Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oregon Badlands Wilderness.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Discover the majestic Oregon Badlands Wilderness, a nature preserve offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless hiking trails in the heart of central Oregon.
The Oregon Badlands Wilderness offers an enchanting escape into nature, where tourists can explore stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless trails perfect for hiking and photography.
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oregon Badlands Wilderness.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Car
If you are driving from Bend, Oregon, head east on NE 3rd St toward NE Greenwood Ave. Continue straight onto US-20 E. After approximately 15 miles, take a right onto Badlands Loop Road. Follow Badlands Loop Road for about 6 miles until you reach the Oregon Badlands Wilderness parking area. The parking lot is well-marked.
Public Transportation
Take the Cascades East Transit bus (Route 1 or Route 2) from downtown Bend to the nearest stop at the intersection of US-20 and Badlands Loop Road. This ride takes about 30-40 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a 6-mile walk to the Oregon Badlands Wilderness. Alternatively, you may consider using a taxi or rideshare service for the last leg of your journey to reach the parking area directly.
Bicycle
For those interested in cycling, you can bike from Bend to the Oregon Badlands Wilderness. Start by heading east on US-20 E. The ride is approximately 15 miles and can take around 1-2 hours depending on your speed. The route is mostly flat but be cautious of traffic. Once you reach Badlands Loop Road, you can follow it to the parking area.
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