Day Trips from Bend
← All Bend day tripsDay Trips from Bend: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Bend, OR. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Bend
Aufderheide Scenic Byway
Blue River, OR 97413
Just 1 hr 34 min from Bend, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint
Prospect, OR 97536
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Bend, rated 4.9 stars by 526 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rockwood Viewpoint Hwy 26
Rhododendron, OR 97049
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint
Prospect, OR 97536
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars by 156 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Benham Falls Overlook
OR 97702, USA
Just 24 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mirror Lake viewpoint
Rhododendron, OR 97049
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Silverfalls State Park Scenic Viewpoint
Sublimity, OR 97385
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Painted Hills Overlook
Mitchell, OR 97750
Just 1 hr 48 min from Bend, rated 4.8 stars by 826 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mt. Washington Viewpoint
US-20 &, NF-2076
Just 48 min from Bend, rated 4.7 stars by 302 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Jonsrud Viewpoint
Sandy, OR 97055
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Bend, rated 4.7 stars by 1,103 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint
Terrebonne, OR 97760
Just 37 min from Bend, rated 4.7 stars by 1,546 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
Redmond, OR 97756
Just 25 min from Bend, rated 4.6 stars by 724 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Bend
What are the best scenic drives near Bend, OR?
The best scenic drives near Bend include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Bend?
Most scenic drives near Bend range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Bend?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Bend, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Bend?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me