My recommended route is to take I-84 to US-197 to US-97 to Bend. You cross the Cascades near sea level, so it’s far less likely to have snow. It’s about 45 minutes longer under normal conditions, but if US-26 and SR-22 are snowy, it could be considerably faster.
What pass is between Portland and Bend?
Santiam Pass
Santiam Pass is a 4,817-foot (1,468 m) mountain pass in the Cascade Range in central Oregon in the United States.
Is it safe to drive from Portland to Bend in winter?
You’re in the “snow zone” for a shorter distance and it’s a very well maintained road. There are a couple of curves but shouldn’t be a problem as long as you drive a reasonable speed.
What is the road from Bend to Portland?
A Portland to Bend road trip is about 160 miles and takes just over three hours, depending on traffic. Highway 26 transitions into a two-lane highway near Mt. Hood and offers few passing lanes. The amount of time it takes to reach Bend will also vary based on how many stops are made along the way.
How far apart are Portland and Bend?
The total driving distance from Portland, OR to Bend, OR is 164 miles or 264 kilometers.
Do you need chains to drive from Portland to Bend?
In particular, it appears that every route from Portland to Bend includes sections where it is mandatory to carry chains, including US 26, OR 22, US 20, and even the I-84 route suggested by Mark. So if you don’t have chains, you can’t go.
Do you need chains to cross Santiam Pass?
Chains may be required seasonally when traveling over the Willamette and McKenzie-Santiam passes, even if the weather appears fine. Highway 242 between the McKenzie River and Sisters is typically closed November – June. Instead drive Highway 20.
What is halfway between Portland and Bend Oregon?
The city at the geographic halfway point from Portland, OR to Bend, OR is Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon.
What’s the coldest month in Bend Oregon?
December
The cold season lasts for 3.6 months, from November 13 to March 2, with an average daily high temperature below 48°F. The coldest month of the year in Bend is December, with an average low of 25°F and high of 40°F.
Is it safe to drive in snow without chains?
Chain Requirements
Chains required on all vehicles except four-wheel drives with snow tires.
Is Eugene or Bend better?
Here are the big differences: Eugene is a traditional city and feels like the quintessential small town. You have the suburbs, and a small downtown area with restaurants and boutique stores. Bend is a tourism-based town with a lot of clever city planning and fun amenities you won’t find anywhere else.
Is Cannon Beach worth visiting?
Cannon Beach is a famous, quaint small-town on the beach. It is commonly recognized as one of the best beaches in Oregon. It is most famous for towering Haystack Rock. The Goonies and part of the Twilight were filmed on Indian Beach in Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach, Oregon.
Are chains required on Mt Hood today?
You must use chains if your vehicle is rated 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) or less and is towing. You must use chains on any single drive axle vehicle rated over 10,000 pounds GVW whether towing or not.
What is Bend Oregon noted for?
Bend is world-famous for both its outdoor pursuits and pristine beauty. You can catch an art exhibit, dine at an award-winning restaurant, spoil yourself at one of our many spas, or trek the legendary Bend Ale Trail, the largest beer trail in the West.
What airport do you fly into to go to Bend Oregon?
Redmond Municipal Airport
Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is the nearest full-service airport to Bend and Mt. Bachelor, it’s the fourth largest commercial airport in the state and serves all of Central Oregon. The airport is approximately a 20 minute drive from Bend and a 40 minute drive to Sunriver.
How far is Bend Oregon from the ocean?
What is the distance between Bend and Oregon Coast? The distance between Bend and Oregon Coast is 139 miles.
What pass do you take to get to Bend Oregon?
Oregon Sno-park pass.
Do you need snow chains in Bend Oregon?
Chains are required in Oregon whenever winter conditions exist and SNOW ZONE signs are posted advising drivers to carry or use them.
What qualifies as traction tires in Oregon?
“Traction Tires” are studded tires, retractable studded tires, or other tires that meet the tire industry definition as suitable for use in severe snow conditions.
Is Santiam Pass still closed?
US Highway 20 over Santiam Pass reopened, along with highways 62, 230 and 138 in southern Oregon near Diamond Lake and Crater Lake National Park.
Do studded tires help on black ice?
Truth be told, the only way you can obtain a semblance of safety while driving on black ice is with studded snow tires. Studded tires are like your average snow tire, featuring deep grooves, lots of sidewall, and a rubber compound designed for sub-30-degree temperatures (in Fahrenheit).