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.

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.

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.

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.