The Scenic Cascade Lakes Byway: Oregon's Natural Gem

Discover the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in Oregon, a 66-mile journey through pristine lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain views.

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Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in Oregon is a breathtaking route that spans 66 miles through the Cascade Mountain Range. This iconic byway offers stunning views of crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and majestic mountains. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Along the route, you will encounter numerous lakes, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular ones include Elk Lake, known for its beautiful sunsets, and Devil's Lake, famous for its striking turquoise waters. The byway also provides access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is not just about natural beauty; it also offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. You can explore historic sites and learn about the area's geological features. The byway is open from late spring to early fall, making it an ideal summer getaway. Don't forget to bring your camera, as photo opportunities abound at every turn.

Local tips in Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Check the weather forecast before your trip; the byway is best visited in late spring to early fall.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited along the route.
Pack a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails.
Start your journey early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

File:Mount Bachelor closeup.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Sparks Lake, Oregon (2012) - 07.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Devils Lake Central Oregon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mount Bailey lakeview.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mt Thielsen US162.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Art museum and lagoon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:TODD LAKE MEADOW, Deschutes National Forest (23788352862).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mount Bachelor with cyclist.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cascade Lakes Welcome Station (Ranger Station)

Explore the stunning Cascade Lakes in Oregon from the Cascade Lakes Welcome Station, your essential hub for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.

Cascade Lakes

Discover the serene beauty of Cascade Lakes in Oregon, a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes.

Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway

Discover the stunning Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway in Oregon, a breathtaking journey through mountains, lakes, and lush forests.

Cascade lakes scenic byway south

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, where stunning lakes and majestic mountains await every traveler.

Unmissable attractions to see

High Desert Museum

Discover the rich cultural and natural history of the high desert at Bend's renowned High Desert Museum, perfect for all ages and interests.

Drake Park

Discover the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Drake Park, a breathtaking oasis along Mirror Pond in Bend, Oregon.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater

Discover the magic of live music in the stunning Hayden Homes Amphitheater, a premier venue nestled in the heart of Bend, Oregon.

Lava Lands Visitor Center

Explore the geological wonders of Bend, Oregon at the Lava Lands Visitor Center—your gateway to adventure in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

Puzzle Effect Escape Rooms - Bend

Experience the thrill of solving puzzles in Bend's top escape room center, where teamwork meets adventure in a captivating environment.

Puzzle Effect Escape Rooms - Bend

Dive into the excitement of Puzzle Effect Escape Rooms in Bend, where teamwork and adventure come together in thrilling escape challenges.

Dee Wright Observatory

Discover unparalleled views and geological wonders at Dee Wright Observatory, a breathtaking gem along Oregon's McKenzie Highway.

Lava River Cave

Discover the mesmerizing underground world of Lava River Cave in Bend, Oregon, where adventure and nature intertwine in a stunning volcanic landscape.

Pilot Butte Neighborhood Park

Discover the natural beauty and family-friendly amenities at Pilot Butte Neighborhood Park, a top tourist attraction in Bend, Oregon, with stunning views.

Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, a must-visit destination in Bend, Oregon, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Explore the stunning volcanic landscapes and geothermal wonders of Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Oregon, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Hollinshead Park

Experience the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Hollinshead Park in Bend, Oregon, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families.

Oregon Observatory

Experience the cosmos at the Oregon Observatory in Sunriver, where stargazing meets science in a breathtaking natural environment.

Petersen Rock Garden & Museum

Explore the artistic beauty of Petersen Rock Garden & Museum in Redmond, Oregon, featuring unique rock sculptures and tranquil gardens.

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory

Explore the natural beauty and cosmic wonders at Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, a must-visit destination in Oregon.

Essential places to dine

Black Bear Diner Bend

Discover hearty American comfort food at Black Bear Diner in Bend—perfect for families and food lovers alike.

Chick-fil-A

Experience delightful fast food at Chick-fil-A in Bend, Oregon—home of the famous chicken sandwich and warm family atmosphere.

Currents at the Riverhouse

Experience culinary excellence at Currents at the Riverhouse in Bend—where modern French cuisine meets stunning riverside views.

The Original Pancake House

Discover Bend's best breakfast spot at The Original Pancake House - where delicious pancakes meet a cozy atmosphere.

Sonic Drive-In

Experience nostalgic dining at Sonic Drive-In in Bend, Oregon – where classic fast food meets vibrant American culture.

