Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Central Oregon’s Cascade Lakes offer a spectacular escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These lakes, surrounded by majestic forests, volcanic peaks, and diverse wildlife, provide the perfect backdrop for a wide range of activities. Whether you’re looking for a day of thrilling water sports or a tranquil paddle on serene waters, the Cascade Lakes near Bend, Oregon, have something for everyone. Discover the charm and adventure of these natural gems that showcase the region’s unparalleled beauty.

Pro Tip

To make the most of your visit to the Cascade Lakes, it’s recommended to start early in the day to avoid crowds. Bend’s Leave No Trace principles should be followed to minimize human impact on these pristine waters. Remember to pack out all trash, stay in designated areas, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other lake users. Additionally, be prepared for mosquitos during early summer and bring insect repellent to ensure a comfortable experience.

Best Cascade Lakes for Families

Elk Lake: Elk Lake offers a diverse range of activities for the whole family. From angling and windsurfing to kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone in its remarkably clear waters. With the iconic Three Sisters and Mt. Bachelor as a backdrop, Elk Lake provides a picturesque setting. The lake is also home to Elk Lake Resort, where you can rent lakeshore cabanas or even your own floating dock for a unique experience. The resort hosts weekly concerts with local and regional musicians, and nearby hiking trails, such as the Pacific Crest Trail, offer additional exploration opportunities.

Suttle Lake: Suttle Lake embraces the Central Oregon lifestyle with its charming lodge, rustic cabins, and dockside restaurant. Rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to explore the lake, or bring your motorized boat. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with kokanee, brown trout, and native whitefish. The 3.6-mile trail that encircles the lake is perfect for a scenic run, and the swim beach provides a refreshing spot for a dip. Suttle Lake Lodge hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including beer and wine tastings, farm-to-table dinners, live music, and workshops.

Exploring East Lake and Paulina Lake

East Lake and Paulina Lake: East Lake, located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offers rental cabins, RV and tent camping, a marina, a lakeside grill, and a general store. Anglers are drawn to exceptional trout fishing opportunities, including kokanee, rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon, chub, and brown trout. The lake is also surrounded by picturesque wooded shorelines and sandy beaches. East Lake shares its volcanic caldera with neighboring Paulina Lake, the deepest lake in the area. A 20-mile Crater Rim Trail allows for hiking and mountain biking around both lakes. Paulina Lake features a twin waterfall and hot spring pools along its shoreline.

Best Cascade Lakes for Motorized Boats

Cultus Lake: Cultus Lake is a haven for boating enthusiasts, allowing high-speed motorized watercraft along with non-motorized boats. The lake is known for its cold, deep waters and trophy-size lake trout (Mackinaw). Visitors can enjoy the surrounding old-growth forest and dine at the Cultus Lake Resort, which offers classic summer fare and scenic views of Cultus Mountain and South Sister. Rustic cabins and a campground provide options for a mountain lake getaway.

Wickiup Reservoir: Wickiup Reservoir, the second-largest reservoir in Oregon, offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. It is a haven for nesting and migrating birds. The reservoir is popular for fishing, boating, waterskiing, windsurfing, paddling, swimming, and camping. With six campgrounds and easy lake access through boat ramps, visitors can explore the rich waters and cooler deep channels known for brown trout fishing.

The Cascade Lakes near Bend, Oregon, invite you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, tranquil paddling, or exhilarating motorized boating, these lakes offer a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Remember to practice responsible outdoor recreation and respect the natural environment. Plan your visit to the Cascade Lakes today and create unforgettable memories in this breathtaking corner of Central Oregon.