This 800 mile road trip from San Francisco to Bend takes you through some of the most scenic highways in California and Oregon, passing through towering forests, rugged coastlines, and picturesque towns. Start in San Francisco, California and pass through Crescent City, Brookings, Mendocino, from there we will follow US-101/ CA-1 along the coastline for over 500 miles and many more before you reach the final destination of Bend. You will also get to see multiple National and state parks like Crater Lake National Park and Umpqua National Forest.
So make sure to pack plenty of snacks, books and podcasts to keep you happy on the road.
Planning a Road Trip from San Francisco to Bend
When planning a road trip from San Francisco to Bend it is important to consider various factors that can affect the trip such as weather, availability and time. This section will cover two important sub-sections to help plan the route: choosing the best time for the trip and deciding on the route. Best scenic route from San Francisco to Bend
Best time of year for a San Francisco to Bend Road Trip
- The best time to take a road trip from San Francisco to Bend, Oregon is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and dry. However, it is important to note that these months are peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
- If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider traveling during the shoulder season, from May to June or September to October.
- Get a National Parks Pass for just $80. The entrance fee to national parks are about $30 per national park per vehicle ,so you can certainly save money by getting this pass that will get you into all national parks for $80.
How Long Does Driving from San Francisco to Bend Take?
A road trip from San Francisco to Bend takes roughly 10 hours and is about 500 miles and can be completed in one day. However, I strongly encourage you to split the drive into at least 7 days so that you can take in all the stunning beauty the west coast has to offer. So make sure to pack plenty of snacks, books and podcasts to keep you happy on the road. Take your time!
Car Rental Options for SF to Bend Road Trip
If you are flying into San Francisco International Airport, you will need a rental car. Our preferred rental car is Hertz . They always have the best rates, are reliable and their customer service is amazing.
Alternatively, compare rates with other rental car companies here.
Another great, affordable and convenient option would be to rent a campervan or RV for your road trip. Renting a campervan or RV could save you money, as you won’t have to spend money on lodging. It will also give you tons of flexibility on the road. For many of these spots, accommodations book fast and reservations are needed a year in advance.
Rent a Camper Van or RV on Outdoorsy. Make sure your insurance covers rentals and don’t rely on their insurance. Take your own photos before taking possession of the rig, don’t break anything, and you’ll be just fine. You will get your deposit back once the owner confirms there was no damage during the rental period.
Where should I stop between San Francisco and Bend?
In this post you will find the 40+ best stops to make on the 800 mile road trip from San Francisco to Bend. Key spots include Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Umpqua National Forest and Crater Lake National Park. You will also find best things to do, where to stay and where to eat at each stop.
Road Trip from San Francisco to Bend Logistics
| Days | 7-10 |
| Miles | 800 |
| Driving Time | 17 hours |
| Cities | 12+ |
| Highways Driven | CA-1 and US-101(aka the pacific coast highway) ,Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway |
| National Parks | Redwoods National Park, Crater Lake National Park, Umpqua National Forest + more than 10 other California and Oregon State Parks |
| Cost | Priceless |
As you drive, hike, and explore your way through this route, remember to take your time, embrace the unexpected, and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Capture the memories in photographs, but also in the stories you’ll share with friends and family. This road trip isn’t just a physical passage; it’s a chapter in your own personal adventure.
Highways Driven: CA-1 and US-101(aka the pacific coast highway) ,Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Just to confuse things thoroughly, different parts of CA Hwy 1 are called “Pacific Coast Highway,” “Cabrillo Highway,” “Shoreline Highway,” and “Coast Highway,” and US 101 is called “Oregon Coast Highway” in Oregon, and the “Pacific Highway” in parts of California.
Parts of both highways have been designated “El Camino Real.” Stick to the route number if you don’t want to get lost! US -101 is mostly free but has some sections with special toll lanes to help commuters get ahead of traffic for a fee.
Note: This post contains affiliate links, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase using one of these links. Thank you for supporting this free content!
Disclaimer: First and foremost bring a vomit bucket, gum or any anti nausea medication for someone that might get carsick, also let them take the front seat. Some roads will be very windy for very long.
DAY 1: San Francisco to Muir Woods National Park
Travel Time: .5 hours, 20 miles
Start your road trip extra early and spend a couple hours exploring the first stop of this road trip San Francisco. There are so many special things to do, see and eat. You can easily spend one full day exploring San Francisco.
Stops between San Francisco and Muir Woods
Stop 1: Vista Point
You can start by admiring the famous Golden Gate Bridge, by seeing its best views, Vista Point. Click here on details on how to reach Vista Point.
Stop 2: Lands End Trail
Take a breathtaking, jaw dropping, adventurous hike along the Golden coast. For those who love hiking and jaw dropping ocean views, and views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge this 1.5 Lands End Trail moderate hike is for you:
Stop 3: Alcatraz Island Tour
See the infamous prison of Alcatraz in person by doing a tour. It was a pretty cool experience and was very informational. You will have to board the Alcatraz Ferry at Pier 33 at either times of departure . Be sure to book in advance as they frequently sell out fast. Tours can take anywhere from 3-4 hours including transportation time.
Stop 4: Fishermans Wharf
Have brunch at the Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular tourist destination with its seafood restaurants, street performers, and souvenir shops. It is about 30 minutes from Lands End trail and will take you through Lombard street. Lombard Street, also known as the “crookedest street in the world,” is a fun and unique experience with its steep, winding turns.
If you want to avoid the touristy places like Fishermans wharf and avoid tourist trap prices, try venturing into North Beach, which is only 1 mile south of Fisherman wharf. North Beach is rooted in Italian heritage, so this is the best place to eat Italian.
Stop 5: Lunch in North Beach
- Capo’s Pizza for some really delicious deep dish pizza
- Golden Boy for fresh Sicilian Pizza that is going to wow your taste buds (cash only)
- If you are feeling like a to- go lunch try Molinari Delicatessen. An old Italian school deli that offers all kinds of meatball and deli sandwiches with the freshest cheese.
Then stop at Caffe Trieste to get the richest Italian coffee you have ever tasted to get some fuel for the day
Stop 6: Presidio San Francisco
Visiting Presidio San Francisco offers something for everyone. At the Presidio you can visit the Golden Gate National Recreation area which offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hiking trails and picnic areas.
You can also walk along Baker beach, which is popular for sunbathing and picnicking. Bring a towel, sunglasses, and your camera. Take a bike ride: There are many bike trails in the Presidio, including the Bay Trail and the Golden Gate Promenade.
Stop 7: Muir Woods National Monument
Just 15 miles north of San Francisco, this national park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and visitors can take scenic drives and hike through the forest. It is definitely a sight to see, while you are in San Francisco.
Things to keep in mind:
- Entrance fee : 15.00 per adult, free for children 15 and under . I recommend getting a national parks pass for 80.00 that gives you access to national parks nationwide without having to pay an entry fee.
Get your national parks pass here
Muir Woods can get very crowded. So it’s best to go early in the morning or late afternoon. If you go on a late summer afternoon you will still have plenty of time to check out the redwoods and go on a short hike.
Spend the night in one of many cozy mountain homes near Muir Woods so that you can have an amazing night’s sleep to embark on the next stop on the road trip.
Best Places to Stay in Muir Woods:
DAY 2: Muir Woods to Gualala
Travel Time: 3 hours, 120 miles
Get ready for another day of roadtripping and make sure you start early. Start in SF and head North of the Golden Gate Bridge where CA Hwy 1 diverges from US 101 and cuts over to the Marin County coast.
It’s an absolute gorgeous drive with astounding scenery all to yourself. This drive will take you through the Sonoma Coast past Stinson Beach, Bodega Bay, Gualala and finally Mendocino. You will see some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. The day will end in Gualala, a quaint town rich with large bluffs and rich art.
Of course you can just head out to Mendocino via US-101 and CA-128 in just over 3 hours, but you would be missing out on a lot of cool places.
Places to stop between San Francisco and Gualala
Because you will be stopping in a lot of coastal towns, with a lot of beautiful beaches, here is a list of things I recommend you bring to soak in all the Pacific coast beaches have to offer.
Things to Bring
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Binoculars (for whale and various animal spotting), for when you are out on the ocean
- a flashlight
- a beach blanket (if you have an old cotton bed sheet, this works great)
- flip-flops for the beach
Also, if you plan on hanging out at the beaches a lot, seriously consider buying a beach tent like this one: beach tent
If the days are sunny and/or windy, you’re going to appreciate one of these little tents. (Even if overcast they are nice.) I bring one with me every time I spend a day at the beach; highly recommend. If it’s just you or you + 1, look for a two person tent. (Two person may sound small, but for beach use it will be perfect.)
Stop 1: Stinson Beach
Stop at this beach to stretch your legs and walk along the white sands. While the water is always cold, it is a popular spot for surfers and people who love to watch surfers (me!) Don’t forget to bring your binoculars. If you do plan to stop, the beach gets very crowded before noon and can be hard to find parking. There are plenty of coffee shops around the area, and parking is free.
Stop 2: Bodega Bay
Roughly 1.5 hours from Stinson Beach, you will reach Bodega Bay. Yet another stop to admire the stunning coastline and grab some brunch. It’s one of the most popular areas to catch whale sightings. Grab your binoculars!
They’ve also got a delicious fish market called Fishetarian Fish Market where you will eat the crunchiest and freshest fish n chips ever and the most salivating fish tacos. The market definitely makes for a great roadside lunch stop.
Stop 3: Gualala
Almost 1.5 hours from Bodega Bay is Gualala, another charming coastal town along the Sonoma Coast that offers scenery, beaches and includes one of the world’s wonders, a pygmy forest.
Stop 4: Salt Point State Park
Salt Point State Park is home to miniature versions of pine, cypress, and redwood trees. Take a hike around the forest and be awed at the beauty that surrounds you.
Stop 5: Coastal Bluff Trail
If you would love to see some sea lions take an easy hike along the Coastal Bluff Trail in Gualala Point Regional Park. It is a beautiful, fun coastal trail that has many views. Views are great over the ocean and you have a good shot at seeing some sea mammals. Bring your binoculars!
Stop 6: Black Point Beach
Making your way along the Sonoma Coast on Highway 1, you will come across clear signs for Black Point Beach. The parking lot is free and dogs are allowed on leashes. There are also bathrooms available in the parking lot. From the parking lot, there will be a staircase that takes you to the beach.
This beach is about a mile and a half long which makes it perfect for a romantic stroll, and with the steep rugged cliffs surrounding it, it is quite picturesque and beautiful! We came on a week day afternoon and couldn’t believe that we had the entire beach to ourselves! Maybe it was because it was a weekday, or maybe the danger signs discouraged others to leave. Regardless of the reason, I highly recommend making a stop here. You will be very happy you did!
As always, use caution whenever trekking through somewhere unfamiliar. There have been some deaths ,mainly due to people being swept away from unpredictable currents of falling off the steep cliffs. But don’t let this scare you away! Don’t walk too close to the edge of the cliffs and don’t walk too close to the water
Best Places to Stay in Gualala
Choose from more places to stay the night here!
The Surf Market and the Gualala Supermarket are great options to stock up on road trip snacks and food.
Note: Gualala also has a Costco should you need to fill up on gas.
Day 3: Gualala To Mendocino
Drive time: 1 hour, 50 miles
On day 3 of this road trip you will reach Mendocino, a city that is 1 hour from Gualala. There is plenty to see and do in Mendocino. I have been there several times and rounded up a few of my favorite things. I recommend you spend a full day here, as it is just exceptionally beautiful.
** First and foremost this is where you will want to make sure to bring a vomit bucket, gum or any anti nausea medication, lozenges for someone that might get carsick. There are lots of windy roads and turns. **
Places to Stop between Gualala and Mendocino
Stop 1: Russian Gulch State Park
Russian Gulch State Park is a beautiful park located on the Mendocino Coast of California. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the popular 6-mile round-trip trail to the waterfall and devils blowhole. The devils blowhole is a 60 foot deep sea cave that is truly a sight to see.
The required $8 day use fee gets you into the other state parks in Mendocino for the day as well. We did the Headland Trail and there were spectacular views around every corner. The trail ends at Devil’s Punchbowl then you circle back. There are several picnic areas in the park overlooking the magnificent coast. There are also bathrooms available at the park.
Stop 2: MacKerricher State Park
You can see some amazing tide pools at MacKerricher State Park. It is one of the best tide pools spots on the Mendocino coast. Here you can also find a great sea lion viewing up close. Day use is free. The park features a boardwalk trails that goes through a meadow and forest with never ending views of the Pacific Ocean. The trails also leads you to a harbor seal sunning area. The park was very clean and had a fair number of visitors midweek. Beautiful scenery!
Stop 3: Mendocino Headlands State Park
If you want to see close-up views of stunning rock formations, sea foam, and sea lions you won’t want to miss going to Mendocino Headlands State Park. The scenery is incredible — huge rocks of various shapes, pounded by the surf, with many birds on top and many sea lions laying on the rocks. We stopped by when we first got to town for a quick look and ended up spending an hour and a half walking around and taking pictures.
Park in one of the many free lots and walk the short paths to the overlooks that bring you very close to the edge of cliffs to experience the magnificent Mendocino coastline.
It is free, easy to get to, easy to park, and easy walking. Go. A postcard awaits every turn and perch.
Stop 4: Noyo Headlands Park
Noyo Headlands Park located in Fort Bragg, just 20 minutes north of Mendocino, is home to the famous Glass Beach. As the name entails, it is indeed filled with glass. Amazing sea glass. Not all beaches have a lot of glass.
To get to a beach that has glass walk to the south a couple of coves over and the beaches are 90% sea glass. We spent hours there, digging for various colors of glass and bits of patterned ceramics. Look for a beach that, at a distance, looks like it’s covered with little white pebbles. That’s all frosted sea glass. You won’t find much glass at the beach nearest to the parking lot, because sadly people have been taking them home. The beach is pet friendly.
At the headlands there are so many walking trails, coastal views, ample amount of free parking, and fresh crisp air. What more could you want?
Have dinner at any of the restaurants in the Noyo Harbor district. Many of the restaurants have outdoor seating, where you can watch the sunset.
Best Places to Stay in Mendocino
Day 4: Mendocino to Ferndale
Driving Time: 3 hours, 140 miles
On day 4 of this road trip from SF to Bend Oregon, you will see many treasures and attractions between Mendocino and Ferndale. Here are some of the things you can see and do.
Places to Stop between Mendocino and Ferndale
Stop 1: Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park is an absolute treasure and one of the greatest national attractions on the planet. It is a very scenic route with old growth redwoods (some 500-800 years old) towering over the predecessor road to the 101. Plan for at least 2.5 ours for pictures and stops and so many gapes and gawks.
Avenue ofthe Giants is a free 31-mile scenic drive that takes you through some of the most impressive groves of redwoods. It literally is just a highway exit you take to get there. the road loops around so don’t worry about getting lost and there are plenty of places to stop and have lunch or a snack with a giant view.
You can hike, bike or drive through the forest, marveling at the towering trees and the diverse wildlife that calls this place home.
We stopped at a couple of places, one that was just a pull off from the road, the other had a nice walking trail that led down to the Eel River. The color of the water in the river is the most beautiful turquoise color and there were wildflowers in bloom everywhere. Just walking around the trees that are so huge makes you feel so small, it will leave you in awe.
Stop 2: Ferndale
After many hours on the road and plenty of activities crossed off your list, you may just want to wind down for the night in Ferndale, a quaint little seaside city that has Victorian style homes and lots and lots of history.
Ferndale is the most well preserved Victorian town on the west coast and it’s absolutely adorable. I recommend you stay the night in Ferndale.
Places to Stay in Ferndale
Day 5: Ferndale to Brookings
Driving Time: 2.5 hours, 129 miles
Day 4 of this road trip takes you to many vibrant coastal cities that each carry their own unique charm. I highly recommend just stopping whenever you feel like it because every town has its own charm. Stop as much as you can, but also try not to drive in the dark because the ocean views are something you don’t want to miss.
*If you plan on driving along the Pacific, you’re better off avoiding traveling on hot summer mornings – this is when coastal fog tends to set in, potentially making the already-zigzaggy roads harder to traverse. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, though, as this fog usually clears up by midday.*
Places to Stop between Ferndale and Brookings
Stop 1: Eureka
Just 30 minutes from Ferndale you will arrive in Eureka. Stop at Old Town Coffee & Chocolates for some delicious coffee and explore the little town. To be quite honest there is not much to see in Eureka.
Stop 2: Arcata
If you stop in Arcata you have to stop at Cafe Moka. Your muscles may be sore from all the driving and hiking you have been doing, so treat yourself to a 30 minute session inside a redwood hot tub or sauna with a delicious cup of espresso at your side.
It is such a lovely experience and costs $15 for 30 min sesh per person(2023 prices). You can check them out here.
You will need to reserve the tub or sauna days in advance.
Stop 3 : Trinidad
The city of Trinidad is the place for awesome beaches and nice restaurants. At the bottom of the main road into town there is a wharf, and a nice Trinidad Head loop trail. You will see a memorial lighthouse (small) in the beach parking lot. It used to be up on the hill overlooking a great vista, but the hillside is eroding. The real lighthouse is hidden away on Trinidad Head.
Another beautiful spot in Trinidad is Sue Meg State Park, (formerly Patrick’s Point State Park). There are a number of drive-to or walk-to short hikes to ocean vistas (one vista is called Wedding Rock, for obvious reasons). There is also a re-creation of Sumêg Village buildings in the park.
By now, you may start getting hungry at this time so I recommend you stop at one of these places in Trinidad for some yummy lunch bites.
The Lighthouse Grill – for the best mashed potatoes and gravy
Headies Pizza and Pour– for some delicious pizza
Beach Comber Cafe- grab a meaty deli sandwich to go and picnic at Sue Meg State Park
Stop 4 : Prairie Creek State Park
After you have filed your stomach, it is time to visit another state park that is gorgeous and definitely worth a stop. Prairie Creek State Park has just about everything your eyes want to see. It has a large prairie visible from the main road, and sometimes depending on the season you can even see Roosevelt Elk.
Stop 5: Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek State Park
*Bring your water shoes* & Warning the beauty seizes and squeezes your soul
Fern Canyon is a forest filled with luscious wet ferns that is a remarkable sight to see. This magical forest with moss- and fern-covered walls, is something out of a movie. Well it actually is out of a movie.
Fern Canyon (photos) has been the filming location of quite a few dinosaur-related movies (Jurassic Park) and TV shows (Walking with Dinosaurs).
A parking permit is now required to use the parking lot, ordered online here. I recommend making reservations in advance as there is a limited capacity per day.
If it’s been raining you will need 4-wheel-drive to go over the sloshy lumpy dirt road.
Do an easy 1 mile Fern Canyon Loop Trail that leads you to Gold Bluffs Beach, where you can rest or camp and stay the night. This is an easy walk, although you need either water proofed boots or to say the heck with your shoes. I was there at this time of the afternoon when the sun was sending all its rays through the redwoods around the canyon, which was incredible.
If it’s October, you can usually see a herd of Roosevelt Elk in the park, bulls are bugling and stamping and fighting over females–a great show as long as you don’t get in the way.
Stop 6: Brookings, Oregon
About one hour north of Prairie Creek Park is Brookings, Oregon. Here you will enter Southern Oregon, where the beauty of the coastline will never seize to amaze you.
Stop 7 : Chetco Point Park
Chetco Point Park is the perfect welcome to the Oregon coast and right in the heart of Brookings. The Chetco Point Trail is an easy 0.7 mile stroll that will offer many vantage points and photo opportunities to capture the astounding scenery of the Pacific Ocean and the massive rock formations.
You can park for free at the parking lot which will be near a stinky water treatment plant(please brave the smell) and head down the paved trail to the rock peninsula. You are rewarded with unparalleled gorgeous views and pristine beaches. It is a hidden treasure. There are picnic tables available as well!
Stop 8: Harris Beach State Park
This is a gorgeous state park which has walking paths, hiking trails and a stunning beach with many sea stacks and sea cave formations. Tidepooling is great! There is no entrance fee to the park for day use. Restrooms and foot showers, for washing sand off feet, are available.
Stop 9 : Samuel Boardman State Park
Brookings is also home to 300 year old Sitka Spruce trees which can be found in Samuel Boardman State Park .
There are several viewpoints in the park that you can hike to or drive to as the park offers 12 miles of stunning coastline. Several stops along about 12 miles of coastline including Arch Rock/Spruce Islands, Natural Bridges, Thunder Rock Cove/Secret Beach. Usually not overcrowded, because these areas aren’t as well known, and are relatively far from heavily populated areas. Some areas require some light to moderate hiking.
You can burn an entire day visiting all the various look outs, but if you do…walk the entire trail at Natural Bridges. That’s where you’ll experience the massive sea cliffs, see more arches, and walk on the arch. Please use caution and only proceed if it looks safe.
I highly recommend having a picnic at Arch Rock. There are many picnic tables and benches under the shaded forest that are available for anyone and everyone who wants to enjoy a meal with a spectacular view.
Best Places to Eat in Brookings
If you’re after fish n chips, go to the Hungry Clam.
Before you leave Brookings, it would be worth your while to stop at Mattie’s Pancake House for breakfast and for THE best blueberry pancakes of your life. And then make your way to Gold Beach, the first stop after Brookings.
Best Places to Stay in Brookings
Day 6: Brookings to Camas Valley
Driving Time: 3 hours, 136 miles
From Brookings you have two options, keep going up the Oregon Coast or go east toward Medford.
If you have the time, I encourage you to take the Oregon Coast route to Bend. Driving the Oregon Coast along Highway 101 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The road is slow enough in most places you can just do classic road tripping and stop when the fancy strikes you.
There are plenty of small towns and shops to check out and stay at along the way. This region, similar to the rest of the Oregon Coast, is home to a gorgeous, rugged coastline, state parks, beaches, overlooks, hikes, small towns, insane rock formations, sea prairies, sea coves and so much more!
Alternatively you can head east from Brookings to Medford through Grants Pass and shorten the drive by 3 hours. Grants Pass is pretty boring though and is brutal from a visual perspective.
Places to Stop between Brookings and Camas Valley
Stop 1: Gold Beach
Drive almost 30 minutes north of Brookings and you will enter Gold Beach. Don’t be fooled by its name though. It’s not actually gold. While not actually Gold, there is plenty of stuff to see, do and eat.
If you are a book lover like me, visit the largest bookstore on the Oregon Coast. Gold Beach Books offers more than 75,000 books and a cafe all in a two story space.
The best way to see the iconic Rogue River is by boat. Make a reservation with Jerry’s Rogue Jets. They offer anywhere from 80 to 104-mile whitewater excursions, as well as a calmer 64-mile trip along a historic mail boat route. The tour can take anywhere from 1- 5 hours depending on the trip you choose. Make reservations here
Stop 2: Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor
Along the highway 101 you will see a sign for Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor. You will definitely want to stop and take in the views. There are lots of pull offs on this stretch and it’s totally worth stopping at them all. You may get lucky and spot gray whales during their biannual migration (November to Mid- February).
If you want to explore the park, my favorite trail is the 3 mile Cape Sebastian Trail. You will hike through many Sitka Spruce trees densely spread along the coastline, reaching Hunter Cove where you can relax and eat lunch.
Check out the many other trails here
Place to Eat in Gold Beach
Woggy’s Fish and Chips food cart: The bright red food cart serves one to three-piece fish and chips for $8 to $16, alongside the best clam strips, fish tacos and fish burritos. Before you go, always check out their facebook page for seasonal hours and operations.
Stop 2: Cape Blanco
Looking for a dreamy, picturesque lighthouse, then you will have to stop at Cape Blanco State Park. A tour of the Cape Blanco lighthouse is $2.00 and is offered Wednesday thru Monday from April thru October.
