Our next adventure began in the charming town of Sisters, Oregon, nestled in the shadow of the iconic Three Sisters peaks. This picturesque mountain town, with its rich Western heritage and stunning views, instantly captured our hearts. After a scenic drive, we arrived at the Sisters Garden RV Resort, a beautiful, peaceful spot just outside of town. The resort, with its spacious sites and tranquil setting, was the perfect home base for our stay. We were lucky enough to score a lakeside site, where the view of the water and the surrounding trees made us feel like we were in a postcard. The weather couldn’t have been better—sunny, warm with a crisp breeze—and we took full advantage of it by relaxing outdoors, soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
The next morning, we headed out to explore Bend, just a short 30-minute drive away. We love Bend—its thriving craft beer scene, endless outdoor activities, and vibrant downtown—and were eager to experience it again. As we drove into Bend, we were immediately struck by its stunning location along the Deschutes River and the dramatic mountain views. It’s a place where adventure and relaxation coexist seamlessly.
Our first stop was the Old Mill District, a revitalized area that blends the town’s historic past with modern shops, restaurants, and galleries. Once the site of a lumber mill, the district now offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene. We spent a few hours wandering through the boutiques, checking out the local art galleries, and sampling handmade goods. From unique home decor to beautiful jewelry, the shops offered something for everyone. The atmosphere here is relaxed and inviting, with plenty of outdoor seating, live music, and views of the river.
For lunch, we decided to stop at Monkless Belgian Brewery, a cozy spot tucked into the Old Mill District. We had heard great things about their Belgian-style beers, and it did not disappoint. The brewery has a welcoming, rustic vibe, and we enjoyed a cold pint of their signature brew while savoring a delicious meal. The food was fresh, flavorful, and perfect after a morning of walking around. We lingered for a while, chatting with the friendly staff and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
After lunch, we took a stroll along the Deschutes River Trail, which winds through the Old Mill District and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding nature. The trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, and we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some kayakers paddling down the river. We spent some time taking in the views, snapping a few photos, and just enjoying the beautiful day before heading back to Sisters. Click on thumbnail to view images
The next morning, we were up early and headed into town for a delicious breakfast at the famous Sisters Coffee Company. Known for its excellent coffee and cozy atmosphere, the café is a local favorite. As we sipped our lattes and enjoyed a hearty breakfast, we soaked in the charming mountain-town vibe and chatted with friendly locals before setting off for our next adventure.
We drove toward Mount Bachelor, an iconic peak in the Cascade Range and a popular ski resort in the winter. Even in the summer, it offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking. As we got closer, the towering mountain loomed in the distance, with rugged landscapes all around.
Next, we headed to Sparks Lake, known for its beautiful reflections of the Three Sisters—Faith, Hope, and Charity. These three volcanic peaks dominate the Sisters area and are a breathtaking sight, especially when mirrored in the calm waters of the lake. The lake is famous for being a favorite subject of Ray Atkeson, a renowned photographer who captured the iconic reflections of the Three Sisters in his landscape photos. Inspired by Atkeson’s work, we spent the morning walking along the lakeshore, marveling at the glassy water and the stunning mountain views. It was easy to see why this location has been a photographer’s dream for decades.
After exploring the lake, we made our way back to Sisters and rounded off the day with a delicious dinner at Sisters Saloon and Ranch Grill. The saloon’s rustic Western charm and hearty American fare made it the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. We savored our meal while reflecting on the beauty we’d witnessed—Sparks Lake, the Three Sisters, and the incredible peace of the area. Click on thumbnail to view images
On our final day in Sisters, we decided to explore the incredible geological wonders that surround the area, heading to Lava Butte, just a short drive away. This stunning volcanic formation is part of the larger Newberry National Volcanic Monument, an expansive area that showcases the dramatic landscapes created by ancient volcanic activity. Lava Butte itself is a cinder cone, formed by the eruption of volcanic ash and debris that built up over thousands of years. The area’s unique volcanic features, including lava flows, craters, and rugged rock formations, make it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Central Oregon.
Lava Butte was formed around 7,000 years ago during a series of eruptions from the nearby Newberry Volcano, one of the largest and most active volcanic areas in the Pacific Northwest. As lava and ash were spewed from the vent, they accumulated in a cone-shaped mound, eventually creating the butte we see today. Over time, the area’s volcanic landscape has been shaped by wind and water, leaving behind a striking mix of black basalt rock and barren fields of hardened lava.
We started our visit at the Lava Butte Visitor Center, where we learned more about the region’s geologic history through informative displays and exhibits. From there, we made our way into the Lava Butte trails. The summit road was closed for the season but the observation point in the lava fields provided breathtaking views, giving us a unique perspective on the area’s volcanic past and present.
As we wrapped up our visit, we reflected on how Lava Butte perfectly capped off our trip to Sisters. It was a fascinating and awe-inspiring place to explore, and a fitting reminder of the power and beauty of the natural world. From the peaceful lakes of Sparks to the volcanic wonders of Lava Butte, our time in Sisters had given us a deep appreciation for Central Oregon’s unique landscapes. Click on thumbnail to view images
