Beautiful Drives for Fall Leaves in Central Oregon

Header photo by DMU Photography.

Fall in Central Oregon is a magical time that brings a slower pace and clear, crisp days. When your adventure bucket list calls for the fall colors of a foliage drive, Tetherow is the ideal starting point. (Tetherow also got some gorgeous fall colors to show!)

As you embark on a scenic fall foliage drive, you’ll be greeted by nature’s vibrant masterpiece, a breathtaking tapestry of colors that only autumn can provide. Central Oregon’s landscape transforms into a mesmerizing blend of fiery reds, warm oranges, and rich golden yellows, creating an enchanting visual spectacle. The dense forest canopy that once cloaked the trees in emerald green becomes a canvas of unparalleled beauty, capturing the essence of the season’s change.

This drive is even more striking when the vibrant colors are set against a backdrop of rich black lava rock, as it is along the Old McKenzie Highway (OR 242) west of Bend. This scenic byway is an iconic Oregon destination in the fall, and it also includes secret hot springs, breathtaking vistas, and a winding view of Oregon’s forests and dynamic volcanic history. This route closes in the winter so be sure to enjoy it while fall’s colors abound!

Just 2 miles from Tetherow is the drive through the Skyliner Forest area. With a mingling of towering ponderosa pines and quaking aspens, the contrasting colors of dusty green and bright gold create a beautiful drive that ends at Tumalo Falls. Pack a picnic and take in all that this gorgeous spot has to offer.

Whether you’re on a solitary drive or sharing this experience with loved ones, a fall foliage drive in Bend, OR offers a fleeting yet unforgettable glimpse into the natural world’s most captivating transformation, a testament to the beauty of change and the magic of the season. We recommend checking road conditions on ODOT TripCheck and please let us know how we can assist in any of your fall activities in Bend!