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Whether you're looking to take a relaxing central Oregon getaway or to get out and experience the most adventure you can pack into a weekend, Sunriver, Oregon has you covered. This is our blueprint for the perfect central Oregon getaway in 2024, including the cutest cabins, quietest places to relax, and most heart-pounding adventures.

Situated in the heart of the state, Sunriver is roughly 192 miles southeast of Portland (a 3 hour and 24 minute journey by car) and boasts an elevation of 4,164 feet. If you choose to fly into Portland and rent a vehicle, you'll be treated to a picturesque drive, initially heading up past Mt. Hood along Highway 26, and then continuing through scenic spots such as Kahneeta hot springs. Sunriver, a charming and close-knit village, has a population of just 960 inhabitants. For those seeking a tight-knit community where everyone is familiar with each other, Sunriver is an ideal location.

With a mere 108 individuals per square mile, Sunriver offers ample space for residents to roam and enjoy the open air. Interestingly, the average age of Sunriver's populace skews older, with a median age of 63.5 years, compared to the U.S. median of 37.4 years. On average, each household consists of around two members, highlighting the area's appeal for those who value tranquility, seclusion, and serenity.

Cold Weather Activities Near Sunriver Oregon

Central Oregon promises an adventure you will never forget, packed with activities the adventurous at heart and the whole family will love. Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring are all the perfect time to escape to the mountains of central Oregon to find out what you're made of.

Mt Bachelor Oregon
Snowboarding on Mt Bachelor. Photo by Neufcent9 via Flickr CC2.

In the winter Sunriver, Oregon comes alive with those looking to stay in close proximity to all the adventure Mount Bachelor has to offer. Bachelor is one of Oregon's gems for snowboarding, skiing, sledding and snowshoeing.

Those looking for the most perfect powder Oregon has to offer head to Mount Bachelor. Seasoned snowboarders and skiers will love the 101 runs Bachelor offers, and those looking to learn will enjoy the private lessons they can take. Bachelor is the 6th largest ski resort in North America, and has over four thousand skiable acres, and over three thousand feet of vertical drop. Check out Bachelor's trail mapWoodward mountain park map, and Nordic trail map.

People also love to snowmobile, innertube, snowshoe the miles of nearby trails in Sunriver and Bend, dogsled, and get out to do some winter fat tire biking when the conditions are right.

Central Oregon is stunning year-round, but the winter views are some of the best.

Warm Weather Activities Near Sunriver Oregon

Warm Weather Activities Near Sunriver Oregon

Hiking Near Sunriver

Due to its dry summers, Central Oregon is king when it comes to mountain biking trails. Mountain bikers trek from all over the state to explore the miles of bike trails, in this scenic part of Oregon.

There are trails for all skill levels of rider, and scenic vistas that will leave you breathless and wanting to come back every chance you get.

Sparks Lake Sunriver
Sparks Lake Near Bend and Sunriver Oregon. The perfect place to kayak or paddleboard, fish, hike, and relax. Photo by Robert Shea via Flickr

Many of the trails are shared with horse riders and hikers, so no matter which way you plan on getting out to explore, you're set and ready to go.

Sunriver is close to stunning lakes, scenic mountain views, mountain climbing, and some of the best stargazing opportunities Oregon has to offer.


RELATED: 5 Classic Hiking Trails Near Bend To Add To Your Bucket List


 

Pine Mountain Observatory

Stargazers and amateur astronomers will want to head out to the Pine Mountain Observatory east of Sunriver and check out the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory.

The Sunriver Nature Center, located in central Oregon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of nature through education and hands-on exploration. People who visit Sunriver say what a great experience visiting this nature center is.

Photo via the Sunriver, Oregon Nature Center & Observatory Facebook.

Other adventures include white water rafting, taking a helicopter tourkayakinghiking around the rim of a volcano at the Newberry national volcanic monument, cross country skiing and exploring Central Oregon's volcanic past

Check out some of our favorite things to do near Sunriver and Bend on the map below. This is just a small portion of the activities available nearby:

Things to Do in Sunriver, Oregon

Sometimes you just want to get away from daily stressors and set your sights on relaxation. Luckily Sunriver consists of numerous ways to relax, and they're right at your fingertips.

Horseback Riding in Sunriver

sunriver oregon
Go on a family horseback ride at the Sunriver Stables.

