Spring in Sunriver – Part 2

With the mild winter we’ve experienced in central Oregon this year, we just can’t stop thinking about Spring. Blue skies, comfortable temperatures and longer days are giving us spring fever. That said, here are some more super fun ideas for your spring adventure in Sunriver.

Mountain Biking

There are tons of amazing mountain biking trails in central Oregon. A favorite for us locals is Phil’s Trail. This trail, located just outside of Sunriver, is a system of over 100 miles of interwoven trails. The trails vary from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. Not only is this trail a local favorite, but it’s I one of the most popular in the Pacific Northwest. Find directions from Sunriver here.

Another great ride is the Deschutes River Trail. You may choose to do a portion of the trail or ride the entire thing from Sunriver to Bend or vice versa. With views of lava flows, the Deschutes River and the chance to spot some wildlife, you won’t be disappointed with this ride. There are several access points. Check here for more. Spring bike riding in the area is not to be missed

Mt Bachelor

One of our favorite things about central Oregon is that you can take advantage of all that Mt. Bachelor has to offer through the spring! Ski, snowboard or check out the tubing hill through Memorial Day weekend. There are also some cool events to check out up there through the spring. Check out our other blog post about spring to check those out.

Floating the river

Down in the lower elevations we won’t be waiting for snow to melt to begin those summer-like adventures. Check out some of our favorite favorite local floats for fall here. Though this post was meant for fall, these floats are wonderful in the spring and any time of the year.

Marathons and races

For you runners, Central Oregon has lots of marathons all year long. In March, don’t miss out on the family friendly March Mudness right here in Sunriver. Later in the spring head to Bend for the Salmon Run 10k or 5k runs.

Your A-Z List of Things To Do In Sunriver

There is no shortage of things to do in Sunriver, but it can be difficult to find all of the amazing activities and sights. That’s where our A-Z guide comes in. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of things to do in Sunriver that is sure to keep you busy no matter how long your stay is!

YR = Year Round
Sp = Spring
S = Summer
F = Fall
W = Winter

Art (YR) – From roundabout art in Bend, to a plethora of art galleries throughout the area, there is not shortage of unique and local art to be enjoyed in Sunriver and beyond.

Beer/Breweries (YR) – Known as “Beertown USA”, Bend and the surrounding communities are a hot spot for beer lovers. With well over 20 breweries and counting, the area is home to some of the best beers in the nation. Beer is such an attraction in the area that there is even a Brewery passport you can work on filling up with the Bend Ale Trail. As a guest of Village Properties at Sunriver, you will receive a discount to the Bend Brew Bus, a service that will take you and your crew to breweries in the area.

Cross Country Skiing (W) – Take in scenes that you can only see in the Deschutes National Forest. Cross Country Skiing is a peaceful and rewarding activity that is available at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center or from any of the areas many Sno-Parks.

Dog Sledding (W) – Central Oregon is home to Oregon Trail of Dreams, owned by Rachael Scdoris, her husband Nick and her father, Jerry. Rachael is a world-renowned athlete and had her first Iditarod finish in 2006. Stay warm in the sled while a real dog sled team takes you on an unforgettable winter adventure.

Elevation (YR) – With the Cascade mountains nearby, you can easily gain some elevation in Central Oregon. In the winter, see some epic views and speed down the mountain from the top of Mt. Bachelor on the Summit Express lift. In the summer, Mt. Bachelor offers scenic chairlift rides on the Pine Marten Lift. From mid-mountain you’ll be able to see some breathtaking views. Or, head up in the evening for dinner at the Pine Marten Lodge with sunset views.

Floating the Deschutes (Sp, S, F) – When the days are long and warm, visitors and locals alike love floating the Deschutes River. There are several great spots to put-in throughout Central Oregon. We share just a few of many ideas here.

Golf (Sp, S, F) – With more than two-dozen golf courses, Central Oregon is a must-visit destination for golf-enthusiasts. Be sure to visit a nearby course on your stay, or even plan an entire vacation surrounding golf. As a guest of Village Properties at Sunriver, you will receive discounts at a select few courses in the region.

