La Pine: Where Volcanic Majesty Meets Lakeside Serenity
Unveiling the Cascade Wonders Near La Pine
The majestic Cascade Range, stretching from British Columbia to Northern California, mesmerizes with its breathtaking scenery, diverse recreational opportunities, and a series of dramatic volcanoes. Among these, Oregon's own geological wonders, including Mount Jefferson, the Three Sisters, Crater Lake, and Newberry Volcano, stand as silent sentinels. While these giants have been dormant for centuries, their forested slopes and elevated lakes create some of the region's most picturesque settings. It is within this splendid backdrop that the inviting town of La Pine, nestled within the Deschutes National Forest, welcomes visitors.
Situated just 30 miles south of Bend, known for its stunning vistas and artisanal breweries, La Pine offers convenient access to a wealth of natural attractions. A mere 15-minute drive north leads to La Pine State Park, a natural haven bordering the Upper Deschutes River. This park boasts 14 miles of multi-use trails and exceptional trout fishing. Visitors can stroll along an ADA-accessible path to admire 'Big Tree' or 'Big Red,' a remarkable ponderosa pine towering 162 feet and over 500 years old. Camping here provides an ideal base for exploring regional gems like Crater Lake National Park, just 60 miles southwest, renowned for its pristine air quality and spectacular hiking paths.
Exploring the Vibrant Core of La Pine, Oregon
La Pine holds the distinction of being Oregon's youngest city, officially established in 2006. However, its role as a pivotal point in the Cascade foothills predates its official incorporation by many years. French fur traders in the 19th century recognized the area's potential for settlement, and since then, the community has steadily grown to become home to approximately 2,500 residents, with nearly 20,000 living in the broader surrounding area. With an average of 300 sunny days annually, La Pine provides an excellent gateway to central Oregon's most coveted hiking trails, campgrounds, and state and national parks.
Outdoor adventures often ignite a hearty appetite, and La Pine is well-equipped to satisfy with a diverse culinary scene. Begin your day at Rise N Shine Breakfast and Brunch, a popular local food truck serving a rotating menu of breakfast burritos and burgers in a laid-back, backyard setting. For more food truck delights, explore The Chubby Duck or visit Wetlands Taphouse, which hosts a variety of guest trucks like LaChapelle's Pizza, Fat Kat BBQ, Fish Lips, and Corn Dog Company. Dining options for lunch and dinner include The Harvest Depot for comforting classics, Cinco de Mayo Mexican Restaurant, and Badlands Artisan Distillery. For locally crafted beverages, Legend Cider Company offers a refreshing experience.
As evening approaches, choose from various accommodation options, such as vacation rentals at DiamondStone Guest Lodges. Alternatively, a 20-minute drive north leads to Sunriver Resort, offering a luxurious escape with stunning natural surroundings, just 15 minutes from Bend. For those inclined towards rustic charm, the area's top-tier camping sites await.
Embracing the Cascade Range's Splendor Around La Pine
To the east of La Pine, a myriad of hiking trails awaits around Paulina Lake and the expansive, active Newberry Crater—a colossal caldera spanning 17 miles. A mere half-hour drive from downtown La Pine brings you to Paulina Falls, a magnificent cascade plunging from Paulina Creek, originating from Paulina Lake. This area is also home to Paulina Lake Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, accommodating tents and RVs of all sizes.
On the opposite side of the volcano lies East Lake, which, alongside Paulina Lake, presents abundant opportunities for camping, fishing, paddling, and birdwatching. East Lake and Cinder Hill Campgrounds both offer convenient access to the water, providing spectacular views of the surrounding caldera. Numerous unforgettable hiking trails meander around the lakes, affording astonishing vistas of the volcano. Among these is the Paulina Lakeshore Loop #3955, a 7-mile trail tracing the perimeter of Paulina Lake. For a more rigorous challenge, embark on the Paulina Peak Trail, a 6.1-mile out-and-back route to the summit of its namesake mountain, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views over Newberry National Volcanic Monument's vast conifer forest and shimmering lakes.