Romantic and breathtaking, a waterfall is one of Mother Nature’s grandest accomplishments, coming in all sizes, shapes, and styles. Coming upon a single stream of water rushing off a rocky mountain incline is always a charming moment, destined to make you pause for a moment and appreciate its simplicity.
Standing on a boat deck in the midst of a grand waterfall, feeling the mist on your face and the power in its spray can remind you of your place in your universe. And discovering the beauty of Dillon Falls at the end of a long hike can help you feel whole again; you never knew what was missing in your life until you happen across the tranquil beauty of Dillon Falls, located at the end of the Deschutes River Trail in the Deschutes National Forest.
Directions to the Trail Head
If you are coming from Bend, take NW Wall Street to the Cascade Lake National Scenic Byway NW Colorado Avenue entrance. Exit at SW Century Drive and go to Dillon Falls Road and take Conklin Rd to the trailhead. Parking is permitted with a National Park Day Pass that can be obtained from a number of local vendors.
Hike the Trails at Dillon Falls in Bend, Oregon
If your looking for ways to get to this tourist attraction in Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes River Trail is the most scenic way to get to Dillon Falls in Bend, Oregon, and it’s a long one, 14 miles in length! The trail is wide and relatively flat, and is popular with bikers as well as hikers, so be sure to watch your backs as you make your way through lush Oregon landscape to the falls. As you hike through the trees, there will be areas that suddenly open into wide and lush meadows, picnic spots with tables so you don’t have to spread a blanket on the ground to enjoy your midday feast, and of course, the calmer waters that lead to the rapids of Dillon Falls.
If hiking long distances is not your thing, there are shorter trails that come off Conklin Road that will turn a day-long hike into a half-day adventure, but remember that all the trails that lead to the falls may have a considerable number of mosquitos, so don’t forget your insect repellant!
You’ve Reached Your Destination
It won’t be a secret; you’ll know you are getting closer as the sounds of falling water get louder and the air begins to feel moister. Dillon Falls aren’t like the ones you see in Hawaii or Canada. These are more like really strong rapids that increase in height. The highest drop is over 8 feet, but the power and the beauty will still take your breath away. Stop for a while and take in the sights. This is a moment that will stay in your heart forever.
Rafting
Dillon Falls in Bend, Oregon are considered very dangerous for rafting and no one but an expert should attempt to overcome the fast-falling waters as they have a pitch of 75.6. They are considered a class 5 for whitewater rafting. People rafting near this area of the Deschutes are often in for an unpleasant surprise. The portion of the river leading up to the falls is calm and wide open. The falls themselves are around a bend and they are very hard to hear. People have accidently gone off of the falls. If you do decide to raft here, there is a ramp going into the river.
How the Falls Were Formed
Waterfalls are defined as areas where flowing water makes a sudden drop off of a cliff or similar slope. Waterfalls initially form in riverbeds that are young. Most falls form in the upper portion of a river. Waterfalls form when a layer of hard rock covers a layer of soft rock. Water flows over the soft rock, causing it to erode and that creates a step. The hard rock collapses and breaks off into boulders. Those boulders can create rapid waters. The collapse also forms a plunge pool and rocks fall into that pool. The falling rocks create more erosion. Eventually a gorge is formed, and the waterfall ends there.
Hiking Makes You Hungry
Whether if you are in town to host your wedding, attend a family reunion or enjoy a romantic honeymoon, or are simply wanting to visit the great tourist attractions in Bend, Oregon, you will love visiting this beautiful attraction. Even if you did pack a picnic lunch, chances are you will be starving as you head back to your Bend Vacation Rentals charming cottage with the sun setting above you in a blaze of color. Reserve yours today and discover the comforts of resting at home after a long day spent hiking the trails!
Nearby Restaurants
If you do not feel like picnicking or bringing your own food, there are plenty of great restaurants in the area. There are a few eateries right around Dillon Falls that you won’t want to miss.
Dump City Dumplings
Located at 384 SW Upper Terrace Drive, Bend, OR 97702, this creative restaurant serves a variety of dumplings. Be sure to try the pad Thai dumpling which features the salty, spicy, fatty noodles stuffed into another noodle and fried. The dessert menu features such treats as berry or cheesecake dumplings.
Brown Owl
Located at 550 SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR, this friendly local pub is a great place to unwind at the end of a long day of hiking. Be sure to sample one of the craft beers that they have on tap or try one of their top shelf cocktails. The menu offers some tasty and unique bar food, such as the Fried Corn Bread and mac and cheese with garlic confit. The house salad comes with apples and pecans and a yummy vinaigrette. Their grilled cheese sandwich comes with fig jam and apples.
Contact us to learn more about other tourist attractions in Bend, Oregon! Reserve our Bend vacation rentals with air conditioning today!
