Winter in Bend, Oregon is more fun than you might think — and wildly underrated. From snowmobiling through a volcanic monument to sipping craft beer by a fire pit, we’re sharing our favorite things to do in Bend in winter as locals who’ve lived here for 6 years.
Okay, real talk — winter in Bend might actually be the best-kept secret in the Pacific Northwest.
I’ve lived here through 6 winters and I think it’s the most underrated season here!
While everyone else is booking their summer trips, you could be sipping craft beer by a fire pit, carving fresh powder on a bluebird day, or snowshoeing through a silent pine forest.
I have an obsession with finding fun and unique things to do in Bend in all seasons. In this article I’m rounding up my favorite winter activities to keep you busy until the snow melts!
Whether you’re a “hot chocolate at a mountain lodge” person or an “I’ll ski until my legs give out” person (or both, like me), pack your layers and let’s go!
Our personal experience
We’ve lived in Bend for 6 years now and winter is one of my favorite times of the year. After growing up in Minnesota where it was often “too cold to go outside”, I find the winters in Bend to be very mild.
Plus, there are so many fun outdoor adventures that you really can only do during this time of year. And with the exception of Mount Bachelor, everything is far less crowded in the winter months than during summer.
What is the weather like in Bend during the winter?
While each winter is different, you can expect it to be relatively mild.
Here’s what most travel guides won’t tell you: the town of Bend itself barely gets snow. We’re talking a light dusting that melts in a day or two — all the cozy winter vibes, none of the being-snowed-in.
But drive just 20 minutes west toward the Cascades and you’ll find full-on Narnia.
Oh, and that famous Bend sunshine? It doesn’t clock out in December.
Bend gets over 300 days of sun a year, which means crisp, bright winter days that actually make you want to go outside — not the gray, soul-crushing drizzle you’d often get on the coast.
Insider Tip: My biggest piece of advice is to make sure you are wearing proper layers as it will keep you so much more comfortable on any winter outing. I swear by merino wool base layers (both top and bottom). Trust me on this!
→ Find all of our winter essentials (including my favorite base layers) here!
Now without further ado, let’s jump right in…
1. Soak in a hot spring
One of the best things about Central Oregon in winter is how many incredible hot springs are within striking distance — most within a 2-hour drive from Bend.
There’s something deeply satisfying about sinking into a natural hot spring when the air is cold and crisp around you, and this region has some of the best options in the Pacific Northwest.
A few of our favorites worth the drive: McCredie Hot Springs, Cougar Hot Springs, and Summer Lake Hot Springs — each with its own character and scenery.
You can make it a day trip or build a whole weekend around visiting one of Oregon’s best hot springs.
2. Go snowmobiling with Octane Adventures
This one completely blew us away — and if you only do one new thing in Bend this winter, make it this.
Octane Adventures runs beginner-friendly snowmobile tours out of Newberry National Volcanic Monument (you’ll meet at Ten Mile Sno-Park), about 40 minutes from Bend. Don’t let “beginner-friendly” fool you — this tour packs in serious scenery and genuine adventure. Watch our short video below and you’ll see what I mean!
Tour options:
- 2-Hour Tour — $190 single / $260 double
- 4-Hour Tour (our recommendation!) — $300 single / $400 double
- Sunset Dinner Tour — $220 single / $320 double
We strongly recommend the 4-hour tour because they give you time to play in an open field (yes, you actually get to let loose!), and both of us got to drive in a low-stress area before hitting the trail. The tour also brings you to one of our favorite spots for lunch — more on that below.
We rode their 2026 Polaris snow machines, which were incredible — GPS navigation, handlebar heaters, and surprisingly easy to drive even for first-timers.
BONUS: Use discount code “TWS” for 10% off your tour!
Good to know: You must be 21 to drive, 25 to drive with a passenger; passengers must be at least 45″ tall — bring your ID!
Lunch at Paulina Lake Lodge
The 4-hour tour brings you to Paulina Lake Lodge, a historic lodge sitting right on the shore of Paulina Lake with stunning views of the peaks. In winter, it’s only accessible by snowmobile, cross-country skis, or snowshoes — which makes it feel extra special.
What to order: Split the Prime Rib Dip between two people — it is enormous and absolutely worth it. We also got a slice of freshly made blueberry cobbler and it was *chef’s kiss*. Note that lunch pricing is not included in the tour cost.
