How to Spend Spring Break in Bend, Oregon

Perfect for the Northwest college student, Bend offers up a spring break for the outdoorsy sort who loves to stay active during the day and enjoys the low-key mountain town nightlife.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hiking Boots
• Binoculars
• Backpacks
• Binoculars
• Downhill Skis
• Fishing Rods
• Kayaks
• Mountain Bikes
• Ski Clothing
• Snowboards
• Water Bottles

1. Fly into Portland and drive south through the pine tree forests and dormant volcano-dotted landscape of southern Oregon.

2. Bring clothing for wilderness sports such as skiing or snowboarding, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and rafting or kayaking.

3. Shoot the Deschutes River solo in a kayak or with friends on a whitewater rafting tour.

4. Ride the slopes and terrain park of massive Mt. Bachelor, just a few miles outside of town.

5. Fly-fish the spring rivers and streams that dominate the Bend environment.

6. Take the evening pub crawl in Bend while you rate the live music and Oregon microbrews along the way.

7. Wind along mountain bike trails through the Deschutes National Forest.

Tips & Warnings

• Weather can be unpredictable in spring, so come prepared for a winter snow storm or a sunny but cool week of fun.
• Save money by staying at the cheaper places in town. Resorts are nice, but you'll spend little time in a fancy hotel room in this natural playground.
• Make sure you're properly supplied and that someone knows where you're headed if you take off into the wilderness. Weather and other unforeseen events can keep you out in the elements longer than expected.