As the fall colors arrived in Central Oregon, Benham Falls did not disappoint with vibrant orange and yellow leaves on the trees and bushes. Whether you are looking for a mountain biking trail or just a relaxing walk, this short walk/ride up the Deschutes River Trail will take you along the river and through the colorful trees up to Benham Falls.
Located about 20 minutes south of Bend, Benham Falls can be accessed by two trailheads, the Benham Falls East trailhead and the Benham Falls West trailhead. From the East trailhead, it is about a 1.7-mile out-and-back trail along the river. The trail starts off by going over a big wooden bridge.
From the West trailhead, you can park and walk right down to the falls overlook. From the West trailhead, you can also continue on the Deschutes River Trail. For both trailheads, a recreation pass is required. If you are staying in Sunriver, you can actually access a trail that will take you straight to Benham Falls. The 6.7-mile out-and-back trail can be accessed from East Cascade Road in Sunriver.
Right around the middle of October and into November, the fall colors are vibrant and are scattered all over the woods and along the river. During this time, one of the most colorful trees are the Quaking Aspens, which turn a vibrant orange/gold. There are also bright red vine maple trees along the riverbanks and near the falls. Benham Falls itself consists of fast moving rapids, the falls are considered a class 5 rapid with a 22.5 degree pitch making them the largest falls on the upper Deschutes.
Another unique feature to this area is that there is access to the Deschutes Paddle Trail for those who want to kayak down certain sections of the river or even whitewater kayak down Benham Falls. At the East trailhead there is a boat ramp as well as a map in the parking lot showing different sections of the paddle trail. There is also a boat launch located at the Slough day use area, which is about 1.4 miles from the Benham West trailhead.
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The main viewpoint of Benham Falls offers a great view of the falls and the surrounding fall colors.
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If you walk about three minutes down from the main viewpoint of the falls you’ll find a beautiful view of the river and the lava lands right across the way.
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The trail from the East Trailhead is wide and flat making it an ideal walking or running path.
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Mountain bikers even use this trail, the flat terrain is great for an easy ride.
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An upper view of Benham Falls can be seen on the side of the trail.
Although it is not the coolest thing in Central Oregon, Benham Falls still has lots to offer for those seeking time outdoors. Whether it’s getting a short hike in and enjoying the fall colors, easy mountain biking, or even whitewater kayaking, Benham Falls offers accessible and fun activities only 30 minutes outside of Bend, Oregon.
