Top 5 Best Things to Do in Eagle Crest Oregon

Eagle Crest is a high-desert resort destination near Redmond and Bend, where visitors come for golf, river-canyon scenery, and an easy mix of onsite amenities and nearby outdoor landmarks. The most popular things to do include playing the courses at Eagle Crest Resort, hiking or biking the Deschutes River Trail, and taking short scenic drives to places like Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint. For events and celebrations, River Run Lodge adds a nearby riverside venue experience, and day trips to Central Oregon highlights help turn a weekend stay into a fuller itinerary.

River Run Lodge

River Run Lodge is a riverside wedding and event venue located near Eagle Crest along the Deschutes River canyon. The lodge combines indoor gathering space with expansive outdoor decks and ceremony sites overlooking the water and surrounding cliffs. It hosts weddings, corporate retreats, and private celebrations, adding a destination event experience to the Eagle Crest area.

Golf at Eagle Crest Resort

Golf at Eagle Crest Resort anchors the area’s recreation identity, offering multiple courses set across high-desert terrain and canyon landscapes. Players can access championship layouts, scenic fairways, and practice facilities suitable for both casual rounds and destination golf travel. The resort’s golf amenities position Eagle Crest as one of Central Oregon’s recognized golf retreats.

Hike or Bike the Deschutes River Trail

The Deschutes River Trail provides a scenic corridor for hiking and biking near Eagle Crest. Routes follow canyon rims and riverbanks, offering views of basalt cliffs, wildlife habitats, and flowing water landscapes. The trail network supports both leisurely rides and longer outdoor excursions connected to Central Oregon’s broader recreation system.

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint highlights one of the region’s most accessible natural landmarks. The waterfall cascades through lava rock formations, creating a dramatic visual setting shaped by Central Oregon’s volcanic history. Visitors often stop for photography, short walks, and riverside viewing within a compact scenic area.

Day Trips to Nearby Central Oregon Attractions

Eagle Crest’s central location makes it an effective base for regional travel. Visitors frequently explore Bend for breweries and riverfront parks or head to Redmond for aviation history and desert trails. Scenic landmarks such as Smith Rock State Park and Newberry National Volcanic Monument expand day-trip options, positioning Eagle Crest as a gateway to Central Oregon exploration.

What is Eagle Crest known for, and is it worth visiting?

Eagle Crest is primarily known for its resort environment, canyon landscapes, and slower-paced recreation. The destination appeals to travelers seeking golf vacations, spa retreats, and scenic relaxation rather than dense urban activity. This positioning makes it especially attractive for couples, retirees, and weekend travelers.

Its value also lies in geographic positioning. Eagle Crest functions as a basecamp for exploring Central Oregon, allowing visitors to enjoy quiet lodging while accessing nearby cities, natural monuments, and outdoor recreation zones within short driving distances.

Where is Eagle Crest Resort located?

Eagle Crest Resort sits northwest of Redmond and roughly 25 minutes from Bend, positioning it between urban access and natural seclusion. This proximity allows visitors to combine resort stays with city dining, breweries, and riverfront parks in Bend.

Regional connectivity also expands through nearby natural attractions, trail systems, and scenic drives. Visitors often structure trips to include both Eagle Crest relaxation and Bend exploration, reinforcing the resort’s role as a complementary destination rather than an isolated one.

What activities are available at Eagle Crest Resort?

Eagle Crest Resort offers a full spectrum of on-site recreation designed around leisure, fitness, and outdoor access. Visitors can access golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers, and multi-use trail systems that extend across the resort’s high-desert landscape. Many amenities remain open to day visitors through activity passes or reservations, allowing non-overnight guests to experience the resort environment.

Racquet sports and wellness facilities expand the activity mix. Tennis courts, pickleball courts, and indoor fitness centers support year-round recreation, while structured booking systems manage access during peak travel seasons. This layered amenity structure positions Eagle Crest Resort as both a lodging destination and a recreation hub.

What outdoor activities can you do in Eagle Crest year-round?

Eagle Crest supports outdoor recreation across all seasons, with canyon terrain, river access, and resort trails creating a consistent activity base.

