CATEGORY: | Area News

🎆 Sunriver

The Village at Sunriver: Bike Parade & Festival (11 am–3 pm)

Family-friendly bike parade—decorate your ride in red, white & blue; proceeds benefit local charities. bendparksandrec.org+10visitcentraloregon.com+10visitcentraloregon.com+10

Carnival-style festivities: live entertainment, pony rides, rock wall, balloon art, games and contests. Some activities cost $1–$5.

Fun Run & Additional Events

Join the 5K Fun Run (usually early morning), with a commemorative pint glass and post-race drink. 

Stick around for music in the Sunriver Resort Backyard (6:30–8:30 pm), complete with food and drinks available. villageatsunriver.com+5sunriverchamber.com+5facebook.com+5

Nearby Celebrations

No fireworks in Sunriver—but Bend’s spectacular show on Pilot Butte is easily visible with a short drive. 

Consider heading south to La Pine’s rodeo kickoff and fireworks. 

🎉 Bend

1. Bend Pet Parade (Start 8:30 am; Parade 9:30 am)

A Centuries-old tradition since 1924: dress up pets (or stuffed animals!), beginning at Harmon Park and finishing at Drake Park. sunriverchamber.com+4visitcentraloregon.com+4allthingsbend.org+4

Fun detail: lemonade and popsicles are handed out to participants. bendparksandrec.org+1tetherow.com+1

2. Bend Freedom Float (10 am–4 pm)

Float the Deschutes River from Riverbend Park to Drake Park with festive vibes. Don your red, white & blue and reserve your Ride the River shuttle pass. visitcentraloregon.com+1bendmagazine.com+1

3. Fireworks at Pilot Butte (10 pm)

A 20-minute fireworks extravaganza viewable from many spots—Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, Providence Park, or Ponderosa Park. visitcentraloregon.com+3visitcentraloregon.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3

4. Celebration at Tetherow Resort

After the parade, head to Tetherow (noon–5 pm): enjoy slip‑n‑slides, bounce houses, crafts, lawn games, treats, fairy hair and water fun. tetherow.com+1bendmagazine.com+1

As evening falls, relax by fire pits with festive cocktails before watching the fireworks from the lodge’s vantage.

🌄 Outdoor & Dining Highlights

Scenic Day Trips

Benham Falls Trail (just north of Sunriver): an easy hike through forest to viewing platforms—great pre- or post-festival. 

In Bend: picnic and swim at Tumalo State Park by the Deschutes River. bendmagazine.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3visitcentraloregon.com+3

Soak up local quirk at Petersen Rock Garden, just north of Bend. en.wikipedia.org

Dining Spots 

Century Commons (Sunriver): Offering a unique blend of local craft beers, ciders, kombuchas on tap, and a diverse selection of food carts, we're set to become your new favorite spot. Whether you're craving a cold brew or a bite from our variety of on-site food carts, Century Commons has something for everyone.  Dining here is always a treat—delicious food, great atmosphere, and something for everyone to enjoy. You’ll leave full and already planning your next visit!

Explore the Old Mill District for dining, shopping, and strolling along scenic riverfront trails. visitcentraloregon.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2oldmilldistrict.com+2

🌤️ Weather Tips

Expect pleasant 75°F (24 °C) on July 4th, with sun to partly cloudy skies. Pack layers—nights can dip to the low 40s°F (~5 °C).

✅ Planning Pointers

Shuttle & parade logistics: For River floats and events like the Freedom Float, reserve your Ride the River shuttle pass in advance. visitcentraloregon.com

Fire safety: No personal fireworks in Bend or Sunriver—attend official displays only.

Pet care: For summer events like the Pet Parade, bring water/shade for your pet and review heat-safety tips.

Festival costs: Sunriver bike parade and games may charge $1–$5 per activity; festival entry may benefit charities.

✨ Final Take 

Celebrate Independence Day surrounded by towering pines, riverside trails, and small-town charm. From festive parades and river floats to scenic hikes and cozy meals, you’ll soak in the best of Central Oregon's summer magic.

If you’re looking for the ultimate winter escape, Mt. Bachelor in Central Oregon should be at the top of your list. Renowned for its expansive terrain, world-class snow conditions, and stunning views, Mt. Bachelor offers a unique and thrilling experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Plus, Mt. Bachelor is experiencing a remarkable winter season thus far, boasting some of the highest snowfall totals among Oregon’s ski resorts. As of January 5, 2025, Mt. Bachelor reported a base depth of 107 inches, and a season total of 234 inches.

These impressive snowfall amounts have created excellent conditions for skiers and snowboarders at Mt. Bachelor.

With such abundant snowfall and favorable conditions, Mt. Bachelor continues to be a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience on the slopes.

Mountain Resort Properties is an excellent choice for lodging when visiting Mt. Bachelor. We offer a variety of accommodations, including vacation rentals, cozy cabins, and larger homes, catering to groups of all sizes. Conveniently located in Sunriver, just a short drive from Mt. Bachelor, Mountain Resort Properties provides easy access to the mountain’s world-class skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

After a day on the slopes, unwind in a property equipped with modern amenities, such as private hot tub, fireplace, wifi and fully stocked kitchens.

Mountain Resort Properties offers a comfortable and welcoming basecamp for your adventures at Mt. Bachelor. Create your memories today!

https://www.ExperienceSunriver.com

Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Sunriver stands as a testament to the region’s natural splendor and outdoor allure. A destination that effortlessly blends adventure and relaxation, Sunriver beckons travelers seeking solace in nature’s embrace and exhilarating escapades alike. From its pristine landscapes to its wealth of recreational opportunities, Sunriver offers an unforgettable vacation experience for all.

Discovering Sunriver
Sunriver captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and abundant recreational offerings. Tucked along the banks of the Deschutes River, this charming community serves as a gateway to the wonders of the Cascade Range and beyond. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Sunriver promises an array of activities to suit every taste.

Outdoor Adventures
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sunriver is a veritable playground. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, the possibilities are endless. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through lush forests and meandering rivers, or embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting excursion down the Deschutes. Anglers will delight in the abundance of trout-filled waters, while golfers can test their skills on world-class courses set against breathtaking backdrops.

Family-Friendly Fun
Sunriver is also the ideal destination for families seeking quality time together. Spend sun-soaked days splashing in the sparkling pools, traversing the treetops on ziplines, or bonding over a friendly game of miniature golf. Kids will love exploring the nature centers and wildlife reserves, where they can learn about the region’s rich ecosystem and encounter native species up close.

Relaxation and Renewal
Amidst Sunriver’s boundless activities lies ample opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Unwind in a cozy vacation rental from Mountain Resort Properties nestled amidst towering pines, where the soothing sounds of nature provide the perfect soundtrack to your retreat. Indulge in a spa day complete with luxurious treatments designed to melt away stress and restore balance to mind, body, and spirit.

Sunriver Vacation Rentals
When it comes to accommodations, Mountain Resort Properties offers a diverse array of options to suit every traveler’s needs. From quaint cabins and rustic lodges to spacious vacation homes and luxurious condos, there’s something for everyone. Many rentals boast amenities such as free SHARC access, private hot tubs, cozy beds and gourmet kitchens, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Planning Your Escape
As you plan your Sunriver getaway, be sure to consider the myriad activities and attractions available year-round. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventure or serene relaxation, Sunriver delivers an unparalleled vacation experience amidst the natural beauty of Central Oregon. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Sunriver, where adventure awaits at every turn.

Mountain Resort Properties-Sunriver Vacations Made Simple!

Sunriver, Oregon, is a popular vacation destination known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, beautiful natural scenery, and family-friendly activities. Here are some things to do in and around Sunriver:

Biking: Sunriver has an extensive network of bike paths and trails, making it a great place for cycling enthusiasts. You can rent bikes locally and explore the area.

Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails in the nearby Deschutes National Forest, offering opportunities for all skill levels.

River Activities: The nearby Deschutes River and Cascade Lakes provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Golf: Sunriver and the surrounding areas have wonderful golf opportunities.

Skiing and Snowboarding: In the winter, you can visit nearby Mount Bachelor for skiing and snowboarding.

The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is a great place to learn about the local wildlife and stargazing.

High Desert Museum: This museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the High Desert region, featuring exhibits, live animals, and interactive displays.

Lava Lands Visitor Center: Located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, this center provides information about the area’s volcanic history. You can also explore the Lava River Cave or hike the Lava Butte Trail.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: This scenic drive takes you through stunning landscapes and offers access to various lakes, viewpoints, and hiking trails.

White Water Rafting: The nearby Deschutes River offers opportunities for thrilling white water rafting adventures.

Festivals and Events: Check the local event calendar for festivals, concerts, and community events that may be taking place during your visit.

Shopping and Dining: Sunriver has a variety of shops and restaurants where you can explore and enjoy local cuisine.

Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, eagles, otters, and more.

Relaxation: If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, Sunriver offers plenty of opportunities to simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Mountain Resort Properties-Sunriver Vacations Made Simple!

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory and the Oregon Chapter of the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) announced Monday the designation of Sunriver as the newest addition to the International Dark-Sky Association Dark Sky Places Program – as a “Dark Sky Development of Distinction.”

Sunriver is the first “Dark Sky Place” recognized in Oregon and one of only 130+ recognized worldwide to date.

Established in 1988, IDA has led a movement to protect our night skies from light pollution. Their overarching goal, which revolves around the four strategic priorities described below, is to reduce light pollution and promote responsible outdoor lighting that is beautiful, healthy, and functional.

1. Celebrate the Night: Increase awareness of the benefits of the night for all living things, and how light pollution is an urgent environmental threat that individuals can help solve.

2. Dark Sky Protection: Protect exemplary dark skies through our certification program.

3. Lighting Where We Live: Engage cities and communities in reducing light pollution through responsible lighting policy and practice.

4. Skyshed Restoration: Implement coordinated, intentional, and scalable actions to slow, halt, and reverse the increasing rate of light pollution.

“We are honored that IDA has elected to welcome Sunriver into the IDA Dark Sky Places Program”, said Keith Mobley, President of the Sunriver Owners Association Board of Directors. “And we are pleased that our ongoing efforts of the past 60 years to be one with nature are recognized now for our protection of pristine skies from light pollution.”

Just in time for summer, the Sunriver Owners Association announces the anticipated opening of the pools at SHARC.

Please know that operations will be limited due to guidelines and restrictions set by the Oregon Health Authority and staffing needs. SHARC activities and aquatics may be modified, subject to limited availability or even closed under the authority of the state, county and/or SROA.

What we are planning for at this time (all subject to change)

Anticipated opening on Thursday, June 25

• Pools will be available Thursday-Monday only (times TBA)
• Swimming will be occupancy-restricted, timed sessions
• Sessions will be by online reservation only (coming soon)
• Lap swim TBD
• Expansion of days and hours anticipated, with details TBD

Final details are still being determined. We will provide more information prior to the opening date to educate you, your family and vacationing guests on how to safely access SHARC at www.sunriversharc.com

We hope everyone will play a role in ensuring the health and safety of all and help us kick-off a successful opening to the summer season. We thank you for your continued patience, understanding and adherence to all rules and regulations.

“The success of SROA in providing recreational amenities and offerings is dependent upon everyone’s compliance to all rules and regulations in place,” said James Lewis, SROA General Manager.

Information above provided by: https://www.sunriverowners.org/Home/Components/News/News/74/16

As you know by now, a lot has changed in the last week due to the COVID-19 outbreak and we wanted to reach out to you in order to apprise you of what is happening here in Sunriver. We want to reassure you that in these uncertain times regarding travel and your vacation, your safety and well-being continues to be our main priority for you.

