Best of Central Oregon

High Desert Museum [1]: Curators at this indoor-outdoor museum have dared to mix it up, creating exhibits focusing on contemporary Native American life, the development of the West, photography, and wildlife. Don’t miss the outdoor exhibits.

Mount Bachelor [2]: Enough snow to cover the stumps and enough sun to ease the seasonal affective disorder of western Oregon skiers and snowboarders. When the weather permits, be sure to ride the Summit Lift all the way to the top of the mountain.

Deschutes River Trail [3]: In and around Bend, this trail ushers runners, walkers, and bicyclists along the Deschutes. With a map and a little practice, cyclists can ride from downtown Bend all the way to Benham Falls, with less than a mile on the roadway.

Metolius River [4]: Visit the headwaters of the Metolius, where the water emerges from hillside springs and immediately gets about the business of being a full-size river. The cool, clear Metolius is a favorite of anglers.

Smith Rock State Park [5]: Famed for its rock climbing, Smith Rock has just as much to offer hikers. Bring plenty of water and binoculars to search for golden eagles on the cliffs.

Museum at Warm Springs [6]: Not only does this museum display a wide variety of Native American artifacts, it also evokes the experience of the Warm Springs people through both audio and visual exhibits portraying the cultures of the Paiute, Warm Springs, and Wasco people who make up the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.