My tips for snowmobiling
- Bring your own winter gear; they have a limited supply available to rent
- Helmets and goggles are provided
- Bring fingered gloves so you can use the handlebar controls. The heaters keep your hands warm, so thin gloves are totally fine. (I made the mistake of bringing mittens and had to borrow their gloves!)
- A neck gaiter is a great call to block the wind on the trail
- Driving up Paulina Peak is the highlight — even better than I expected, and the views are unreal 🏔️
- We were surprised this tour was still possible even in a lower snow year — so don’t count it out!
3. See a piano concert in the woods
Hands down one of the most magical winter experiences I’ve had in Bend.
Local musician Paula Dreyer hosts Piano Flow Concerts where you can listen to live piano music on wireless headphones while you cross-country ski or snowshoe down a candlelit trail — or cozy up inside the lodge and listen from there. Either way, it’s absolutely enchanting.
Check out our video for a sneak peek:
A few things to know:
- Warm layers are a must
- Costumes, headlamps, and glow-in-the-dark attire are encouraged (this is that kind of event and we love it)
- Warm up by the fire pit between sets
- BYOB — hot cocoa and hot water are usually provided
- Some shows feature a live visual artist (the show we attended featured @artsyadventurist and it was stunning)
- Shows are 1 hour long and all ages are welcome — we brought our 4-year-old in a Thule Chariot and our 1-year-old in a front carrier!
Paula hosts a variety of unique events all year long, so be sure to follow her for updates and snag tickets before they sell out: https://pauladreyer.com/
4. Book a cozy cabin stay
Sometimes the best winter activity is simply being somewhere beautiful — and Central Oregon has some incredibly cozy cabin rentals that make the perfect home base for a winter trip.
Our top pick: The Wy’east Cozy Cedar Cabin — we’ve stayed there twice and would go back again in a heartbeat. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to cancel all your plans and just sit by the fire with a good book and a hot drink.
If you want more options, we have a full guide to the best cabin rentals in Oregon that’s worth a look before you book.
5. Cross-country ski to a hidden restaurant
Yes, the same Paulina Lake Lodge from the snowmobile tour — but you can also ski there, and that’s a whole different kind of adventure.
Find the trail to this hidden gem at Ten Mile Sno-Park. You’ll follow the Paulina Falls trail east for about 3 miles, winding through stunning winter scenery as you go. Pass the waterfall and you’ll come to Paulina Lake Lodge where you can warm up with incredible views and a very well-earned meal.
Insider Tip: Split the Prime Rib Dip between two people — it’s enormous and absolutely delicious. Trust me on this one.
6. Warm up in the Soaking Pool at McMenamin’s Old St. Francis School
We have been here more times than we can count — and we are genuinely obsessed with this place.
McMenamin’s Old St. Francis School is home to one of the most unique things to do in Bend: a stunning Turkish bath-inspired soaking pool that feels like a total escape.
This warm soaking pool is filled with soft buoyant water (no harsh chemicals like chlorine!). It’s heated to a comfortable temperature cooler than a hot tub but warmer than a pool, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day on the slopes or a long hike.
What makes it extra special in winter is the open-air skylight in the ceiling. If it happens to be snowing outside while you’re soaking, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
It’s family-friendly but also makes for a really fun and unique date spot. And if you really want to lean into the relaxation, you can order a cocktail or beer from the nearby bar and bring it right into the pool with you.
Admission is $8 per adult — call ahead to reserve a spot. Alternatively, staying at the onsite hotel gets you free access to the soaking pool, which makes it one of our top recommendations for places to stay in Bend. Perfect location, and that pool access alone is worth it.
7. Catch live music at Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Shows
About 45 minutes northwest of Bend, Suttle Lodge sits right on the shores of Suttle Lake and is one of our absolute favorite spots in all of Central Oregon year-round — but in winter it transforms into something truly special.
Their Fireside Shows bring in talented musicians to perform in an intimate, crackling-fire setting that you genuinely cannot replicate anywhere else.
The Fireside Music Series takes place most Thursdays from October through May. Keep an eye on their events calendar and book your tickets in advance — these sell out fast.
→ Planning a trip to Bend? Don’t miss our comprehensive Local’s Guide to Bend, Oregon — everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit, from where to stay to how to get around.
8. Hike to an icy waterfall
Waterfalls in winter are a completely different experience than summer — and honestly, they might be even cooler. (Pun intended!)
There are fewer people, the light is gorgeous, and if conditions are right you’ll catch ice formations and snow-dusted surroundings that look straight out of a fairy tale.
Insider tip: Check recent AllTrails reports before you go to see current conditions and whether you’ll need snowshoes or microspikes. For most winter months, we’d recommend having one or the other.
Our top waterfall hikes near Bend:
- Chush Falls (pictured above): We typically recommend microspikes here because it gets steep and icy toward the end
- Tumalo Falls: A Bend classic; stunning in any season but especially beautiful in winter
- Salt Creek Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in Oregon and absolutely worth the drive
- Paulina Falls: Conveniently combinable with either the Octane snowmobile tour (#2 on this list) or a ski trip to Paulina Lake Lodge (#5)!
9. Sauna and cold plunge in the Deschutes River
Warning: This one is not for the faint of heart — but if you’re even a little curious, do it. You will not regret it.
Gather Sauna House offers authentic wood-burning sauna sessions with the Deschutes River serving as your cold plunge. Yes, the actual river. In winter. It’s incredible.
They have two locations: the Riverside Sauna at Riverbend Park (seasonal, October–May; this is the one shown in our video) and the Hanai Garden Sauna on Bend’s Eastside, which is open year-round starting this spring.
The format is simple: sauna, cold plunge, relax, hydrate, and repeat.
Their suggested timing for maximum benefits is 15 minutes in the sauna, 3–5 minutes in the plunge, and 5 minutes recovering in the outdoor space. Sessions are 1 hour and 15 minutes and can be booked as public or private (open Thursday–Monday).
The river was nearly 38°F the day we went. The first 30 seconds of the cold plunge are the hardest — but if you push through, you can make it to the full 3-minute suggestion.
Not gonna lie, I struggled. But it felt amazing after and I genuinely cannot wait to go back. I think it’s one of those things you get better at with practice.
Our best tip: Show up in your bathing suit. There’s a changing room on-site and park restrooms nearby, but one less step is one less step. Beyond that, pack a robe (optional but lovely), two towels — one to sit on, one to dry off — slip-on shoes, and a water bottle.
Private sessions are $45/person. They also offer the “Driftwood” private session at $195 total (up to 6 people) and the “Fern” private session at $250 total (up to 8 people). Reserve your spot online before you go.
10. Snowshoe to a warming hut
Honestly, this might be my favorite low-key winter activity in the Bend area. There’s something about moving through a quiet, snow-covered forest on snowshoes that feels meditative in a way a regular hike just doesn’t — and the fact that there’s a cozy reward waiting at the end makes it even better.
Our go-to is the Swampy Lakes Trailhead, where a well-marked snowshoe trail leads you through a gorgeous stretch of winter forest to a fully enclosed shelter complete with a wood-burning stove.
It’s about 3 miles roundtrip — totally manageable for most fitness levels — and that warm hut halfway through is the perfect excuse to take a break to fuel up and pour a cup of something hot from your thermos.
What you’ll need: A Sno-Park Pass is required to park at the trailheads. You can grab a day pass for $5 or a season pass for $30 at REI, a ranger station, or most local outdoor gear shops. The fee goes toward snow plowing and trail maintenance, so it’s well worth it.
Don’t have snowshoes? You can rent them from REI. Members get a reduced rate and don’t have to pay a deposit, so there’s no reason to let your lack of gear get in the way of a new winter adventure!
11. Hit the slopes at Mount Bachelor
If you’re coming to Bend in winter and you ski or snowboard, Mount Bachelor is non-negotiable. It’s one of the best ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest — consistently good snow, impressive vertical drop, and that famous Central Oregon sunshine that makes bluebird powder days feel almost absurdly good.
Fun fact: Mount Bachelor is said to have gotten its name because it stands apart from the Three Sisters mountain range nearby. A lone peak, flying solo. Took me longer than I’d like to admit to connect the dots on that one.
Even if you’re a beginner or bringing kids, Mount Bachelor has excellent lessons and terrain options across all ability levels. It’s just 22 miles from downtown Bend, making it incredibly easy to get to.
That distinct location also gives Bachelor one of the longest ski seasons in the region — lifts typically start running in mid-November and can stay open all the way through the end of May, depending on the year. More weeks on the mountain is never a bad thing.
And if skiing isn’t your thing (or you just need a break from the slopes), there’s plenty more to do up there.
The Snowblast Tubing Park is an absolute blast for all ages, or you can try something completely different — like mushing with the Oregon Trail of Dreams sled dog team, ripping through the snow on a fat bike, or joining a free snowshoe tour with a Forest Service Naturalist (more on that in #14!).
12. Ski for $39 at Mount HooDoo
If you want a ski day without the crowds or the price tag that comes with Mount Bachelor, allow us to introduce you to your new favorite Thursday tradition.
Mount HooDoo is a smaller, more laid-back mountain about an hour’s drive from Bend.
Every single Thursday they offer lift tickets for just $39 on what they call “Thrifty Thursdays.” In past winters we’ve turned this into a near-weekly habit and can honestly say, we never got sick of it. The savings add up fast and the vibe is wonderfully low-key.
Insider Tip: After working up an appetite on the slopes, continue just a little further down the road to Mackenzie’s General Store for some of the best burgers and onion rings around — topped with a housemade marionberry barbecue sauce that is absolutely worth the detour. Fair warning: cell reception gets pretty spotty on that stretch of road, so download your directions before you go.
13. Winter Beer Fest at Suttle Lodge
Did we mention Suttle Lodge is one of our favorite spots? Because Suttle Lodge is one of our favorite spots — and their Winter Beer Fest is exactly the kind of event that makes winter in Bend feel like a privilege.
Held over a weekend in February (check their site for current dates), the fest runs Friday through Sunday and lets you sample local beers in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.
There’s food available, the vibe is festive and laid-back, and it’s the kind of afternoon that turns into a whole day without you noticing.
Important: Buy tickets in advance — they sell out! We already have ours locked in, so say hi if you see us there!
14. Go on a free snowshoe tour with a Forest Service Ranger
Yes, free. As in, zero dollars. And it might be one of the best things you do all winter.
From mid-December through late March, Mount Bachelor hosts ranger-led snowshoe tours open to the public — and even the equipment rental is free. So if you’ve never snowshoed before or don’t own gear, there is absolutely no barrier to giving this a try.
Tours are geared toward all ability levels, last about 90 minutes, and the ranger will walk you through the local geology, wildlife, and nature along the way. We were genuinely surprised by how much we learned.
Meet in the West Village Base Area by the USFS hut across from the Mountain Gateway Building. Tours depart at 10 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., so plan to check in 10–15 minutes early. No reservations required, snowshoes are provided, and the cost is free.
If you had a great time, consider leaving a donation — it supports Discover Your Forest, the non-profit partner that helps connect people to public lands.
15. Go ice skating
Good news: you actually have two options for ice skating in Bend, and they couldn’t be more different from each other.
Seventh Mountain is Central Oregon’s oldest outdoor ice skating rink, just outside of downtown Bend. They offer skate rentals and open skating daily (weather permitting), plus special themed skate nights where costumes are highly encouraged.
Admission is $14 for teens and adults and $12 for kids 10 and under, both including rentals — bring your own skates for a discount. No reservations required!
If you’d rather skate indoors, The Pavillion in downtown Bend has you covered from October through March with daily public open skate sessions and family skate on Sundays. For the best deal, come on Tuesday nights for “Cheap Skate” — just $6 including rentals.
16. Go out for brunch
There’s something about a cold winter morning that makes a long, leisurely brunch feel completely justified. Sleep in, take your time, and treat yourself — Bend has the spots to make it worth it.
A few of our favorites:
- McKay Cottage: Widely considered the best brunch in Bend, this charming little spot does all the American classics exceptionally well. The stuffed French toast made with croissants and housemade marionberry compote is absolutely worth ordering.
- The Victorian: A cozy downtown staple set inside a cute red Victorian home. Come prepared for a potential wait on weekends and don’t leave without ordering the 24-ounce Proud Bloody Mary alongside whichever eggs benedict catches your eye — they serve at least nine different varieties each morning.
- Sen Thai: The Asian-inspired brunch menu is completely unlike anything else in Bend. Highlights include a Thai tea tasting flight, a Thai iced coffee with ice carved in the shape of a bear, and a butterfly pea lemonade that’s almost too pretty to drink. Weekend brunch only, and ask for a window table if you can — the river view is lovely.
→ Looking for more food recommendations? Don’t miss our local guide to the best restaurants in Bend.