High Desert Museum (YR) – Discover the natural world and cultural history of the West’s High Desert through artful exhibits, alluring animals, engaging programs and meaningful history at the High Desert Museum. Open all year, this is a fantastic activity for the whole family.

Ice Skating (W) – Ice skating is a necessary family tradition in the winter. The Village at Sunriver offers a newly remodeled Ice arena for this activity. With skate rentals and even a viewing area for those that don’t want to brave the ice, you won’t be sorry you chose this activity.

Jazz (F, W) – Jazz at the Oxford, that is. Currently in its 8th year, Jazz at the Oxford brings world-class artists to the area over 5 separate weekends in the fall and winter. Enjoy fine dining and incredible music in a tranquil setting.

Kayak (Sp, S, F) – With the Deschutes River and too many gorgeous lakes to count, kayaking is a favorite activity in the Sunriver area. If you are visiting and want to try a kayak out, Village Properties guests will receive a discount on kayak and gear rentals at some great local businesses.

Lakes (Sp, S, F) – If kayaking isn’t your cup of tea, simply visiting the lakes for some photo opps is still necessary if you’re in Sunriver. The high mountain lakes are stunning and often make you feel as if you’re standing in a postcard.

Mt. Bachelor (YR) – Mt. Bachelor has an activity for every season. From biking, hiking, site-seeing or disc golf in the warmer months to skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, sled dog rides, snowblast tubing and more in the winter, you will find an activity for everyone up at the mountain.

Nature Center (YR) – A non-profit and educational organization, the Sunriver Nature Center offers hands-on activities, programs and exhibits that will keep the kiddos engaged and interested in the natural world.

Oregon Observatory (YR) – Your gateway to an expanding world of information and natural sciences. The Oregon Observatory at Sunriver offers daytime and nighttime viewing options as well as lots of programs and special events. Be sure to check with the Village Properties staff to see if we can offer you any special deals.

Paddle (Sp, S, F) – As mentioned in the Kayak section above, there are tons of options for paddling your kayak, canoe or even a paddleboard. Regardless of which method of paddling you choose, it’s worth doing while visiting the area. Check out your options at Good 2 Go Food and Fun or Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe. Both great companies will offer guests of Village Properties at Sunriver great discounts.

Quiet (YR) – Picture the snow falling outside and all you hear is the crackling of a fire in your vacation rental. Imagine lying on the shore of the Deschutes River and all you can hear is the water streaming by you, some birds chirping and a light breeze in the trees. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to find some peace and quiet to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Relax (YR) – Sunriver and the surrounding areas offer beauty, nature and more to help you feel rested. Whether you go out for a long walk in the forest, a dreamy paddle on the river or a speedy ride down the mountain on your skis, you’re sure to feel a sense of rejuvenation after visiting the area. If a massage or pedicure sounds more appealing, be sure to check out Sage Springs.

Sledding (W) – There are plenty of winter activities that we could mention here. We chose sledding because it’s an activity that is truly fun for the whole family. Especially at Wanoga Sno-Park.

Tubing (W) – Sno-blast tubing is the name and Mt. Bachelor is the place to go to experience an 800 foot ride, full of rollers. Fun for all ages!

Unplug/Unwind (YR) – Why not come to Central Oregon for a true escape. Come to the quiet, relax and unplug. Turn the phone off and don’t look at your laptop. Instead, bring a book, kick up your feet and let the unwinding begin. Check out Sage Springs, a local club and spa to reserve a massage and/or a pedicure to help you out.

Visit (YR) – So, you came to Central Oregon with your family. Maybe it’s not the best time to unplug. But, it’s the perfect time to visit. Take the time to reconnect with those that you’re with. Walk in nature and just be together. Bond over a cup of coffee while watching the deer stroll through the forest. Visiting with those that you love while in Sunriver is easy.

Walk/Bike (YR) – No matter what Mother Nature is offering you, the miles of paved trails in Sunriver offer endless options for walking and biking. Many of our vacation rentals are in close proximity to the Village at Sunriver and other attractions. The paved trails of Sunriver offer you walking or biking as an option for getting around.

