The Oregon Coast is king when it comes to waterfront drives in Oregon, with its 363 miles and three distinct regions providing endless scenic vistas and points of interest for road trippers. But the Pacific is not the only brilliant body of water for which Oregon lays claim; the Columbia, Rogue, and Deschutes are also celebrated for their immense beauty and opportunities for recreation. Today, we’re taking a scenic drive along the Deschutes River, a treasure in Central Oregon that’s sure to capture your heart.

Today's road trip adventure brings us to Central Oregon, where we'll enjoy a scenic drive along the Deschutes River. The trip spans 145 miles and takes about 3.5 hours, not including stops at various points of interest along the way. Check out the Google Map to plan and customize your trip!
Google Maps
This scenic drive along the dashing Deschutes River beings in Maupin, Oregon. An underrated river town about 45 minutes south of The Dalles, Maupin is a mecca for all types of outdoor recreation, from hiking and trail running to kayaking and whitewater rafting.
Maupin, OR 97037, USA
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Fun fact: Maupin is colloquially referred to as "The Gateway to the Deschutes River," making it the perfect starting point for this scenic drive.
Traveling south, we pass through the town of Terrebonne, Oregon, best-known as the home of Smith Rock State Park.
Terrebonne, OR, USA
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If you're into water recreation, the Crooked River winds right through the park and is a big bucket-list accomplishment for kayakers.

For cyclists looking to turn this scenic drive into a multi-day adventure, the Oregon Scenic Bikeway state designated cycling route along the Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway features an incredible 37-mile ride to and from the town of Sisters to Smith Rock. On the way, you’ll cruise past pine forests, fields of desert sagebrush, and the Deschutes River with plenty of dramatic views along the entire route.
Continuing south, we arrive in beautiful Bend, where the dazzling Deschutes is the literal town centerpiece.
Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St, Bend, OR 97702, USA
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Bend is a mecca for outdoor recreation of all varieties, with its central location making it well-positioned for year-round fun like skiing Mt. Bachelor, springtime waterfall chasing, autumn hiking the Cascades, and summer paddling the Deschutes. If you're looking for an organized adventure, check out Wanderlust Tours, which offers year-round excursions in the wondrous wilds of Bend, Oregon!

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Nestled in the High Desert of Central Oregon, Sunriver appears out of the blue, like a magical mirage.
Sunriver, OR 97707, USA
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Enjoy a slow, scenic drive southward along the Deschutes, taking in the desert views as you go.

If you're looking for a place to break for the night (or longer!), the Sunriver Resort is easily one of the most dreamy destinations in Oregon.
As we head into the final leg of our drive, it's time for a quick detour to chase a waterfall.
Benham Falls, Oregon 97702, USA
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Benham Falls is a hidden gem waterfall you'll find along the Deschutes, just south of Bend. While more of a series of cascades than your standard waterfall, Benham Falls is nevertheless a stunning scene along an accessible, 1.5-mile trail.
The Deschutes ends (or starts, depending on how you choose to tackle this trip) in Little Lava Lake, a beautiful body of water just south of Bend that's a favorite for kayaking and paddling.
Little Lava Lake, Oregon 97703, USA
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
Pictured here is the nearby Lava Lake, the diminutive lake's neighbor that's more than twice its size!
If you're looking for a *lucky* little detour, you'll find the aptly named Lucky Lake along the Cascade Lakes Highway. This alluring lake boasts crystal-clear waters and mountain views for days. It's so small that it is unnamed on most maps -- but the reward of finding it is worth the work.
Lucky Lake, Oregon 97413, USA
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You'll find this hidden gem near Lava Lake near the eponymous Lucky Lake Trail. From Bend, travel 38.8 miles west on Cascade Lakes Highway (46) on the west side of the highway -- you can view a map at the USDA Forest Services website.

When was the last time you took off on a scenic drive through Central Oregon? The Deschutes River offers epic vistas and scenic splendor, as well as myriad opportunities to get out and enjoy amazing outdoor recreation in Oregon!

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