Day Hikes in Central Oregon
Looking for the best hikes to do in Central Oregon? The following is a list of hikes we’ve done near Redmond. Check back as we continue to add more to our Central Oregon Hiking Map. Each pinpoint corresponds to a more detailed blog post review.
Smith Rock State Park Trails
the beautiful Smith Rock State Park trails are one of the best places to start. Popular with rock climbers and home to other activities like horse back riding, Smith Rock’s hiking trails allow varied viewpoints of dramatic high desert landscapes.
Steelhead Falls
The walk to Steelhead Falls from the trailhead is a short 0.5 miles one way. The trail continues down the river, but the falls is the main attraction and most scenic viewpoint. This is also a popular area for fishing.
Cline Falls Walk
Cline Falls on the Deschutes River is a short walk with a beautiful viewpoint just off the Mackenzie Highway, near Eagle Crest resort. There are a number of places to approach the falls, but we think the view is best from the East side of the river.
Cline Butte, Eagle Crest
The Cline Butte Loop Trail is an easy-to-moderate hike in Eagle Crest, not far from Redmond, Oregon. A few residents of Eagle Crest resort walk this one-hour loop for their daily exercise, but the trail is rarely busy. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Tumalo Falls
The Tumalo Falls hike is a must do in Central Oregon for hikers who love waterfalls. Following the North Fork Trail, there are several options of varying lengths.
Paulina Lake
The Paulina Lake hike is a 7.8 mile, flat loop around a volcanic lake. The hike is located in the Deschutes National Forest about a 90 minute drive South from Bend. Enjoy some sandy beaches and hot springs while you’re at it. Photo credit: Long Haul Trekkers
Black Butte Trail
The Black Butte hike summits this iconic volcanic cone near a ranger cabin and fire lookout station. It’s a 1.9 mile steady climb to the panoramic summit, gaining 1,600 feet of elevation. A Northwest Forest Pass is required.
South Sister
For a vigorous, difficult climb with rewarding views, summit the tallest of Central Oregon’s Three Sisters peaks. The trek is 11 miles out and back on loose ground. Photo credit: Where In The World Is Nina
