Top Bend Outdoor Activities

Central Oregon is known for its dramatic scenery, from volcanic black-sand dunes and lava fields to alpine lakes and the tall, rocky Cascade Mountains—but for taking in the region’s varied landscapes, a standard vehicle just won’t cut it. Ideal for anyone looking to get off the beaten track, this ATV tour packs in incredible views, letting you ride safely off-trail through rugged terrain.

Explore Bend and the Deschutes River with ease with this guided e-bike tour. With an electric bike to assist, you can go farther and see more with less effort, and with a guide, there’s no risk of getting lost. Ride through Bend, including the Old Mill District and lesser-known areas, while learning about the city and the river, with a stop along the way for snacks and beverages.

Our Cascade Lakes Kayak Tour is often regarded by guests as one of our best tours! As the sun shines above the mighty Cascade Mountains, we will push out onto the pristine waters of our high-elevation lakes and begin our kayaking adventure. Our award-winning Naturalist Guides will highlight the sweet spots on these stunning lakes that might not initially meet the eye, taking you into the fingers, coves, and bays that were formed by ancient volcanic activity and are only accessible by Kayak! Along with some fun in the sun, you will also learn about the region's geology - how fire and ice built and sculpted the lakes, mountains, and rivers in Central Oregon! If you'd like to take a refreshing dip, bring a swimsuit and remember to keep your eyes peeled for otters, osprey, and more. With crystal blue waters and incredible mountain views, our Cascade Lakes Kayak Tours are great for the whole family!

Explore the forests of Oregon on a relaxing horseback ride during this private experience near Bend. Sit atop your steed and travel along the Deschutes River towards Aspen Meadow for uninterrupted scenic views. On the way back, take a different route so you can experience even more of the area.

Bend’s rolling hills are picturesque, but they can give your legs a serious workout when biking. Give your muscles a break on this small-group cycling tour, which pairs you with an e-bike for an electric-assisted push. Ride along the Deschutes River, stopping to take photographs and learn about Bend’s local history from your guide. Rentals are included for a seamless experience.

Discover the best that Bend, Oregon has to offer in a fun way by participating in a private scavenger hunt. Receive your clues and set off to explore several destinations around the city. Learn about the city while you hunt, stopping at local businesses, landmarks, and other points of interest. At the end of the game, claim your winnings and leave with newfound knowledge of Bend.

This is a self-paced scavenger hunt geared toward kids! There is no time limit and you can begin and end whenever you like. All clues lead to places where participants (especially kids) may want to stay a while. Parents, bring your wallets!

Take a tour of the Deschutes River as it winds through and around the city of Bend, while riding your premium electric bikes. You will find yourself cruising along the river with your guide, enjoying the sights and sounds without breaking a sweat. Enjoy awesome scenery and wildlife, while your guide shares historic stories of Bend and the local area with plenty of opportunities to take pictures and ask questions.

Join us for an epic subterranean adventure deep below the Earth’s surface! Bend is home to a vast amount of lava tube cave networks, that were formed thousands of years ago by volcanic activity. During our two hours underground in the darkest, quietest spot the Earth can provide, our naturalist guides will impart their vast knowledge of the region's geology while we adventure through this incredible cave system. Wanderlust Tours is the only guide company permitted in these lava caves. These caves are wild caves, meaning there is no paved path or lighting. Wanderlust Tours will outfit your group with helmets and headlamps. We also recommend wearing hiking boots or sturdy shoes to help navigate the uneven, rocky terrain as well as a fleece jacket and jeans as the caves stay at 45 degrees Fahrenheit year round! These volcanically formed geologic wonders are a truly breathtaking place to explore! ** Please read through the "Additional Info" section for details about the caves difficulty.

Gain a different perspective on Downtown Bend with this fun and interactive scavenger hunt. Receive a set of 15 clues via email or text and choose to play the game whenever it suits your group. Walk around and see if you can find the destinations, which includes landmarks, businesses and other interesting locations.

Bend, Oregon is one of the most well known craft beer towns in this country. With over 35 craft breweries, the beer scene is a way of life around here. We will visit three of our favorite breweries in town, each with their own unique and fun vibe as well as styles of beer. You will also enjoy several flight tastings, providing you plenty of beer to compare tasting notes from the different breweries. Join us for a great afternoon of touring, lots of tasting and hopefully making some new friends while enjoying the Bend beer scene like a local.

Discover the heartwarming stories of rescued animals in Central Oregon. Nestled on 10 picturesque acres, this sanctuary is home to nearly 150 cows, pigs, goats, and sheep. During an hour-long guided tour, you’ll meet the animals, learn about their unique personalities, and enjoy intimate interactions like brushing horses and giving belly rubs to pigs. Tours are designed for all ages. Children 3 and under are Free.

Discover the highlights of Redmond, Oregon in a fun and interactive private scavenger hunt. Grab your group and solve clues to find destinations and landmarks around the city. Learn about the local culture and history and interact with locals at businesses around town. Send photos to earn a digital certificate and points.

