and drink in River Canyon Country.
Foundry Four Coffee + Whiskey 129 NW 4th St. Sip on farm-to-table whiskeys, mini seasonal bourbon cocktails or kick back and relax with an espresso from Sisters Coffee. Local, organic pastries are available to complement your drink of choice.
Ochoco Brewing 380 N Main St. Classic pub burgers, sandwiches, and plates are served alongside rotating home-brewed taps, including local ciders and a few guest brews.
Tacos La Providencia 898 NW 3rd St. Two-dollar tacos and loaded burritos are the star offerings at this food truck. They offer a drive-up window as well as an attached, indoor dining space.
Tastee Treet 493 NE 3rd St. If the weather is heating up, you’d better get in line. For more than 60 years this hometown institution has been serving up diner-style breakfasts, burgers and soft-serve treats.
Eat Drink Bend features cocktails and plates from local eateries. They scout restaurants, breweries, and wineries to share with you the best and unknown dishes and drinks while sharing stories from our locally-owned Central Oregon establishments.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
OLD MILL DISTRICT Experience everything Central Oregon here.
RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING, MOVIES—and not to mention the Deschutes River. The Old Mill District has it all in Bend. Start your morning with a cup of coffee and a gluten-free treat at Strictly Organic Coffee Co. Browse boutiques and discover local art galleries, finding the perfect gift for yourself or friends and family back home. Walk along the paved paths that parallel the Deschutes River, and maybe rent a paddleboard or kayak and experience one of the state’s best rivers. Cap off your day with a five-star dinner by a firepit on a patio that overlooks the Deschutes and listen to the live music playing from across the river. Everything you need is here at the Old Mill District. oldmilldistrict.com
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
Pronghorn DESTINATION:
Secluded in an ancient juniper forest northeast of Bend, Pronghorn Resort is the ultimate luxury getaway in Central Oregon. Pronghorn boasts two award-winning golf courses, farm-to-table fine dining, a world-class spa and, most recently, a new modern lodge that is suited for a romantic retreat or a family vacation. This summer, make Pronghorn your destination for a vacation that offers the best of Central Oregon all in one place.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
Huntington Lodge In April, Pronghorn unveiled Huntington Lodge, a $20 million addition to the resort that redefines what luxury lodging is in the high desert. Named for the historic Oregon Trail wagon route that traveled through the region, the 104-room lodge overlooks the 18th hole of one of the resort’s golf courses and is situated next to the 55,000-square-foot Clubhouse and the Trailhead recreation center. Huntington Lodge also follows in Pronghorn’s insistence to support the region in its design. Twenty pieces of art and furniture throughout the lodge were made by Oregon artists and craftsmen.
The lodge blends modern architectural hospitality design and nods to the rustic and wild Pacific Northwest. Each room is well-appointed with modern wood furnishings and organic, soft linens. Step out each morning onto the private terrace to take in the panoramic landscape and uninterrupted views of the Cascade Range peaks. At night, cozy up by the in-room fireplace and relax in luxurious comfort.
While rooms at the Huntington Lodge are perfect for a couple’s romantic retreat, there are also accommodations for families or groups. Two-bedroom suites are available, and adjoining rooms can make up to three-room suites. There is a full kitchen in each room, as well as nine accessible rooms to accommodate every need.
Guests at Huntington Lodge have access to the array of amenities that Pronghorn offers, providing countless more reasons to retreat to this high desert for a long summer weekend.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
All in One Place Besides Huntington Lodge, Pronghorn’s guests have their pick of other modern lodging. The resort offers vacation homes to rent around the expansive property. Homes have
Farm-to-Table Dining When it comes to meals, Pronghorn has set the bar for fine dining that features the local agricultural bounty in Central Oregon.
up to four bedrooms to host a wide range of groups. These properties have amenities that include TV, barbecues, private patios, a washer and dryer and more. Many will use these vacation rentals as a basecamp to explore the region, but with so many things to do around Pronghorn, guests could have just as much adventure staying at the
Trailhead Grill is a favorite for families. Whether you are fresh off the greens, a hiking trail or the outdoor pool, there is a seat at the table for everyone. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here with menus that kids and parents can enjoy.
resort. Cascada has been newly renovated and features a Before Central Oregon was known as a destination for craft beer, it was known as a golfer’s mecca. There are dozens of courses scattered across the region, but few compare to twin golf courses at Pronghorn Resort. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course has made it on Top 100 course lists for years. It’s designed so that every level can play and hone their skills. The Tom Fazio Championship
delicious menu from executive chef Kevin Linde. He sources fresh ingredients from local farms for a true farm-to-table dining experience. Expect elevated Pacific Northwest dishes and flavors and impeccable service. Dine on the one-of-a-kind dishes while you overlook the incredible views, and enjoy the atmosphere of Pronghorn that sets the standard for high desert luxury.
