Five Hikes to Explore Near Caldera Springs in Central Oregon

Central Oregon is known for its mountains, rivers and lakes, but the trail network is what ties much of the region together.  

From scenic forest paths winding through ponderosa pines to alpine routes beneath the Cascades, hiking is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking landscape. Located in Sunriver, Oregon, just 15 miles south of Bend and just outside Sunriver Resort, Caldera Springs offers more than 13 miles of soft and paved trails within the community itself, along with close access to some of the best hiking in Central Oregon, only a short drive away.

Owners and guests can walk community paths before breakfast, follow the Deschutes River by midmorning or spend a full day hiking toward waterfalls, lava fields and alpine lakes beneath the Cascade peaks.

These five trails offer a starting point for exploring the forests, rivers, waterfalls and volcanic landscapes that surround Caldera Springs.

Photo by Jazmynn Jarlsberg on alltrails.com.

1. Deschutes River Trail to Benham Falls delivers one of the region’s classic river hikes

The Deschutes River defines much of life around Sunriver and Caldera Springs, and Benham Falls offers one of the best ways to experience it on foot. Located between Sunriver and Bend, the trail follows a wide, mostly flat path along the river, passing towering pines and ancient lava formations before reaching powerful rapids that churn through a narrow section of canyon.

The well-maintained route works well for families, casual hikers and anyone looking for an adventurous outing close to Caldera Springs. Spring runoff brings stronger flows and louder water, while summer creates ideal conditions for a morning hike before heading back to Lake House, Forest House or the many activities available throughout the Caldera Springs community.

Distance: 1.7 miles
Estimated hike time: 0.5-1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Drive from Caldera Springs: Approximately 15 minutes

Get more details and start your journey here.

Photo by Karrah Kelley on alltrails.com

2. Trail of the Molten Land brings volcanic history into easy reach

Trail of the Molten Land offers a short, kid-friendly, approachable way to experience Central Oregon’s volcanic landscape. The paved 1.2-mile loop begins near Lava Lands Visitor Center and crosses the black lava flow below Lava Butte, with interpretive signs explaining how the eruption changed the surrounding terrain.

The route is generally easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for families and visitors who want something memorable without committing to a long hike. Views open toward the Cascade peaks along the way, offering a different perspective on the forces that shaped the region.

Distance: 1.2 miles
Estimated hike time: 0.5-1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Drive from Caldera Springs: Approximately 20 minutes

Plan your trek with more trail details here.

Photo by Discover Your Forest

3. Lava Butte Trail offers a different perspective on the landscape

Lava Butte offers one of the best views into Central Oregon’s volcanic past.

Beginning at the Lava Lands Visitor Center, the paved trail climbs steadily to the summit of the cinder cone. Expansive views stretch across forests, lava fields and the Cascade Range, with Mt. Bachelor, South Sister and Broken Top visible on the horizon. The rugged landscape provides a firsthand look at the forces that shaped the region thousands of years ago.

The hike is an easy addition to a day spent exploring Sunriver, Bend or the surrounding national forest. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way, including birds, deer and elk that are often spotted throughout the area.

Distance: 3.9 miles
Estimated hike time: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Drive from Caldera Springs: Approximately 20 minutes

Ready to start your adventure? Find more trail details here. 

Photo by World Waterfall Database.

4. Paulina Falls Trail combines waterfalls and volcanic scenery

Newberry National Volcanic Monument showcases another side of Central Oregon. The paved Paulina Falls Trail leads through a forest of ponderosa and lodgepole pine before reaching one of the area’s most popular viewpoints, where twin waterfalls drop nearly 80 feet into a canyon carved through volcanic rock.

The short, kid-friendly walk makes it easy to get outside without committing to a longer hike. Nearby trails, Paulina Creek and scenic drives offer plenty of ways to extend the outing for homeowners and visitors looking to spend a full day exploring beyond Caldera Springs.

Distance: 0.5 miles
Estimated hike time: 0.5-1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Drive from Caldera Springs: Approximately 40 minutes

The falls are waiting for your discovery – get all the info on this hike here. 

Photo by Tilman Giese on hikingproject.com

5. Green Lakes Trail rewards hikers with one of Central Oregon’s most iconic destinations

Many trails in Central Oregon offer mountain views. Green Lakes places hikers directly beneath them.

Just 30 minutes outside of Bend, Oregon, the route begins in the forest of the Three Sisters Wilderness before passing through open meadows, lava formations and creek crossings on its way toward a chain of alpine lakes below South Sister and Broken Top. Snow often remains visible on the surrounding peaks well into summer, creating one of the region’s most recognizable landscapes and making the area a favorite for snowshoeing in colder months.

The trail is also popular with runners thanks to its relatively flat, wide path. Once hikers reach the lakes, anglers can fish along the water’s edge. The hike requires more time than others on this list, but the destination justifies the effort. Many local residents return year after year because the experience changes with the seasons while the scenery remains unforgettable.

Distance: 9.3 miles
Estimated hike time: 4-4.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Drive from Caldera Springs: Approximately 40 minutes

Before beginning your trek, get all trail details here. 

The trail can start right outside your door

Many people first experience Central Oregon as visitors. Owners and guests at Caldera Springs experience it across seasons, with time to return to favorite places and find new routes as the landscape changes.

Some days begin with a walk or bike ride along the community’s own trail network, where paths connect lakes, streams, and community-favorite amenities, such as Forest House, Forest Park and Lake House. Or, hop in the car for a short drive to discover Green Lakes, Benham Falls, Paulina Falls or the lava fields near Lava Butte.

That access shapes daily life at Caldera Springs. Forests, lakes, rivers and mountain trails are close enough for a morning outing, an afternoon plan or a full day outside. For many families, that year-round connection to Central Oregon becomes more than a reason to visit. It becomes the reason to own here.

Lakeside vacation homes are now selling. To learn more about availability, contact the Caldera Springs Sales Team at 541-593-3000 or sales@calderasprings.com.