Bend Up to Oregon

2017 Bend Winter Adventure

Bend just might be the West’s best mountain town: Flanked by the glistening Cascade Mountains and with the famously flowing Deschutes River running right through downtown, this central Oregon charmer is remarkably walkable and surrounded by winter activities galore. From the classics (Alpine and Nordic skiing) to the obscure (snow-biking) to the dreamy (dog-sled rides) to the ultimate combo-sport (snow-shoeing + craft beer drinking!) there’s no shortage of adventures.

Iconic Mount Bachelor is reliably fluffy with snow, so spend your day carving turns at Mount Bachelor Ski Resort (kids 12 and under ski free). Take that fairytale dog-sled ride. Do the Shoes, Brews & Views adventure—it’s pure central Oregon. After a day exploring, head downtown to adventure some more—at the restaurants, craft brew pubs, and the Turkish baths! Time to boogie up to Bend!

Book your stay and ski free—packages from many of Bend’s hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, including loads of dog-friendly options.

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