With the newfound chill in the air and the slight turn of the leaves, it's clear: Autumn is nearly upon us! It's time for getting outside in the last days of the warm weather and making seasonal plans.

While it may seem like Central Oregon isn't the most obvious autumnal destination (let's face it: we're no New England when it comes to leaf-peeping), you'd be surprised at how many delightful, quintessentially "autumn" activities there are around here! To celebrate the coming season, we've come up with some great suggestions of how to take advantage of autumn in Central Oregon.

1. Fall Foliage Photography Tours

Okay, yes, Central Oregon is a relatively arid climate, more suited to twisted junipers than the iconic deciduous trees that give those stunning autumn colors. However, if you know where to look, there are plenty of great spots for admiring the fall leaves! Join Mike Putnam, one of Bend's most celebrated photographers, in seeking out the most fantastic fall foliage in the area to capture on camera! 

2. Pumpkin Picking & Corn Maze at Smith Rock Ranch

What's more autumnal than a pumpkin patch? Well, a pumpkin patch next to a corn maze, of course! Smith Rock Ranch is situated right next to the gorgeous, iconic Smith Rock State Park. Pick pumpkins in style, with a magnificent view of this breathtaking geological site! Afterward, take a crack at their corn maze. This is a great activity for the whole family! 

3. Fall Festival in Bend, Oct 5-7, 2018

This year, downtown Bend, Oregon will be a Fiesta of Fall! Chomp on locally-grown apples, get your face painted, carve pumpkins, and take a gander at all the amazing goods for sale from talented locals! Later in the evening, there will be music on a few separate stages, and delicious beer from local breweries will be available throughout all three days. 

4. Sipping Delicious, Locally-Crafted Warm Beverages

Coffee? Hot Cider? Hot chocolate (with a little Crater Lake Hazelnut Espresso Vodka)? YES PLEASE! Check out Thump Coffee for delicious coffee in downtown Bend. Stop by the Crater Lake Spirits Tasting Room downtown, and pick up some of their delicious spirits for your warm drinks! 

5. Canoeing? Canoeing! 

Did you know we run our canoe tours well into October? We head up to the Cascade Lakes as long into the season as we can, but in the autumn we run our canoe tours out on the gorgeous Deschutes River! Join us out on the water for the last of the good paddling in the season. Call our office for more information about the River Canoe Tour!