Craving fresh mountain air, rushing rivers, and trails that wind through stunning scenery? Bend, Oregon is beckoning. This adventurer’s paradise boasts a playground of epic proportions, with options for every thrill-seeker and nature lover. Get ready to unleash your inner explorer courtesy of our guide to outdoor activities in Bend, Oregon.

Guide to Outdoor Activities in Bend, Oregon

Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Bend beckons outdoor enthusiasts with a smorgasbord of adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or a leisure-loving nature buff, Bend has something for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your paddle, and get ready to dive into a wonderland of outdoor activities.

You can start your adventure by exploring the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the scenic Cascade Mountains. The Deschutes River Trail, with its breathtaking views of the river canyon, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For a more challenging hike, tackle the Misery Ridge Trail in Smith Rock State Park, where you’ll be rewarded with vistas of towering rock formations and the Crooked River below.

For those who prefer two wheels over two feet, Bend boasts some of the best mountain biking trails in the Pacific Northwest. The Phil’s Trail Complex offers over 100 miles of singletrack trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned riders. And with its dry climate and sunny skies, Bend is a mountain biker’s paradise year-round.

Climbers from all over the world flock to Smith Rock State Park, a mecca for rock climbing. With over 1,800 established climbing routes, this park caters to beginners and veterans alike. Feeling intimidated? Numerous guided climbing tours are available to help you conquer your first ascent or hone your existing skills. Remember, safety first! Always climb with a friend and ensure you have the proper equipment.

When it comes to water sports, Bend has it all. You can grab a kayak or paddleboard and head to the serene waters of the Cascade Lakes, where you can paddle among snow-capped peaks and pristine forests. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take on the whitewater rapids of the Deschutes River for an adrenaline-pumping experience you won’t soon forget.

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Bend, with its abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with trout, salmon, and steelhead. The Metolius River, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish population, is a popular spot for fly fishing. And with numerous outfitters and guides available, even novice anglers can enjoy a successful day on the water.

For the truly adventurous, Bend offers unique experiences like spelunking through lava caves or exploring the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Mountain biking enthusiasts will find a network of challenging and scenic trails, while thrill-seekers can get their heart rates pumping with a bungee jump from the cliffs at Smith Rock State Park.

Bend Beyond the Trails

Beyond the breathtaking hiking trails, get ready to delve into the earth’s fiery belly. Explore Lava River Cave, a colossal underground labyrinth carved by molten rock. Get ready to traverse chambers adorned with sparkling lava tubes and witness the enduring power of volcanic forces.

Additionally, you can embrace your inner explorer with an off-road ATV tour. Get ready to bounce through rugged lava fields and conquer volcanic landscapes. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you navigate dusty trails and admire panoramic vistas of the high desert mountains.

For the equestrians, you can hone your horseback riding skills on the area’s stunning landscape. Saddle up for a guided adventure through pristine meadows and fragrant pine forests. You can opt to trot alongside the Deschutes River or embark on a scenic climb, taking in breathtaking views of the Cascade Range.

If you’re an astrophile, get ready to unearth the secrets of the cosmos. Prepare to stargaze in the vast expanse of the Oregon sky, virtually untouched by light pollution. You can join a stargazing tour led by astronomy enthusiasts and learn to identify constellations, planets, and celestial wonders.

A visit to Bend can also help you become an amateur paleontologist. Get ready to embark on a fossil-finding expedition and unearth remnants of prehistoric creatures. With a little guidance, you might uncover ancient shark teeth, petrified wood, or even bones.

Bend caters to the curious, the adventurous, and the explorer within. So, ditch the typical itinerary and chart your own course. Unleash your inner spelunker, gallop through breathtaking landscapes, or gaze upon the Milky Way. Bend’s hidden gems await as long as you’re ready to discover them.

Your Safety Is Your Responsibility

As you embark on your outdoor adventures in Bend, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Be sure to check weather conditions before heading out, and always carry plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and be mindful of your surroundings at all times. And if you’re venturing into remote areas, consider bringing a map or GPS device to help you navigate unfamiliar terrain.

