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The Best Hiking in Bend, Oregon: Top Trails, Permits & Dog-Friendly Routes
Bend, Oregon is a hiker’s paradise. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, endless access to the Deschutes National Forest, and trails that range from family-friendly strolls to challenging alpine climbs, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing waterfall views, looking for dog-friendly trails, or planning a trek up Mt. Bachelor, this guide will help you make the most of your hiking adventures in Bend. And when you’re ready to rest, recharge, and relive the day’s adventures, Tetherow’s pools, patios, and cozy fires are the perfect spot to wind down.
Iconic Hiking Trails in Bend, Oregon
Pilot Butte
A true Bend landmark, Pilot Butte rises right in the middle of town. The short but steady climb rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Cascade Range, making it a favorite for sunrise and sunset.
- Difficulty: 1/5 (Easy, short uphill walk)
- Distance: 1 mile to the summit (2 miles round trip)
- Location: Pilot Butte Trailhead
- Special Highlights: Panoramic city and mountain views.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
- Parking: Free parking at trailhead, fills quickly in evenings.
Tumalo Falls Trail
One of Bend’s most popular hikes, Tumalo Falls delivers a huge payoff with minimal effort. Just steps from the trailhead, you’ll find a dramatic 97-foot waterfall. Continue along Tumalo Creek for a moderate trek with more cascades tucked into the forest.
- Difficulty: 2/5 (Moderate; out-and-back trail with steady incline)
- Distance: ~7 miles round trip (shorter options available)
- Location: Tumalo Falls Trailhead
- Special Highlights: Iconic waterfall plus shaded forest paths.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
- Parking: Limited spaces; requires Northwest Forest Pass.
Deschutes River Trail
This trail follows Bend’s beloved Deschutes River, offering year-round access and sections for every type of hiker. Families, runners, and casual walkers all enjoy its flat, scenic paths that pass through pine forests, riverside meadows, and striking lava rock formations left behind by Newberry Volcano.
- Difficulty: 1–2/5 (Varies by section; mostly flat and accessible)
- Distance: Multiple access points, choose your own length.
- Location: Deschutes River Trail (Old Mill District access)
- Special Highlights: River views, birdwatching, year-round access.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, with some seasonal leash restrictions.
- Parking: Several access points with free or paid parking.
Green Lakes Trail
If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Bend, Green Lakes tops the list. This longer trail winds through old-growth forests and meadows before arriving at stunning alpine lakes framed by South Sister and Broken Top. Wildflowers peak in mid-summer, making it an unforgettable trek.
- Difficulty: 4/5 (Longer distance and higher elevation gain)
- Distance: ~9 miles round trip
- Location: Green Lakes Trailhead
- Special Highlights: Sparkling alpine lakes, mountain views, wildflowers.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash (wilderness restrictions apply).
- Parking: Requires Central Cascades Wilderness Permit (summer/fall) + Northwest Forest Pass.
Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Bend
Bend is famously dog-friendly, and many trails welcome four-legged companions. Some favorites include:
- Deschutes River Trail – accessible, year-round with riverside stretches perfect for pups.
- Wanoga Sno-Park – seasonal off-leash access when trails aren’t snow-covered.
- Pilot Butte – short, steady climb with bonding time and views.
When your hike is done, Tetherow offers dog-friendly patios where you can kick back with your pup. Order a brew from The Row and enjoy it on the golf patio or at the Pavilion, both perfect spots for a post-hike unwind.
Hiking Near Bend: Day Trips Worth the Drive
Smith Rock State Park
Known as the birthplace of U.S. sport climbing, Smith Rock also has some of the best hiking near Bend. The Misery Ridge Trail is steep but short, and the payoff is spectacular views of the Crooked River winding through dramatic rock spires.
- Difficulty: 3/5 (Steep climbs, shorter mileage)
- Distance: 3.7 miles (Misery Ridge Trail loop)
- Location: Smith Rock State Park
- Special Highlights: Towering rock formations, river canyon views.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
- Parking: $5 day-use fee; lot fills quickly on weekends.
Mt. Bachelor Summit Trail
In summer, Mt. Bachelor transforms from ski resort to alpine hiking hub. The Summit Trail is a challenging climb but offers breathtaking 360° views of the Cascade Range. For a shorter option, take the summer lift up and explore higher-elevation trails.
- Difficulty: 5/5 (Challenging, high elevation)
- Distance: ~6.5 miles round trip
- Location: Mt. Bachelor West Village
- Special Highlights: Lift-access hikes, expansive mountain vistas.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
- Parking: Free at base lodge in summer.
Paulina Lake & Paulina Falls
Located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Paulina offers a mix of lakeside relaxation and easy hikes. The short trail to Paulina Falls is perfect for families, while longer loops circle the lake and even lead to natural hot springs.
- Difficulty: 2/5 (Family-friendly, short hikes)
- Distance: 1 mile round trip to falls; longer loops available.
- Location: Paulina Falls Trailhead
- Special Highlights: Twin waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, hot springs.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash.
- Parking: $5 day-use fee; NW Forest Pass accepted.
Permits & Regulations for Bend Hiking
Many of Bend’s most popular wilderness trails are part of the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit system. If you plan to hike places like Green Lakes, South Sister, or Broken Top between late May and early October, you’ll need to secure a permit in advance through Recreation.gov.
Other essentials to know:
- Northwest Forest Pass: Required at many trailheads.
- Sno-Park Permit: Needed in winter for snow-covered trail access.
- Always check trailhead signs for fire restrictions and seasonal closures.
Post-Hike Relaxation at Tetherow
After tackling Bend’s trails, there’s no better place to kick back than Tetherow.
- Pools & Cabanas: Cool off with a swim or lounge poolside.
- Fireside Comforts: Cozy up by outdoor fire pits with mountain views.
- Dining Options: Refuel at The Row with hearty burgers and local brews.
- Resort Atmosphere: Whether you’re planning tomorrow’s hike or simply soaking up the high-desert sky, Tetherow offers the perfect reset.