Central Oregon...Something for Everyone
If you're traveling through Central Oregon, relocating or just visiting here are a few suggestions that will spank just about anyone's interests and any amount of time. Lava Lands Visitors Center (located approximately 10-miles south of Bend, Oregon off highway 97) - In the heart of Central Oregon, the visitors center offers a spectacular display of the recent volcanic activity in the area. You can also hike the Trail of Molten Land or drive to the top of Lava Butte. This will take you approximately 1-hour. If you have 2-hours, you can further explore the Lava River Cave or make a drive to Benham Falls. This is a great opportunity to hike to the falls. For those who have 4-6 hours, take in the Lava Cast Forest. Here you'll get a glimpse of the remnants of lava, up close. Now, for those who have 8 or more hours head on over to the Newberry Caldera or the High Desert Museum. You can meander about these areas, literally for hours. Newberry Volcano is a spectacular site and gives you the essence of mother nature's way of building land through volcanic activity. For those with limited time stop in and see the Big Obsidian Flow. If you're adventurous and have 2-hours, hike the Big Obsidian Flow or drive to the top of Paulina Peak. With a little more time, 4-6 hours, rather than drive to the top of Paulina Peak, you can hike. Take the entire day, 8-hours or more and do all of the above listed activities and stop in at the Lava River Cave. Where to stay in Central Oregon... There are numerous places to stay in within driving distance to all of the above locations. Bend, the largest city in the area hosts a number of hotels and the surrounding area yields comfortable resorts and camping opportunities. Check with our Travel Network to get a listing of accommodations.
Do you have any information about Central Oregon? Send it to us and we'll publish it. Craig Dahl
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