A 4-Day Adventure in Bend, Oregon: Exploring Nature, Hiking, and Local Attractions

Introduction to Bend, Oregon in April

Bend, Oregon is a premier travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially in April. Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and high desert climate, Bend sits on the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains, offering spectacular views and a wealth of activities to enjoy. April marks the transition to spring, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 60°F, making it an ideal time for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying other outdoor adventures. While some higher-elevation trails may still be covered in snow, many lower-altitude areas are accessible and teeming with life as the season shifts.

April is also a sweet spot in terms of tourist crowds: winter skiers have largely gone, and the summer rush has not yet hit. This provides a more serene environment to explore nature. Bend is known as one of the craft beer hubs of the Pacific Northwest, offering over 30 breweries on the Bend Ale Trail, as well as bustling art galleries and a charming downtown for winding down after a long day outdoors. With its mix of adventure opportunities and local culture, you'll find no shortage of things to do in your 4-day visit.

Below, I’ve crafted a comprehensive 4-day itinerary that includes hiking, camping, and other recommended activities. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Welcome to Bend and Exploring Smith Rock State Park

Morning

• Breakfast: Start your day in Bend with a hearty breakfast at Chow, a locally loved farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh, seasonal dishes.
• Drive to Smith Rock State Park: It’s about a 35-minute drive (27 miles) north of Bend via US-97. This iconic park is known for its dramatic rock formations made from volcanic basalt.

Midday

• Hiking Smith Rock: Opt for the Misery Ridge Loop (3.7 miles round trip, moderate to challenging), one of the most popular trails that rewards you with panoramic views of the Crooked River and Monkey Face, a famous rock spire.
  • Interesting fact: Smith Rock is often cited as the birthplace of sport climbing in the U.S.
  • Visitor tip: Arrive early to secure parking and beat the midday crowds, especially in pleasant spring weather.
• Picnic lunch: Pack sandwiches or grab something from Sparrow Bakery in Bend before heading out.

Evening

• Return to Bend for dinner: Head to Deschutes Brewery Public House, one of Bend’s most famous breweries, for local craft beer and a delicious meal.
• Relax and prepare for Day 2: Spend the night in a cozy Bend hotel or consider car camping at Tumalo State Park, located just 15 minutes from downtown Bend.

Day 2: Hiking Tumalo Falls and Exploring Downtown Bend

Morning

• Breakfast: Start your day at The Victorian Café, known for its hearty portions and award-winning Bloody Marys.
• Drive to Tumalo Falls: The trailhead is about 25 minutes (14 miles) west of Bend via Skyliners Road. Tumalo Falls is one of Central Oregon's most iconic waterfalls and is accessible year-round. In April, the falls are in full flow, fed by snowmelt.

Midday

• Tumalo Falls Hikes:
  • For an easy option, take the viewpoint trail (0.25 miles round trip), leading straight to a stunning overlook.
  • For more adventure, hike the Tumalo Creek Trail (6.5 miles round trip, moderate), which follows the cascading creek and passes scenic smaller waterfalls.
  • Visitor tip: Bring waterproof boots or trail runners, as spring trails may have snow patches or mud.

Afternoon

• Return to Bend: Enjoy lunch at Crux Fermentation Project, a beloved local brewery offering panoramic mountain views.
• Downtown Exploration: Spend the afternoon wandering Bend’s charming downtown. Top spots include:
  • Drake Park: A peaceful area along the Deschutes River.
  • Tower Theatre: A restored 1940s theater.
  • Boutique Shopping: Browse local artwork, outdoor gear shops, and unique gifts.

Evening

• Dinner in Bend: Try Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails for fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine with a Southern twist.
• Optional: Take a twilight river walk along the Deschutes River Trail to conclude your day.

Day 3: Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and Camping

Morning

• Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at The Dough Nut for fresh coffee and locally famous gourmet doughnuts.
• Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: This breathtaking drive loops through the Cascade Range and takes you to Devils Lake, Sparks Lake, and Elk Lake. In April, some sections may still be closed due to snow, so check road conditions ahead of time.

Midday

• Hike at Sparks Lake: Approx. 30 minutes from Bend when road access is clear (25 miles). The Ray Atkeson Trail is a peaceful, flat loop offering jaw-dropping lake and mountain views.

  • Visitor tip: Bring layers; spring weather in the mountains can change quickly.
  • Interesting fact: Sparks Lake inspired many of the photographs by legendary nature photographer Ray Atkeson.

• Camp at Elk Lake or Devils Lake: Depending on road access and open campgrounds, choose your spot to set up camp.

  • Bring camping gear and plan for a cool night, as temperatures can drop below freezing in April.

Evening

• Cooking Outdoors: Pack a camp stove or portable grill to enjoy a hot meal under the stars.
• Optional stargazing: Bend's low light pollution makes Central Oregon perfect for stargazing.

Day 4: Lava Lands and the Deschutes River

Morning

• Breakfast: If camping, enjoy a simple oatmeal or breakfast burrito cooked at your campsite.
• Drive to Lava Lands Visitor Center: About 20 minutes south of Bend (15 miles) via US-97. This site is part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and offers a fascinating look at the region’s volcanic history.

Midday

• Lava Lands Hike: Walk the Trail of the Molten Land or climb the Lava Butte for views of the surrounding lava fields (about 1.5 miles total for both trails).

  • Visitor tip: Learn about Bend’s volcanic origins at the Visitor Center’s informative exhibits.

• Head back to Bend for lunch at 10 Barrel Brewing West Side — an essential stop for pizza lovers and craft beer enthusiasts.

Afternoon

• Deschutes River Trail Hike: End your trip with a scenic walk along this iconic river trail. The Farewell Bend Trailhead is conveniently located near downtown and provides a leisurely 3-mile loop with interpretive signs about local flora and fauna.

Evening

• Farewell dinner: Treat yourself to dinner at 900 Wall for a more upscale experience focusing on farm-to-table dining. Reflect on your weekend of adventure and relaxation.

Final Notes

• Bend is known for its variable spring weather, so pack layers and waterproof gear as conditions may include sunshine, rain, or snow within the same day.
• Trails may require permits or fees, so check regulations for places like Smith Rock or Tumalo Falls beforehand.
• Always leave no trace while hiking or camping to preserve Bend’s natural wonders for future visitors.

With this itinerary, you're guaranteed to experience the best that Bend, Oregon has to offer in April. Get ready to hike, camp, and immerse yourself in one of the Pacific Northwest's most extraordinary regions.