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This One-Of-A-Kind Scenic Byway In Oregon Is Absolutely Heaven On Earth

Published Sep 2, 2022

Written by 

Christy Articola

If you're looking for a scenic drive in Oregon that is truly heaven on earth, then you have come to the right place. The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is incredible. There are six National Scenic Byways and dozens of beautiful drives in Oregon but this one is arguably the best. The things you will see along this 66-mile route will stay with you forever. Read on to learn more about it and start planning your trip.

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway begins in Bend. You'll leave town and head southwest on OR-372 toward Mt. Bachelor.

A panoramic view of a town surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
Management/Google Local

Mt Bachelor is known best as a ski and snowboarding destination, but it's beautiful at any time of year. You'll spot it pretty quickly after leaving Bend; you can't miss it.

A scenic view of a mountain with snow-capped peaks, surrounded by lush forests and a tranquil lake.
Randolfo Santos/Google Local

For the duration of this scenic drive, you'll be traveling through the Deschutes National Forest. Anyone will tell you that this is one of the most beautiful national forests in the nation.

A rushing river flows between rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
Hessterpdx 22/Google Local

There's simply no place like Deschutes National Forest.

A serene forest scene with tall trees and a clear blue sky, featuring a dirt clearing on the ground.
Spikes Tactical/Google Local

You'll see incredible sights along the way, such as Sparks Lake. This lake covers 250 acres and most of its shoreline is jagged, hardened lava.

A serene lake reflects a mountain and clouds, surrounded by lush trees and rocky shoreline.
Randy Herrin/Google Local

Broken Top Mountain is nearby. This mountain is a rare example of a stratovolcano. The lakes in this area were created by a combination of volcanic activity and glaciers.

A scenic view of rugged mountains with patches of snow, surrounded by lush green forests under a cloudy sky.
Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=696004

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway continues south on FR-46. The Three Sisters Wilderness is to the west here, and there are many trails to explore and lots of great campsites to try.

A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Ron Nix/Google Local

Further south, you'll come to Little Lava Lake. This lake has a unique color, and a tiny creek that flows from it turns into the great Deschutes River later on.

A serene lake surrounded by green trees, reflecting the clear blue sky and forest in its calm waters.
Cooper Drinkwad/Google Local

The Deschutes River flows into the Crane Prairie Reservoir, which is great for fishing. It's also home to a wide variety of birds and is a birdwatcher's paradise.

A serene lake scene with mountains in the background, a swan in the foreground, and birds flying overhead.
Kathleen Harrington/Google Local

There are a few more lakes on this byway before your drive is complete. Odell Lake, shown here, and Crescent Lake, are great for boating.

A serene lake surrounded by tall pine trees under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Lessa Clayton/Google Local

These images don't even do this incredible scenic byway in Oregon justice! You'll have to explore it for yourself. It is truly heaven on earth in Oregon, and you need to get out there and drive it soon.

Oregon is full of scenic drives! Here are some more to check out: Take These 9 Country Roads In Oregon For An Unforgettable Scenic Drive

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