EXplore (YR) – Sunriver and the surrounding areas offer an endless amount of options for exploring. From lakes and rivers to caves and mountains. From the forest and hiking trails to fishing and sightseeing, the options are never-ending. Be sure to check with the Village Properties staff if you have any questions about our area. Our staff is local and very knowledgeable about the area and all it has to offer.

Yoga (YR) – In Sunriver, Sage Springs offers Yoga classes all year round. This beautiful club and spa will not disappoint. Or, grab your mat and take a short walk to enjoy some yoga on your own out in nature.

Zesty food (YR) – There is no shortage of dining options in Sunriver. The area is home to several talented chefs that share their expertise with many tasty restaurants. Remember, Village Properties at Sunriver guests will receive discounts to some of these local restaurants.

Top 5 Reasons to Choose a Vacation Home Rental Instead of a Hotel Room

  1. Kitchen – A vacation home rental will provide you with a full kitchen. This means a full-sized refrigerator, cupboards, a stove and oven plus more. Our Sunriver vacation rental homes come fully-stocked and ready to go. Grab your groceries on the way in and have all the food you love right at your fingertips. Not only is this a comfort of home, but cooking your own meals can be a big money-saver. Having a kitchen while traveling will also make accommodating any dietary restrictions much easier.
  2. Laundry – Our vacation rental homes are stocked with washers and dryers. No need to worry about gathering coins for a load of laundry. Being able to do laundry while traveling will save you time, money and you’ll be able to pack lighter! If you are traveling with the kiddos, you already know how beneficial this option can be.
  3. Live like the locals – With a vacation rental, you’ll most likely be staying within the neighborhoods where locals are living rather than on a main highway with lots of traffic. Be sure to ask our friendly Sunriver staff (all locals) for their insider tips on the best restaurants and activities in our area.
  4. Fur babies – If you travel with your pets, you know that finding a hotel that allows your buddy is not easy. Even when you do find such a location, stuffing you, your family and your pet in one room is never much fun. Give your crew more space, your pet some room to run and, if you find your dog feeling nervous and barking, the living quarters are large enough to allow for some extra noise.
  5. Space – As mentioned above, a vacation home rental provides a lot more space for your family to spread out. No more bickering over who gets to sleep with who; everyone gets their own bed! No more arguing over what to put on the TV; there are usually more than one. Have you forgotten what the word privacy means? How does Mom and Dad having their own room sound? Our home at Duck Pond 6 is a great example of one with TONS of space.

Your Guide to October Events in Central Oregon

Our goal at Village Properties is to provide you with just the right home in Sunriver while giving you plenty of ideas of things to do in the area. Check out our list of October events in Central Oregon as you plan your trip to the area! We hope you enjoy your stay.

Here Are a Few of Our Favorite October Events in Central Oregon:

Bend Fall Festival | October 6 – 8

bend fall festivalOne of our favorite October events in Central Oregon is the Fall Festival. As the light slants and softens, bringing the harvest in its wake, our thoughts turn to the coziness of the fall season. Celebrate with the delights of The First Interstate Bank Bend Fall Festival 2017. All the traditions that you love about this event will be there – pumpkin carving, gourmet food and wine, a harvest market, and outstanding music. New this year is the Fall Into Fashion Area, highlighting a carefully selected group of creators, retailers, and reps for both clothing and accessories which will be featured in street fashion shows.

Prepare to have your appetite whetted by the crispness of the season and an outstanding collection of vendors and do a little holiday shopping in the most unique marketplace in Central Oregon.

Friday, October 6th (5pm – 11pm)
Saturday, October 7th (11am – 11pm)
Sunday, October 8th (11am – 5pm)

Sandhill Cranes | October 12

Join the Sunriver Nature Center for a fascinating introduction to the origins and travels of three Pacific Flyway Sandhill Crane subspecies that breed and migrate through Oregon. For over 20 years, Dr. Gary Ivey of the International Crane Foundation has been actively involved in ecological research, habitat management, and conservation efforts aimed at Sandhill Cranes. Dr. Ivey will provide an intimate look at the unique natural history of this bird and its status throughout Oregon.

The lecture will take place in the Pozzi Building at Sunriver Nature Center.

