1.
Around the Bend
This incredible journey begins in Bend, the heart of Oregon recreation. The Central Oregon Welcome Center on U.S. Route 97 houses the Bend Chamber’s Visitor and Convention Bureau and offers an excellent overview of the entire region. Before heading for the high country, wander through downtown and enjoy Drake Park, where the Deschutes River pauses to reflect snowy Cascade peaks. Follow the signs from here to Mt. Bachelor and the Cascade Lakes.
2.
Century Drive
From the outskirts of town, Century Drive (Oregon Route 372) climbs steadily into the Deschutes National Forest. Just beyond the forest boundary, Forest Service Road 41 accesses hiking, fishing, rafting, kayaking, canoeing and camping spots on the Deschutes River. A few miles farther on, a vast lava flow that altered the river’s course can be seen from the road.
3.
Mt. Bachelor
After passing a handful of Sno-Parks, the horizon is dominated by the enormous cone of Mt. Bachelor, one of the nation’s top ski resorts. Great snow typically lasts through June. During summer, the Summit Express lift takes sightseers to the 9,065-foot peak. The dramatic 360-degree view overlooks a volcanic skyline stretching from California to Washington.
4.
The High Mountain Playground
The view from Dutchman Flat at the base of Mt. Bachelor should look familiar. The panorama of Broken Top and the Three Sisters has been featured in movies like "Homeward Bound" and "Rooster Cogburn." A short drive and walk from the Byway, Todd Lake is the first of many Cascade gems. Mt. Bachelor and Broken Top loom at opposite ends. As the Byway drops down to a large meadow, you’ll find Sparks Lake, chosen as the site to commemorate Ray Atkeson, Oregon’s photographer laureate.
Next, you’ll arrive at the emerald waters of Devils Lake, a popular picnic and camping spot. Continuing south, Elk Lake has a marina and a rustic lodge. Neighboring Hosmer Lake attracts fly-fishermen who catch and release its Atlantic salmon.
5.
More Lakes
As the Byway descends, you’ll reach Lava Lake, with resort facilities and camping, and Little Lava Lake, the headwaters of the Deschutes River. The river meanders through a lush meadow next to the Byway as you head toward Cultus Lake and Crane Prairie Reservoir. Deer, marmots and porcupines are a few of the wild creatures to watch for along the Byway. For a unique wildlife-viewing experience, take the short trail to Crane Prairie’s osprey observation point.
6.
Still More Lakes
Beyond Crane Prairie, Forest Service Road 42 heads east, past Wickiup Reservoir and Twin Lakes, to U.S. Route 97. The Scenic Byway, however, continues south to Davis Lake, a large, shallow lake with dozens of campsites and even more species of waterfowl. The Byway ends at Oregon Route 58, near Crescent and Odell lakes, two more favorite recreation sites with complete resort facilities.
For a free vacation guide or more information, contact the Central Oregon Visitors Association at 800-800-8334, or call the Bend Chamber’s Visitor and Convention Bureau at 800-905-2363.