The first thing we want you to know is that Sunriver as a community is not shut down, but the restaurant services are limited. This may very well be the perfect time to connect with your family by playing board games, soaking in the hot tub, going on bike rides, hiking and doing so many other things Sunriver has to offer. All that said, we want you to be aware that a number of services are currently closed in Sunriver and the surrounding area. A few of those services include, but are not limited to Mt Bachelor, the SHARC indoor pool only facility and most restaurants for dine in services. Many of the restaurants offer delivery or take out. Several of the restaurants such as the Sunriver Brewing Company and Blondies are offering take out and/or deliveries for food and even growlers of their award- winning beer. The groceries stores and the shops are open as well.

To your safety, our vacation rental homes are thoroughly cleaned, sanitized and disinfected between each stay. In fact, a vacation rental home may very well be one of the safest places you could possibly be during these uncertain times. Our properties are thoroughly cleaned with commercial grade cleaning agents and our linens are washed off site at commercial grade temperatures with commercial grade detergents. We are also taking extra measures to ensure your safety in our vacation rental properties.

It is also important to note that Sunriver has medical services available at High Desert Medicine (HDM). HDM can see patients as needed as well as test for COVID-19 and other illnesses as well. They have modified their office procedures so that there is little to not patient interaction in their common spaces.

In light of the current situation, we want to provide flexibility and assistance to our guests so we have adjusted our rental policies for reservations with stay dates through April 30th to allow you to change your dates of stay if you choose to. We will be following the policies of most major venues and you will be able to move your reservation dates.

Our company is a privately owned, small business. Our staff relies on us to provide their living wage and benefits. Our first priority is to the consumer for safety and our second priority to our staff for a living. As mentioned before, there is no need to cancel your reservation and we want to continue to offer you a safe place to get away from the city and spend quality time with family.

One of the benefits of staying in a vacation rental is that you are sharing the space with people you know and care about. You can cook your own meals in your vacation home a explore beautiful Central Oregon using your personal vehicle. Our outdoor setting is second to none and offers unlimited ability to social distance yourself and family. Another great benefit that we offer is that with most of our properties, you will check in directly at the home through our electronic door lock system. Fresh mountain air on a nice walk or bike ride in Sunriver may very well give you a revived peace of mind.

Mountain Resort Properties has been in close communications with several other locally owned vacation rental management companies here in Sunriver so that we can collectively make the best decisions for the community and our guests. The collection of these companies represents literally hundreds of years of local experience in this industry. All these businesses, including Mountain Resort Properties are taking very similar precautionary measures and adopting similar policies. We all want to thank our valued customers for working with professional management companies as opposed to renting properties that may not hold the same level of professional standards and ability to properly respond to situations like this.

If you rented through a third-party entity (VRBO, AirBnb, Bookingpal etc.) you may have purchased trip insurance and can present a claim directly. Please note that when booking through these third-party booking engines they simply direct you to book through our website and charge you a booking fee of up to 10% of your booking total. It is always better to book directly through the property management company – guaranteed.

We know that this is a personal decision for everyone. It is important to us that you choose what is best for you and your family. Our staff is working very hard to insure you, your family and friends have a restful, worry-free vacation. The weather is transitioning to spring and it will be summer before you know it. We look forward to seeing you.

Warm regards,

Tim Hadley

Owner/Operator
Mountain Resort Properties

At this time last year, Sunriver was covered in knee-deep snow. The region was in the midst of a historic winter in which heavy snowfall caused roofs to collapse, made travel treacherous and left stores out of shovels and ice melt.

It was also Mt. Bachelor’s third-snowiest winter on record, a dream for skiers and snowboarders.  This winter has been the complete opposite.  The ski area averages 457 inches of snowfall in a season, from October to April. So far this year, Mt. Bachelor has only received a total of  221 inches and is currently reporting a depth of 55 inches. For more details read sport blog.