Project Ponderosa Fall Seedling Sale | October 13- October 22

Project Ponderosa was founded in 2005 by Sunriver resident Lee Stevenson to promote student environmental engagement and Ponderosa Pine restoration in Sunriver, Oregon and the upper-Deschutes River ecosystem. Since the project’s inception, over 8,000 seedlings have been potted and maintained by students at Three Rivers School and La Pine High School and more than $10,000 has been raised to support non-profit organizations both locally and internationally.

Ponderosa Pines are a hardy, majestic native conifer but have been historically heavily logged. However, they are significantly more resistant to disease, mountain pine beetles, drought, and wind damage than Lodgepole Pines. They are also fire resistant when mature, due to their thick cinnamon-colored bark. Planting Ponderosa Pines helps to restore forest diversity in the Sunriver ecosystem while preserving the Sunriver community’s “Tree City USA” catchphrase.

Sunriver Nature Center is proud to support Project Ponderosa through a biannual Ponderosa Pine seedling sale and educational opportunities throughout the year. The fall 2017 seedling sale is scheduled for Friday, October 13 through Sunday, October 22 (closed Monday and Tuesday) at the Nature Center. Seedlings will be available in various sizes and prices will range from $8 to $30. Detailed planting instructions will be provided with all seedling purchases and can be viewed here.

Mushroom Foraging Field Trip | October 20

The Central Oregon Mushroom Club will lead a field trip in search of wild and edible mushrooms in the local area. On this field trip, participants will receive an introduction to fungi diversity and learn to identify different types of mushrooms in the forest. Instruction will also be provided on how to ‘hunt’ and collect mushrooms as well as how to identify mushrooms that are safe for eating.

The field trip is limited to 20 people (adults only, no pets please) and pre-registration is required. Please meet at the Nature Center parking lot by 9:30 am. Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to the National Forest. Individuals planning to collect mushrooms must first obtain a free Forest Products Free Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service office in Bend. Each participant should bring this permit to the field trip. In addition, each individual should bring a wide-bottomed container (bucket, basket) and a sturdy knife or small garden trowel for mushroom collection.

If you’re looking for fun October events in Central Oregon, this one can’t be beat.

FUNgi Day and Mushroom Show | October 21

Join Sunriver Nature Center and the Central Oregon Mushroom Club for a special day dedicated to appreciating and understanding fungi! Mushroom fun for the whole family includes:

  • Guided mushroom walks at 11 am and 1 pm (weather permitting)
  • Mushroom display showcasing a variety of local fungi
  • Meet a local mushroom expert – The Central Oregon Mushroom Club will be ready to answer all of your questions!
  • Identification Station – Bring your fungi specimen or photo for identification
  • Children’s activities and crafts
  • Education stations with information and resources for mushroom enthusiasts of all levels

Transplanting Forest Seedlings: Workshop and Field Trip | October 22

Lee Stevenson, founder of Project Ponderosa, will lead a hands-on workshop at the Sunriver Nature Center. Participants will learn how to identify and transplant a variety of native forest seedlings, including Grand Fir, White Fir, Mountain Hemlock, Snowbush, Manzanita, Mahala Mat, Kinnikinnick, Indian Paintbrush, and more. Information will also be shared about where to find these native species locally and how to successfully collect and transplant them into your own yard.

The first half of the program will be held at the Sunriver Nature Center and then the group will travel to one or more locations within 10 miles of Sunriver for plant collection. Please bring your own pots/containers and shovel if you have one. Participants should also obtain a free Forest Products Free Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service office on Deschutes Market Road in Bend so they can collect transplants during the field trip portion of the program.

This program is limited to 12 participants and early registration is recommended.

The Secret Garden by The Sunriver Stars | October 26 – October 29

Sunriver Stars is an all-volunteer Community Theater group with several October events in Central Oregon. All positions from the Artistic Director on down are non-paid positions and, as such, require a strong commitment to the work at hand.
For the start of the 2018 season Sunriver Stars will present a fun and upbeat adaptation of the 1911 novel of the same name by Frances Hodgson Burnett, produced with permission by Pioneer Drama.

There will be a dinner show on Saturday, October 28th. Ticket purchase includes a reserved seat and dinner before the show. Refreshments will be available for purchase at all shows. $10 for kids and $15 adults. You may purchase tickets here.

Show Dates and Times:
Thursday, October 26th – 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)
Friday, October 27th – 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)
Saturday, October 28th – 7:00 PM
Sunriver Stars is offering dinner show tickets (limit 50) for this performance – your ticket purchase includes a reserved seat and a sumptuous dinner (see menu) before the show.

  • For those with Dinner Show tickets, doors open at 5:30 PM
  • For all other ticket holders, doors open at 6:00 PM

Sunday, October 29th – 3:00 PM (doors open at 2:00 PM)

  • All performances are presented at:
    The Door at Three Rivers in the Sunriver Business Park
    56885 Enterprise Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707

Sunriver’s Tasting Dinner Featuring Bendistillery | October 27

Finally, another of our favorite October events in Central Oregon this year, Sunriver’s October Sunriver Tasting Dinner will feature Bendistillery! At this tasting dinner, you will have the unique opportunity to learn about the inspiration, history, and techniques that were used to craft these spirits and learn why they are a Northwest favorite. The dinner will feature a gourmet autumn-themed five-course meal, specially prepared by the Sunriver’s award-winning culinary team and paired with cocktails featuring spirits from Bendistillery. The tasting dinner will take place at Carson’s American Kitchen, located in the Main Lodge at Sunriver. Cost is $84.37 per person. You can check it out here!

These are just a few of the October events in Central Oregon this year. We hope you enjoy your stay!

Halloween in the Village | October 31

The Village at Sunriver is excited to present Spooktacular fun on Halloween!  Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy trick or treating with the village merchants ans how off their favorite costume during the costume contest where winners will receive frightfully fun prizes.  Join us for bounce house fun, a cupcake walk, ghoulish games at our spooky Halloween party. Event starts at 4pm and continues until 6pm, free of charge.

Plan Your Weekend Staycation In Sunriver

Summer is busy. With the long days and the kids out of school, it seems we are always trying to fit in just one more activity. Planning a vacation in this busy time can be a feat of its own. Why not take a bit of pressure off and plan a vacation close to home – a staycation in Sunriver?

This is a great way to get away from home, from the nagging laundry and that project that’s been staring at you since last Spring. Venture to Sunriver, stay in a home that has all the comforts of home, but without the pesky chores of home, all, without breaking the bank. Here are some thoughts:

A Vacation Rental With a View

Hotels are great for fast-paced travel. But for a relaxing getaway, a vacation home that includes all the comforts of home can’t be beat. Peruse the rentals that Village Properties at Sunriver has to offer. Most all of our vacation rentals offer a deck with comfortable seating and a view. Whether you’re looking out over the river, at a skyline of the mountains, or even a forested wildlife inhabited back area, you’re sure to feel the peace and quiet that Sunriver has to offer. Our homes offer fully equipped kitchens, outdoor BBQ’s, seating for all and so much more. Bring some cool beverages and an assortment of munchies, kick up your feet and let the relaxing begin, without stressing.

BYOG (Bring Your Own Games)

When was the last time you sat down with the family for a classic game of Monopoly? I remember playing with my family for several days. We’d leave the game out on the table for days, returning to see who would own the most hotels and become the richest paper money holder of the game. If we didn’t have Monopoly awaiting us, we would all gather around a table to share in the challenge of piecing together 1,000 pieces or more of a puzzle. These are the memories that I hold near and dear to my heart. These are the times that the kiddos remember; the simple time together. Many of our vacation rentals come equipped with some board games, but be sure to pack your favorites to soak up your money-saving and relaxing staycation here in Sunriver. If you forgot a game, or want to try something new, check out Tumbleweed Toys in the village. You won’t be disappointed.

Bike the Paths

Many of our vacation rentals are stocked with bicycles for the whole family. However, if you find yourself short a bike or two, or want to try a different style, Sunriver has lots of options for bike rentals. Did you know that Sunriver has over 35 miles of paved bike paths? These paths weave throughout the property, giving you views you will never see in a car. The paths zig and zag out to the stables, along the river, through neighborhoods, and under roads through giant tunnels. It’s an experience like no other. Have the entire family hop on a bike and zoom through Sunriver to create memories like never before.