Taco Bell

Experience the vibrant flavors of Taco Bell in La Pine - your go-to spot for tasty Mexican-inspired fast food options.

Tumalo Feed Co. Steakhouse

Discover Tumalo Feed Co. Steakhouse: A premier destination for steak and seafood lovers in Central Oregon's charming landscape.

Anthony's at the Old Mill District

Experience fresh Pacific Northwest seafood with stunning views at Anthony's in Bend's beautiful Old Mill District.

El Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant in Bend – where every meal is a fiesta!

Wendy's

Discover Wendy's in Bend: where fresh ingredients meet fast service for your ultimate burger fix.

KFC

Savor the taste of Southern comfort food at KFC in Bend - where every bite is finger-lickin' good!

Hunan Chinese Restaurant

Discover authentic Chinese cuisine at Hunan Chinese Restaurant in La Pine - a must-visit culinary destination for all food lovers.

Subway

Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Bend, Oregon - your go-to spot for customizable sandwiches and quick meals.

A Broken Angel ~ Vegan Food Cart + Catering

Experience delightful vegan cuisine with a Southern twist at A Broken Angel in Bend, Oregon – where flavor meets compassion.

High Camp Taphouse

Experience the vibrant flavors of Nepalese cuisine at High Camp Taphouse in Sisters, Oregon - a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

McMenamins Pub at Old St. Francis School

Discover the unique charm of McMenamins Pub at Old St. Francis School in Bend, Oregon - where history meets delicious American cuisine and craft brews.

Pour House Grill

Discover the vibrant culinary experience at Pour House Grill in Bend, Oregon, where great food meets a lively sports bar atmosphere.

The Hideaway Tavern

Discover Bend's vibrant sports bar scene at The Hideaway Tavern, where delicious American cuisine meets a lively atmosphere for all ages.

River Pig Saloon

Experience the lively atmosphere of River Pig Saloon in Bend, OR, where delicious grilled cuisine meets craft brews and live entertainment.

Cabin 22

Discover Cabin 22 - a lively sports bar and gastropub in Bend, Oregon, where delicious food meets an exhilarating atmosphere.

Velvet Lounge

Experience the vibrant blend of art, live music, and innovative cocktails at Velvet Lounge in Bend, Oregon.

Corey's Bar & Grill

Discover Corey's Bar & Grill: A must-visit destination in Bend, Oregon, offering delicious grilled food and a vibrant atmosphere for all.

Cascade West Grub & Alehouse

Experience the vibrant taste of Bend at Cascade West Grub & Alehouse, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere for the ultimate dining experience.

M & J Tavern

Discover the charm of M & J Tavern, Bend's favorite bar & grill, where delicious food meets local craft beers in a cozy atmosphere.

Northside Bar and Grill

Experience the best of dining and live music at Northside Bar and Grill in Bend, Oregon - a vibrant spot for food lovers and entertainment seekers.

JC's Bar & Grill

Experience the best of Bend's dining at JC's Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering grill favorites meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Oregon.

Southside Pub Inc.

Discover the heartwarming ambiance and delightful menu at Southside Pub Inc. in Bend, Oregon, a must-visit for food and beer enthusiasts.

The Stihl Whiskey Bar

Discover Bend's vibrant nightlife at The Stihl Whiskey Bar, where an extensive whiskey selection meets a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Volcanic Theatre Pub

Explore the vibrant Volcanic Theatre Pub in Bend, Oregon – a premier live music venue offering great food, craft drinks, and unforgettable performances.

