Deschutes National Forest

On the sun-drenched eastern slopes of the Oregon Cascades, Deschutes National Forest encompasses 1.6 million acres of dramatic volcanic landscapes that make it one of the most geologically fascinating forests in the Pacific Northwest. Newberry National Volcanic Monument protects a massive shield volcano featuring two summit crater lakes, a mile-long obsidian flow, and lava tube caves, while vast lava fields from relatively recent eruptions stretch across the forest floor. Mount Bachelor, rising to 9,065 feet, anchors one of the premier ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest with over 4,300 acres of skiable terrain and reliable dry powder snow. The Deschutes River carves through the forest in a spectacular canyon, providing world-class fly fishing for wild redband trout and thrilling whitewater rafting through class III and IV rapids near Bend. An extensive trail system includes the popular Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway corridor, where dozens of alpine lakes -- including Sparks Lake, Todd Lake, and the Three Creek Lake area -- offer outstanding paddling, swimming, and lakeside camping beneath volcanic peaks. The forest's proximity to the booming outdoor recreation hub of Bend has made it one of the most heavily used national forests in Oregon, with mountain biking, trail running, and rock climbing at Smith Rock adding to its year-round appeal.