Area Guide
This is the part of Central Oregon that made us fall for it: a waterfall at the end of a riverside bike ride, a lava tube that stays cave-cold all summer, otters at the High Desert Museum, and stargazing that only happens under skies this dark. Nine outings, all road-tested by us, usually more than once.
Our practical notes are on each card: where a timed reservation is required, which parking lots fill by mid-morning, and the hidden gems most visitors drive right past.
Most of these start from the paved bike paths outside our door: no car, no parking hunt.
Our favorite ride: the paved Sun-Lava Path runs from the north end of Sunriver to the Benham Falls day-use area, then it's a short walk on dirt to the falls. About 10 to 12 miles round trip of easy, scenic cruising. Our four bikes come with the cabin; the Village bike shops rent other sizes.
Indoor and outdoor pools, a lazy river, water slides, and hot tubs: hours vary by season, so check the SHARC website before you go. In summer the lot fills fast; some guests just bike over. Six passes come with the cabin.
A hidden gem: the Deschutes bends into a horseshoe around the day-use area, so you can put in, float 10–15 minutes, and take out at the same spot. We walk back up and float circles all day. Picnic tables and fire pits let you post up; parking is $5 and fills early.
Why go: Great for a relaxed, low-effort outing Fun for kids and adults Incredible stargazing at night (clear desert skies)
A lava tube you can walk deep into the dark, open mid-May to mid-September (recent seasons Friday to Monday only) with a timed Recreation.gov ticket per car and a $5 day-use fee or recreation pass. It holds cave-cold temperatures all summer, so bring warm layers, closed-toed shoes, and two light sources. No dogs inside.
Truly a hidden gem. Go in spring for the wildflowers. Park at the Fall River Guard Station for a casual riverside hike, or at the Falls Viewpoint for a neat hidden spot (a proper cold plunge). Prime fly-fishing water.
About 20 minutes up the road: perfect for a smoky or rainy day.
Live otters, birds of prey, and hands-on exhibits on the region's history: kids have the best time, and it's our go-to for smoky or rainy days. Don't miss the Birds of Prey presentation; doors close promptly on the hour, so check the daily schedule.
A little farther out, and worth every minute of it.
Easy access: You can park right at the falls! $5 parking pass 45 minute drive Beautiful hiking trails beyond falls Want to make it a longer hike? Park at Skyliner trailhead $4 parking fee 6 miles round trip The trail is wide with some mellow hills