Those looking to relax while still staying active may enjoy playing golf on one of the award-winning golf courses, playing tennis, or going on a soothing horseback ride on one of the many horseback riding trails.

High Desert Museum

Families will love visiting the High Desert Museum and seeing the many animals and raptors on display, swimming in the swimming pools at the Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic Center (SHARC aquatic center), floating the Deschutes River on a lazy afternoon, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Anjou Spa

If you'd like to dedicate time to personal wellness and are looking forward to recharging while you relax, the Anjou Spa is a full service spa making it an amazing place to spend the day, or you may enjoy doing some yoga.

Canoe Tour in Sunriver

Other relaxing activities you may enjoy are exploring the shopping districts in Sunriver and Bend, taking a moonlight canoe tour, and taking a leisurely stroll down a nature trail as you forest bathe and soak up nature.

Shevlin Park Bend Oregon
Shevlin Park in Bend Oregon. Photo by SupportPDX via Flickr CC2.

Shevlin Park is one of the many great places nearby to take a nature walk.

Find the Best Sunriver Vacation Rentals

The outside of a cute little cabin surrounded by snow
East Butte #22 at Sunset Lodging In Sunriver. This cabin has a wood stove, a pool table, two bedrooms, a hot tub, a gas barbecue, a large deck, a hot tub, 5 bikes and 6 SHARC passes for guests to use at their leisure.

Sunset Lodging In Sunriver is an excellent choice for any budget. We love that Sunset Lodging In Sunriver is family owned and operated, and focused on outstanding customer service and unforgettable vacation rental homes with exactly the right amenities. Here are a few Sunriver rentals that may perk your interest:

Ranch Cabin Condo #3

A beautiful cabin interior of a rental home from Sunset Lodging in Sunriver Oregon
Ranch Cabin Condo #3with Sunset Lodging In Sunriver. This home has a woodland view, two bedrooms, a gas barbecue, a wood-burning fireplace, and allows dogs.

Whether you're looking for a cozy little cabin or large luxurious condo rentals that will hold you and your extended family, Sunset Lodging has an incredible selection of vacation rentals in central Oregon to choose from.

Timber #8

A cute little cabin surrounded by trees and snow in Sunriver Oregon.
Timber #8 with Sunset Lodging In Sunriver. This home has two bedrooms and features a gas fireplace to keep you cozy and warm, and a private deck for entertaining, not to mention great woodland surroundings! Dogs are allowed and there's a shared hot tub to relax in.

Sometimes the best thing to do at the end of a day full of outdoor adventure is to return to your cabin and relax in front of the fire or in the hot tub with loved ones.

Goldfinch Lane #11

A gorgeous cabin interior in Sunriver with a big stone fireplace and gorgeous wood details.
Goldfinch Lane #11 with Sunset Lodging In Sunriver. This stunning cabin has a gorgeous stone fireplace, is near to the Deschutes River, has four bathrooms, and sleeps 12. There are even an Xbox, three bikes, and 10 SHARC aquatic and outdoor recreation center passes for guests to use!

READ MORE: Your Ultimate Guide to Sunriver Rentals

During your stay in Sunriver be sure to check out the local restaurants and craft breweries central Oregon is famous for. One way to check out the craft breweries is to take a craft beverage tour.

Restaurants in Sunriver

Sunriver Brewing Co

This pub pairs delicious pub food and award-winning craft beer with great service.

South Bend Bistro

South Bend Bistro mixes local Pacific Northwest products with imported specialty meats and cheeses, and wine selected specifically to balance each dish.

Village Bar And Grill

This restaurant features a huge selection of the Northwest's finest wines, spirits, and local beers, and pairs them with traditional and contemporary American classics in a fine dining atmosphere.

Café Sintra

This Mediterranean café specializes in warm delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes based on Portuguese cuisine. If you're looking for good espresso, homemade pastries, or a nice cocktail, this is the place to be.

Blondie's Pizza Of Sunriver

Blondie's offers classic calzones, pizzas, sides, sandwiches, and salads. They even have gluten-free crust available.

Final Thoughts

Are you ready for a central Oregon adventure? We hope this article helped plan your next Oregon adventure. Let us know in a comment and tag the friends and family you want to have an unforgettable Sunriver experience with!


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Written By Jessica Tomlinson

Jessica Tomlinson is a native Oregonian currently living in Southern Oregon. She has been blogging since 2006. She loves nature, photography, hiking, camping, and exploring Oregon's wilds.

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