Benham Falls Day Use Park

Five miles downstream from Sunriver (the Deschutes River flows north), this trail provides a spectacular scene of untamed rapids. From Bend follow Highway 97 south 11 miles and turn right at the Lava Lands Visitor Center. Follow the road on your left for approximately 3 miles to the parking and picnic area. Walk across the footbridge. Benham Falls is an easy half-mile walk down the road along the river. This trail continues for many miles passing by Dillon Falls and Lava Island falls. It is also a mountain bike trail. The Benham Falls Picnic Area on the wild and scenic Deschutes River is a lovely location forested with ponderosa pines. The site offers picnicking (no water), hiking on the Deschutes River hiking trail with Benham Falls a mere 0.5 mile away. The foot bridge pictured here connects the picnic area with the hiking trail. A boat launch on the Deschutes River is available and a vault toilet. A NW forest pass is required or payment of $5.00 per vehicle. This is a very popular spot. Parking can be at a premium. The Benham Falls Picnic Area is easy to find. Just drive 13 miles south from Bend, Oregon, on Hwy 97. Turn right at Lava Lands Visitor Center. Immediately turn left onto F.S. Road 9702. It's a mere 4 miles to the Benham Falls Day Use picnic area.