Epic Adventure Elopement at Sparks Lake near Bend Oregon

Kiley and Garrett wanted to have a private adventure together at sunrise the day before their wedding with family and friends the following day at Smith Rock State Park. Garrett is originally from Bend, Oregon so the surrounding mountains have always been a special place for him and he wanted to share that with his soon to be wife, Kiley. They decided to do a first look on the edge of Sparks Lake and say vows to each other as the sun rose behind the Cascade mountains. We had the locations all to ourselves and I love that aspect of sunrise elopements. It’s a very special, quiet time to connect with each other surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Central Oregon has so many amazing locations for elopements and they’re all very close to the Bend area, which is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the outdoorsy culture.

How to get to Bend, Oregon

If you’re not within driving distance, you’ll likely need to book flights. The closest major airport to Bend is Portland International Airport (PDX). Bend is just about 3 hour drive from Portland. If you’re coming from a major west coast city, you may also be able to find a non-stop flight to Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) which is only a short 20 minute drive from Bend.

Where to stay in Bend, Oregon

Since Bend is a popular destination for visitors, there are plenty of amazing places to stay, whether you’re wanting to stay at a renowned resort or a cozy campsite. Here are a few of my recommendations:

• • Campgrounds: Smith Rock Bivouac Campground, Tumalo Campground, and Soda Creek Campground near Sparks Lake are popular public campground options close to Bend.
  • Campervan and RV rentals: Opt for a more boutique camping experience at The Camp where you can rent on-site vintage trailers or bring your own. If you’re looking for campervan rentals, check out Ramblin Vans. You can rent one of their decked-out campervans and pick it up right from the Portland airport.
  • Hotels and Resorts: For a stay at a luxury resort, Riverhouse on the Deschutes sits right along the Deschutes River and is just minutes from downtown Bend. For a more boutique hotel, try The Oxford Hotel located in the heart of downtown Bend.
  • Airbnbs and VRBO rentals: Choose from unique Airbnbs like this historic home with a hot tub, this rustic cottage retreat, this Scandinavian-inspired cabin, and so many more.

Things to do in Bend

Rock Climbing at Smith Rock
If you like rock climbing, I highly recommend a visit to nearby Smith Rock State Park. The park is often credited as the birthplace of U.S. sport climbing and is a popular climbing spot in Oregon. Check out this helpful breakdown of the main rock climbing areas in the park.

Hike the Surrounding Areas
Bend really is an outdoor-lovers paradise. It’s home to miles and miles of hiking trails with plenty of epic views of the surrounding landscape. Here are some of the most popular hikes close to Bend.

Explore Downtown Bend
Bend is a charming mountain town and is definitely worth exploring all on its own. The city is home to more than 18 craft breweries, coffee shops, restaurants, and cute boutiques. Catch a concert by the river at Les Schwab outdoor amphitheater or visit the city’s Old Mill District to shop and grab a bite to eat.

Ski Mt. Bachelor
If you decide to elope in Bend in the winter, I highly recommend a visit to Mt. Bachelor for some skiing or snowboarding. Just 30 miles from Bend, Mt. Bachelor is the 6th largest ski area in the U.S. and a popular ski destination in Central Oregon.

Explore the Bend Ale Trail
Bend is most definitely a beer town. In fact, it has more breweries per capita than any other city in Oregon! If you’re a fan of good craft beer, the best way to get a taste of the city’s breweries is the self-guided Bend Ale Trail. You can download the Ale Trail Passport before you head out and collect stamps at each brewery as you go.

Dreaming of an unforgettable elopement experience in Bend Oregon? Contact me today and let’s start planning!