Located just 20 minutes north of Redmond in Terrebonne, Steelhead Falls is the quintessential high desert waterfall. The Deschutes River plunges 20 feet over ancient lava tiers into a deep, swimmable basin.

• Distance: 1.0 mile (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy
• 2026 Update: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has improved the trailhead parking area. It remains a free-use site, making it a budget-friendly alternative to the state parks.
• Pro Tip: Visit in late spring to see wildflowers dotting the canyon walls, or in summer for a dip in the river. Watch for rattlesnakes near the rocky shoreline—they are active in 2026 due to a warmer-than-average winter.

2. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint

Right on the western edge of Redmond, Cline Falls offers an easy-access escape. While the main falls are visible from the upper park area, the real magic is found by following the river trail downstream.

• Distance: 1.5 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Why it’s a Gem: It is significantly less crowded than the waterfalls near Bend. The park features lush riparian greenery that feels world's away from the surrounding desert.
• Note: As of 2026, a $5 daily parking fee applies unless you have a valid Oregon State Parks Pass.

3. Tumalo Falls: The 97-Foot Icon

Though located about 35 minutes from Redmond, no waterfall list is complete without Tumalo Falls. It is the most photographed waterfall in the region for a reason.

• Distance: 0.5 miles to the main overlook; 7 miles for the full loop.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
• 2026 Parking Alert: This is a high-traffic area. In 2026, the Forest Service has strictly enforced parking in designated spots only. If the lot is full, do not park on the road—you will be ticketed.
• The "Hidden" Feature: Most people stop at the first overlook. Continue up the North Fork Trail to see nearly half a dozen smaller, unnamed cascades in the first 2 miles.

4. Chush Falls: The "Wild" Choice

For those willing to drive a bit further toward Sisters, Chush Falls offers a more rugged, wilderness experience.

• Distance: 5.8 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Permit Requirement: If you are hiking between June 15 and October 15, 2026, you must obtain a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit. These are released in batches on Recreation.gov and are required to manage trail capacity.

5. Peter Skene Ogden Viewpoint (Crooked River Falls)

While technically a scenic viewpoint rather than a deep backcountry hike, the views of the Crooked River plunging through the basalt gorge at Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint are breathtaking.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
• Highlight: You can walk across the high bridge for a terrifyingly beautiful look at the river 300 feet below. It’s the perfect "stretch your legs" stop on your way back to Redmond.

What to Pack for High Desert Hiking

1. Sturdy Footwear: Volcanic rock is sharp and abrasive.
2. Sun Protection: Even in winter, the high altitude and lack of tree cover mean high UV exposure.
3. Downloadable Maps: Cell service in the Deschutes Canyon is notoriously spotty.

Final Thoughts

Redmond is the perfect "hub" for these water-focused adventures. Whether you want a quick 1-mile stroll to Steelhead Falls or a deep-forest trek to Chush Falls, the diversity of the 2026 trail system ensures there is a path for everyone.

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