In case you don’t have your own gear, fret not as Bend has plenty of rental shops, such as Latitude 44 Sports and Central Oregon Rentals, where you can find everything you need for your outdoor excursions. From bikes and kayaks to fishing rods and camping equipment, you’ll find it all in Bend. And with friendly and knowledgeable staff on hand to offer advice and assistance, you’ll be ready to hit the trails in no time.

Bend is more than just a collection of outdoor activities, it’s a state of mind. Get ready to embrace the fresh mountain air, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and let your inner explorer loose. With its endless opportunities for adventure, Bend promises an unforgettable vacation that will leave you yearning for more.

Beyond Outdoor Fun

It goes without saying that Bend, Oregon boasts a vibrant outdoor scene, but don’t let a sprinkle deter your vacation plans. This city bursts with indoor activities that cater to every interest, keeping you entertained and engaged rain or shine.

Start your indoor adventure by exploring the vibrant arts scene Bend has to offer. You can visit the renowned Tower Theatre for live performances ranging from concerts to comedy shows. Get ready to indulge in the local culture by checking out one of the many art galleries featuring works by talented local artists.

For those with a penchant for history and culture, Bend’s museums offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. You can dive into the High Desert Museum, where interactive exhibits bring the region’s wildlife and Native American heritage to life. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Deschutes Historical Museum, showcasing Bend’s evolution from a logging town to the bustling city it is today.

Feeling competitive? You can challenge your friends or family to a game of bowling at Lava Lanes. With state-of-the-art facilities and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. If bowling isn’t your style, you can head over to Sun Mountain Fun Center for an array of indoor activities including arcade games, laser tag, and mini-golf.

Looking for a more relaxed indoor experience? Bend offers plenty of opportunities for pampering and relaxation. Treat yourself to a day of indulgence at one of the city’s many spas, where you can enjoy massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments.

Alternatively, you can unwind with a yoga class at one of Bend’s renowned studios. Here, experienced instructors will guide you through a series of poses designed to restore balance and harmony to your body and mind.

Bend’s culinary scene is another indoor activity that will surely satisfy even the most discerning palate. Get ready to sample local flavors at one of the city’s many breweries, where you can enjoy a cold pint of craft beer paired with delicious pub fare. For a more upscale dining experience, book a table at one of Bend’s acclaimed restaurants, where talented chefs create innovative dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

No visit to Bend would be complete without indulging in a little retail therapy. Get ready to explore the charming boutiques and specialty shops downtown, where you’ll find everything from unique clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and artwork. Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or simply browsing for inspiration, Bend’s eclectic shopping scene has something for everyone.

In addition to the indulgent outdoor adventures, Bend, OR offers a plethora of indoor activities to keep vacationers entertained rain or shine. From exploring the arts and culture scene to indulging in delicious food and shopping, there’s no shortage of ways to stay busy during your stay.

The Best Time to Visit Bend

The best time to visit Bend depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for hiking, biking, and water sports, with warm temperatures and clear skies making outdoor adventures a breeze. Fall brings stunning foliage and cooler weather, perfect for scenic drives and fly fishing on the Deschutes River. Winter transforms Bend into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

No matter what time of year you visit, Bend offers an unparalleled outdoor experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated and rejuvenated. So, pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to embark on the ultimate adventure in this outdoor playground. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and friendly locals, Bend is sure to capture your heart and leave you longing to return again and again.

Our Picture-Perfect Accommodations Are Your Gateway to Bend’s Adventures

Imagine waking up to crisp mountain air, stepping outside to a breathtaking panorama, and knowing your Bend adventure awaits just beyond your doorstep. Our vacation rentals are designed to be your launching pad for exploring Bend’s natural wonders, while offering all the comforts of home to unwind after a day of exploration.

Whether you’re a cozy cabin enthusiast or a modern-luxury seeker, we have a vacation rental to match your style. You can opt to nestle into a rustic cabin tucked away in the Deschutes National Forest, perfect for stargazing and unwinding by the crackling fireplace.