• Hiking onthe canyon rim and resort trail systems

• Biking paved multi-use paths and scenic routes

• Deschutes River viewpoint walks

• Wildlife viewing and birdwatching

• Fishing along the Deschutes River

• Kayaking and paddleboarding nearby

• Guided horseback riding excursions

• Interpretive nature and desert ecosystem tours

Are there winter activities at Eagle Crest Resort?

Winter introduces snow-based recreation without losing resort accessibility. Snowshoeing trails and Nordic routes operate within and around Eagle Crest, while alpine skiing at Mount Bachelor sits within driving distance. This proximity allows visitors to combine mountain sport with resort relaxation.

Seasonal contrast shapes travel planning. Summer emphasizes trails and golf, while winter balances snow recreation with indoor spa and lodge experiences, making Eagle Crest viable across all seasons.

Is Eagle Crest good for families, couples, and group trips?

Eagle Crest supports multiple travel demographics through flexible lodging and recreation infrastructure. Families benefit from pools, bike trails, and open recreation lawns designed for multigenerational use. Kid-friendly programming and outdoor access reinforce the resort’s family travel positioning.

Couples and groups experience a different dimension focused on relaxation and shared activities. Spa services, sunset viewpoints, and golf create romantic or social travel settings, while weddings and reunions utilize event venues like River Run Lodge for destination gatherings.

What resort amenities and leisure experiences can visitors enjoy?

Leisure amenities extend beyond recreation into wellness and lodging experiences. Resort pools, hot tubs, and spa facilities provide restorative environments that complement outdoor activity schedules. Many spa services remain bookable without overnight stays, expanding access to regional visitors.

Accommodation flexibility supports extended travel. Vacation rentals, townhomes, and lodge rooms allow visitors to tailor trip length and group size, while corporate retreats use meeting facilities and activity packages for structured events.

What are the best nearby attractions and day trips from Eagle Crest?

Eagle Crest’s central location makes it easy to expand your itinerary with scenic and cultural experiences across Central Oregon.

• Smith Rock State Park for rock climbing, hiking, and canyon views

• Cline Falls and nearby Deschutes River viewpoints

• Crater Lake National Park for volcanic scenery and lake overlooks

• Newberry National Volcanic Monument for lava fields and caves

• Bend for breweries, river parks, and downtown dining

• Redmond for aviation attractions and local events

• Central Oregon wineries and tasting rooms

• Scenic byways and high-desert driving routes

• Seasonal festivals, markets, and outdoor concerts

When is the best time of year to visit Eagle Crest?

Eagle Crest operates year-round, with seasonality shaping activity focus rather than accessibility. Summer supports golf, biking, and river recreation, while winter introduces snow sports and indoor wellness travel.

Shoulder seasons offer quieter visitation and mild weather. Spring and fall attract travelers seeking scenery, wildlife viewing, and lower crowd density compared to peak summer demand.

How do you plan the perfect Eagle Crest itinerary?

Trip planning depends on stay length and travel intent. Weekend itineraries typically combine golf, trail exploration, and spa time, while three-day visits expand into regional sightseeing and guided tours.

Weather contingencies shape indoor planning. Fitness centers, spas, dining venues, and event spaces provide alternatives during colder months or storm conditions, maintaining itinerary flexibility.

What should visitors know before going to Eagle Crest?

A little planning goes a long way at Eagle Crest, especially since the resort sits in a high-desert canyon environment where conditions and access can change by season.

• Wildlife is common (deer and birds), so drive slowly at dawn and dusk

• Sunset viewpoints are a highlight, especially along canyon-facing areas

• Stargazing is strong on clear nights due to low light pollution

• Evenings can cool quickly, so pack layers year-round

• Some activities and tee times may require reservations in peak season

• EV charging availability varies by area, so confirm before arrival

• Pet policies depend on lodging type and specific rules, so check before booking

• Getting around is easiest by car, but trails make walking and biking practical within the resort

• Accessibility varies by venue and terrain, so confirm routes if mobility is a concern

What should golfers know about playing at Eagle Crest Resort?

Golf at Eagle Crest Resort includes multiple course layouts with varying elevation, hazards, and canyon exposure. The Ridge Course and Resort Course differ in terrain and shot complexity, offering variety for skill levels.

Walkability, seasonal pricing, and bundled activity packages influence trip planning. Water hazards and desert wind patterns introduce strategic course challenges unique to Central Oregon golf environments.