Benham Falls Oregon
Experience the dynamic rapids of the Deschutes River along scenic, accessible forest trails. A peaceful natural escape near Bend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Benham Falls Oregon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the dynamic rapids of the Deschutes River along scenic, accessible forest trails. A peaceful natural escape near Bend.
"Super pretty spot with a lot of options here to hang out by the river, bike, hike from the visitor center."
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to the parking lot can be bumpy and unpaved; drive carefully or consider parking on the side if needed.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
The main path is wide, flat, and well-maintained, great for all ages and abilities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Turbulent Rapids
Deschutes River
Experience the powerful, churning rapids that give Benham Falls its name. A truly mesmerizing natural spectacle.
Scenic River Trails
Deschutes River Trail
Wander along well-maintained paths offering stunning views of the river and surrounding forest. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Near the riverbanks
Keep an eye out for local avian life; cedar waxwings and other birds are often spotted here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Benham Falls
Navigating the Trails and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to the parking lot can be bumpy and unpaved; drive carefully or consider parking on the side if needed.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
The main path is wide, flat, and well-maintained, great for all ages and abilities.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Mostly)
Dogs are welcome on many trails, but check for restrictions in watershed areas.
📸 Capture the Rapids
The 'falls' are more like rapids, but still offer a dramatic and photogenic natural scene.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rough Road Ahead
The road to the parking lot can be bumpy and unpaved; drive carefully or consider parking on the side if needed.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
The main path is wide, flat, and well-maintained, great for all ages and abilities.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Mostly)
Dogs are welcome on many trails, but check for restrictions in watershed areas.
📸 Capture the Rapids
The 'falls' are more like rapids, but still offer a dramatic and photogenic natural scene.
💧 Pack for the Weather
Oregon weather can change quickly; bring layers and be prepared for rain, even on sunny days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Benham Falls to be a pretty spot with easy-to-access river trails, offering great birdwatching and a peaceful nature escape. However, some note that the 'falls' are more accurately described as rapids and the access road can be rough. Despite this, many find the scenery stunning and the short walk well worth the visit for a quick nature immersion.
"The walk from the parking lot is very easy and flat. The trail is wide and gravel so you don't have to worry about where you walk and you can move quite quickly. The word "falls" is used very loosely here because this is not a waterfall at all and is merely a small patch of rapids on a river. In my opinion it is not worth the stop if you are in the area and have limited time."
Joe Desourdie
"Super pretty spot. There is a lot of options here to hang out by the river, bike, hike from the visitor center. The bird watching was great. I love seeing the cedar waxwings."
Jennifer Riedmayer
"Beautiful falls. A short walk down to the landing. The falls is about a 3 mile drive up a dirt road"
Gary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Benham Falls from Sunriver, you'll typically drive north on the Deschutes River Trail access road. The drive itself can be a bit rough and unpaved, so proceed with caution. Many visitors find it's a scenic drive through the forest.
Yes, Benham Falls is accessible by car. There is a parking area, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. If the main lot is full, you might be able to park on the side of the road.
The road leading to the Benham Falls parking area is often described as rough and unpaved, requiring careful driving.
Yes, the Sunriver bike trail connects to Benham Falls, offering a scenic cycling route along the Deschutes River.
Benham Falls is located west of Bend, Oregon. The drive is relatively short, often described as an easy drive from downtown Bend, though the final approach can be on a dirt road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Benham Falls. It's a natural attraction accessible to the public.
Benham Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours.
Typically, there is no parking fee at Benham Falls, but it's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or local regulations, as fees can change.
Yes, you can hike to Benham Falls from Sunriver. The Deschutes River Trail provides a scenic route, and it's also accessible by bike.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and peak seasons tend to be busier, while weekday mornings are generally less crowded. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Benham Falls is generally considered easy. The main trail is wide, flat, and well-maintained, with some paved and gravel sections, making it accessible for most visitors.
The main trail to Benham Falls is described as paved and wide, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing for easier access to enjoy the river views.
Expect to see beautiful rapids on the Deschutes River, surrounded by a forest landscape. The area offers a peaceful nature escape with opportunities for birdwatching.
Yes, the area around Bend, Oregon, is known for its waterfalls. Tumalo Falls is a popular nearby attraction, and the Tumalo Falls Loop trail can lead to multiple cascades.
Visitors can enjoy walking the trails, birdwatching, picnicking, and simply taking in the natural beauty of the Deschutes River rapids. Biking is also popular on the connecting trails.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Look for vantage points along the river trail that offer clear views of the rapids. The 'little bend' mentioned in one TikTok is a particularly scenic spot.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. Consider the direction of the sun to avoid harsh shadows on the water.
Yes, there are areas where you can get close to the riverbanks to capture the power of the rapids. Be mindful of slippery rocks and the force of the water.
For capturing the motion of water, try a slower shutter speed. A tripod is recommended for stability, especially in lower light conditions.
The 'twilight vibes' experienced by one visitor suggest that the atmosphere can be quite magical, especially during golden hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Benham Falls: More Than Just a Waterfall
The accessibility of Benham Falls is a key feature. The trails are generally easy to navigate, with paved and gravel sections that make it suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families and those with mobility concerns. This ease of access allows many to experience the beauty of the Deschutes River without a strenuous hike.
Beyond the rapids themselves, the surrounding environment offers a rich experience. The Deschutes River Trail provides opportunities for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene forest setting. The area is part of the larger Central Oregon landscape, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities.
Navigating the Trails and Access Points
Once parked, the trail to the rapids is generally easy and well-maintained. Visitors often note the trail's width and the mix of paved and gravel surfaces, which contribute to its accessibility. This makes it a popular choice for families with young children and individuals who may not be able to manage more challenging terrain. The trail allows for a pleasant walk with scenic views of the river.
For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, the Sunriver bike trail system connects to Benham Falls, offering a fantastic cycling option. This provides an alternative way to reach the falls and enjoy the surrounding scenery. It's worth noting that while dogs are generally welcome on many trails in the area, specific regulations, particularly within watershed protection zones, should be checked to ensure compliance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit