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Ellen Waterston’s New Book Explores The Oregon Desert Trail

The literary nonfiction book chronicles her journey on the 750-mile Oregon Desert Trail, documenting the people, places and issues that she encounters along the way.

Four Day Hikes on the Oregon Desert Trail

Better yet, make a weekend out of it.

Exploring the Oregon Desert Trail

The Oregon Desert Trail can be enjoyed as a feast or series of bite-sized outback adventures.

Mastondon 10ish Mile Trail Run

Don’t miss this upcoming race on the BLM trail network known as Maston, nestled between Tumalo and Redmond beneath the shadow of Cline Butte. Offering scenic views of the Deschutes […]

Central Oregon’s Startup Community Climbs Upward

The local ranks of aspiring entrepreneurs are growing, and their business ideas are being received in a new era of the Central Oregon startup ecosystem. The long-supportive, talent-packed community is reinvigorated, evolving and growing.

6 Scenic Snowshoe Trails on a Day Trip From Bend

It’s not just skiers who have wintertime fun on winter trails. Modern snowshoes are now lightweight, rugged and easy to use, making winter adventure more accessible for all ability levels. […]

The Tower Theatre in Bend, Oregon

Photo by Benjamin Edwards Sponsored Content: A Celebration of Contemporary Culture in an Iconic Landmark Since 1940, a neon sign has towered over Bend’s Wall Street casting gold, green and […]

7 Central Oregon Wellness Destinations Perfect for a Retreat

If your New Year’s resolutions include bringing balance back into your life, it may be time to step out of the daily grind and plan a wellness retreat for 2023. […]

Exploring Central Oregon’s Love of Coffee

When it comes to imbibing, move over hops and barley, there’s a bean brewing in town. While Central Oregon is known for the ale trail, per capita, it’s coffee that […]

A Bikepacking Adventure in Paisley, Oregon

I arrived in Paisley in the afternoon with the sun still high. Michael Norris, owner and guide of Paisley Adventure, and I were going to do a ride on the first […]

A Wellness-Inspired Getaway to Central Oregon

With endless opportunities for recreation, nourishing cuisine and a peaceful high desert landscape, Central Oregon is an ideal destination for a wellness-focused getaway in the heart of Oregon.

3 Scenic Central Oregon Road Trips

Stock the car with a picnic, water, the kids and the dog—it’s time for a road trip! From Bend, picturesque driving and sightseeing opportunities can be found in all directions.

Balancing Overuse in Central Oregon’s Outdoor Spaces

Rent a mountain bike in Bend and you’ll likely find these guidelines on a sticker attached to the top bar of your bike. The rental bike stickers were designed and […]

Painter Evan Namkung Brings Edgy Art to Central Oregon

For Evan Namkung, the pandemic ignited a passion that had been simmering in the background of his life. As a kid, he painted to have something to hang on the […]

3 Spring Wildflower Hikes in Central Oregon

A bounty of spring and summer wildflowers blesses Oregon. Early in the season, wildflowers arise and unfurl their petals much to the delight of wildflower enthusiasts and pollinators, alike.

Brasada Ranch – Resort-Style Living in the Desert

High density housing—no way. Modern homes of purely glass and steel—nuh uh. Traffic tie ups, congestion at popular restaurants and parks—forget it. This is Brasada Ranch, where cattle and sheep […]

Mountain Bike Exploring on the Madras East Hills Trail System

The Madras East Hills Trail System is Central Oregon’s newest and potentially unique trail system, offering downhill-adrenaline and uphill climbs just an hour’s drive from Bend.

Exploring Solutions to Central Oregon’s Growing Homeless Population

According to the most recent Point in Time count (PIT), an initiative that counts the homeless population on a single night in winter, the number of homeless has grown in Deschutes County to 1,098 individuals.

How to Bend: A First-Timer’s Guide to Bend, Oregon

With countless great shops, boutiques and restaurants popping up every year, and endless outdoor activities year-round, Bend has become the place to be.

4 Spring Hikes in Central Oregon

Try these four shoulder season hikes located in the high desert or Cascade foothills while waiting for hot summer days to open up the high-country trails.

21 Unique Ways to Enjoy Summer in Bend and Central Oregon

This roundup offers tasty tidbits from culture to adventure–places and experiences that are not exactly secrets, because we do believe that some places deserve to remain hidden.

A Houseplant How-To for Helping Greenery Thrive in Central Oregon Homes

Houseplants can add an incredible splash of life to any room they inhabit, but keeping them happy can sometimes be tricky.

