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    Hikes/United States/Oregon/Bend

    Benham Falls

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5-1h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    3.4 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    27 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Overall Rating
    This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
    9.8
    Physical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Technical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Read Reviews
    Directions to Trailhead
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    Panorama from the Benham Falls hike near Bend, Oregon

    The famous Benham Falls are a gorgeous sight. This family friendly walk along the Deschutes River near Bend is a gem of a hike.

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    Route Description for Benham Falls

    Head down to the boat launch from the parking lot, then turn right to begin along the river. The flat trail will shortly reach a bridge, onto which you will turn left to the cross the river. Here the trail will widen and continue beside the gushing creek.

    Soon you will reach the first large section of whitewater. This huge set is incredible and is only the beginning of the impressive water features along this hike. Your ears will be filled with the sound of crashing water.

    You will pass by several other turnoffs that offer views of the river. We recommend taking all of them, as they each offer a unique view of the intense rapids. Finally, you will reach the Benham West Trailhead and the falls.

    After enjoying the falls we recommend continuing a short ways further to enjoy a quick view of the (relatively) peaceful river just below the falls before turning around.

    Insider Hints for Benham Falls

    • The boat launch at the beginning of the hike is a perfect place for a pre or post hike dip.
    • The trail is also open to bikes, so stay vigilant when hiking.
    • A Northwest Forest Pass, National Parks Annual Pass, or a $5 day-pass (available at trailhead) is required to park.

    Getting to the Benham Falls Trailhead

    From Bend, head south along US-97 for just under 17.7 km.  Turn right onto Crawford Road with signs for the Lava Lands Visitor Center. Continue down this road for 6.4 km until it ends and park in a small dirt parking area that fills up fast.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      Year Round

    • Backcountry Campsites

      None

    • Toilets

      At trailhead

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Benham Falls Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Benham Falls Reviews

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