Author: Melissa Gottlieb

If you plan on moving to Bend in the spring or summer, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun…but picnics are a particularly special way to spend a warm afternoon. If you’ve got picnics on the mind, we can suggest several of our favorite spots to eat while enjoying the nature all around us.

Note: Bend’s parks are well-equipped with handy disposal bins, usually located nearby picnic tables and other spots. It’s also a good idea to make use of them – or bring your own biodegradable trash bag along with your other supplies so you can clean up after you eat!

1. Drake Park

Drake Park is the quintessential park experience in downtown Bend. This strip of beautifully cultivated park land (the trees in autumn never get old) hugs close to the Deschutes River in one of its quiet loops. There’s plenty of options for walking, playing on the grassy hills, feeding the ducks, and more. It’s also home to plenty of events and performers if you’d like some entertainment. When you’re finished eating, it’s an easy stroll to experience downtown shops or stop by one of the cafes at the park’s border.

2. Columbia Park

Do your young  kids need to run off a little energy? Columbia Park is famous for its giant ship-inspired playground, making it particularly popular for young families. There are also plenty of river views and a large lawn for some light sports after you’ve finished up your picnic.

3. Shevlin Park

Shevlin Park is an enormous park stretching outward from the northwest side of Bend, around 1,000 acres. That makes it perfect for adventures, but don’t worry – there are many cozy picnic tables dotted throughout, especially in the early areas of the park. It’s a great choice if you prefer to eat under towering Ponderosa pines. As a bonus, it’s also a great place to take the family snowshoeing in winter if you’re looking for great outdoor activities in Bend.

4. Riverbend Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Bend for a picnic lunch, Riverbend really needs to be on your list. The location of the famous “bend” in the Deschutes River that gave the city its name, this ambling park is a great spot to enjoy river views and has some of the best picnic spots in Bend, including cabin-style structures for shade and larger family gatherings. Just across the river is dog park with areas for fenced-in running (poo bag dispensers are also available( as well as splashing in the river, while Old Mill shops are just a brief walk away and friendly hiking trails await in the opposite direction – giving you plenty of post-picnic options!

5. Pine Nursery

Pine Nursery Park is ideal for active families that like their picnics with some sports to run off calories after. There are designated spots for basketball, skateboarding, disc golf, softball, pickleball, and even fishing is allowed (there’s also a 14-acre off-leash park for your dogs). The park covers more than 150 acres, so there’s always something else to explore here while you’re living in Bend.

Special Mention: Crux Fermentation

While it’s not technically a park, it is one of the best picnic spots in Bend to bring your kids for an afternoon of fun…while allowing the adults to sample some of the most interesting brews in town. There’s a grass field to play in, plenty of picnic tables (as well as indoor seating), and incredible mountain views. If you’re wondering what to do in Bend, a stop by Crux should be on your list. Crux also has several food carts, including a recent – and delicious – expansion by The Rogue Chef, so your lunch plans are covered, too.

It’s National Great Outdoors Month, and it’s never been a better time to explore the many incredible parks of Central Oregon. If you’re planning on your next outdoor activities in Bend, or you’re moving to Bend and what to know more about your recreation opportunities – here are some of the most interesting things about our state and national parks in Central Oregon! Browse through these favorites to find inspiration for your next adventure!

1. Newberry National Volcanic Monument’s Slumbering Volcano is the Size of Rhode Island

Newberry isn’t a volcano in the traditional sense, but rather a vast caldera forming a beautiful valley in the Deschutes National Forest. It’s filled with trails exploring the ancient lava beds and fields of obsidian and is a popular destination for a summer weekend. Pack plenty of water if you want to spend time exploring!

2. Smith Rock is Considered the Birthplace of American Sport Climbing

It’s easy to see why! The towering red basalt monolith is perfect for every kind of climbing sport with rock faces for every level of experience. But if you aren’t into climbing and bouldering, don’t worry: There are still plenty of hiking and camping options in this state park, plus beautiful views once you make your way to the top. If climbing sounds like something you’d be interested in, you can also try out one of Bend’s climbing gyms first to learn more about the sport.

3. Bend is One of the Only Cities in the U.S. with Its Own Dormant Volcano

That would Pilot Butte, which is impossible to miss on your first time in Bend. While Central Oregon is filled with these reminders of past volcanic activity, Pilot Butte is unique in that it’s entirely within the city limits. People wondering what to do in Bend can hike or even drive up the butte to get an overview of the city!

4. Tumalo State Park Is Not the Same As Tumalo Falls

These are two separate – although beautiful – locations that are frequently confused by newcomers. That’s all right: Both locations are great fun, but the Park itself is where you’ll want to go for camping or even finding a beautiful venue for a summer event.

5. Crater Lake is the Deepest Lake in North America

What happens when a massive caldera fills with mountain runoff? You get the amazing Crater Lake, one of the wonders of the natural world and an excellent destination for anyone living in Bend who wants to take a day trip to someplace new. There are many opportunities to hike around the Lake or down to the incredibly blue (and cold) waters of the lake, with beautiful views at every step.

