Valentine’s day is generally a celebration of love and romance that is shared between romantic parties. However, over the years, Galentine’s Day has become increasingly popular as a way to celebrate the bonds of friendship. But perhaps it is time to take it even further and celebrate the bond we share with our furry friends – and what’s more romantic than watching the sunset with your dog?
Living in the dog paradise that is Bend, Oregon, we are so lucky that there are many romantic ways to watch the sunset with your dog around Bend. There are Bend sunset hikes for every type of hiking you and your dog like to do. Plus, hiking with your dog might even involve one of your New Year’s Resolutions.
After all, Bend (and surrounds) have the best sunset hikes!
There are many areas to enjoy one of these gorgeous Bend sunset hikes, whether you want something easy such a viewpoint you can drive to quickly, or something a little more challenging, with a longer drive time, like the top of Misery Ridge at Smith Rock State Park.
Easy: Sisters, OR
For an easy, but worthy sunset view, drive towards Sisters, Oregon and stop at the Three Sisters Viewpoint. You can either stop at the northbound or southbound along Highway 20, but no matter which side you choose, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
Easy to moderate: Downtown Bend sunset hike
For an easy to moderate Bend sunset hike, drive to Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint in the center of Bend. It is roughly a mile of uphill walking to reach the summit, but the panoramic view is more than worth it.
Moderate: Sisters, OR
For a moderate Bend sunset hike, I highly suggest heading over to the Upper Three Creek Sno Park. A snow park permit is required, so don’t forget to snag one before you head up there. This Bend sunset hike starts in Sisters and involves hiking along the Peak View Trail to the Jeff View Shelter. Don’t worry about getting too cold while admiring the sunset because the shelter offers a wood-burning stove to keep warm.
Difficult: Terrebonne, OR
For a difficult around Bend sunset hike, head over to Smith Rock State Park and hike Misery Ridge to monkey face. Although the trek to the top is only a mile, it is a strenuous uphill climb with many switchbacks. However, you will not be disappointed by the view at the top!
Author: Karla Garcia
Karla received her BS in Fisheries and Wildlife Science from Oregon State University in 2014 and has since worked at various sanctuaries around the world where she has worked with big cats, elephants, bears, raptors, farm animals, chimps, and everything in between. Currently, she is a chimpanzee caregiver at Freedom for Great Apes, a small chimpanzee sanctuary located right outside of Bend. Her love of the great outdoors and chimpanzees made Bend, Oregon the perfect place to call home. On her free time, she goes on weekly adventures around Central Oregon with Luna and photographs their journey together.
Howdy. Thanks for this guide! I always enjoy hiking and walking around with my dog. A favorite of hers is Overturf Lookout on the Westside. It’s just a short walk up from the Skyliner Summit dog park (the trail goes up along the east side of the water storage tanks). Someone even put a fun tree swing along the trail. The lookout has great views all around and if you walk around while you’re up there you’ll see a couch made out of rocks and it looks towards Mt. Bachelor.