17. Order a Spanish coffee at O’Kane’s
This one is a Bend rite of passage.
Head to McMenamins O’Kane’s and order a Spanish Coffee. (Yes, the same McMenamins with a soaking pool — see #6).
Then — and this is important — watch them make it. The tableside preparation is part of the experience, and it is something to behold.
A few fun facts: Despite the name, this drink was actually invented in Portland. And it is strong. Settle in next to one of the fire pits, sip slowly, and enjoy one of the coziest date-night moments Bend has to offer.
18. Take a winter walk through Drake Park
Drake Park is worth visiting any time of year, but there’s something particularly special about it in winter. If you happen to catch it right after a fresh snow — which won’t stick around long in Bend, so timing matters — it’s genuinely magical.
Our suggested route: start at The Commons and grab a coffee to go, then make your way to the overlook above Mirror Pond. On a clear day you’ll get a beautiful view of the mountains in the distance. From there, follow the trail down along the river.
During summer this park is packed, but in winter it’s calm and quiet in the best possible way — just you, the water, and a good cup of coffee.
→ Looking for things to do in Bend beyond winter? We’ve got you covered year-round with our guide to the best things to do in Bend — packed with local recommendations for every season.
19. Go sledding at Wanoga Sno-Park
This is our favorite sledding hill near Bend, full stop.
Wanoga Sno-Park has everything you want: a solid hill, fire pits, and a warming house when you need a break from the cold. It’s the kind of place that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids — there’s something about flying down a snowy hill on a sled that never gets old.
What you’ll need:
- A Sno-Park pass (pick one up at REI, Powder House, or other outdoor retailers)
- Your own sled
- Snacks and a thermos full of hot cocoa — trust us on this one
20. Rent a movie from Blockbuster
Did you know the last Blockbuster on Earth is right here in Bend, Oregon?? And if that’s not reason enough to visit, we don’t know what is.
Renting from the last Blockbuster is a genuinely fun, nostalgic experience that you simply cannot replicate anywhere else on the planet. It’s also a great way to support a true local landmark.
Our go-to move: Pick up a Papa Murphy’s pizza from next door (it’s literally right there), rent a movie, and settle in for a cozy night in.
And while you’re there, grab a bottle of their exclusive Blockbuster beer — a collaboration with 10 Barrel Brewing that’s only available at this location. It’s the perfect souvenir that you get to drink immediately.
More ideas still on our list
Bend’s winter bucket list is genuinely never-ending — here are a few things we haven’t checked off yet but are very much looking forward to:
- Winter Staycation at Elk Lake Resort: This one sounds absolutely dreamy. Elk Lake Resort offers cozy winter cabin stays, and in the off-season, they’ll actually bring you in via snowcat. It’s the kind of off-the-grid winter escape that sounds like something out of a novel. Learn more here.
- Midnight Snowshoe & Bonfire Tour with Wanderlust Tours: Snowshoeing through the Cascade Mountains under a dark winter sky, followed by a bonfire? This is high on our list for a reason! Wanderlust Tours runs this nighttime adventure tour that sounds like one of the most memorable things you can do in winter in Central Oregon. Get details and book here.
Plan your trip to Oregon
Being that Oregon is our home state, we have TONS of content to help you plan your trip. Start with our Oregon Homepage and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!
- Don’t miss our round up of things to do in Bend (all year round!)
- This article will help you visit the 7 wonders of Oregon.
- If you need more ideas, here are some incredible places to visit in Oregon.
- You’ll want to keep this Oregon road trip itinerary close by.
- Read up on all the weirdly awesome things to do in Portland.
- If you’re headed west, here are all the cutest Oregon Coast towns.
- Plan your Oregon coast road trip with our insider tips & map.
- Don’t skip Cannon Beach, our favorite small town in Oregon.
- Keep this list of our favorite things to do in Oregon handy.
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We want to hear from you!
Have you done any of these winter activities in Bend? Drop a comment and let us know — or share your own favorites that we need to add to the list!
Katie Diederichs is the lead writer and co-founder of Two Wandering Soles, where she creates in-depth travel guides, itineraries, and tips designed to help readers plan better trips with confidence. With a background in journalism, photography, and design, she combines thorough research with firsthand experience to deliver clear, practical, and visually driven travel content. As the primary trip planner, Katie turns complex logistics into easy-to-follow advice travelers can actually use.