6. Central Oregon Has Painted Hills, Too

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, to be precise, is home to a beautiful stretch of Painted Hills that are perfect for photography adventures. Painted hills occur when ancient volcanic activity and soil movement result in visible layers of yellow, black, red, and gold that are quite stunning in person.

7. Prineville’s Reservoir is a State Park As Well

It may sound a little odd making a reservoir a state park, but it’s easy to see why once you visit: This park features a beautiful calming reservoir lake that is open in summer for a variety of water activities (the level of the reservoir may also affect current options). Another popular option is Craine Prairie Reservoir, although Central Oregon is packed with lakes where boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are all possibilities, so we encourage you to find your favorite.

8. Cove Palisades Are Named After Fencing

“Palisades” are traditional fence-like fortifications often used around a camp. It’s fitting once you see it, as the gorgeous hills of this State Park rise to guard beautiful lakes. It’s a favorite spot for weekend campers and others exploring Central Oregon.

9. Central Oregon Also Has an Official “State Scenic Viewpoint”

It’s not quite a State Park, but it’s certain an official Viewpoint, and designed specifically to take advantage of the Crooked River Canyon. While Central Oregon’s slopes, forests, and lakes get plenty of attention, there’s also a wealth of gorgeous desert canyons that make perfect scenery for your next photoshoot and are filled with hiking opportunities of their own. Get a great look at this viewpoint!

10. You Can Go Spelunking in Bend

Okay, it’s not exactly a State Park, but Boyd Cave is incredibly accessible and a great spot to get started if you are interested in spelunking or just some light cave exploration. When you are ready to take on a little more, you can move up to the Redmond Caves and a variety of other cave exploration options in Central Oregon – or even plan a trip over to the Oregon Cave National Monument for family-friendly cave fun.

It’s National Great Outdoors Month, and there is no better place to celebrate it than Central Oregon! If you are moving to Bend or recently arrived, you may be wondering what to do in Bend to enjoy the outdoors, explore, and spend time in the warm weather. There’s a long a list! But today we wanted to narrow it down to just a few of our favorite outdoor activities that are perfect for newcomers and everyone living in Bend.

Get Out for a Bike Ride

Bend is home to several biking events for good reason – if you enjoy riding your bike under the sun, then it’s always a commuting option…but there are many recreational biking paths and bikeways that you can try too. One of the most popular is the Twin Bridge Loop, which spans 36 miles and takes you all around Bend with plenty of beautiful vistas. Biking is also a great way to explore the city and find some of your favorite parts! And, of course, if you prefer mountain biking then there are hundreds of miles of trail around Bend that you should try!

Floating the Deschutes River

One of the outdoor activities in Bend that brings everyone together is floating the Deschutes River on a hot day. While many people prefer an inner tube that they can easily carry along with them for repeated trips, there’s also room for paddle boarding, while other sections of the river are excellent for peaceful kayaking. Feel free to bring your pet along if they are happy around water and plenty of other people!

Explore Smith Rock

Smith Rock is an incredibly popular Central Oregon destinations for hiking, camping, climbing, and bouldering, with options for all kinds of people across the incredible basalt edifice. If you’ve been yearning for mountain-related activities but only have a day or two to spare (and don’t want to wait for the Cascade peaks trails to clear), Smith Rock is the perfect choice. It can get a little busy as the weather warms up, so if you prefer to enjoy your activities in solitude it’s best to go during the off-hours.

Hike to the Top of Pilot Butte

If you prefer to start small or have small children to think about, you can scale things down and plan a hike to the top of Pilot Butte instead. It has a central location that you can reach from anywhere in the city, doesn’t take very long to walk up, and offers amazing views of Bend at the top as a reward. Every new Bendite needs to try it!

Plan a Canyon Hike

Spots like the Dry River Canyon Trail (occasionally closed for nesting season, so plan ahead) are an excellent way to enjoy the high desert side of Bend and explore some of the incredible natural beauty around the city. For those who don’t have quite as much time, visit one of Bend’s many parks. River Canyon Park and the Archie Briggs hike are additional options. You’ll get a chance to see desert wildlife while enjoying amazing canyon views – just don’t forget to bring your sunscreen.

As always, if you are looking for relocation services in Central Oregon, Moving To Bend is here to help so you have enough time to plan your own adventures!

Bend, Oregon is the third fastest-growing city in the nation. When you ask the question “Where are you from?” to those around you at work, at daycare, or at your favorite bar, chances are very good the answer will not be Deschutes County. Bend is an amazing destination that people are discovering every day and are realizing they want to be part of our community. Who can blame folks for coming here? I’m not from here either!

But the important thing to remember for folks moving from one community to another is that things may be done differently than where you come from. Whether it’s about honking your horn (we don’t really do that much in Oregon, except when it’s actually an emergency) or mountain bike trail etiquette (those traveling uphill here have the right of way!). And another thing: how to recycle right. 

