With the recent snowfall in the mountains, you can start to feel the excitement for those anticipating the beautiful winter in Central Oregon. Visitors travel from all over to experience Bend during the winter season. Whether you are bundling up to ski in the mountains or are looking to try some seasonal, local brews, there is really something for everyone of any hobby or age here. Below are a handful of ideas for things to do in Bend to make your winter here memorable.
Mount Bachelor Ski Area
Head up Cascade Lakes Highway, 22 miles from Bend, and you will find yourself at Mount Bachelor Ski Area. The drive up to the mountain is beautiful in itself and there are over 4,300 acres of lift accessible land to explore with over 100 runs. Nordic skiing is offered here as well, with over 12 groomed trails from beginner to most difficult. If you are just getting into the snow sports, there are also numerous classes and packages that are available to make your visit pleasant and fun. Looking for an extra special treat? Check out their sled dog experience and feel the rush of riding along the snow with a professional sled dog guide.
Sno-Parks
Located right outside of Bend are 5 different sno-parks for activities such as, snowshoeing, sledding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and riding fat-tire bikes. An affordable sno-park pass can grant you access to winter fun around Bend all season long. Whether you decide to ski, snowshoe, or just enjoy the outdoors, make sure you are prepared for the winter conditions with the proper gear. Powder House and Pine Mountain Sports are two great places to rent or buy the gear you need to enjoy your time in the mountains.
For the Kids
If you’re looking for some kid-friendly daytime activities during a snowy day, the Sun Mountain Fun Center is a great way to warm up those wintery bones and have some family fun. Indoor attractions offered are bowling, bumper cars, billiards, and a huge selection of arcade games. And there is no need to leave for a meal break as there is a great food menu that supports local vendors and food as well; don’t worry parents beer and wine is also an option here.
You can also visit the Bend Pavillion for ice skating that eveyone will enjoy. They even have a learn to skate program that will have you vying for an Olympic spot in not time (well, maybe not Olympics, but it will ensure you have more fun on the ice!)
Breweries
Ending your winter activities early sometimes can be easy knowing there is a great night life in Bend. If you’ve been here, you may know that it’s a place that’s known to have tons of great beer in town. A few breweries to check out are Deschutes, Crux (best fire pits in town!), Boneyard, Monkless, and Cascade Lakes Brewing (conveniently located on your way down from Mt. Bachelor), plus many more. Great cocktails can be found at Stil Whiskey bar, O’kanes Whiskey bar, Crater Lake Spirits, The Brown Owl, and again many more. It may take more than one trip to hit all the great spots in town, but would be well worth it.
Winterfest
The Oregon Winterfest, held in February, is one of the best weekend events to feel the energy of this town. Thousands gather for ice sculptures, fire pit competitions, live music, great food, fine art, beer, wine, and so much more. It is one of the largest gatherings that happens in Bend, and one that you won’t want to miss. A handful of runs are also held the during Winterfest, so make sure you grab your running shoes and get ready for a great weekend of winter celebration. Locals Bonus: Mt. Bachelor season pass holders get free entry into Winterfest!
The High Desert Museum
Featuring 135 acres of land and over 100,000 square feet of exhibits, the High Desert Museumhas been inspiring visitors since 1982. Get up close with wildlife, Native American history, World War II, travel back in time to an original sawmill, and so much more. This is a great way to spend a cold winter day that’s only five minutes south of Bend.
If you're visiting Bend this winter, check out my Discover Bend page to find more great spots to enjoy a beer, take a hike, and enjoy everything Central Oregon has to offer! Thinking of making a move to Central Oregon? My Relocation Guide is a great place to start.