Road Trip from Albany to Bend, Oregon: The Best Things to Do

ALBANY, Ore. - For those looking to embark on a scenic and fun road trip in Oregon, a drive from Albany to Bend is the perfect opportunity. This route covers approximately 120 miles and features many must-see attractions, including the halfway point of Eugene. The journey is seamless and includes stunning sights of mountains, forests, and waterfalls.

Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Albany to Bend :

1. Visit the Newberry National Volcanic Monument

This attraction is one of the most spectacular features this route has to offer. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument, located in central Oregon, has a history dating back over 500,000 years. Visitors can hike through the broken landscape created by the Newberry Volcano, enjoy scenic drives and stop at the Lava Cast Forest. The monument also has picnic areas, campgrounds and a visitor's center.

Interesting Fact: The Newberry Volcano is considered one of the largest shield volcanoes in the United States.

2. Experience Crater Lake National Park

When visiting Crater Lake National Park, one can admire one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. This voyage takes you on a journey to experience a deep, intense blue body of water, created by the collapse of the volcano, Mount Mazama. Visitors can hike on the park's numerous trails or take a boat tour around the lake. The park also has camping options and a visitor's center.

Interesting Fact: Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, extending to a depth of 1,949 feet.

3. Discover the Deschutes River

When passing through the city of Bend, a stop at the Deschutes River is highly recommended. Known for its crystal-clear water and offering many outdoor activities like fishing and swimming, it is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The riverbank has numerous serene locations for picnics or a light stroll.

Interesting Fact: The Deschutes River is approximately 252 miles long and is home to many fish species, including the Redband trout.

4. Learn about History at the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum, located in Bend, is a must-see attraction for history buffs. It offers numerous interactive displays showcasing the region's flora, fauna, and cultural history, dating back to the early Native American tribes. The museum also has a raptor exhibit featuring live birds of prey and a nature trail.

Interesting Fact: The High Desert Museum opened in 1982 and attracts over 115,000 visitors each year.

5. Admire the Painted Hills

Located in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills are a stunning spectacle of erosion and volcanic activity. This location is one of the most unique natural attractions in Oregon, offering multi-colored hills that create a stunning and hypnotic visual display. Visitors can take a walk around the Painted Hills trails and learn about the region's biology and geology.

Interesting Fact: The Painted Hills consist of layers of volcanic ash and minerals and are believed to have formed over 30 million years ago.

In conclusion, the Albany to Bend road trip offers a variety of attractions for all interests and ages. From natural wonders to educational museums, the route has something to offer all travelers. The scenic drive only takes about 3 hours, which means that you can do many of these attractions in the same day. However, it is best to take your time and enjoy each site to take full advantage of this route.