3 Locals Share Their Favorite Spring Running Trails

Time to lace up sneakers, skip the treadmill and hit the trails.

9 can’t miss summer activities in Bend and Central Oregon

Here’s our round up of some of the very best, tried-and-true, don’t-miss experiences to be had in Central Oregon during the sunny summer season.

Beautiful Central Oregon Hikes for Fall

Early fall is prime time to be outdoors around Central Oregon. The intense heat of the summer heat has departed, leaving behind chilly mornings, with warm and welcoming sun-filled afternoons.

Ride the Trails at Horse Butte and Horse Ridge This Spring

Get there before the summer heat and dust do.

ONDA’s Ryan Houston Talks Deserts, Conservation and Public Lands

“Public lands can’t be taken for granted.”

Hike These Trails Before They Close For The Season

The best hikes once the crowds and temperature are in decline.

Paying It Forward on the Pacific Crest Trail

Few complete the PCT without a little dose of “trail magic.”

A Blooming Floral Business in the High Desert

Summer Robbins Flowers was recently named the best florist outside of Portland.

6 Ideas for Spring Break in Central Oregon

Consider this your spring break cheat sheet.

Central Oregon’s Hall of Fame of Winter Olympians

Central Oregon has an extensive roster of former Winter Olympians who blazed the trail for future athletes with a shot at the games.

Bikepacking is Central Oregon’s Next Recreational Revolution

Bikepacking in a recreational revolution that is winning new adherents by the day.

Easy Days in Eastern Oregon

It might be a stretch to call a place as vast and rich in history as Eastern Oregon “undiscovered,” but you won’t find any crowds out there yet, either.

Ultimate Finds a New Generation at Central Oregon High Schools

A new generation of Ultimate players is moving the sport slowly into the mainstream.

25 Best Central Oregon Summer Adventures

From jumping off waterfalls to watching a live show by the Deschutes River, our summer cheat sheet includes everything you need to know to get the most of the season in Central Oregon.

Bill Smith Devoted Life’s Work to Bend and Central Oregon

Beginning in the 1970’s, Bill Smith worked to keep Bend from becoming another dying town of the West.

Al Fresco Summer Dining in Central Oregon

Everything seems to taste a little better when it’s served up al fresco with a side of Central Oregon summertime.

Four Central Oregon Spring Hiking Trails that Combine Scenery, History and Stewardship

Spring hikes recommended from the experts at ONDA and the Deschutes Land Trust.

Winter Hiking in Central Oregon

Learn more about these six favorite winter hiking trails in Central Oregon. Larry Chitwood Loop The Badlands desert wilderness can be popular in the winter because it receives relatively little […]

Whitewater Kayaking in Central Oregon

With irrigation-moderated flows, scores of rapids and a variety of runs, rivers in the Bend area make for great year-round kayaking.

Best Fall Hikes in Central Oregon

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the best fall hikes in Central Oregon as leaves tumble in shades of orange and yellow through the crisp autumn air. Prepare your hiking […]

Running Wild – A Trail Runner’s Paradise

Among other accolades, Central Oregon is a trail runner’s paradise with hundreds of miles of trails from the ultra runner to the weekend warrior. Here’s the beta on a few […]

8 Summer Hikes in Central Oregon

Near waterfalls, around lakes and over lava beds, these trails offer an alluring combination of elements in Central Oregon. Lace up your hiking boots, load your pack and hit the […]

Best Mountain Biking Trails in Central Oregon

Central Oregon is often described as being one of the best areas in the country for mountain bikers to explore. Bend, alone, has an estimated 300 miles of mountain biking […]

May/June 2019

In our May/June issue, we look ahead to warmer weather and preview all the things that we’re excited about this summer, from stargazing to live music shows to the beers we’ll be drinking outside.
We also dive deep into the Sisters Rodeo on the eve of its 80th anniversary, and explore the Oregon Desert Trail on its 5th anniversary. Take a tour of a mid-century masterpiece, and peek inside a DIY renovation. There’s also our round-up of fish tacos, the perfect summer dish. Get to know the youngster taking BMX by storm, discover new ways to explore Central Oregon as a family and start planning your summer calendar.

Ambassadors

​ Hiking “I have always placed more emphasis on having experiences and challenging myself than keeping a steady job and padding a bank account. This sense of exploration led me […]

Things to Do Around Bend This Week

Each week we share Bend Magazine’s curated list of Bend and Central Oregon’s events, things to do and happenings. Enjoy!

