APPRECIATE CENTRAL OREGON
SEASONAL GUIDES TO THE INTERESTING PLACES AND ACTIVITIES THAT MAKE CENTRAL OREGON UNIQUE AND WORTH PROTECTING
Plant a Native Garden
Urban native gardens are certainly not a panacea to global environmental challenges, but they do make a difference locally, and anyone — even beginners with “black thumbs,” renters with only a small balcony and some pots, and homeowners with itty bitty yards — can support local wildlife by planting a native garden.
Three Scenic Rivers, Unmatched Adventures
Looking for the best views in Central Oregon? Catch them from a kayak or raft. The Crooked, Deschutes, and Metolius Rivers are all within a short drive for Central Oregon residents, offering whitewater adventures year-round with a range of difficulty levels.
Three Birding Hotspots Near Terrebonne
With three prime birding locations near Terrebonne — the Crooked River Wetlands, Smith Rock State Park, and Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve — all within 25 miles, a birder can put together a rewarding excursion.
Hike the Tam-a-láu Trail
Located on a high plateau in Cove Palisades State Park, the Tam-a-láu Trail is a great place to appreciate birds, blooms, and awe-inspiring geology.
Explore the Ochocos from Bandit Springs Sno-Park
Bandit Springs Sno-Park provides access to the most diverse network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails on the Ochoco National Forest. With trail ratings ranging from easy to most Difficult, skiers of any skill level will have options here.
Ride to Haystack and Back
Keep The Haystack in mind for a sunny, mild winter day. This 20-mile gravel bike ride, described in detail on the Dirty Freehub website, travels from Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint, up to Haystack Reservoir, and down through the Crooked River National Grasslands.
Eat Farm Fresh All Winter
Signing up for a CSA is a great way to keep eating seasonally this winter while also providing local farmers with the resources needed to sustain our region’s food system.
Visit The Museum at Warm Springs
The Museum at Warm Springs exists to preserve the culture, history and traditions of the three tribes — Warm Springs, Wasco and Northern Paiute — which comprise The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. It is located near just off Highway 26 in Warm Springs, Oregon.
Explore Chush Falls
The Chush Falls Trail is a classic Central Oregon hike along a storied waterway. Enjoy panoramic views of the Central Cascades as you hike to the 70-foot Chush Falls in the headwaters of Whychus Creek. While you’re there, imagine a possible future where steelhead and salmon swim high among the mountains once again…
Run the Deschutes River Trail
The Deschutes River Trail – a true Bend classic – traverses nearly 20 miles through pine forests, lava flows, rapids, and the City’s riverfront neighborhoods. Segments of this trail make the perfect after work out-and-back, or a great, accessible way for visitors to experience the river’s beauty.