Benham Falls East Day Use

Benham Falls is a quick-drop cascade in the Deschutes River, not far from Bend and Sunriver—and is among Central Oregon’s most popular outdoor destinations. It formed after nearby Lava Butte erupted some 6,000 years ago and remains a remarkable site in all seasons today. It can be easily viewed from two trailheads—including the Benham Falls East Day Use Area and Trailhead, which invites visitors to enjoy a short hike before seeing the waterfall.

From the Benham Falls East Day Use Area and Trailhead, it’s a 0.7-mile (one-way) walk to the waterfall via the Deschutes River Trail. Along the way, hikers enjoy views of ancient lava flows, hearty stands of ponderosa pine, and the crystal-clear Deschutes River itself.

From the trail, signs point to an overlook of the 25-foot-tall waterfall, which looks more like a series of raging rapids than a typically dramatic cascade. (Fun fact: Benham Falls is actually the largest waterfall on the upper Deschutes River.) The waterfall churns through a narrow gorge surrounded by pine trees, creating a picturesque view.

The Deschutes River Trail is accessible year-round, but hikers should exercise caution if visiting in snowier months. Between March and May, Benham Falls—fed by rain and snowmelt—is at its most dramatic. Watch for mosquitos between May and early July.