Course is a bucket-lister for golfers who like to be challenged. It’s an unforgettable course with canyons, exposed lava tubes and giant juniper. Choose one or both during your stay and see why these are courses that draw people back year after year.
Pronghorn’s world-class spa is a must-visit during any stay— it is a vacation after all. The boutique spa offers a full range of services, including massages, facials and body treatments. Make it an experience with a group of friends or find time for a relaxing solo visit. Pronghorn also has an outdoor pool and lounge bar, where you can sip on spirits and fine wine and snack on small plates.
The Open Door, Sisters
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
– History & Heritage –
Floating THROUGH TIME FLOATING THE DESCHUTES RIVER on a hot day is a rite of summer in Bend, but it’s a relatively new tradition. Long before the river was open to floaters and was still marked by the sawmills on its banks, there was a different annual affair that took over the waterway. The Bend Water Pageant was started in 1933 by the city’s chamber of commerce. The event, which featured colorful and sometimes animated floats that bobbed in Mirror Pond, took place each Independence Day––with a hiatus during World War II––until 1965, and it was a sight to behold. In 1940, the event was such a draw that visitors doubled the city’s population to 18,000 and locals were asked to open their homes to new friends. According to the Bend Park & Recreation District, the pageant usually featured about eighteen floats tugged along by swimmers or people in boats, until a Shevlin-Hixon engineer designed a boom in the river.
For many years, the centerpiece of the Water Pageant was a giant, illuminated arch, which sat on the river and through which the floats traveled, as well as the pageant queen, who rode through on an eighteen-foot swan float, followed by her princesses on cygnets. At its height, the arch was as tall as a four-story building. Float designers made elaborate creations, from a Shevlin-Hixon sawmill complete with moving logs and boards, to a Redmond-created U.S.S. Enterprise replica. In 1960, the pageant skipped the floats, but Miss America made an appearance. According to The Bulletin archives, the event was a culmination of a two-, three- or four-day celebration that
muesuM lacirotsiH setuhcseD fo ysetruoc sotohP
featured horse racing, dances, wrestling and boxing. Interest waned in the 1960s, and like many grand traditions,
Or get in the spirit by floating the river yourself and ending
the event died.
in Mirror Pond. Rent a sturdy innertube from Tumalo Creek
Kayak & Canoe at the kiosk in Riverbend Park (or bring your
Nevertheless, you can honor the Bend Water Pageant by
trusty blow-up swan?), then practice your Water Pageant
visiting Pageant Park on the western banks of Mirror Pond
court wave as you float along the slow-moving river. When
near the footbridge. The small park has a plaque with more
you arrive in Mirror Pond, it may not be on an intricately
information about the Water Pageant, inviting you to
designed float, but you’ll still be honoring Bend tradition.
imagine the sight of colorful, giant floats moving across the
Get more information
glassy water.
local.
HERE on how to enjoy the river like a
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
OUR PICKS BEER
BONEYARD RPM IPA DESSERT
GOODY’S DINNER
BRUNCH
Sunset Dinner at Mt. Bachelor
DOG-FRIENDLY
WILD OREGON 10 BARREL, FOODS CRUX WINE
ELIXIR WINE BAR COFFEE
SUNSET SISTERS DINNER ON COFFEE MT. BACHELOR COMPANY TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
EVENTS
Balloons Over Bend
VIEW OUR FULL CALENDAR
SISTERS QUILT SHOW
BALLOONS OVER BEND
If you haven’t witnessed the largest international quilt show, then mark your calendars for this year’s event. The Sisters Quilt Show is an annual event that features incredible textiles all over the town for the day. Thousands of people flock to Sisters for the event, and for those that want to learn more about quilting, there are workshops held throughout Quilt Week.
Balloons Over Bend is a favorite family event in Central Oregon. The weekend includes hot air balloon launches during the day and in the evening (don’t miss the Night Glow!) as well as tons of activities for kids and families. There will be face-painting, bounce houses and more at the festival in Riverbend Park.
JULY 13
JULY 26-28
NEWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL JULY 26-28
This is the seventh annual art and music festival held at the Diamondstone Guest Lodges, and each year the event gets bigger and better. It’s an affordable and family-friendly music festival with more than twenty bands playing throughout the weekend, including headliner Tal Wilkenfeld.
TRAILHEAD | JUNE/JULY 2019
TRAILHEAD A D V E N T U R E
C A L L S
visitcentraloregon.com instagram.com/visitcentraloregon facebook.com/visitcentraloregon twitter.com/visitcentralor youtube.com/visitcentralor/videos pinterest.com/gocentraloregon
TRAILHEAD Trailhead is a bi-monthly digital publication from Visit Central Oregon. VISIT OUR REGIONAL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER IN THE VILLAGE AT SUNRIVER -ORGIVE US A CALL AT 1-800-800-8334 ©VISIT CENTRAL OREGON