While snow has been scarce this year, there is still plenty to do with the Spring like weather conditions we are experiencing this winter in Sunriver (Central Oregon).  Activities range from skiing in the morning to golfing in the afternoon and everything in between.  So, take advantage of one of our many Sunriver lodging specials and bring your family, bring your bikes, bring your clubs and we will see you in Sunriver!

Sunriver Fitness & Aquatics opens in the old Mavericks at Sunriver location.  Most if not all previous amenities offered at Mavericks are still being offered plus additional amenities including child care & Summer camps.

Directly from the Sunriver Fitness website – We offer 30,000sf of State-of-the-Art facilities available for your recreation and enjoyment.

Either vacationing in Sunriver or residing here we have amenities that will keep you and your family entertained.

Features: Indoor lap pool, kids wading pool, FlowRider or Flowboarding (The Ultimate Surf machine), hot tub, an organic cafe and lounge, VR (virtual reality games and videos), rock climbing gym, a strength-training floor, two cardio areas, free parking and an interactive child game room. Women’s and men’s facilities are separate and include lounge areas, lockers, showers and saunas.​

In addition to our sports and aquatic component we have an approximately 2000sf Gala Room available to Rent for private events. Celebrate your wedding, graduation, or have a weekend retreat with your friends. Our facilities are small enough to create an intimate ambience and with enough space to accommodate large parties.

For more information please vist Sunriver Fitness & Aquatic website.

A series of snowstorms over the past month and a half have dropped more snow in the unincorporated community south of Bend than it sees in an average winter season, said Brooke Snavely, communications director for the Sunriver Owners Association.  An average winter season, measured from the first to last snowfall , brings about 60 inches of snow to Sunriver, he said. With the first measurable snowfall this season on Nov. 15, Sunriver has received about 70 inches as of Wednesday.

“That’s a pretty significant amount of snow on the ground in a short time,” he said this week.

This December broke a record for the most snow in the month, said Mark Smith, public works director for the Sunriver Owners Association. So far, 52.6 inches of snow has fallen in Sunriver in December, he said Wednesday . The old record, set in winter 1992-93, was 50.9 inches.

That winter saw 144 inches — 12 feet — of snow stack up in Sunriver.

The snow this December has kept public works crews for the homeowners association, tasked with clearing about 70 miles of roads and 30 miles of pathways, busy. “It has definitely made for some long days,” Smith said.

Snow does not come as much of a surprise this time of year in Sunriver. Compared with other cities and towns in Central Oregon, the community has the highest chances of a white Christmas, defined by a Christmas Day with at least an inch of snow on the ground. Historical data from the National Weather Service show Sunriver has an 87 percent chance, while Bend and Sisters have just over 30 percent chances, and Redmond, Madras and Prineville have lower odds.

What is surprising this year is how much snow has fallen already. Whether all the snow on the ground now becomes a problem when it melts remains to be seen.

“There is always a thought in the back of the mind of, ‘Where does this water go?’” Snavely said.

Sunriver neighborhoods do not have storm drains, and the roads are not flanked by sidewalks. The pathways run separate, away from the roads, leaving room for natural drainage. Snowmelt flows off the roads and pathways and soaks into the porous volcanic soil .

In 2014, a hard freeze of the ground put a hitch in this system, when the snow melted amid rainstorms. The frozen ground did not take in the water and resulted in flooding, with water creeping onto decks and into garages and crawlspaces of 30 to 40 homes, according to Bulletin archives.

Whether there is a danger of flooding all depends on how fast the snow melts and how quickly the ground can absorb it, said Jeremy Giffin, Deschutes Basin watermaster for the Oregon Water Resources Department. A warm, wet storm during winter can cause problems if it rapidly melts snow.

“If we had a big event like that come through that would definitely be a concern for flooding,” he said.