|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
Scenic Drives
The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass loop is a National Scenic Byway.
Though accessible from cities west of the Cascades, Sisters is the place to
begin this beautiful drive through two Cascade passes, past lava flows, and
through 10,000-foot peaks. This loop can easily be driven in 3-5 hours, but plan
to take longer if you want to enjoy all it has to offer. Total distance of the
trip is 82 miles. The best time is July-October as McKenzie Pass is closed in
the winter months. McKenzie Pass is closed to vehicles over 35 feet in total
length and is not advised for trailers.
Benham Falls
Hiking trails access to spectacular series of untamed whitewater. 4 miles north of Sunriver.
Deschutes Historical CenterThe Deschutes Historical Center exhibits relics of the county’s colorful past, including displays of Indian artifacts, a pioneer school room, timber industry, historic photos and changing exhibits. Open Tues.-Sat. 10 am-4:30 pm. Located in Bend on the corner of Wall & Idaho. 389-1813.
The High Desert MuseumThe High Desert Museum is a living, participatory museum with a wide variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits on nature, art, science, and history of the intermountain region. 11 miles north of Sunriver on U.S. 97. 382-4754.
Sunriver Village MallThe Sunriver Village Mall is the country mall with something for everyone. Shop in a relaxed atmosphere where you can take your time and find just what you’re looking for. Pick out a good book, find that painting or print for the den, get that espresso machine or splurge on that ski outfit. When you get hungry, there are numerous restaurants to fit any taste. Take a look at the map and list of businesses on pages three and four.
Cascade Lakes HighwayThe Cascade Lakes Highway starts in Bend and takes you by magnificent views of Mt. Bachelor, the Three Sisters, and Broken Top and numerous lakes and mountain streams. In Bend, go west on Franklin Ave., past Drake Park, and follow the signs.
Lava Butte and Lava Lands Visitor CenterLava Butte is a unique, volcanic cinder cone. A paved road to the top provides an outstanding view of the Cascades. Four miles north of Sunriver on Hwy 97. 593-2421.
Lava Cast ForestThe Lava Cast Forest is a large forest of lava tree molds located opposite of the Sunriver turn-off.
Lava River CaveThe Lava River Cave is a Spectacular lava tube nearly a mile long, located within the Deschutes National Forest. Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes. 3 miles north of Sunriver – located on U.S. Hwy 97.
Mt. BachelorMt. Bachelor features 3,365 vertical feet of the best skiing in the Northwest served by 13 lifts, including seven high speed lifts, and 3,686 acres of glades, bowls and groomed trails. 800-829-2442.
Pine Mountain ObservatoryThe Pine Mountain Observatory is the University of Oregon’s astronomical research facility featuring 15-, 24-, and 32-inch telescopes. Discoveries made here, and published in scientific papers, are known worldwide. This is the only major observatory in the northwestern United States. Suggested donation, $2 per adult. 382-8331 (after 3 pm).
Paulina PeakFrom 8,000’ the visitor sees a magnificent panorama of snow-covered mountains, old volcanoes (cinder cones) and the largest obsidian (volcanic glass) flow in the U.S., located 26 miles south of Sunriver.
Sunriver Nature CenterThe Sunriver Nature Center features nature activities; astronomy programs at our observatory; raptor rehabilitation area, living and inanimate history displays. $1 per adult, $.50 for 12 years and under. Just off River Road in Sunriver. 593-4394.