Tumalo Falls – Marvel at a Powerful Cascade in Deschutes National Forest
Just west of Bend lies the captivating Tumalo Falls, a picturesque waterfall flowing from the Tumalo Creek. At its highest point, Tumalo Falls plunges nearly 90 feet over a cliff of dark black lava rock. The contrast between the white rushing water against the black rock backdrop is stunning, giving you the feeling you’ve walked into a painting. There are several vantage points along the 0.6 mile hiking trail to take in the falls from various angles. The hike is fairly easy, making it accessible for most groups. Be sure to visit the viewing platform at the base of the falls to experience the full magnitude of the powerful cascade. The ethereal beauty of Tumalo Falls has attracted visitors for over a century. It’s still one of the most popular waterfalls to visit near Bend. Treat your group to the wonders of nature with a charter bus ride straight to the trailhead.
Tumalo Falls Trailhead 46.06406, -121.664026 (541) 383-4000
Sparks Lake – Relax Beside an Alpine Lake & Dramatic Peak Backdrop
For a serene natural retreat, head to Sparks Lake Recreation Area about 25 miles southwest of Bend. This sparkling alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests and the prominent Mt Bachelor. Visitors adore sitting along the tranquil shoreline with picturesque views of the 10,000 foot peak reflecting over the crystal clear waters. In addition to swimming, boating, and paddling, Sparks Lake is a fantastic spot for fishing. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and large mountain whitefish. Anglers also have a chance at catching trophy-sized brown trout lurking in the depths. The recreation area offers lakeside picnic tables, restrooms, grilling areas, and a boat launch. After taking in Sparks Lake’s idyllic scenery, stretch your legs on the 1-mile nature trail circling the lake. With ample amenities and family-friendly activities, Sparks Lake is the ultimate place for your group to soak up Bend’s natural beauty.
Sparks Lake Recreation Site 1250 Catchall Rd, Bend, OR 97702 (541) 548-3303
Smith Rock State Park – Scale the Famous Monkey Face Spire
Oregon is well known for its wealth of state parks, and Smith Rock State Park is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular. Located just 20 minutes north of Bend, this park is cherished for its collection of weathered rock spires towering above the Crooked River. These cliffs are a world-renowned destination for rock climbing. Even if you’re not a hardcore climber, you can still hike through the park to admire these geologic wonders. One distinct rock formation you have to see is Monkey Face, standing erect at 350 feet tall. From certain angles, you can spot the uncanny monkey profile naturally worn into the rock over centuries of elemental erosion. Don’t miss the superb panoramic views from the top of Misery Ridge Trail. Your group will be amazed by Smith Rock’s raw natural beauty. After exploring the canyon, head to the visitor’s center to learn about the park’s geology and wildlife. You can also scope out the best spots to watch rock climbers scale the cliffs. With towering volcanic ash pillars and vibrant wildflowers, Smith Rock State Park is a can’t miss day trip from Bend.
Smith Rock State Park 934 SW Redmond Terrebonne Rd, Terrebonne, OR 97760 (541) 923-7551
Pilot Butte State Park – Hike or Bike to the Top of a Lone Volcanic Cone
Pilot Butte State Park protects the prominent cinder cone of Pilot Butte, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bend. The butte rises nearly 500 feet above the surrounding valley, delivering exceptional panoramic views from the summit. A 1.8 mile vehicle access road wraps around the butte leading right to the top, but for an invigorating workout, walk or bike up instead. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping 360° view of the Cascades, Bend, and the surrounding High Desert. On a clear day, you can spot Mt. Bachelor, the Three Sisters, Mt. Washington, and Black Butte. There are a few picnic tables at the summit for you to relax and take in the scenery before heading back down and venturing on to your next Bend adventure. Pilot Butte’s green hiking trails are open year-round, though they can be muddy in spring. There’s also a playground and horse shoe pits in Pilot Butte State Park, perfect for families. Cruising to the top in a charter bus rental is the easiest way to get your crew to this iconic Bend landmark.
Pilot Butte State Park Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97701 (541) 382-8941
Shore Acres State Park – Be in Awe of Impressive Sea Cliffs & Gardens
For a lush botanical escape, Shore Acres State Park can’t be beaten. Nestled on a high bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this park was once the estate of prominent entrepreneur Louis J. Simpson. The formal English garden he built in the early 1900s has been meticulously maintained and updated with an awe-inspiring Japanese style lily pond. Beyond the cultivated gardens, Shore Acres protects a scenic piece of the rugged Oregon coastline. Follow the path down to Shell Beach to explore tide pools and sea stacks at low tide. Or head north along the cliffside trail to Cape Arago and Sunset Bay. Keep a watchful eye for breaching whales offshore! No matter where you wander, you’ll savor dramatic seascape views. Shore Acres State Park is about a 2 hour drive from Bend, making it an ideal day trip. Make frequent stops along the way to admire the mountain scenery. Once you arrive, stroll through Simpson’s gardens and the wild coastal trails for a day of contrasting beauty.
Shore Acres State Park 79835 Cape Arago Hwy, Coos Bay, OR 97420 (541) 888-3732
Crater Lake National Park – Marvel at the USA’s Deepest Lake
Oregon’s only national park, Crater Lake amazes visitors with its intense blue water and caldera creation story. When Mount Mazama erupted nearly 8,000 years ago, it collapsed on itself and filled with precipitation over time, forming the country’s deepest lake at 1,943 feet. With no inlets or tributaries, the water remains exceptionally pure and strikingly blue. There are plenty of scenic overlooks and hiking trails around the rim so your group can bask in the lake’s brilliance from every angle. Stop by the Crater Lake Lodge or Steel Visitor Center for educational exhibits explaining the violent geologic history. On clear days, you can stare in awe at the lake’s superb reflections of the surrounding cliffs and Wizard Island. Crater Lake National Park is about 2.5 hours from Bend, making it another ideal day trip destination. Load your crew into a spacious charter bus rental and you’ll arrive rested, revived, and ready to explore this natural wonderland.
Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake, OR 97604 (541) 594-3000
Lava River Cave – Explore One of the USA’s Largest Lava Tube Caves
Prepare to delve below ground to a fascinating lava cave at Lava River Cave, just south of Bend. This is the largest uncollapsed lava tube in the continental US, stretching over a mile long. As you mosey through the cave, admire the smooth basalt lava walls and mineral formations. Lava River Cave remains a constant 42°F year round with 100% humidity, making it the perfect summer adventure to beat the heat. Wear good walking shoes, bring layers, and pack flashlights to safely navigate the dark cave. The main tunnel has lighting, but smaller passages branch off into total darkness. Though it stays cool underground, the mile-long trek through Lava River Cave can be rather strenuous. With a charter bus rental, you can take breaks above ground when needed. Before heading underground, stop by the visitor center to learn about the lava tube’s formation from a massive volcanic eruption. Lava River Cave is sure to dazzle your crew with its immense underground chambers.
Lava River Cave 58201 S Highway 97, Bend, OR 97702 (541) 593-2421
Arnold Ice Cave – Be Mesmerized by Frozen Formations
For another underground adventure, head to the spellbinding Arnold Ice Cave, where ice persists year round. A large lava tube was discovered on this property back in the 1920s. Cold air flows through the underground fissures, naturally freezing any water that drips inside into dazzling ice formations. Wander through shimmering halls adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and even cave bacon. Since the temperature hovers around freezing, be sure to bundle up before entering the ice cave. The 0.25 mile lava tube trail is relatively easy for most groups. Just watch your step as you walk over uneven rocks and ice. Top your visit off with a hot drink from the Arnold Ice Cave espresso hut. Load your recharged group back into the charter bus and you’ll be on your way to the next scenic Bend destination.
Arnold Ice Cave 1600 SW Cedar Ave, Bend, OR 97702 (541) 385-1223
Deschutes River – Whitewater Rafting & River Tubing
What better way to cool down under the summer sun than whitewater rafting or lazy river tubing along the Deschutes? Flowing north from Little Lava Lake, this river is cherished for its Class III rapids and swift currents perfect for watersports. Sections like Upper Deschutes offer heart-pumping thrills while other areas near Bend are calmer for tubing. Multiple outfitters operate along the Deschutes, like Sun Country Tours and Rapid Riders. Let the pros set your group up with rafting gear and instructions for an incredible river-run everyone will love. If you book a charter bus, you can deboard ready for adventure with no long car rides in wet gear afterwards! While summertime on the Deschutes River is prime for watersports, the river also offers steelhead fishing in winter. Schedule a destination charter bus trip with the group in any season to enjoy the Deschutes through whitewater, stillwater, and everything in between.
Sun Country Tours 532 SW 13th St Suite 7, Bend, OR 97702 (800) 827-0148
Rapid Riders 62860 Parrell Rd, Bend, OR 97702 (541) 382-7805
Smith Rock Climbing – Tackle One of the Best Rock Climbing Areas
Even if you’re not staying overnight in Terrebonne for Smith Rock State Park, you can make a day trip out of climbing the park’s towering volcanic cliffs. Smith Rock is world renowned for its hundreds of climbing routes up the basalt rock faces. Routes range from beginner 5.7 to 5.10 difficulty ratings all the way up to advanced 5.14 climbs on the canyon walls. For new climbers, guides like Smith Rock Climbing School can provide equipment and teach proper techniques before hitting the cliffs. The walls at Smith offer both sport top rope routes and traditional multi-pitch climbs. Watch in awe as hardcore climbers dangle from minuscule holds on cliffs like Monkey Face. With Charter Buses Bend Oregon, reaching Smith Rock’s trails and cliffs is smooth sailing. Your group can save energy for the big climb ahead while reclining on plush bus seats en route from Bend. We’ll drop your crew off ready to show Smith Rock a day of jaw-dropping ascents.
Smith Rock Climbing Guides Terrebonne, OR 97760 (541) 788-6225
Mt Bachelor – Shred Volcanic Slopes on Thrilling Ski Runs
Calling all ski and snowboard enthusiasts – Mt Bachelor should be at the top of your group’s Oregon bucket list for its diverse terrain and reliable snowpack. The highest lift-served ski area in the state, Mt Bachelor towers over 9,000 feet. You can spot this lonely volcanic cone from almost anywhere in Central Oregon. During the winter, Mt Bachelor transforms into a snow-laden playground, with over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain across 300+ runs. There’s something for all skill levels, from gentle green runs to challenging black diamond mogul chutes. Families appreciate the sled and tubing hills while the West Bowl thousands of feet above beckons experts. The Northwest’s highest elevation means Mt Bachelor enjoys one of the longest ski seasons in North America, opening in mid-November through May. A charter bus rental provides door-to-door transportation from Bend, so your crew can maximize time carving tracks in the fresh powder.
Mt Bachelor 13000 Century Dr, Bend, OR 97702 (541) 382-8666
Plan Your Trip With Charter Buses Bend Oregon
With so many incredible spots to experience around Bend, having a charter bus makes trip planning for larger groups easy. Charter Buses Bend Oregon provides transportation solutions for any size group, whether you need a mini bus for 20 or a 56 passenger coach bus. Our team handles all the details, so all you have to do is enjoy the scenery along the way. Give us a call at 971-915-6872 to check rates and availability for charter buses to the beautiful attractions of Bend. We look forward to helping your group explore Central Oregon’s natural wonders in comfort and style!