Best Hiking Trails Near Bend Riverside Rentals

One of the best things about staying at Bend Riverside Rentals is that some of Central Oregon’s most scenic hiking trails are just minutes away. Whether you’re looking for an easy riverside stroll, a waterfall hike, or panoramic mountain views, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails near Bend within a short drive of your vacation rental.

After a day exploring Central Oregon’s trails, there’s nothing better than returning to the Deschutes River, putting your feet up, and reliving the day’s adventures.

Here are some of our favorite hiking trails near Bend.

1. Deschutes River Trail

Distance: 3–4 miles roundtrip (varies by section)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Distance from Bend Riverside Rentals: Less than 1 mile (walkable)

If you’re searching for hiking trails near Bend, you don’t even need to get in your car to enjoy one of the area’s most popular routes.

The Deschutes River Trail follows the river through Bend, offering beautiful water views, towering ponderosa pines, wildlife sightings, and access to parks, restaurants, and scenic overlooks. It winds right past Bend Riverside Rentals, making it quick and easy to access from our property. The stretch near downtown Bend and the Old Mill District is especially popular because it’s flat, family-friendly, and accessible year-round.

This is the perfect trail for a morning walk before breakfast or an evening stroll after exploring town.

2. Pilot Butte Summit Trail

Distance: 1–1.8 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 475–480 feet
Distance from Bend Riverside Rentals: About 3 miles (10-minute drive)

Pilot Butte is one of Bend’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the best short hikes in the city.

This extinct volcanic cinder cone rises above Bend and rewards hikers with incredible 360-degree views of the city and the Cascade Mountains. On a clear day, you can see Mount Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters from the summit.

The hike is short but steep enough to get your heart pumping, making it a favorite for visitors looking for a quick adventure with a big payoff.

3. Tumalo Falls Trail

Distance: 1.2 miles roundtrip to the main viewpoint, or up to 7.8 miles roundtrip for the full trail
Elevation Gain: About 100 feet to the falls viewpoint; approximately 1,400 feet on the extended trail
Distance from Bend Riverside Rentals: About 16 miles (40-minute drive)

No list of hiking trails near Bend would be complete without Tumalo Falls.

The star of the show is the spectacular 97-foot waterfall that crashes into a canyon below. The short walk to the main viewpoint is suitable for most visitors, while more adventurous hikers can continue along Tumalo Creek to discover additional waterfalls, forest scenery, and mountain views.

This is one of the most photographed natural attractions in Central Oregon—and for good reason.

4. Shevlin Park and Tumalo Creek Trail

Distance: 2 to 4.5 miles depending on route
Elevation Gain: Approximately 200 feet
Distance from Bend Riverside Rentals: About 5 miles (10-minute drive)

Families looking for easy hiking trails near Bend often love Shevlin Park.

The trail follows Tumalo Creek through a beautiful forest of ponderosa pine, offering shade, wildlife, and peaceful creek views. Because of its gentle grades and well-maintained trails, it’s a great choice for families with younger children or anyone wanting a relaxing walk in nature.

Many locals consider this one of Bend’s hidden gems.

5. Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Loop

Distance: Approximately 3.6 to 4 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: About 900–1,000 feet
Distance from Bend Riverside Rentals: About 28 miles (35-minute drive)

If you’re willing to venture a little farther from Bend, Smith Rock offers one of the most iconic hikes in Oregon.

The Misery Ridge Loop climbs steeply above the Crooked River, delivering jaw-dropping views of dramatic rock formations, desert landscapes, and the famous Monkey Face rock spire. The climb can be challenging, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Many visitors consider Smith Rock a must-do hike during their Bend vacation.

Plan your stay at Bend Riverside Rentals

One reason guests choose Bend Riverside Rentals is the convenient location. You’ll have easy access to some of the best hiking trails near Bend while staying close to restaurants, shops, breweries, and the Deschutes River.

Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, volcanic viewpoints, alpine lakes, or river canyons, you’ll spend less time driving and more time exploring.

And after a day on the trail, returning to a comfortable riverfront vacation rental is the perfect way to recharge for tomorrow’s adventure.

If hiking is part of your Bend itinerary, Bend Riverside Rentals puts you close to some of Central Oregon’s most popular outdoor destinations while giving you a relaxing place to call home between adventures. Book your next vacation with us today!