While there’s not a lot of snow to speak of so far in the western mountains, there’s still tons to do mid-winter in the region. In central Oregon, between the best Bend breweries, high-desert hikes, fly-fishing, star-gazing, and golf and grub at Brasada Ranch, there are adventures abound. Things only improve when the snow finally does set in (and it’s beginning to), but no matter what the conditions bring, there are so many compelling routes to take here.
A Brasada Ranch basecamp
There’s hardly a better basecamp for central Oregon outings than Brasada. The sprawling property near the Bend-Redmond airport overlooks countless buttes and mountain peaks and is a mix of trails, cabins, private homes, a lodge, a pair of restaurants, and a fantastic pool and athletic center, all blending rather seamlessly into the high desert surroundings.
For something more convivial, stay at the lodge. If you prefer your own spot to stretch out your wings, go with a well-appointed cabin. Many come equipped with hot tubs and a surprising amount of kitchen gear, should you feel like cooking (there are some great fixin’ options at the general store). But do dine out, as the food on site in tremendously in-form right now. At Wild Rye especially, seasonality is king and there’s hardly a miss on the winter menu.
What to eat? We suggest starting with the fresh-baked Wild Rye rolls, which come with smoked butter and juniper honey. The beer carpaccio is a lesson in plating, gorgeously-served and made up of pickled mushrooms, crushed truffle, allium, harb salad, and, of course, meat. The entrees are equally appetizing, from the raised lamb shank to the Columbia River steelhead. And do not sleep on the small plates, as the salads are some of the best we’ve tried and the chowder, while on the small side, is a sight to behold and teeming with flavor.
Executive chef Karl Holl is running a fine kitchen at the moment, so get in soon. There’s even a Valentine’s Day dinner coming up, among other culinary events at the lodge. And the excellent cocktail program is very much worth your time.
The food is just the surface layer of the multi-faceted ranch. Dive into the heated pool and enjoy the adjoining lazy river and waterslide. Get a sweat in at the airy and modern gym or ditch the kids at the arcade before a massage at the spa. There are pickle ball courts outside and there’s even a stellar 18-hole golf course in Brasada Canyons. The ranch just started offering tours with local outfitters Wanderlust Tours. Packages include snowshoeing treks out to nearby Mt. Bachelor, both during the day and at night (you might even get a meteor shower if you time it right). It’s a great way to seek out snow even if there’s not much to speak of at the ranch.
Where to eat
As mentioned, Wild Rye is the place to go on site. For options nearby, consider the food carts in nearby Redmond for something simple or a health-forward meal at the SCP Redmond Hotel. In Bend, there are too many options to mention, but we’re big fans of the Asian street food of Spork, the classic fare at Drake, the lunch at Jackson’s Corner, and the many great steakhouses downtown.
The Ranch House is located in the main part of the lodge and is a great spot for breakfast, brunch on the weekends, or a more casual lunch or dinner. You can head over to Suttle Lodge for a delicious bite as well, all while taking in views of the lake. The lodge touts and amazing great room with a flickering fire place.
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails in Bend is also of note. The classic joint nails cajun cuisine and the bar program is impressive. Nestle into the bar and let your server guide you through a menu full of winners.
Outdoor adventures
So many adventures, so little time. Per the above mentioned at the ranch, there are also plenty of trails to explore along with bike rentals, equestrian tours, archery, and more. Away from the ranch, there’s no shortage of adventure ops either.
Head over to Smith Rock State Park for some of the coolest, most craggly topography in the entire state. You can watch climbers as you hike along the scenic Crooked River. If you like to chase trout, there are blue ribbon opportunities in both the Deschutes and Fall Rivers. There are also great high mountain lakes in the area.
Skiing and snowboarding is the name of the game at Mt. Bachelor, which is only about 40 minutes from the lodge. Explore underground at the Laver River Caves (home to the longest cave in Oregon) and the Redmond Caves. Mountain biking is prime in these parts with miles upon miles of trails. You can even rent a proper snow-friendly bike (aka fat bikes) when the powder does show up.
For a relaxing day, even in winter, bundle up and rent a SUP and paddle along the Deshutes through Bend. While conditions may be chilly, this part of the west gets 300 (or thereabouts) glorious days of sun a year. There’s even a surf park right in town built along the river.
Other things to do
The most bustling city activities can be found about a half-hour away in Bend, an iconic Oregon town. Here, you’ll find a great beer scene, lots of cool shops, and fantastic parks that generally frame the famed river. Get cozy at the Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge or head over to Deschutes Brewery for some craft beer history and warm confines.
A lot of the flat lands, lined with countless Ponderosa Pines, offer great trekking opportunities, whether you’re birding, Nordic skiing, or just strolling. Find a good map and put it to use. There’s national forest land along with a multitude of great state parks.
There’s also the High Desert Museum for some brain food. Another easy day trip involves heading over to Sisters and enjoying the small town’s many western facades. Grab some ice cream, shop for antiques, or get a great burger at the Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill, a place that looks plucked right out of an old John Wayne film.