Go Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding is just one of many ways to get out on the water in Sunriver. If this is an activity you’ve always wanted to try, this is the area to try it out. Good-to-Go in the Sunriver Village has rentals for you to take advantage of. They will even pack you some lunches for your adventure so you don’t have to think twice about the day’s needs. With lunch and your paddleboard in hand, head on up to North Twin Lake. This lake is one of the few in the area that prohibits motorized boats. It’s small enough that you can paddle around the entire lake. And, while you’re standing on that board and looking down into the lake, you can see through the clear warm water. In fact, the lake is warm enough that you can paddle out into the middle, working up your body temperature and take a dive off of your board for a swim. This is an experience you won’t want to miss. Elk Lake is another great option for trying out this activity. Elk Lake has a couple of great beaches to set up a day camp and take turns trying out your paddleboard. There is also a resort with a restaurant along the shore of the lake where you can grab a great hamburger and a cold drink. Of course, right here in the neighborhood, you can paddle on down the Deschutes River as well. Put in at Harper’s Bridge and paddle down to the river to the boat launch near Hola. Grab a margarita and some guacamole after your day on the river.

These are just a few of the many relaxing and family-friendly activities that you can find in Sunriver. Check out our past blogs and keep your eye on us for more great Sunriver advice.

Fourth Of July In Sunriver

Independence Day has arrived, and there is no better way to spend our nation’s 241st birthday than with a trip to Central Oregon. Here are some of the ways we’re celebrating the Fourth of July in Sunriver this year.

The Fourth Of July Festival in Sunriver

The Sunriver Fourth Of July Festival takes place at The Village At Sunriver from 10 AM – 4 PM. Register your bike to join us for the bike parade then meet us at 9:30 AM to decorate your bike or float for the big event. From there we’ll depart for the bike parade showing off our red, white, and blue finest by riding through and into the village courtyard.

At 11 AM the festivities begin including musical entertainment, a free barbecue lunch, and visits from our local fire and police departments. Join us for afternoon games such as “Hoops” or “Batter’s Up” or enter the bubblegum blowing contest or watermelon eating contest to show off your talents. And don’t forget to stick around for the musical stylings of local favorite Michael John.

The Fourth Of July Fun Run at Sunriver

Start your morning with Sunriver’s annual Fourth Of July Fun Run. This 5k route features views of the Deschutes River, Mt. Bachelor, and Paulina Peak for a walk or run amidst the beautiful Central Oregon wildlife. Feel free to bring your stroller and your dog for a family outing everyone will enjoy.

Register for the event and then join us on July 3rd from 4 PM – 6 PM in the Abbot Room of the main lodge at Sunriver for check-in and bib pickup. Late check-in is also available the morning of the race on July 4th from 7 AM – 7:45 AM. The race begins at 8:15 AM at the Sunriver and is followed by refreshments, music, and pints at The Backyard.

Frontier Days in La Pine

Only a quick 15-minute drive from Sunriver, La Pine’s Frontier Days are worth a visit. Featuring apple pie contests, a beard and mustache competition, home brew tastings, lawn games, carnival games, a quilting show, and a talent competition, it doesn’t get much more American than the Frontier Days celebration. Plus, if you’ve never seen a “Men’s Beautiful Legs” competition then you’re in for a real treat—there’s even a prize for the “palest” legs!

Frontier Days run all weekend July 1st-4th, check back to see the schedule as we get closer to the holiday weekend and don’t forget to catch the fireworks display July 4th at 10 PM.

The Fireworks Display in Bend

Finally, see the best fireworks display in the area at Bend’s 4th Of July Fireworks Spectacular. Fireworks start at 10 PM and are launched from Pilot Butte State Park. They can be viewed almost anywhere in Bend so long as it’s within view of Pilot Butte. Grab a picnic blanket and a picnic dinner, and lay out under the stars at one of Bend’s many parks or recreation areas.

When the evening is over, come back to your vacation rental at the Village Properties at Sunriver where you can enjoy all the comforts of home and all the adventures of Sunriver. Whether you spend your weekend white water rafting, mountain biking, or visiting the Oregon Observatory, Sunriver has something for the whole family.

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