Winter is one of the main reasons so many people love to visit and live in Bend, so we’ve gathered some of our favorite Central Oregon activities to ensure you’re making the most of the season! Visiting the beloved Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort for a day of nordic or alpine skiing or snowboarding is usually on everyone’s list. But let’s not forget about the other fun options in our winter wonderland.
Ice Skating: With three places to skate (not counting frozen ponds and lakes!), Central Oregon has skaters covered! Seventh Mountain Resort is a local favorite close to town. Known as “Bend’s original ice rink,” the resort hosts special events, offers skate rentals and is an incredibly scenic spot to skate any day of the week this winter! Other skating options include Sunriver Resort, which features a rink in the heart of its Village Shopping area, and the Bend Parks and Recreation Pavilion, which hosts recreational skating, ice hockey and curling during the winter months.
Elk Lake: Elk Lake Resort is a “go-to” location for locals and visitors. The road to the resort closes in the winter months, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get there. You can cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile right to its front door. The resort also offers transportation by snowcat for its winter activities. You can even book a private event for your group’s winter outing!
Moonlight Snowshoe Outings: Whatever the season, Bend’s Wanderlust Tours can be counted on to help you create special memories. This winter, sign up for one of their moonlight or starlight snowshoe tours which they aptly dub as “a magical meander through the powdery snow-filled forest at night.” Tours include a naturalist guide with knowledge of the region, plus all the gear you’ll need for a night of fun.
WinterFest: A long-time staple in the winter event lineup for Central Oregon, Bend WinterFest is an event not to be missed! This year’s dates are February 14-16 during which visitors will enjoy local and regional food vendors, artisans and businesses, plus live music and other live entertainment acts each day and night. From the Pump Bump Jam Contest to the Wine Walk, Sparks Stage, Ice Carving, K9 Kings and more, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy!
So grab your scarf, mittens and a cup of cocoa and enjoy Central Oregon this winter!