The Top Fall Activities in Central Oregon

Planning the perfect Fall vacation in Central Oregon? There are plenty of fun seasonal activities to fill any fall itinerary in and around your Sisters vacation rental. So you can stop planning and start playing, we’re bringing you the area’s top fall activities you shouldn’t miss during the autumn season!

Why Visit Central Oregon In The Fall?

Central Oregon is a dream vacation at any time of year, but the fall is a particularly special time to visit. Cool temperatures that tease of the upcoming winter snow and fewer crowds than the peak season make autumn the perfect time to explore our miles of rugged mountain wilderness. Plus, as fall spreads across the region, the landscape comes alive with glorious fall color and the local wildlife goes on the move in preparation for winter. Best of all, prices on lodgings and attractions fall after the summer season, making it one of the most affordable times of year to cross our region off your bucket list! 

Besides its autumnal beauty, Central Oregon also offers a host of fun fall activities for visitors and locals to celebrate the season. This year may look a little different thanks to Covid-19 restrictions, but there are still plenty of ways to bid a last farewell to summer and welcome in the fall in and around Sisters! Here are a few of our favorites:

Sisters Harvest Faire

October 10-11, 2020, 10am – 4pm

Downtown Sisters

The Sisters Harvest Faire is an annual fall celebration that brings together over 150 of the area’s best arts and crafts vendors for a juried show. The festival includes live music and entertainment, yummy foods and drinks from local chefs, and a day full of fall fun! Admission is free and the fun happens on the streets of downtown Sisters, just steps away from your great Sisters vacation rental! 

Smith Rock Ranch

Seasonal, October

Terrebonne, Oregon

A local favorite during fall is heading to Smith Rock Ranch to navigate their famous 7-acre corn maze. Each year sports a different theme, with past favorites including Apollo 11 (2019), Monsters Inc. (2015), and Jurassic Park (2010). Other fun activities include taking your pick from the farm pumpkin patch, making a furry friend at the petting zoo, and taking a wild zoo ride on the farm train!

Take a Scenic Fall Hike

Hiking is by far the number 1 activity in Central Oregon, and fall sees the trails with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and crisp autumn color. Explore the wilderness on fall favorites such as The Metolius River Trail, the Black Butte Trail, and The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.  Though unique, each hike will treat you to a unique view of the Central Oregon wilderness you can’t find any other season. 

For a special guided fall tour, head to the Camp Polk Meadow Reserve on October 3 to attend their Climate Change and Fall Colors Hike. Along this 2-mile trek, you’ll see the meadow awash in autumn color as you learn about the effects of climate change on the area from your expert guide. 

Go Golfing

Fall is the perfect time to tee off on one of the area’s famous professional golf courses. Though the greens are as vibrant as ever, the surrounding scenery is awash in stunning autumn hues and brings a refreshing fall breeze to every game. Many golf courses in the area also offer reduced rates during the fall season, making that perfect chip shot even sweeter! 

During October, grab your 4 favorite players and hit the annual Fall Central Oregon Shootout. This round-robin team tournament includes a full weekend of competitive play on Eagle Crest and Black Butte Ranch’s Big Meadow golf courses. You’ll be just steps from the game at our private Fairway View home on the course’s 7th hole!

Of course, enjoying the crisp air and dramatic scenery from the comfort of your secluded mountain cabin is one of the best ways to experience fall in the area! At Sisters Mountain View Cabin, you’ll enjoy sweeping mountain views from your large wraparound porch and private outdoor hot tub. When the sun sets and the chill sets in, head inside to get warm around your spacious wood-burning fireplace!