Best Things to Do in Bend Oregon in Winter
Experience Central Oregon's winter wonderland with world-class skiing, snowmobile adventures, and cozy mountain town charm
Winter Wonderland Adventures
Bend transforms into a winter paradise from December through March, offering world-class snow sports, thrilling snowmobile tours, and the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cozy mountain town atmosphere. With an average of 300 days of sunshine and minimal wind, Bend provides ideal winter conditions for all activities.
Summer ATV Tours
Winter Snowmobile Tours
Octane Adventures - Premier Outdoor Thrills
Bend's ultimate outdoor adventure experience offering year-round excitement with professional ATV tours in summer and snowmobile adventures in winter. The only operator providing both experiences with capacity for large groups and individuals alike.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Central Oregon's premier winter destination featuring 4,318 acres of world-class skiing and snowboarding terrain. With 13 chairlifts, stunning 360-degree Cascade Mountain views, and an average of 462 inches of annual snowfall, Mt. Bachelor offers exceptional conditions from November through May.
Brasada Ranch Winter Retreat
Experience luxury winter accommodations at Brasada Ranch, Bend's premier ranch resort. Enjoy stunning mountain views, world-class dining, cozy fire pits, and easy access to all winter activities. Perfect for wedding parties, corporate retreats, and family gatherings seeking upscale comfort after adventure-filled days.
Sunriver Resort Winter Activities
All-season resort offering winter activities including Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Features multiple restaurants, spa services, and comfortable accommodations. Great base for exploring Bend's winter attractions with shuttle services to Mt. Bachelor.
Downtown Bend Winter Festivities
Experience Bend's vibrant downtown during winter months with holiday events, cozy breweries, and local shops. Enjoy craft beer by the fireplace, winter festivals, and the festive atmosphere that makes Bend special. Multiple breweries offer seasonal winter beers and warm indoor spaces.
Cascade Lakes Winter Scenic Drive
While the full Cascade Lakes Highway closes in winter, the lower portions offer spectacular snow-covered views and access to winter recreation areas. Stop at frozen waterfalls, enjoy snow play areas, and experience the serene beauty of Central Oregon's winter landscape.
Snowshoeing Adventures
Explore Bend's pristine winter wilderness on snowshoes with trails for all abilities. Popular areas include Edison Butte Sno-Park, Dutchman Flat, and trails near Mt. Bachelor. Many outfitters offer guided snowshoe tours and equipment rentals for an authentic winter experience.
High Desert Museum Winter Programs
Discover how animals adapt to Central Oregon winters through special exhibits and programs. The museum remains open year-round with indoor exhibits featuring regional wildlife, cultural history, and interactive displays perfect for cold weather days.
Why Winter in Bend is Exceptional
Perfect Snow Conditions
Mt. Bachelor receives an average of 462 inches of snow annually, providing exceptional conditions from November through May. The high elevation and dry climate create the famous "Cascade Concrete" powder that skiers and snowboarders love.
Sunny Winter Days
Unlike many Pacific Northwest destinations, Bend enjoys abundant sunshine even in winter. Blue skies are common, making outdoor activities more enjoyable and providing stunning photography opportunities against snow-covered landscapes.
Diverse Activities
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, winter visitors can enjoy snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, ice skating, and even fat tire biking. The variety ensures everyone in your group finds activities they'll love.
Après Adventure
After a day in the snow, warm up at one of Bend's 30+ craft breweries, enjoy farm-to-table dining, or relax in luxury accommodations. Bend's vibrant downtown and resort amenities provide the perfect ending to active winter days.
Planning Your Winter Visit
Peak winter season runs from mid-December through February, though excellent conditions often extend from November through April. Mt. Bachelor is just 22 miles from downtown Bend, making it easy to combine mountain adventures with town amenities. Book accommodations and popular activities like snowmobile tours in advance, especially during holidays and weekends.
Best Months
December-March for peak conditions
Average Temperature
High 40s°F days, low 20s°F nights
Top Activities
Skiing, snowmobiling, breweries, dining