Alternatively, you can opt for a spacious home in a quiet Bend neighborhood, ideal for families with a backyard for barbecues and games. For a touch of luxury, you can choose a sleek condo downtown, steps away from trendy restaurants and lively craft breweries.

Our rentals go beyond just shelter. Imagine kicking back on a private deck, soaking in the panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains as you sip your morning coffee. Picture relaxing in a bubbling hot tub under a blanket of stars, sharing stories and laughter with loved ones. Additionally, you can prepare a delicious meal in a fully equipped kitchen, then gather around a cozy fireplace to recount the day’s adventures.

Let one of our Bend vacation rentals be your haven for relaxation. Most of our accommodations feature amenities that elevate your experience. You can cool off after a day of hiking in a refreshing pool or unwind in a soothing jetted tub.

You can also curl up with a good book on a comfortable couch or challenge your group to a board game night. With spacious living areas and bedrooms, our rentals ensure everyone has the space they need to unwind and recharge.

Staying with us means convenience too. Our rentals are situated in prime locations, putting you close to the heart of the action. Get ready to explore the Deschutes River Trail on your doorstep or be minutes away from world-class mountain biking trails. Downtown Bend with its vibrant shops, restaurants, and breweries is just a short drive away.

Imagine creating memories that will last a lifetime. Let our vacation rentals be your comfortable launching pad for exploring Bend’s breathtaking scenery and exciting activities.

Book Your Stay in One of Our Stunning Vacation Rentals in Bend

So, what are you waiting for? Adventure awaits in Bend. From heart-pounding thrills to peaceful moments in nature, Bend has something for everyone. Let us help you craft the perfect Bend getaway. Don’t miss our pet-friendly Bend, Oregon vacation homes. You can contact us today and unlock the door to our unforgettable vacation homes in Bend. 

Bend, Oregon is where the mountains meet the river and your shopping dreams come true. Whether you’re seeking locally crafted souvenirs, outdoor gear for your next adventure, or unique gifts for loved ones back home, Bend has something for everyone. So, ditch the tourist traps and join us on a journey through the city’s hidden gems, from art galleries and boutiques to artisan markets and vintage stores with our ultimate Bend, OR shopping guide. 

The Ultimate Bend, OR Shopping Guide

Amidst the natural wonders of Bend, OR lies another treasure trove, a shopping scene as diverse and vibrant as the landscape itself. That said, get ready to dive into Bend’s unique shopping heart, where every corner holds a story and every purchase feels like an adventure. 

First stop, the Old Mill District. This area’s welcoming aroma is of aged wood, a reminder of the site’s lumber mill past. Today, Old Mill District is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with REI fueling your next trek and Deschutes Brewery toasting your return. Don’t miss the hidden gems like Wild Child, where whimsical toys spark children’s imaginations, and The Ticket Mill, where talented local artisans showcase their creations. 

Next, you can wander down cobbled streets in downtown Bend. Here, history meets modern flair. Boutiques like Hello Sunshine offer stylish threads, while Revolvr Menswear ignites your inner trendsetter. Duck into Hot Box Betty for vintage finds that whisper tales of decades past. To fuel up, the Bend Farmers Market, bursting with seasonal bounty, is a must-visit. You can grab a juicy peach and savor the atmosphere. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can head north to Cascade Village. This open-air haven offers big-box stores for practical needs, but don’t miss the local gems tucked away. World Market tempts you with international flavors, while Patagonia keeps you geared up for exploring the wild. Grab a coffee at Thump Coffee and watch the world go by, a steaming mug warming your hands as you plan your next shopping escapade. 

Bend’s shopping magic doesn’t end there. That said, get ready to seek out hidden treasures in unexpected corners. Explore antique stores in the High Desert Industrial Park, where timeworn treasures whisper forgotten stories. Alternatively, you can visit the Les Schwab Amphitheater for a different kind of shopping experience, open-air concerts where music and merchandise mingle, creating memories that last a lifetime. 

Remember, Bend’s shopping scene is about the journey, not the destination. Strike up a conversation with a shopkeeper, learn their story, and discover hidden gems they recommend. Haggle with a playful spirit, soak up the local vibe, and let the shopping experience become an adventure in itself. Because in Bend, every purchase is a story waiting to be told, a piece of the city you can take home and treasure. 

So, put on your walking shoes, open your heart, and embrace the Bend shopping experience. You might just find more than souvenirs. You might find a piece of yourself, woven into the fabric of this vibrant and welcoming city. 

Unveiling Our Bend Vacation Rental Experiences

Forget cookie-cutter hotels. Tucked amidst the stunning landscapes of Bend, our rentals offer an enchanting retreat for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. With a diverse selection of properties ranging from cozy cabins to spacious lodges, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. Each rental is thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities and stylish decor, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. 

Picture waking up to sunlight streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, revealing a living room that beckons with plush couches and roaring fireplaces. Get ready to sink into these plush furnishings as you unwind after a day of exploring Bend’s outdoor wonders. Additionally, you can breathe in crisp mountain air on expansive decks, perfect for stargazing or grilling up a feast. 

For the gourmands, imagine kitchens that inspire culinary creations, with gleaming appliances and granite countertops whispering of delicious possibilities. You can whip up sumptuous meals courtesy of the stainless steel appliances and ample counter space for preparation. In addition to exploiting these impressive amenities, you can gather loved ones around spacious dining tables to share stories and laughter.  

As the sun sets over the Cascade Mountains, let the day’s adventures melt away in spa-inspired bathrooms. You can also experience blissful relaxation in the bedrooms of our vacation rentals. Get ready to sink into plush bedding after a day of adventure and drift off to sleep surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of our thoughtfully designed spaces. 

You can also retreat to the outdoor spaces of our rentals and experience the magic of Bend’s natural beauty. Sip a glass of wine on the private deck or gather around the fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. For those seeking a bit of relaxation, most of our vacation homes in Bend feature hot tubs where you can soak your cares away. 

Given the location of our rentals, adventure awaits just beyond your doorstep, with an array of outdoor activities to suit every interest and skill level. Lace up your hiking boots and explore miles of scenic trails that wind through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls. Thrill-seekers can hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts, while water enthusiasts can kayak or paddleboard on the sparkling waters of the Deschutes River. 

After a day of exploration, indulge in Bend’s vibrant culinary scene, where farm-to-table dining and craft breweries abound. From casual eateries serving up gourmet burgers to upscale restaurants offering innovative Pacific Northwest cuisine, there’s no shortage of delicious options to satisfy every palate. And with our Bend downtown rentals, you’ll have easy access to all the city has to offer. 

Our rentals are more than just places to stay, they’re launchpads for unforgettable experiences. Whether you crave family bonding, romantic getaways, or solo adventures, we have the perfect home-away-from-home. You can unwind by the crackling fireplace, gather for game nights, or gaze at the starry sky from your balcony. That said, let the magic of Bend seep into your soul, all within the comfort and privacy of your sanctuary. 

This isn’t just a vacation but an immersion into the Bend lifestyle. Having said that, get ready to experience the magic of Central Oregon from the comfort and convenience of our exceptional rental properties. So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and step into a world where adventure and comfort intertwine. Find your perfect Bend rental and let the story begin. 

Book Your Stay in One of Our Amazing Bend Vacation Rentals

Bend’s shopping tapestry is woven with unique threads waiting for you to discover. From artisan markets to hidden boutiques, each purchase echoes the city’s spirit. So, fill your bags with treasures and your heart with memories. Don’t let the adventure end there, find your perfect Bend haven and let the exploration continue. Don’t miss our pet-friendly Bend, Oregon vacation homes. You can contact us today and unlock the door to our unforgettable vacation homes in Bend. 