Recycling diverts valuable material from the landfill, and that’s important. Deschutes County’s Knott Landfill (our only disposal option in the county) is projected to be full by 2029. Also, international recycling markets have been interrupted. Not to mention we’re in the middle of a pandemic that has a lot of people scared about reuse and Bringing-Your-Own despite the research showing reusables that are washed are not a threat of COVID transmission. Now more than ever, it’s important for us to recycle AND to do it correctly. Here are a few tips for how to recycle right in your curbside mixed cart in Deschutes County:

DOs:

• Plastics accepted: bottles, tubs, and jugs — no lids
• Paper accepted: office paper, junk mail, paperboard, and cardboard
• Metal accepted: tin and aluminum cans
• Keep your recyclables loose — don’t bag it up
• Make sure your recyclables are clean and dry
• Keep glass separate

DON’Ts:

• We do NOT “recycle by number”
• The universal recycling symbol does NOT mean something is recyclable, it tells us what kind of chemicals are in the material
• NO cups of any kind (neither paper nor plastic)
• NO plastic clamshells
• NO plastic film of any sort in your curbside bin

For more information about recycling, to sign up for our newsletter, or to download the Rethink Waste Guide, visit our website.

Rethink Waste Project is an Environmental Center program partnering with Deschutes County’s Department of Solid Waste and local garbage service providers to deliver consistent and accurate waste reduction information to all residents in the county. Contact Ani Kasch: ani@envirocenter.org with questions or to set up a free virtual presentation. 

By: Ani Kasch, Rethink Waste Program Manager

Looking for a realtor in Bend to purchase a property? You may have many options to explore, so it’s important to find the right real estate agent for your relocation plans. While online research and referrals from the experts can help, nothing compares to having a real conversation with the realtor you would be working with. Here are some of the best questions to ask them.

1. How is Your Commission Calculated?

This question gets right to the nuts and bolts of comparing realtor costs. You need to know what percentage of commission the buyer’s realtor would be paid, if the commission varies based on property or services, and if specific situations like dual representation will change the commission numbers. Some realtors list this information, but you often need to speak them to find out the details.

2. How Long Have You Been Working in the Area, and What Kind of Clients Have You Had?

Ideally, you want to work with a realtor that has plentiful experience with Central Oregon real estate and is used to helping clients like you (especially when it comes to the type of property you are looking for). Look at the realtor’s testimonials and ask them about what kinds of recent properties they have helped clients find. You may also want to ask them when they earned their license/realtor membership to get an idea of their history.

3. What are the Price Ranges of Property in Bend Right Now?

Homes in Bend are currently selling for around $292 per square foot. However, property price ranges can vary significantly based on the type of residence, yard space, location, views, amenities, and much more. Talk about the type of property you are looking for and ask what recent sales prices have been like so you can prepare. This is also an excellent time to ask how homes are selling. How many cash offers is the realtor seeing? How receptive are sellers to counteroffers?

4. Where are the Best Neighborhoods in Bend?

The perfect neighborhood in Bend will vary based on how you feel about commuting, what sort of schools or city centers you want to be near, what sort of recreation you enjoy, and so on. Ask your realtor what they think the best neighborhoods in Bend currently are located. Their answer will tell you a lot about their experience and their understanding of your needs.

5. Where Can I Temporarily Stay When Moving to Bend?

Realtors should be able to recommend the appropriate hotels to stay in while you are in the city temporarily. Remember that relocation services in Central Oregon can also help you find a long-term rental if you plan on staying for a significant period like looking for a home.

6. How Can I Tour a Property I Am Interested In?

Real estate agents are offering 3D and virtual reality tours for those touring at a distance, as well as complying with COVID-related regulations or concerns. A realtor may also be able to do a live tour of a property with their phone or other measures so you can get a personalized look even if you aren’t there in person.

7. Do You Know About Any Properties That Will Soon Be Listed?

Bend Oregon real estate is selling fast – very fast. When you start working with a local realtor, ask them to let you know about any new property that’s about to hit the market. You may be able to submit an offer early directly to the seller or act immediately to help improve your chances of getting a property that you want.

8. What Information Do You Need from Me to Submit an Offer?

Your realtor will want to submit offers as quickly as possible, so it’s important to ask them for everything they need. They will want documentation of pre-approval for a mortgage or proof that you are able to pay in cash, for a start. They will probably also want an email or fax where they can reach you quickly for signing documents if you aren’t currently in Central Oregon. Make sure you have everything ready!

9. How Can I Contact You Quickly When I Need To?

Ask about dedicated phone numbers and email addresses where your realtor will be most responsive, and when the best times are for contacting them and getting an immediate response

10. What Happens If I Find Another Realtor I Want to Work With?

You should also know what the realtor’s contract says about switching to a different realtor. This could come with additional fees or complications, so double-check the details when discussing it with your realtor.

Finally, remember if you need help buying a home, finding the right neighborhood when living in Bend, and much more, Moving To Bend has all the relocation resources you need!