Geographic Attractions

Lava Cast Forest
Fourteen miles south of Bend....This large forest of lava tree molds is located opposite of the Sunriver turn-off, south of Bend on Highway 97. Turn east on Forest Road 9720 and proceed nine miles to the trail head, within the Deschutes National Forest. A paved, self-guided nature trail wanders by many examples of vertical and horizontal tree molds or casts in the lava. No admission charged.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Newberry National Volcanic Monument within the Deschutes National Forest was established Nov. 5, 1990. The monument includes these areas: Newberry Crater, Paulina Peak, Paulina Falls, Lava Cast Forest, Lava River Cave, (Fees for Lava River Cave are: Adults, $2.50, Children 13-17 yrs. $2.00, Children 12 and under, free.)  Lava Butte/Lava Lands Visitor Center, Benham Falls and many other interesting features of our volcanic past. Located 37 miles southeast of Bend is the largest ice-age volcano in Oregon. Several catastrophic eruptions formed the five mile wide caldera called Newberry Crater. Within the crater lie East and Paulina Lakes (known for their excellent trout fishing), a lava flow of black glass (obsidian), Paulina Falls and Paulina Peak. In the winter, roads into this area are plowed for the first ten miles to the Sno-park (permits required). Travel 24 miles south of Bend on Highway 97, turning east on County Road #21 (look for signs).

Glass Buttes Complex
Named for an abundance of glass on the surface (a favorite of rockhounds). The buttes lie just off Highway 20 East of Bend.

Rock Hounding
Agate, thundereggs, jasper, crystal nodules and obsidian may all be found in Central Oregon. Annual rockhounding Pow Wows are held in Deschutes,Crook and Jefferson Counties. More information and displays can be found at Petersen's Rock Garden, located between Bend and Redmond - 382-5574, and at House of Rocks between Bend and Sisters - 385-5200.

Petersen Rock Garden & Museum
Nine miles north of Bend. As a hobby, over a period of 17 years, the late Mr. Petersen created this quaint, four-acre park of miniature bridges, towers, terraces, and buildings; all made in intricate detail using different types of rocks. Supported only by donations at the gate and a gift shop, the grounds include a museum, small picnic area, lily ponds, and a few roaming peacocks. Open 365 days a year. Located north of Bend off Highway 97 approximately nine miles, turn left at 61st Street and follow the signs.

Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is known world wide for rock climbing. The best time to watch the climbers is in the morning or evening. Rock climbing has become more popular on a recreational level due to the addition of easier routes. The park also offers a day use area with picnic facilities and trails for the adventurous hiker wishing to explore.