Spring has arrived! If your spring cleaning checklist is complete and you’re thinking about a vacation to treat yourself after all that hard work, look around Bend, Oregon and see what we have to offer for your spring getaway. Spring in Bend means fewer crowds, but just because the area isn’t packed doesn’t mean there aren’t still plenty of fun activities. Bend is a great destination for solo travelers, couples, families or groups – we truly have something for everyone!

Events for a Spring in Bend

Brunch is wildly popular in Bend year-round, but come springtime, near Easter, restaurants in the area really pull out all the stops. Many cater to this holiday weekend with brunch specials or buffets, and some even include an Easter Egg Hunt for the kiddos! Make sure you check out the options if you’re here for the holiday. Another great event this spring in Bend is the 6^th Annual Bend Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k and 5k. The courses will take you through beautiful parks and pine forests, along the mighty Deschutes River, and finally, to a happening afterparty with plenty of fun, food, kombucha and craft beer! For a one-of-a-kind event celebrating freedom, check out RendezVan and hang out with an awesome community of RV owners, campers and van-lifers at Mt. Bachelor. And at the Crater Lake Spirits Downtown Tasting Room, you can attend a variety of events, such as sip-and-paint nights and a local Rescue Dog Benefit!

Great Outdoors

Bend is known as a destination for people who love the outdoors! As it should be – the area offers an abundance of stunning natural attractions. You can visit a National Forest, a State Park, Pine Nursery Park, as well as several breathtaking waterfalls and vast underground caverns! There are plenty of opportunities all around us for hiking and biking, whether you’re looking for an off the beaten path experience or prefer a smooth path, or anything in between, you’ll find all of the options around Bend. Other great outdoor adventures can include rock climbing, fishing, photography, boating and exploring. The whole family will love the adventures that surround you in Bend, and if you need a stay, Bend Vacation Rentals is at your convenience!

After a full day of exploring, you can return to one of these lovely homes for rent in Oregon, take a load off, and relax with a home cooked meal and a growler from a local brewery. Call today and book your stay with Bend Vacation Rentals for a spring vacation that will make memories to last a lifetime!

When you’re coming to see the Bend beauty as a solo traveler, you’re going to want some activities that are fun to do on your own. We’ve got you covered with a crash course on Bend activities for the solo traveler. There’s never a shortage of things to do, so here’s a few to get you started:

Visit a Museum

Museums are the perfect activity to do as a solo traveler, because you’ll be able to set your own pace and explore to your heart’s desire. Visit the High Desert Museum, a nature preserve you can find on 135 beautiful acres of forest. If you love nature and wildlife, this is the museum for you. Make sure to visit the Deschutes Historical Museum too if you have a love of history.

Explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument

This breathtaking area will provide you views that will stand out in your memory forever. The Newberry Volcano hasn’t erupted in almost 100,000 years. The last time it did erupt, it formed the oasis-like caldera where we love to go hiking and fishing today.

Go Skiing on Mt. Bachelor

Make sure to visit the crowning jewel, the Bend beauty: Mt. Bachelor. Skiing is  one of the best Bend activities to do on your own, when you can take the day at your own speed, choose your own ski runs, and enjoy the company of the mountain, the snow dusted trees, and the blue sky above. You can even take skiing lessons if you’ve never done it before. Now’s as good a time as any to start!

Take a Tour of Deschutes Brewery

This brewery offers a tour every day. When you take the tour with them, you’ll get to step behind the veil of the brewing process and see how it’s all done in this historical brewery. We all know and love Deschutes Brewery, and you’ll love it too, especially with all the complimentary beer samples, plus the 19 different beers on tap.

Dine in Style

Grab a table for one at one of our favorite local bars and eateries. Make sure to visit Anthony’s at the Old Mill District, Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails, and McKay Cottage Restaurant while you’re here in town with us.

Spend Your Stay with Bend Vacation Rentals & Bend Activities

Get started on planning your solo trip to Bend today. Head over to our catalog to take a look at all our vacation rentals that have been designed for the solo traveler. Somewhere amongst them, your vacation home awaits!