Astro Lounge

Discover the lively atmosphere of Astro Lounge in Bend, Oregon, where American cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in a cozy setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Discover Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-tur]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pleez and thank yuh]
- Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahyj]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
- How are you?Howdy do?
  [haw-dee doo]
- Fine. And you?Jest fine. And yerself?
  [jest fyn. And yer-self?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' yer drift
  [ahynt kach-in yer drift]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKin I take a peek at the grub list, please
  [kin ahy tayk uh peek at thuh gruhb list, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI ain't a meat eater
  [ahynt uh meet ee-ter]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [ba-tuhmz uhp]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up, please
  [ahy rek-uhn ahy'l set-l uhp, pleez]
- Help!S.O.S!
  [ess oh ess]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Ring the Sheriff!
  [ring thuh sher-if]
- Call a doctor!Fetch the doc!
  [fetch thuh dok]
- I'm lostI'm plumb lost
  [ahym pluhm lost]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahym feel-in poor-lee]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [ahym fiks-in tuh pur-chuhs]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-zin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thuh dam-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's mighty pricey
  [thats my-tee prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Y'all kin do a better deal?
  [yawl kin doh uh bet-er deel]
- What time is it?What's the hour, partner?
  [whats thuh ou-er, par-tner]
- It's one o'clockIt's one on the nose
  [its wuhn on thuh nohz]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ee-vuh-nin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yes-t-dai]
- TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
- TomorrowMorn
  [morn]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [eyt]
- 9Nine
  [nahyn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...at?
  [wheres thuh at]
- What's the address?What's the street?
  [whats thuh street]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kin ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kin yuh point it out on thuh map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next hauler?
  [whens thuh nekst hawl-er]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [uh pass to]

History of Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Long before the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway became a popular route for modern travelers, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Klamath, Modoc, and Northern Paiute. These tribes relied on the region's rich natural resources, thriving on fishing, hunting, and gathering. The lakes and surrounding forests held significant cultural and spiritual importance, evident in the numerous artifacts and petroglyphs that have been discovered along the byway.
In the early 19th century, European explorers and fur traders began to venture into the Cascade Lakes region. The Hudson's Bay Company played a pivotal role in the fur trade, with trappers traversing the area in search of beaver pelts. These early expeditions laid the groundwork for future exploration and settlement, marking the beginning of significant cultural exchange between Native Americans and European settlers.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a wave of settlers moving into the Cascade Lakes region, drawn by the promise of land and opportunity. Homesteaders established farms, ranches, and small communities. The construction of logging railroads facilitated the transportation of timber from the dense forests to markets beyond, transforming the local economy. This period of development was crucial in shaping the cultural landscape of the byway.
During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in developing the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Established in 1933 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, the CCC provided jobs and vocational training to young men. In the Cascade Lakes region, the CCC constructed campgrounds, trails, and other infrastructure that still serve visitors today. Their work not only provided immediate economic relief but also left a lasting legacy on the landscape.
In 1989, the Cascade Lakes Highway was officially designated as a National Scenic Byway, recognizing its outstanding scenic, cultural, historical, and recreational qualities. This designation helped to protect the area's natural beauty and promote sustainable tourism. Efforts to preserve the landscape and enhance visitor experiences have continued, ensuring that the byway remains a cherished destination for generations to come.
The latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century has seen a surge in recreational activities along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. With an increasing emphasis on outdoor recreation, the area has become a hub for hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The development of facilities and services to cater to tourists has further cemented the byway's reputation as a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Essentials

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is located in central Oregon. The nearest major airport is Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), approximately 30 miles from Bend, which is the gateway to the byway. From Bend, you can access the byway by car via Century Drive (Highway 46). The journey along the byway itself is best experienced by car, as it stretches for about 66 miles, offering scenic views and numerous recreational opportunities.
The most convenient way to explore Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is by car. Car rentals are available at Redmond Municipal Airport and in Bend. While public transportation options are limited along the byway, you can also consider guided tours that operate from Bend. These tours often include transportation, making them a stress-free option for visitors.
The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in Bend and along the byway, including at gas stations, restaurants, and recreational facilities. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you encounter establishments that do not accept cards.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take standard safety precautions. Keep your valuables secure and avoid leaving them in plain sight in your vehicle. Also, be aware of weather conditions, as roads can become icy or snow-covered in winter. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists along the byway, but it's always best to stay vigilant.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities and hospitals in Bend, which is the nearest major town. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Bend where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan on hiking or engaging in outdoor activities. Layers are advisable due to changing weather conditions. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to observe. Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so renting a car is advisable. Greetings: A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is acceptable. People in Oregon are generally friendly and approachable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and support local businesses. Don’t litter; keep the natural beauty of the byway intact.
To experience Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons of spring and fall when the area is less crowded. Engage in popular local activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Stop by local eateries and breweries in Bend for a taste of regional cuisine and craft beers. Don't miss the chance to visit the various lakes along the byway, such as Sparks Lake and Elk Lake, for stunning views and recreational opportunities.

The Scenic Cascade Lakes Byway: Oregon's Natural Gem

Local tips in Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway