Top Places to See When Driving from Bend, Oregon to Orofino, Idaho

Are you planning a road trip from Bend, Oregon to Orofino, Idaho? Get ready for a scenic drive through gorgeous landscapes and charming towns. The route from Bend, Oregon to Orofino, Idaho, offers many opportunities to explore the natural beauty, culture, history, and adventure of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're driving for leisure or to reach your destination, this journey will make for an unforgettable adventure. In this post, we will rank the top places to see when driving from Bend, Oregon to Orofino, Idaho.

High Desert Museum

Start your journey with a visit to the High Desert Museum, located in Bend, Oregon. The museum celebrates the natural and cultural history of the West with indoor and outdoor exhibits, live wildlife, and educational programs. You'll have the opportunity to see native wildlife, such as the otter, eagle, and gray wolf, and explore exhibits on the regional history, art, and culture.

Smith Rock State Park

Located about 25 miles north of Bend, Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a natural wonder that you should not miss when driving to Orofino, Idaho. The park is famous for its towering rock formations, serene river, and hiking trails that offer breathtaking views. The park's most iconic feature is the Monkey Face, a rock pillar that resembles a monkey's profile. It's a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Farewell Bend State Recreation Area

As you leave Oregon and enter Idaho, make a stop at the Farewell Bend State Recreation Area. The park offers a serene setting with plenty of activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The park's most popular attraction is the Snake River, which is perfect for fishing or simply watching the sunsets.

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is a must-see natural wonder in Idaho. The park is home to North America's deepest river gorge, Hells Canyon, which spans 10 miles wide and more than a mile deep. You can explore the canyon's beauty by hiking, rafting, jet boating, or taking a scenic cruise. The park is a beautiful place to take in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and learn about the region's ecology and history.

Clearwater National Forest

Clearwater National Forest is a vast wilderness in Northern Idaho that offers stunning mountain scenery and plenty of recreational activities. The forest features thousands of miles of trails, as well as scenic drives and campgrounds that make for a great adventure. A must-see attraction is Lochsa Historical Ranger Station, which showcases local history and offers a visitor's center and gift shop.

Historical Downtown Orofino

Finish your road trip with a visit to the Historical Downtown Orofino. Orofino is a small town that shares the spirit of the Old West, with many charming buildings and plenty of history to discover. The town is home to several historic sites, such as the Clearwater Historical Museum and The Riverbank. Take your time to explore the small businesses and restaurants that will make you feel welcome.

Conclusion

A road trip from Bend, Oregon, to Orofino, Idaho, is guaranteed to be a scenic and memorable adventure. From visiting wildlife sanctuaries and hiking among towering rock formations to experiencing the history and charm of small towns, this route is full of captivating attractions for everyone. No matter what time of year you travel, you will have plenty of recreational activities to experience and gorgeous views to enjoy. We hope this list will help you plan your next road trip and create unforgettable memories.