Drving from Bend to Portland
 

What routes are recommended to drive from Bend to Portland? We're not in a rush and would love any scenic suggestions. Thanks

We usually go I-5 and cut over at Salem and go through Sisters. That is the shortest route from our house. Have also been via HWY 26 over past Mt. Hood then down. Both are scenic, just in different ways.

What time of year are you thinking of? If you are headed over when there is the possibility of snow, we sure to check forecasts for both passes.

Thanks -- don't think there would be snow -- leaving tomorrow for Portland!

LOL, yeah, no snow tomorrow...just lots of sun! I would go past Detroit as I think that route is really pretty.

Detroit? I preume not Michigan???

LOL...no, Detroit Lake...which is on the way from Sisters to Salem.

I usually go the same route mms is recommending, too. Lots of nice mountain views heading west on 22 from Bend through Sisters to the foot of the Cascades, then over the mountains down past Detroit Lake and through rolling farmland to Salem. If you have lots of time, you could stop at the Metolius River and/or Suttle Lake, or maybe even detour a little to Silver Falls State Park.

The route north on 97 stays east of the Cascades, so it's more high desert scenery, which as mms says, is beautiful in its own right. And you'd have options that way too. The best IMO is 97 to Madras, then 26 up Mt. Hood to 35, down to Hood River, and into Portland through the Columbia River Gorge. If you'll have no other chance to see the gorge when you're here, I'd probably recommend that route.

Thank you both so much. We have seen the Gorge on several occasions, so probably don't feel the need to see it this trip. Looking forward to a great trip in Oregon.

Hi Dona! I will see you on Friday after you have breakfast at Mother's!

Both ways over are very pretty with one going over Mt. Hood. I prefer the one that goes east from Salem and along Detroit Lake. This will take you through the very cute town of Sisters. Beware that the traffic through Sisters can be trying on your patience!

Cheers!

Definitely -- looking forward to it!

I like beachbum's 97 route.