Everything You Need for Cold Weather Mountain Biking in Bend

When the days get shorter and colder, many Central Oregonians will trade their mountain bikes for skis and snowboards. While others will ride singletrack year-round. Fortunately, winter mountain biking trails […]

Bend Pet Express

By supporting people of the community and the four-legged animals that love them, Bend Pet Express has created a 30-year tradition in Central Oregon and is part of what makes the region a pet lover’s paradise.

January + February 2024

Inside this issue of Bend Magazine, learn more about the team that keeps Mt. Bachelor running every morning before we even wake up. We also introduce some of the people behind Central Oregon startups and those who helped them succeed. We take you on a snowshoe tour on six accessible trails, followed by a retreat at the Ski Inn and Taphouse in Sisters, Oregon. And if you want to know where dogs work, romp, and rest all winter – we have got you covered there as well. Also inside this issue, we learn more about our local ice skating rinks, Bend Language Institute, Frank Cammack, Consciously Curly Co., local wellness businesses, breakfast all over Bend, winter whiskey sours, Feast Restaurant and Bend’s Perfume Lab. Find the issue all over Central Oregon through December 2024 or click here to find our past issues.

Bend’s Outdoor Pioneers

Our Outdoor Pioneers are still outside doing nearly every activity they founded decades ago. Read about those who helped create what Bend is today on the trails including nordic skiing, white water rafting, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Adventure Van Lifestyle

Innovative companies help work and play hit the road with style. Drive through Bend, into the Cascade Range or down a National Forest road these days, and it’s impossible not […]

Take a Workday Walk

Steps to Stay Safe and Healthy on Central Oregon Trails Whether working from home or in an office, a full day may be sedentary without planning to step away from […]

Climbing Smith Rock with Alan Watts

Routing the Climbing Course It’s late morning as Alan Watts pulls up at Smith Rock State Park. We first climbed here almost 40 years ago, when Watts was establishing a […]

Brewer’s Grade Band at General Duffy’s Waterhole

General Duffy’s Waterhole is excited to host Brewer’s Grade Band on June 16, 2023 as part of their 2023 Summer Kickin’ Concert Series in Downtown Redmond! Presented by Subaru of […]

Eagle Crest Resort offers Residents Views and Value

Six miles west of Redmond, Eagle Crest Resort is a surprise to anyone who’s never stopped to see the resort, play golf at one of its three courses or wander […]

Bend nonprofit Destination Rehab offers New View on Neurological Recovery

Destination Rehab is a Bend-based nonprofit that helps individuals with neurological conditions get back outside and into their communities. Eugene native Dr. Carol-Ann Nelson received her doctoral degree of physical […]

Explore Fishing, Rafting and Waterfalls on the Lower Deschutes

When the frost has thawed and the stoneflies make their debut, it’s go-time in the Lower Deschutes River canyon. This part of north-central Oregon is sleepy in the winter, but […]

6 Campgrounds to Explore Near Bend

As a Bendite, car camping holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in Bend provides many fond memories of contacting friends, loading up the car and driving until […]

Golden Hour at Sunriver Resort

Nestled between the towering Cascade mountains and the high desert, Sunriver Resort is the most idyllic setting for a dream ceremony and reception.

Western Elegance at Brasada Ranch

Set in the high desert with mountain silhouettes in the distance, Brasada offers great views, several venue options and a wedding team prepared to plan and execute an unforgettable day.

Meet Bend’s Winter Olympics Hopefuls

Every four years when the winter Olympics arrive, a few hometown athletes step into the spotlight to compete at the highest level.

At Home in Deschutes River Woods

A quarter-mile south of Bend’s city limits, Deschutes River Woods, or “DRW,” was developed in the early 1960s as an unincorporated part of Deschutes County.

Why Dogs Love Life in Bend, AKA Dogtown USA

Over the years, Bend has earned a dog-friendly reputation, and even accolades. The city was named the most dog-friendly place in the country by Dog Fancy magazine in 2012 and again by Dogster magazine (which merged with Dog Fancy) in 2017.

Southeast Bend Growth Continues with 1925 Townhomes

In a juxtaposition of old and new, at the 10th Fairway the Bend Golf Club course abuts the new 1925 Townhomes neighborhood. Built by Arrowood Development, the townhomes are described as “luxury homes in a resort setting”.

Bark-Worthy Backyards for Bend Dogs

Once a dog becomes part of the family, backyard design takes on new significance. Dog-friendly spaces require more than a leash and water bowl—the yard should be a safe, healthy refuge for exercise and relaxation for the whole family.

Epoch Ascent is Bend’s Gym for Elite Athletes

Dewayne Hornbeak launched Epoch Ascent in 2015, bringing his background as a U.S. Marine and his work with the State Department in high-threat protection to creating a sport-specific training facility.

4 Hot Springs Within a Morning Drive of Bend

With winter on the way, here are four of our favorite hot spring adventures for stripping down and warming up within a morning’s drive of Bend.

Pushing Limits and Managing Risk with Deschutes County Search and Rescue

As Pat Mullens set out on a fat-tire bike tour last February, she expected some adventure. What she didn’t expect was to be saved by a search and rescue unit.

Tips for Summer Stargazing in Bend and Beyond

Grossfeld, observatory manager at the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, said the closest neighboring galaxy sits roughly 2.5 million light-years away from our Milky Way.

Bend’s Founder Left an Indelible Mark During His Stay

Drake arrived in Bend more than 100 years ago, but his fingerprints are all over this town, even if you don’t know where to look.

Second Season

It’s time to dust off the dry suit and plunge into winter runs on these four local waters.

Weekend Roundup September 5-8

Yes, the kids are back in school, but summer is not over just yet. There’s plenty to see and do around Central Oregon this weekend from a big air big festival in Prineville to an outdoors sports-oriented film festival in Bend.

Weekend Roundup August 22-25

This weekend is sure to have something for everyone. Make the drive up to Madras to witness aviation history. Catch some incredible live music this weekend, with Leftover Salmon playing […]

Adventure Bucket List: Air

Summer is a time for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re staying local or ready to hit the road, there’s much to be done before the sun is gone. Adventure Bucket List: Air

In the Heart of Bend

Waterfront Old Mill District homes capture iconic Central Oregon city living.

Weekend Roundup July 24-30

The heat of the summer is finally here and just like the rising temps, the events across Central Oregon are really starting to get hot. There is something for everyone this weekend with Balloons Over Bend kicking off on Friday morning and the second weekend of the High Desert Classics taking place over the whole weekend.

Weekend Roundup July 17-22

The Oregon High Desert Classic, live music and car shows abound this weekend making it one of the most exciting weekends of the summer here in Central Oregon. No matter what you are looking do there is sure to be something for everyone.

Local Poet Jarold Ramsey Returns to His Roots

Poet Jarold Ramsey’s connection to the land of his youth eventually brought him back home. Jarold Ramsey grew up on a farm perched at the edge of a canyon that […]

Artist Paul Alan Bennett Reaches For The Stars

Pendleton Woolen Mills created tapestries based on his work.

Where There’s Smoke: Controlled Burn Rules Fuel Controversy

Critics say new rules for smoke management don’t go far enough.

Weekend Roundup: June 19-23

Music festival season kicks-off, grueling bike races abound and the Pride 5K makes its debut. There’s plenty of ways to bring in Summer 2019 this weekend. Which will you choose? […]

Weekend Roundup: May 29-June 2

There are so many good events to fill your weekend calendar. Cascade Cycling Classic May 29-June 2 | Bend | Prices vary After a one-year hiatus, this uber-popular stage race […]

Weekend Roundup: January 16-20

Make some plans for the three-day weekend.

The 2018 Readers’ Choice Winners

And the winners are…

Taylor NW Brings Passion and Philanthropy to Construction

“We recognized we could use those tools philanthropically as well.”

Weekend Roundup: Sept. 19-23

The best things to do around Bend this weekend.

Job Envy: Wanderlust Tour Guide Erika Nuetzel

Erika is a naturalist guide for Wanderlust Tours in Bend.

Everything Old Is New Again at Casad Family Farms

They’re changing the idea of a sustainable cut of meat.

Weekend Roundup: July 18-22

From fundraisers to garden tours to mountain biking to live music, there are a lot of great events happening around Central Oregon this weekend.

Vince Genna Was a Diamond in the Rough

How baseball and a bold Italian launched Bend’s nationally acclaimed parks district.

Uniting the Bouldering Community is a Tough Climb

Author Jason Chinchen aims to unify the Central Oregon bouldering community.

Weekend Roundup: Mar. 29 – Apr. 1

Spring has arrived in the high desert, and there are events around the region this weekend to take advantage of the new season.

Escape Into The Woods On The McKenzie Highway

Find whispers of spring in this charming river community.

Bend Magazine’s Most Popular Stories of 2017

The most-read stories of the year.

20 Gifts to Give This Holiday Season

Gift ideas for everyone on your list, from adrenaline-junkie friends to the favorite family pet.