The beginning of a new year is our favorite time. There are 365 days stretching out before us, waiting to be filled with laughter, love, and adventures to places we have never visited before. And when it’s time to start filling some of your days with adventures to those places, a visit to our hometown of beautiful Bend, Oregon should be at the top of your vacation bucket list! Welcoming and inviting at any time of the year, during the festival time the excitement gets amped up even more, making your Oregon getaway even more magical than you imagined it could be. Here’s a list of some of our favorite upcoming Bend festivals; let’s get the vacation planning started!

Oregon Winterfest, February 15th-February 17th, Old Mill District

Winter is one of our favorite seasons in Bend and we celebrate its wonders with the Oregon Winterfest. Featuring ice sculptures, live musical entertainment, a wine walk, and a royal run, every second of every day is filled to the brim with exciting activities and fun adventures. And once darkness falls, the cold of an Oregon winter night is chased away with the warmth of the fires from the firepit competition. Your winter break is destined to be a great one when planned to coincide with this chill winter festival!

Bite of Bend, June 23rd-June 25th

As you huddle under blankets with the heater blasting beside you, it may be difficult to believe, but summer IS coming sooner than you think, and it’s never too soon to start planning that summer vacation! And because the best vacations always involve the tastiest foods, Bite of Bend offers the opportunity to taste the best of our town! Featuring multiple restaurants serving meals they have designed to entice, a mixology showcase for the over-21 crowd and a root beer run for the wee ones, this epicurean adventure is bound to be the highlight of your summer getaway.

Bend Summer Festival, July 7th through July 9th

Summer days and nights are special ones in Oregon, and the Bend Summer Festival celebrates the good times that accompany the longest days of the years. Featuring live music being performed on three stages that will have you dancing in your seats, tasty food, refreshing beverages, and a play zone for your littles, no one knows how to throw a party better than a Bendite, and this Bend festival is the proof!

Celebrate in Style After These Bend Festivals

Whether it’s a tasty food festival or a funky music fest that brings you to Bend, staying in one of our Bend Vacation Rentals properties will be the best part of an already stellar vacation. Reserve yours today and discover the luxury of celebrating in style!

If you close your eyes tightly and use your remaining senses, you can feel that summer is drawing to a close. The sun shines a little less brightly, the darkness falls faster, and the smell of pumpkins, hay rides, and Halloween candy is just beginning to tickle your nostrils. And while we love fall with all our hearts, saying goodbye to summer is always a sad moment for us; summers always bring us back to our youth, and the long, lazy days that seemed to be filled with so much promise.

If you’re like us, and are not quite ready to don your corduroys and sweaters. Never fear: There’s still a few more summer days left for flip flops, ice cream, and frolicking in the sun. Here’s a few end of summer activities in Bend to get you started during your unforgettable Bend vacation!

Visit a Volcano

Newberry National Volcanic Monument is kind of big deal in this area, and with heights reaching as high as 8000 feet, hiking Paulina Peak is NOT something you want to wait till winter to do. The weather is perfect and the time is right to explore ancient craters and lava flows in Bend.

The Bend Ale Trail

Summer days are only enhanced by the taste of an ice-cold beer sliding smoothly down your throat, and Bend has been nicknamed Beer Town USA; there are more breweries (and wineries, for those of you with a more sophisticated palate) in our small town than are in towns much larger. Take a brewery tour along the Bend Ale Trail and enjoy a taste of Bend safely.

Laughter is Good for the Soul at these Activities in Bend

The Central Oregon comedy scene offers Comedy Thursday Nights at the Summit Saloon, and the more you laugh, the younger you look! This is the spot where future Oregon superstars are discovered and current stars can’t stay away from. Saying so long to summer isn’t so bad when you can do it with a laugh!

Explore Art

Stop by the Bend Visitor Center and pick up a map for the Roundabout Art Route; in addition to galleries and stores, our art is also displayed out on the streets for everyone to enjoy! Save your pennies for souvenirs: This art tour is 100% free!