If you’re out for a hike, Blacklock Point or Humbug Mountain are as good as you’ll find right off the coastline. Humbug brings you 1800 ft above the ocean to peer southward. Blacklock is just north of Cape Blanco, the western most point in North America until you reach Washington.
Stop 3: Bandon
Bandon’s Old Town is a place you will want to visit. I am almost positive you will stumble upon something you love in the many little shops and boutiques that are there.
While in the old town, you have to go to FaceRock Creamery, which is one of the premiere cheddar makers on the west coast. They also have a wide variety of ice creams. Fun fact: Tillamook bought them out. My personal favorite is the garlic slayer and aged white cheddar cheese. To be honest all of their cheeses are insatiable.
If you like gut bomb food, Wilson’s Market serves up burritos made of regret that are really enjoyable. Don’t let the exterior drive you away, it’s one of those holes in the wall places.
Stop 4: Coquille Point
Coquille Point in Bandon is a hidden gem on the Oregon Coast with the large looming rocks, waves that explode through an arched rock and low tide sea caves, and seals that frequent the low flat rocks to sleep on.
Be sure to download a tide table app to determine if tide is high or low.
Stop 5: Camas Valley
From Bandon, drive one hour east on Highway 42 and you will reach Camas Valley , a small town with lots of charm. It’s a great place to stay the night so you can be well rested for the next day of adventure.
Places to Stay in Camas Valley
Day 7: Camas Valley to Umpqua
Drive Time: 2 hours, 75 miles
On day 7 of this road trip, you will see a variety of landscapes and terrain, driving through luscious forests and gushing waterfalls. Here is a list of things to do and see on day 7 of the road trip.
Places to Stop between Camas Valley and Umpqua
Stop 1: Umpqua National Forest
Umpqua is one of those places you have to see at least once in your lifetime. Home to the Umpqua National Forest, it is one of my favorite places I have ever been to. The scenery is jaw-dropping, punctuated by snow-capped mountain peaks, towering forests, and spectacular waterfalls.You don’t want to miss it.
No reservations are required to enter the national forest, however there is a 5 dollar day fee.
Hike the beautiful Tokotee Falls, that looks like it is straight out of a fairytale movie. The hike is less than 1 mile and is fairly easy. Get there as early as you can, as the falls tend to get very crowded especially during the summer months.
Enjoy all of what Diamond Lake has to offer by staying at Diamond Lake Resort. It is a perfect place to base from, while exploring Toketee Falls, Watson Falls, Clearwater Falls and White Horse Falls which are all along highway 138. They have restaurants, lodging and many summer recreational rentals. Reservations are taken up to 3 months in advance.
There are tons of hiking and biking trails from easy to hard at Diamond Lake.
Rent a bike and bike through the beautiful meadows and forest with picturesque Mt.Thielsen and Mt. Bailey in the backdrop on the John Dellenback Trail. The paved bike trail is gentle and enables you to soak in the lake and surrounding beauty from all angles. It is about 11 miles of heaven. You can then grab some pizza and ice cream at South Shore Pizza, which is right next to the campground.
Bike rentals are available on a first come, first service basis.
Make sure you have enough storage on your phone cause you will want to take photos at every single turn!
It is not very often you get to soak in a geothermal pool in 115 degree water, up amongst the tips of towering trees, surrounded by a towering forest and a rushing North Umpqua River. To experience all that go to Umpqua Hot Springs in the Umpqua National Forest.
To get to the hot springs (no more than 3 feet deep), you will have to hike less than one mile from the trailhead and it is fairly easy.
Some tips for a more enjoyable experience:
- Go early
- Popular spot for nudists, so there are many naked people
- Wear water shoes, the rocks can be slippery
- Bring insect repellent, suncreen
- Bring your swimsuit and towels
Best Places to Stay in Umpqua
Diamond Lake Campground and Resort is also a great place to stay as it is centrally located and close to everything else including Crater Lake National Park. Reserve as early as you can.
Day 8: Umpqua to Crater Lake National Park
Driving Time: 2 hours, 63 miles
Day 8 of this road trip is all about the excitement of finally seeing Crater Lake National Park. The drive from Umpqua to Crater Lake is incredible and will have you mesmerized the entire way. I’ll never forget driving through that forest, a slow ascent through a scarred landscape, trees burnt out from forest fires, wonderful hills and vistas, and suddenly hitting the cusp of the crater and being confronted with the stunning Crater Lake. It’s so big and so wide that no photos will ever do it justice.
Crater Lake is without a doubt the most genuinely stunning place I’ve ever seen. Its landscape is so unique and it will actually make your jaw drop, like it did mine. Seriously. You may also tear up a bit because of its sheer size and beauty.
Many of the roads to Crater Lake are closed until July. The best time to visit Crater Lake is July- September, that’s when the park’s roads and facilities are fully opened and you can make the most of your visit.
While boating is not allowed on the lake, there are many other recreational activities to do around the park.
