Trying your first guided adventure can be exciting — and a little nerve-wracking. Whether you’re rafting the Deschutes River, hiking at Smith Rock, or tubing along gentle river sections, safety should always come first. Here’s a guide to make your first adventure both safe and enjoyable.

Smith Rock State Park in Central Oregon is a world-renowned destination for climbing and hiking. Its dramatic cliffs, challenging trails, and stunning vistas attract adventurers from across the country. But if you’re visiting for the first time, you may be asking: Do you need a guide at Smith Rock? This guide explains when a guide is beneficial, the safety and skill advantages they provide, and how guided trips can enhance your experience.

Bend, Oregon, is home to some of the most exciting local events and festivals in the Pacific Northwest.

Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park is one of Central Oregon’s most iconic hikes—but its name has many hikers wondering: just how hard is it? With breathtaking views of the Crooked River Canyon and towering rock walls, it’s a bucket-list trail—but it also demands preparation, fitness, and strategy. This guide breaks down the difficulty, what to expect on the trail, and tips to make your hike safer and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing walk along the river or a challenging mountain summit, Bend offers trails that suit all abilities. Explore the beauty of Central Oregon on foot and create unforgettable outdoor memories.

If you’re wondering whether Bend, Oregon, is a great destination for rafting, the short answer is yes—and for a variety of reasons. Nestled in the high desert with quick access to rivers, canyons, and mountain streams, Bend offers some of the most reliable and scenic rafting experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Here’s why Bend is ideal for both beginner paddlers and seasoned rafters looking for adventure.

From towering volcanic peaks to world-class rivers and desert canyons, Central Oregon offers one of the most diverse outdoor playgrounds in the United States. Whether you're hiking, rafting, climbing, or exploring the high desert, the region delivers year-round adventure with scenery you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s why Central Oregon consistently ranks as a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts—and why more travelers are choosing Bend as their basecamp for unforgettab

When you book an outdoor adventure—whether it’s hiking, rafting, or exploring the high desert—your guide is the most important safety tool you have. In places like Central Oregon, where conditions can shift quickly and terrain varies wildly, a professional local guide dramatically reduces risk while elevating the entire experience.

dramatically change your hiking or rafting experience. Whether you're exploring Smith Rock’s iconic cliffs or paddling the Deschutes River, knowing how the seasons affect conditions can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a miserable one. Here’s your complete guide to how weather shapes outdoor experiences in Central Oregon—and how to plan like a local.

Rafting on the Deschutes River is an unforgettable experience, but timing can make a big difference — especially for beginners or families. Understanding the seasonal changes, water levels, and local conditions will help you plan a safe and fun adventure.

River tubing is one of the most fun and relaxing ways to enjoy the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon. Whether you’re floating solo, with friends, or with the whole family, tubing offers a unique perspective of the river’s beauty. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your river tubing adventure.

Bend, Oregon, is a playground for families who love the outdoors. With rivers, trails, and parks just minutes from town, there’s no shortage of adventures suitable for kids and adults alike. Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly activities with Bend Backcountry.

Snowshoeing is low-impact, beginner-friendly, and peaceful. It gets you away from the ski resort crowds and into Oregon’s wild winter landsc

Bend, Oregon, isn’t just about thrilling adventures on the river or hiking trails — it’s also home to an incredible variety of wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re floating down the river, hiking through Smith Rock, or tubing along gentle sections of the Deschutes, keeping an eye out for local flora and fauna can make your adventure truly unforgettable.

Smith Rock State Park is one of Oregon’s most iconic landscapes, attracting hikers, climbers, and nature lovers from around the world. Guided hikes offer the perfect way to explore its dramatic cliffs, scenic overlooks, and unique wildlife safely — no matter your skill level. Here are some of the top guided hikes you can experience with Bend Backcountry.

When I moved to Bend, Oregon, my passion for adventure found the perfect home. Smith Rock State Park became my year-around playground, offering rock climbing, scenic hikes, diverse wildlife, and even legal BASE jumping and paragliding nearby. I spend summers floating the Deschutes River, and much of the rest of the year speed flying down the steep terrain of Pine Mountain and discovering the best ways to experience Central Oregon’s incredible landscapes.