Don’t Do Anything at All

The best part of summer is spending long lazy days doing absolutely nothing, and what better place to do nothing than in your cozy Bend Vacation Rentals cabin? Sleep late, watch movies on the big screen, or watch the sunset from the porch with a glass of local wine. Summer will soon be over, and the hustle and bustle of the holidays will arrive before you know it! Reserve yours today!

Bend Vacation Rentals is a proud supporter of the fourth-annual Muse Conference this weekend, March 4-6, 2016. Held in Bend, Oregon, this inspiring women’s conference brings local women of all ages together with internationally-recognized artists, authors, athletes, entrepreneurs, activists and social change leaders to celebrate International Women’s Day as well as kick off Women’s History Month.

We are honored to be providing luxury vacation rental accommodations for some of the out-of-town speakers, and are looking forward to connecting with the women of Bend at the receptions, yoga class, 5K run and workshops during this inspiring, three-day event in Bend.

The mission of World Muse, the Bend-based nonprofit that produces the Muse Conference, is to inspire women to create positive social change from within. They strive to connect women to their “own inner awesome,” and offer tools and support for putting it into action. Ready, set, muse.

Fall in Bend, Oregon, brings crisp fresh air, pure landscapes and pristine beauty that both locals and visitors enjoy and appreciate as they embrace activities like hiking, biking, and even outdoor mediation and yoga. This weekend’s retreat with acclaimed yogi Rolf Gates was a perfect way to savor the wonder of fall in Bend.

We are blessed in Bend to have some of the best yoga studios in the Pacific Northwest, and Groove Yoga, which organized the retreat, is no exception. People gathered from several states to come together in Central Oregon with the shared purpose of deepening their yoga practice, creating space and stillness in their minds, and participating authentically in their own self-discovery.

I started my weekend with a Bend yoga and meditation session Friday evening at an amazing property in Tumalo, a rural community just outside of Bend. Situated on a large parcel of land, the Miracle Barn is a gathering place that feels magical. Gazing out on the seven peaks of the Cascades, and surrounded by the brilliant colors of the changing aspen trees, we were truly practicing our mountain pose at the mountain top!

It’s official. The Mt. Bachelor Downhill Bike Park is to open September 13, 2013.

Upper Lava Flow to Rattlesnake and Blade Runner will be ready for top-to-bottom riding. For an easier, alternate route in avoidance of the black diamond Rattlesnake trail, riders can take Lava Flow to Cone Run, which connects to Blade Runner. For experts, the upper portion of Last Chance trail will be finished down to the 21 Road. From there, riders can use 21 Road and lower Red Road to return to the base area. The West Village Getback, 21 Road and Red Road are service roads that will not be a part of the finished Bike Park trail network, but will be used this fall and early next summer as connector trails until other permanent bike trails are complete.

Tickets for opening day on September 13, 2013, will be available online. Tickets for other days will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis at the ticket office on the mountain.

August 30 and 31, 2013

Friday 5pm-10pm; Saturday noon-10pm

The Little Woody Barrel Aged Brew Fest was created to commemorate one of Central Oregon’s cultural hallmarks – craft beers. This is a festival for beer lovers and connoisseurs alike!

In the past, brewers served beer that had been aged in oaken casks. Once again, brewers are turning to these historic techniques in order to add depth of flavor to their brews. The Little Woody celebrates this ancient brewing technique as adapted by American craft brewers, featuring beers aged in wine barrels, whiskey barrels and oak barrels, which uniquely flavors and intensifies the beer.

Details and Entry Fees:

Location: The Little Woody Festival takes place next to the Des Chutes Historical Museum, 129 Northwest Idaho Avenue in downtown Bend.

• • Basic entry including commemorative glass: $7
  • Tasting package: $15. Includes glass, entry and 10 tokens
  • Whiskey tasting: Tokens will apply to both beer and whiskey
  • Tokens: $1 each and tastes cost 2-5 tokens each

Note: The Little Woody is a 21 and over event!