Explore beautiful Cascade Lakes on a stand-up paddleboard with this small-group happy hour experience from Bend. Admire views of the snow-capped mountains while paddling around the lake. When you're ready to take a break, enjoy a dip in the lake, play horseshoes, or relax in the provided beach chairs. Appetizers and beverages are included.

Bend is home to some 35 craft breweries, each with their own varieties of beer. Our food truck scene is also pretty spectacular with some tasty food. We will visit two of our favorite breweries as well as the liveliest food truck pod in town. You will enjoy complimentary flight tastings from the different breweries and Bend's famous Tots from the food truck pod. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of craft beer and some tasty snacks.

Step into the shoes of a newly-minted detective, tasked by Commander Mahoney to solve a gripping case. murder on the streets of Bend. Throughout this crime-solving audio adventure, visit each of the 10 mapped locations. You'll have the option to explore the downtown area using the Walking Map or follow a Driving Map on the city's outskirts. Once you choose, the exact starting point will be revealed. *See images for route Park or stop at each location, listen to the audio story, and put your detective skills to the test by gathering clues and piecing together the evidence. Finally, make your deductions and issue an arrest warrant. Your overall detective skills will be evaluated, culminating in a Case Performance Score to measure your sleuthing prowess. This game is suitable for solo detectives, dynamic duos, or groups of mystery enthusiasts, offering an immersive audio tale filled with intrigue.

Explore the high desert of Central Oregon, and photograph the clear night sky on this private photo tour. This flexible tour starts at your preferred time and is limited to 1-2 people. Your guide is on hand to take you to the best locations and help with the proper camera settings for capturing the moment. Hotel pickup from Bend is included for added convenience.

Join us for a snow-filled adventure in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest! The cascade mountains that build Bend’s backdrop typically receive 400-600 inches of fluffy snow during the winter. With snowshoes on our feet, we will journey through an old-growth forest of hemlock and fir, splashing through powder and immersing ourselves in the winter wonderland of Central Oregon! During the adventure, your naturalist guide will highlight animal tracks we may come across, enliven you with stories of native history, and touch on the immense importance of a healthy snowpack to our local ecosystem. Snowshoeing is truly the best way to observe nature in the winter! Traveling on snowshoes, you will be able to get a glimpse of how the native wildlife in Central Oregon have adapted to the deep snow, perhaps stumbling upon the tracks of a fox or pine marten. We will also take a quick rest to enjoy hot cocoa amidst the snow & mountains. Our Snowshoe tours are great fun for the whole family!

Experience the beauty and charm of Bend, OR, on a relaxed 6-mile guided electric bike tour. Glide along scenic paved trails through historic neighborhoods, taking in the town’s unique character and vibrant local culture. As you follow your knowledgeable guide, you’ll ride alongside the stunning Deschutes River, where you will see local wildlife. This leisurely tour isn’t just about the ride—it’s a journey through Bend’s rich history, public art, and natural wonders. With plenty of stops along the way, you’ll have time to snap photos, ask questions, and soak in the surroundings. We’ll also take a break to enjoy a delicious coffee and pastry at a local favorite café. Perfect for all skill levels, this easy-going adventure is designed to be fun, informative, and effortlessly enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, our guided e-bike tour offers a fresh perspective on Bend’s best sights. Come ride with us and see the city in a whole new way!

What sets our photo experience apart is the genuine and fun connection you'll make with a local Bendite eager to show you a fantastic time. We'll whisk you away to one of Central Oregon's most beautiful locations, capturing fun and stunning photos of you and your companions. With us, you're not just getting a photo session—you're gaining a memorable adventure filled with laughter and beautiful memories. Your booking includes a one-hour photography shoot with edited high-resolution digital images. We provide written guides on preparing for your shoot and what to wear. Before the shoot, we'll have a phone call to discuss details and answer any questions you may have. But that's not all! You'll receive an online photo gallery and product store, where you can view and purchase prints to create lasting memories. From start to finish, we're committed to making your photo experience fun, personalized, and unforgettable. Book with us today and let's create something beautiful together!

Bend's favorite scavenger hunt! Whether visitor or long time resident, this hunt is an amazing and entertaining way to learn about Bend! Get a taste (literally) of the best the our breweries have to offer. *Please note, hours of breweries vary. Please check before visiting.

As the light from the moon and stars shimmers on the fresh snow, we will set off through the fresh powder, weaving uour way through an old-growth forest of mountain hemlock and sub-alpine fir. Throughout the adventure, your naturalist guide will highlight animal tracks, enliven you with age old stories of the constellations above, and more! Snowshoeing is truly the best way to observe nature in the winter! Traveling on snowshoes, you will be able to get a glimpse of how the native wildlife in Central Oregon have adapted to the deep snow, perhaps stumbling upon the tracks of a fox or pine marten. We will also take a quick rest to enjoy hot cocoa amidst the snow & stars. Your Snowshoe tours are great fun for the whole family! Join us for a truly unique experience, snowshoeing in the heart of darkness and immersing yourself in the winter wonderland that is Central Oregon!

Bend's favorite treasure hunt! Whether you are a visitor or a lifelong resident, this quest is an amazing and entertaining way to learn about Bend. Discover the best the center has to offer.