Hey there, spring seekers! As we bid farewell to winter’s chill and welcome the warm embrace of spring in Central Oregon, it’s time to shed those layers and soak up the sunshine. In this blog, we’re all about chill vibes and good times, as we explore some awesome activities to keep you healthy and happy this season. Plus, we’ll dish out some tasty, green-themed menu ideas perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, and highlight the freshest ingredients hitting the scene in March, including some inspo from our wholesome menu at Mother’s Juice Café in Bend, Oregon.

Hike it Out in Central Oregon’s Wonderland:

Ready to hit the trails and soak up some sunshine? Central Oregon is the ultimate playground for hiking enthusiasts! Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll or a heart-pumping adventure, you’ll find trails galore amidst stunning landscapes. From the iconic Smith Rock State Park to the lush forests of Deschutes National Forest, there’s a trail with your name on it. So, grab your crew, pack some snacks, and get ready to explore nature’s wonders. Here’s a small list (because there are countless terrains to explore in our region) to get you started:

1. Smith Rock State Park: Known for its towering rock formations, including the iconic Monkey Face, Smith Rock State Park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The Misery Ridge Trail provides panoramic views of the Crooked River Canyon and surrounding peaks.
2. Newberry National Volcanic Monument: Explore the volcanic landscape of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, home to lava flows, cinder cones, and lakes. Hike to the top of Lava Butte for sweeping views of the surrounding area, or trek along the Paulina Peak Trail for vistas of Paulina Lake and the Cascade Range.
3. Three Sisters Wilderness: Located in the Cascade Mountains, the Three Sisters Wilderness offers endless hiking opportunities amid alpine lakes, meadows, and old-growth forests. Popular trails include the Green Lakes Trail, which leads to turquoise-colored lakes beneath the towering peaks of the Three Sisters.
4. Deschutes River Trail: Follow the scenic Deschutes River as it winds through canyons and meadows on the Deschutes River Trail. Highlights include stunning views of the river, basalt cliffs, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Sections of the trail are accessible from various points in Bend.
5. Tam McArthur Rim Trail: For breathtaking views of Broken Top and the surrounding mountains, hike the Tam McArthur Rim Trail near Sisters. This challenging trail climbs steeply to the rim of a volcanic crater, offering panoramic vistas of the Central Oregon landscape.
6. Tumalo Falls Trail: Experience the beauty of Tumalo Falls, a stunning 97-foot waterfall located west of Bend. The Tumalo Falls Trail provides an easy hike to the base of the waterfall, with opportunities to continue on to viewpoints higher up the canyon.
7. Black Butte Trail: Ascend to the summit of Black Butte, a prominent volcanic cone near Sisters, for panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and Central Oregon. The trail climbs steadily through forests and meadows before reaching the rocky summit.
8. Metolius River Trail: Follow the pristine waters of the Metolius River on this scenic trail near Camp Sherman. The Metolius River Trail offers gentle terrain and opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the river.
9. Mt. Bachelor Trail System: Explore the network of trails surrounding Mt. Bachelor, a popular ski resort in the Cascade Range. In the summer months, these trails offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildflower viewing amid alpine meadows and forests.
10. Painted Hills: Discover the otherworldly landscapes of the Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. While hiking opportunities are limited, short interpretive trails provide access to viewpoints overlooking the vibrant, colorful hills.

These are just a few of the epic hiking places waiting to be explored in Central Oregon, offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes.

Spring Skiing Shenanigans:

Who says the skiing fun has to end with winter? Spring skiing in Central Oregon is where it’s at! With longer days and softer snow, it’s the perfect time to hit the slopes of Mt. Bachelor for some epic thrills. Whether you’re carving up the groomers or catching air in the terrain parks, you’ll be living your best life on the mountain. So, grab your skis or snowboard, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to shred!

Get Your Green On for St. Paddy’s Day:

When St. Patrick’s Day rolls around, it’s time to bring out the green and get your party on! Whip up a spread of delicious green-themed menu items to celebrate in style. Think fresh salads bursting with seasonal greens, hearty veggie dishes featuring asparagus and broccoli, and maybe even a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow (aka a bowl of creamy colcannon). And don’t forget to raise a glass of emerald-hued beer or a refreshing green smoothie to toast to the luck of the Irish!

Fresh Flavors of Spring:

March is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients bursting with flavor, and Central Oregon is no exception. Keep an eye out for locally sourced produce like crisp spinach, peppery arugula, and sweet peas to add some springtime flair to your cooking. And if you’re in the mood for a healthy boost, swing by Mother’s Juice Café in Bend for some of their mouthwatering juices and smoothies made with love and locally sourced ingredients. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!

Treat Yourself at Mother’s Juice Café:

Speaking of Mother’s Juice Café, why not treat yourself to some of their delicious offerings this spring? From our mouthwatering acai bowls loaded with fresh fruit to our hearty organic salads and wraps, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. But let’s not forget about our refreshing juices and smoothies, also packed full with all the good stuff your body craves. So, whether you’re fueling up for a day of adventure or just chilling with friends, Mother’s Juice Café has got you covered with the greens and things!

• Grains & Greens: ancient grains, kale, spinach, arugula, caramelized onion & gourmet mushrooms topped with turmeric tahini sauce, organic egg & pepitas
• Avocado Toast: we have seasonal selections, so make sure you inquire about our spring Avocado Toast selection!
• Avocado Caesar: romaine & kale tossed with vegan avocado Caesar dressing, capers, seeded love & parmesan crisps
• Wheatgrass shot (when available)
• Green Goddess Smoothie: apple, cucumber, celery, spinach, lemon

With spring almost here, there’s no shortage of fun and flavor to be had in Central Oregon. So, grab your shades, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to make some memories! Whether you’re hitting the trails, carving up the slopes, or indulging in some tasty treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s to sunshine, good times, and the endless adventures of spring!