Bend: Half-Day Shoes, Brews, and Views Tour

Explore Bend’s Snowshoe Adventure with Local Brews and Mountain Views

The Bend: Half-Day Shoes, Brews, and Views Tour offers an engaging way to enjoy Oregon’s winter landscape. For $140 per person, participants spend 4 hours exploring the snow-covered Cascade Mountains, with expert instruction and transportation included. This tour is ideal for those seeking a combination of outdoor activity and a taste of Bend’s laid-back local culture, with the added delight of sipping a craft beer or soft drink amid stunning scenery.

While the tour focuses on snowshoeing in wilderness areas, it offers a relaxing experience that balances adventure with leisure. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy natural beauty and appreciate a refreshing beverage in a tranquil forest setting. Note that this tour is not suitable for children under 8, individuals with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes snowshoeing in Mount Bachelor and Deschutes National Forest
• Guided tour with expert instruction and transportation
• Enjoy locally crafted hopped beverages or root beer during the experience
• Limited to 13 participants for a more personalized experience
• Duration is 4 hours, usually in the afternoon
• Meeting point at Fred Meyer grocery store complex in Bend

Starting Point Near Fred Meyer in Bend

The tour begins at a convenient meeting point within the Fred Meyer grocery store complex, located on the south side near the fueling center. This central location makes it easy to find and access, with transportation provided to the snowshoeing destinations. The tour departs in the afternoon, giving travelers flexibility to explore Bend beforehand.

Participants are advised to wear warm clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy winter shoes. The guides offer full instruction on snowshoeing techniques, making this activity accessible even for beginners. It’s helpful to arrive dressed ready to hit the snow, as staying dry and warm is key to enjoying the experience.

Snowshoeing in Mount Bachelor and Deschutes National Forest

The core of this tour is the opportunity to snowshoe through the breathtaking scenery of Mount Bachelor and Deschutes National Forest. Participants will follow animal tracks and explore snow-laden trees, experiencing the serenity of this winter wilderness. The snowshoeing route is carefully selected to showcase the area’s natural beauty while maintaining a manageable pace for all levels.

Guides display expertise by providing clear instructions and sharing interesting insights about the landscape and local flora and fauna. The snowshoe adventure allows a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful setting, away from crowded tourist spots.

Sipping Local Beers in a Forest Setting

A standout feature of this tour is the chance to sip on a locally crafted hopped beverage or refreshing root beer amid the forest surroundings. This casual drinking break adds a unique Bend flavor to the outdoor activity, combining the enjoyment of craft beverages with the visual pleasure of snow-covered trees and mountain views.

This element captures the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that Bend is known for, and it offers a wonderful way to unwind while taking in the scenery. The beverages are included in the tour, making for a leisurely pause that energizes for the return journey.

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The Experience of Snow-Laden Trees and Mountain Peaks

The snowshoeing takes place in areas where snow-laden trees and towering peaks create a truly magical scene. Participants enjoy panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection. The snow’s sparkle under the sunlight adds to the visual appeal, making it a memorable outdoor excursion.

The tour emphasizes the natural beauty of the landscape, with the snow framing the forest in a picture-perfect setting. These views serve as a highlight and a reminder of the pristine wilderness just outside Bend.

Family-Friendly and Accessible Considerations

This tour suits active adults and older children over 8 years old who are comfortable with light physical activity. The guides provide comprehensive snowshoeing instructions, making the activity approachable even for beginners. However, it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the terrain is unpaved and uneven.

Participants should come prepared with warm winter gear and be ready for a 4-hour outdoor experience that involves walking and snowshoeing in a snowy environment.

Physical Requirements and What to Bring

To get the most enjoyment from the tour, travelers are encouraged to wear winter boots and powder or ski pants to stay dry and warm. Additional items such as hats, gloves, and warm clothing are essential for comfort. Since all tours include full instruction, no prior snowshoeing experience is necessary.

The activity is designed to be accessible to those with basic fitness levels, but note that mobility impairments and children under 8 are not accommodated. Bringing extra layers and waterproof gear is recommended, especially if the weather turns colder or snow falls during the tour.

Small Group Experience and Personal Attention

Limited to 13 participants, this tour offers a more intimate setting where guides can focus on individual needs and questions. This smaller group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing for more personalized guidance and interaction. Guests value the level of attention and expert knowledge shared by the guides, particularly during the snowshoeing techniques and scenic stops.

The small group setting also minimizes crowding, making it easier to enjoy the peaceful environment and take advantage of photo opportunities.

Flexibility with Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, offering flexibility for changing plans. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, securing their spot without immediate payment, ideal for those with flexible travel arrangements.

This arrangement ensures peace of mind, especially for spontaneous or uncertain travel schedules, while still guaranteeing a spot on this popular outdoor experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Bend

What makes the Half-Day Shoes, Brews, and Views Tour truly appealing is its combination of outdoor adventure and relaxed local flavor. The guided snowshoeing in the Cascade Mountains offers immersive natural scenery, while the included beverages add a casual, social element that reflects Bend’s easygoing spirit.

Excellent for those eager to enjoy Oregon’s winter landscape without a full-day commitment, this tour balances physical activity with moments of leisure and stunning views. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it accessible, engaging, and visually spectacular.

Final Thoughts on the Bend Snowshoe Tour

For travelers seeking a memorable outdoor activity that showcases Oregon’s winter scenery, this tour delivers an authentic experience. The guides’ expertise, the beautiful mountain vistas, and the local beverages all contribute to a well-rounded adventure in Bend.

While it’s best suited for active individuals over 8 years old and those prepared for winter conditions, the tour’s full instruction and small group size ensure a comfortable and personal connection to the landscape. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts wanting a taste of Bend’s mountain wilderness paired with a laid-back drink in the forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior snowshoeing experience necessary?
No, full instruction is provided, making it suitable for beginners.

What should I wear for the tour?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and sturdy winter shoes or boots.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 4 hours, usually in the afternoon.

Are beverages included?
Yes, a locally crafted hopped beverage or root beer is included.

Where does the tour meet?
At the Fred Meyer grocery store complex on the south side, near the fueling center.

Can children participate?
Children under 8 years old are not suitable for this tour.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation to and from the snowshoeing destination is included.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour accessible to people with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What scenic areas will I see?
You will enjoy views of Mount Bachelor and the Deschutes National Forest.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby