Deschutes County, OR

Oregon

Eventually, sunset time rolled around and, although I didn't get the red sky I'd hoped for, at least the water calmed down to a mirror image.  I loved the place and would return if ever I was lucky enough to be in Oregon again.
Eventually, sunset time rolled around and, although I didn't get the red sky I'd hoped for, at least the water calmed down to a mirror image.  I loved the place and would return if ever I was lucky enough to be in Oregon again.
This is just a few miles from my home.  As you stand atop Paulina Peak, you can see Paulina Lake to the west, East Lake to the East and the Obsidian flow making it's way toward the two. This is overlooking the Newberry Caldera National Monument.
The road to the famous Tumalo Falls Trail was closed for repairs.  But the views at the trailhead were something to see.
Oregon has to be one of the best states for a landscape photographer in the USA. You can virtually drive on any road and find great vistas and a wide variety of landscapes from deserts and coastal beaches to lush forests and mountain ranges.

Sparks Lake near Bend is a great location to catch a view of some of the best known mountains in OR - the 3 sisters and Broken Top. Although there weren't any clouds on this day to create a dramatic sunrise, it was still a wonderful experience to stand by the lake in the morning cold and take in the unfolding scene as the rising sun warmed the peaks and caused the mist to disperse from over the lake surface. There's tons of hiking trails nearby, some that even take you to the summit of a couple of the mountains. This is one location I will definitely be returning to in the near future. 

Thank you for stopping by.

#goldenhour #OR #USA #Oregon #SparksLake #Lake #Sunrise #Dawn #colorful #waterlust #weekend #hiking #roadtrip #blue #bestof5

Popular cities in Deschutes County

Old Mill District which includes kayaking or canoeing and a river or creek
Bend
Known for Rivers, Biking and Hiking
Plenty of outdoor attractions, scenic views and a lively urban atmosphere make this mountain town one of central Oregon’s most popular destinations.

Reasons to visit

  • Old Mill District
  • Hayden Homes Amphitheater
  • Sunriver Resort Golf Course
DJ0XNN OREGON - Farm at the town of Sisters with the Three Sisters and Broken Top Mountains beyond.
Sisters
Known for Hiking, Coffee and Beer
Escape to relaxing Sisters! Enjoy its hiking, beer, and festivals.

Reasons to visit

  • Aspen Lakes Golf Course
  • Village Green Park
  • Big Meadow Golf Course
There was a gorgeous 2 mile hike through lush forest and lava rock to get to this beauty.  It is the most incredible blue I have seen. The water is a freezing 40 degrees and is the headwaters of the McKenzie River.  Yes, people were actually jumping in and quickly popping back out.
La Pine
Known for Dining, Family-friendly and Shopping
Experience romantic La Pine: its food, skiing, sunrises, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
  • Mt Bachelor
  • Deschutes National Forest
Smith Rock, Oregon
Terrebonne
Known for Rock climbing, Volcano and Waterfalls
Terrebonne awaits: its rock climbing, volcanoes, riverfront, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Smith Rock State Park
  • Peter Skene Ogden State Park
High Bridge over Crooked River Gorge near Redmond, Oregon
Redmond
Known for Hiking, Mountains and Nature
Escape to Redmond! Enjoy its natural setting, sunsets, and hiking.

Reasons to visit

  • Eagle Crest Golf Courses