The seasons’ changing brings excitement to all, with cool breezes to blow away the heat of the summer sun, flavors that start to incorporate more spices, and color schemes that change an entire landscape.

Fall in Bend, Oregon, is something you will not want to miss. With mountains, trails, rivers, and forests galore, you can enjoy those warm fall colors just about anywhere you go. And with the abundance of local outside eateries, coffee roasters, and breweries, you will find no shortage of the fall flavors you love so much.

Fall Foliage in Bend

There are few things better than the colors that come with the changing of the seasons. And with all of the beautiful mountains, parks, and rivers around Bend, you are sure to find some great locations to view some fall foliage.

Pack a picnic lunch for a day in the park – Drake Park, Shevlin Park, and Pioneer Park are the best for fall foliage in Bend. You can also strap on your running shoes for a jog or a bike ride down the Deschutes River Trail.

Enjoy the Pleasant Trails

Outdoor activities are so enjoyable when the weather starts to cool down, including running and hiking. And there are plenty of trails to enjoy in the Bend area.

The Deschutes River in Bend and the Metolius River near Sisters have pleasant trails to hike with your pooch or loved one as well as beautiful fall colors in abundance. The area around Tumalo Falls is also a great place to take in some fantastic fall foliage.

Besides the hiking trails offering breathtaking views and colors, fall in Bend also brings emptier trails as the crowded summer season subsides.

Pumpkin Patch & Orchards

Though the high desert climate of Central Oregon poses a challenge for farmers in the area, you can still find a few pumpkin patches within a short drive from Bend. After all, a true fall experience is incomplete without a trip to your local pumpkin patch.

In Terrebonne, Smith Rock Ranch is one of the best places to visit for all sorts of fall activities near Bend, including a pumpkin patch, corn maze, harvest market, pony rides, and more. Their fall season typically only runs for about a month, from the end of September to the end of October, so you want to be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

If you want to venture out a little further for some apple picking, Oregon’s Orchards are a must for the fall season. It is a bit of a drive from Bend to get to the orchards but well worth the visit. I love to pick and choose a wide variety of apples and pears and enjoy them fresh or in my homemade pies.

Harvest Time

Autumn brings harvest time, which means seasonal menus at most of your favorite Bend eateries. Get ready to fill up on all of the squashes, pumpkins, cranberries, and spices to your heart’s (and stomach’s) content.

One local eatery, in particular, you will want to check out is the Jackalope Grill, with their special Oktoberfest menu. Experience authentic German cuisine that is sure to satisfy all your autumn cravings. Pair it with a great beer, and you’re sure to leave satisfied.

Pumpkin Beer

Next to fall foliage, fall flavors and all things pumpkin are another part of the season that people look forward to every year. From pumpkin spice latte to pumpkin soup, pumpkin curry, pumpkin bread, and even pumpkin beer, we can’t get enough of it.

With Bend being such a great place to find local breweries (it is Beer Town USA, after all), you will definitely want to try some of the local pumpkin beer. It is the right brew with just the perfect blend of pumpkin, beer, and spices that makes it so delicious.

You can find some Bend-born pumpkin brews at 10 Barrel, Immersion Brewing, or at Crosscut, for example. Of course, you can also find other Central Oregon pumpkin beers at the local supermarket. Don’t be afraid to taste a few. You may find your new favorite.

Where to Stay in Bend Oregon this fall?

If you plan a trip to Bend in the fall, you may be asking yourself where you should stay to have easy access to all the ideal fall activities. With multiple affordable hotels and Airbnb options, you are sure to find somewhere that meets all your needs for your next visit.

The Downtown Bend Waterfront Escape is an excellent Airbnb option if you are interested in outdoor activities and fall foliage. From the property, you have waterfront views of Drake Park and Mirror Pond as well as easy access to the Deschutes River Trail for hiking.

The Spacious Serene Upscale Airbnb is also a great place to stay if you are looking for some hiking or biking. You are not only close to the Deschutes National Forest with countless trails, but you can even easily access trails right from the property.

If you are more into the flavors of fall, you might want to look into some of the hotels located in the Historic Downtown area and Old Mill District. The Wall Street Suites, Oxford Hotel, and Pine Ridge Inn are great options to check out.