Choose a hike from many different trails around the lake here.
Or rent a bike from one of a couple bike rental agencies here. The bike rentals are on a first come, first serve basis.
Cleetwood Clove Trail
The Cleetwood Cove Trail is a popular trail on the East rim of the park. It is the only legal access to the lake where swimming, fishing and boat tours are allowed.
I am not sure I have the words to adequately describe the hike down to the lake. The water is just so blue and so clear, it draws you in immediately. Melted glacial water, you can fill your drinking bottle with it, and as such it’s amongst the clearest bodies of water in the world.
The water is super cold with an average temp of 57 degrees. In the summer. If you do decide to swim , it will be one of the most amazing natural swims, just remember to bring warm clothes.
Don’t forget your America the Beautiful Pass to give you access to all national parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for one year. For just $80.00,it is definitely worth your buck.
Best Places to Stay in Crater Lake
Accommodations book fast, reserve a year in advance!
Crater Lake is surrounded by national forest, so no towns close within 15-20 miles. If you’re not wanting to rough it in a campground or cabin, and can’t get a room at the Crater Lake Lodge, you can find some decent motels in Prospect (35 miles) or Shady Cove (60 miles).
If you want to be 15-20(30 minutes) miles from the park, Diamond Lake and Union Creek both have cabins.
It isn’t anything fancy, but Diamond Lake Resort is close enough that you could stay there and bike the ring road and have a sunset picnic. Having seen sunrises and sunsets at Crater Lake, I would say that is a must do experience and a forever memory.
Day 9: Crater Lake to Bend
Driving Time: 2 hours , 113 miles
Today is the day you reach your final destination, Bend Oregon. From Crater Lake, you can drive straight on The Dalles California Highway and reach Bend in just under 2 hours, or… you can take the best detour of your life and take the Cascades Lakes National Scenic Byway road, adding only an extra 30 minutes to your drive. I think the choice is an easy one.
Best Places to Stop Between Crater Lake and Bend
With the Cascade Mountains as the backdrop throughout the drive, the byway passes mountains, rivers, trails, volcanic landscapes and tons of alpine lakes with tons of places to stop and is truly a feast for your eyes.
To name a few there are many lakes to stop at such as Todd Lake, Elk Lake, Sparks Lake, Devils Lake. All the lakes have parking lots that can fill up quickly, especially during the summer times. All parking lots require a fee to park.
I highly recommend getting the annual pass for $30.00 here that will grant you a permit to park for free.
Elk Lake
My personal favorite is Elk Lake because it is a one stop shop for everything. Elk Lake contains a resort, boat rentals and plenty of amenities and restaurants.
Stop for lunch at Elk Lake, and eat your lunch with a view of pristine, glistening lake waters with a front and center view of Mt.Bachelor. Elk Lake Resort offers dining and lodging, should you want to stay the night.
Hosmer Lake
Hosmer Lake is another lake on the byway that is absolutely stunning . The lake offers incredible views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister and Broken Top mountains. The water is as clear as crystal,and you can see the trout and Atlantic Salmon swimming beneath.
If you bring a canoe or kayak, you can paddle along the calm lake and admire the scenery around you. I loved paddling through the canals with the reeds on both sides and countless birds singing around you. You may get lucky and see a great blue heron.
BYOC-Bring your own canoe cause Hosmer Lake does not not offer any rentals. An inflatable canoe or kayak works perfectly and can easily fit into any size car.
Things to do in Bend
Finally, the road trip ends in Bend, Oregon. This charming town is located in the high desert and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. Visitors can also explore the local shops and restaurants, or take a scenic drive to nearby attractions like Smith Rock State Park.
When you finally make it to Bend, you will be overwhelmed by everything the town has to offer. It is quite possible to spend a week in Bend and still not have discovered all the gems the town has to offer. So let’s get started on some of the many fun things to do while in Bend.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument (1 hour south of Bend)
It’s worth stopping at Bend’s lava flows or obsidian fields, at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument even if only for a short while. Get out of the car, stretch your legs, and walk on lava. It’s very different from most places you typically see. The visitor center is very well organized.
You can get a great introduction to Newberry National Volcanic Monument and all the attractions in the monument at the Lava Lands Visitor Center.
Trail of the Molten Land, located just behind the visitor center is a neatly paved 1.0 mile walking trail through molten rock. Although some sections can be steep, it’s not very often you get to walk on lava and see an active volcano.
Yes, it is active to this day. The last eruption was 1300 years ago. The whole experience of being surrounded by lava is pretty awesome.
Reservation Fee is 5.00 and can be purchased online or onsite
See the Top of Lava Butte
Located within Newberry National Monument is Lava Butte, is a cinder cone rising 500 feet above Lava Lands Visitor Center. A cinder covered trail encircles the rim of the cone with outstanding views.
