The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Bend, Oregon to Reno, Nevada

There’s nothing quite like a road trip. The open road, new sights and adventure around every turn. If you're looking for an epic road trip, then pack your bags and get ready to hit the pavement as you discover the breathtaking beauty of Oregon and Nevada.

From stunning mountain ranges to deep blue lakes, to thriving cities, this road trip has something for everyone. Grab the steering wheel and let’s head out on an unforgettable adventure.

The Route

Starting in the charming city of Bend, Oregon, your journey takes you through quaint towns, over dizzying mountain passes, and finally, to Reno, Nevada, where you can unwind with a bit of glitz and glamour.

Here are the top places to see when driving from Bend, Oregon to Reno, Nevada:

1. Smith Rock State Park

The first stop on your road trip should be Smith Rock State Park, just a short 30-minute drive from Bend. Known as the “birthplace of American sport climbing,” Smith Rock boasts some of the best rock climbing in North America. But even if you’re not a climber, the park offers beautiful trails for hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. The park is also home to the Crooked River, and its calm waters offer the perfect spot for fly-fishing or a riverside picnic.

2. Crater Lake

From Smith Rock, drive three hours to the stunning Crater Lake. The lake was formed almost 8,000 years ago when a volcanic eruption caused the collapse of Mount Mazama. The resulting caldera is now filled with some of the purest water on earth, making the lake an incredible deep blue color. Take in the views by hiking around the rim of the lake or marvel at the beauty from the overlooks along the road.

3. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Next on the list is Lassen Volcanic National Park, a 4.5-hour drive from Crater Lake. The park features all four types of volcanoes found in the world- shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome. The park’s hydrothermal features, beautiful meadows, dense forests, and stunning lakes make it a worthwhile stop on any road trip. Don’t miss the bubbling mud pots, boiling pools, and steam vents at Bumpass Hell.

4. Lake Tahoe

Two hours from Lassen Volcanic National Park is Lake Tahoe, one of the world’s most beautiful alpine lakes. During the summer, the lake offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and watersports. In the winter, the area is a skier's paradise with several world-class ski resorts. The lake’s crystal-clear blue waters and scenic vistas make it an unmissable stop on any road trip.

5. Virginia City

The final stop on your road trip is Virginia City, a 40-minute drive from Reno. This charming Western town is a step back in time with its wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and old west saloons. Take a guided tour to learn about the town’s history as a silver mining boomtown, or take a ride on the V&T Railroad. There’s plenty to see and do in Virginia City.

Conclusion

There you have it, an epic road trip from Bend, Oregon to Reno, Nevada. From the natural wonders of Smith Rock and Crater Lake to the man-made charm of Virginia City, there’s something for everyone on this adventure. So, pack up the car, hit the road, and see where the journey takes you.