The shuttle bus to the top of Lava Butte operates from the visitor center ($3 fee for the bus in 2023); driving to Lava Butte is not permitted. The short hike at the top of the crater at Lava Butte looks over the breadth of the solidified lava flow providing for a memorable experience.
Lava River Cave
If you want to continue exploring Bend’s fascinating geological history, go to Lava River Cave. Lava River Cave, also a part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offers self-guided exploration of a mile-long lava tube and is approximately 1.5 hours. It’s pretty cool experience. Bring a headlamp, some warm clothes or blanket and a helmet as the cave is very dark. There are headlamps for rent for 5.00 at the site.
Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is located in Terrebonne, Oregon about 40 minutes North of Bend. There are various kinds of hikes at the park. Rim Rock Trail is 1 mile and there is very little elevation gain. It is perfect for kids.
Misery Ridge and River Trail is a beautiful loop with panoramic views and took us almost 2 hours to complete. This hike offers amazing views of the river, rock formations, and the famous Monkey Face.
There is a stunning overlook that is very close to the parking lot at Misery Ridge and River Trailhead, so you won’t have to hike far to see stunning views. I recommend you catch the sunrise and sunset there.
Steelhead Falls
Located 20 minutes from Smith Rock State Park is Steelhead Falls, a blue waterfall and swimming hole that is very cool to see and jump into on a 95 degree hot day of summer.
The trail to Steelhead Falls is just a half-mile long, and it’s a fairly easy hike.The trail follows the river, providing plenty of scenic beauty during the 10-15 minute hike. I would say pack some sandwiches and drinks and spend the afternoon. It’s beautiful.
Wear proper hiking shoes and slip resistant footwear as some sections can be slippery.
Wanderlust Tours
Take an evening canoe or kayak tour by the light of the moon, or beneath a sky full of stars on the Cascade Lakes! It is definitely a bucket list experience and one that I highly recommend.
Wanderlust Tours offers 2 hour guided tours on the water, under the stars with plenty of sights and sounds of the birds and other wildlife. Nothing was more peaceful and serene than being out on the pristine lake at night. It was quite an immersive experience and one that I would definitely do again.
Northwest Crossing Farmers Market
If you happen to be in Bend on a Saturday between 10am-2pm, the farmers market is only the best farmers market I have been to. I absolutely love the variety of different vendors. They have everything from exotic oils and vinegars, to jams, to fresh cheese, to clothing, jewelry, soaps, fresh produce, the crunchiest nuts, baked goods and the list goes on. It’s a perfect place to shop for snacks for the road trip back home.
Float on the Deschutes River
The perfect summer activity is taking a lazy float and sun drenching yourself on the Deschutes River. It is a fun, calming activity that everyone will enjoy. Plan for 2 hours, while the trip can take you anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, prepare for lines in high season.
Rent your tubing equipment here.
Three Sisters Viewpoint
Located along highway 20 between Bend and Sister are magical views of the Three Sisters and other mountains on the west side. It is such a beautiful view with epic views of all three peaks. The early morning is a great viewing time as the rising sun bathes the Sisters in its warm orange glow. It is easy to stop, park and walk to admire the beauty.
Sisters
About 20 miles northwest of Bend you will come across a fun, charming western themed town with a coupe of unique shops and gift stores. Not only do they have the cutest shops, they have the BEST burgers and the BEST homemade ice cream shakes at Sno Cap Drive In. You have to try them.
Best Places to Eat in Bend
Mckay Cottage Restaurant
For some delicious breakfast, McKay Cottage is where you need to go. The wait time can be long(almost an hour) especially on weekends, but they make the wait time as comfortable as possible with the ability to get coffee, drinks, and even pastries. They have plenty of outdoor seating as well. This is my #1 place to recommend for brunch in Bend. Start your day here and then take a beautiful walk along the river, it’s less than 50 feet away.
Mod Pizza
For a quick bite to eat, try Mod Pizza, it’s a chain and not fancy but super cheap and delicious.
Wild Rose Thai
If you are craving thai food while in Bend, try Wild Rose Thai. The food was incredible, busting with so many flavors and service was pretty quick as well. There are a limited number of parking spaces in front of the restaurant since it is on a main downtown street, but you can usually find something within walking distance. All the street parking is free.
Best Places to Stay in Bend
Mckay Crossing Campground is a neat little campground that has a pretty creek that runs from Paulina Lake to Paulina falls and through the campground. The road to the campground can be bumpy. While there is no toilet or running water, the campground still makes for a wonderful spot to stay while in Bend. It is very close to Paulina Peak, Paulina Falls and Paulina Hot Springs, Peter Skene Ogden trail ( has natural water slides that you can actually slide on). It is also close to Sunriver Resort, which is filled with many shops and restaurants.
Conclusion
Overall, the San Francisco to Bend road trip offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that are sure to please any traveler. You will encounter the most stunning landscapes, charming towns, friendly locals and plenty of opportunities for adventures and relaxation. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Pacific Northwest.
