River Hike Adventure Near Winston-Salem NC

Bring Your Swimsuit! I love hiking to swimming spots, but long trails can make for an uncomfortable walk back. This River hike outside of Winston-Salem NC is the perfect distance to enjoy an afternoon by the water without overdoing it!

To access this trail at the Yadkin River section of Pilot Mountain, park in the open gravel lot, and you’ll find a clearly marked trail. The terrain is friendly—minimal rocks or roots—making it ideal for hikers of all experience levels. The trail is fully shaded and follows the serene Yadkin River.

The Ivy Bluff trail is the only state park trail along the south side of the river, making the drive from Winston-Salem and surrounding areas a little shorter. This is a great sunny day outing for a quick hike and easy water access to get your feet wet and enjoy the river.

Trail Highlights:

The Ivy Bluff access leads you on an easy 2-mile out-and-back trail that meanders alongside the river and through the trees. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique features like:

  • The Paddle-Up Campground where kayakers can stop on their trip down river
  • Shoals Public Fishing Area: A sandy beach ideal for fishing, launching your kayak, or getting your feet in the water

After about 1.3 miles, the trail transitions into a loop. We went left! Off this path, you’ll find small trails leading to water access points. The river views are stunning, and exploring the rocks or taking a refreshing dip is a treat. Even our dog had the time of her life splashing around!

If you choose to swim, exercise caution—rapids can be deceptive, and it’s always safer to have a buddy. Remember the “pack it in, pack it out” ethos to keep the area pristine.

Continuing along the trail reveals a hidden gem: a secluded sandy beach. Whether you fish, relax with your toes in the sand, or soak in the peaceful vibe, this spot feels like your private haven.

Quick Facts:

  • Trail Length: Approx. 2 miles round trip.
  • Terrain: Mostly shaded, flat, and free of large rocks and roots.

What to Bring:

  • Water.
  • Hiking shoes.
  • Bug spray.
  • Pants (to avoid poison ivy).
  • Swimsuit (if you’re getting in the water!).
  • Remember: Leave no trace—pack out what you pack in.

How to Get There:

Park at 4240 Shoals Rd, East Bend, NC, 27018. This river hike is about 20 minutes from Winston-Salem. Follow the clearly marked trail along the river, through the loop, and back to the parking lot. You can download the NC State Park map here.

Look Out For:

  • Wildlife like toads and birds.
  • Water access points along the Yadkin River.
  • Canoes, kayaks, and boaters enjoying the river’s charm.

What to Watch Out For:

  • Poison ivy if you stray from the trail.
  • Wildlife—enjoy without disturbing them.
  • If swimming, stay mindful of rapids and never venture alone.

Happy exploring! 🥾

The Most Mystical Trail in North Carolina: Winery Hike in the NC Triad

The most magical little trail in the Triad area happens to start and end at a picturesque winery. This fun little Winery Hike in Elkin NC is a must on a nice day!

If this hiking experience hasn’t made its way onto your bucket list, then here is your sign! This trip makes for a perfect Sunday afternoon, outdoor date, girl time, or even a fun solo adventure.

Take a hike through the winding wooded trail and under the cover of magical-feeling pine trees to a waterfall set back in the woods. With glittering clear water and tranquil sounds, You can stick your toes in the water up top or take the exciting journey down a short and steep path to the bottom shore.

Magical hike in North Carolina Yadkinville

Start at Grassy Creek Winery and find your way to the well-marked trailhead. On your journey, you will pass the sweetest little gnome houses, wind through viney oak trees, and walk under the cover of the pines. You will feel immediately like you’ve stumbled upon a secret realm. Keep your eyes peeled as you pass the small ponds and cross roadways. You will find fun little things placed on the ground and in trees by past visitors, adding to the mystical feeling of the beautiful woods.

The trail from the winery meets up with the Carter Trail only 0.5 miles from the waterfall, where you can make your way down the natural steps to the top of the fall. Keep going down the trail to find a steep path with a rope to help you get to the bottom. We made it down with the dog, no problem, but I wouldn’t recommend taking grandma down!

Once you’ve enjoyed your time by the water, you can make your way back on the trail to finish out your day with a glass of wine and a solid 3.8-mile hike under your belt.

This is a fairly easy trail for any hiker. You will find uneven ground, rocky paths, bridges to cross, and divots to step over. This trail may not be accessible for all.

Grassy Creek Winery’s taproom sits up the hill from their acres of grapevines, where visitors can see the mountains in the distance and will feel at peace in the seclusion of the vineyard. The taproom offers $16 flights of five wines or wine by the glass and bottle. They also offer beers on tap for those not interested in wine!

I was a big fan of all three semi-sweet wines they had available and a delicious dessert wine. We brought our own charcuterie and sat under the pergola enjoying the sun. The vineyard is dog-friendly and has lots of indoor and outdoor seating.

Happy trails!

NC Winery Hike, The Details:

  • Park at Grassy Creek Winery in any of their designated spots.
  • Walk towards the grape vines and you will see the trail map and markers signaling the start of your journey.
  • Be sure to pack water and snacks!
  • Byrd’s Branch Campground and Country Store has a restroom for hikers. You can purchase water or snacks to refuel half way to your destination.
  • Your hike will lead you across the parking lot to the falls where you will follow the Carter Trail 0.5 miles to the water!
  • You’ve made it!
  • You can continue down the marked trail and will find a path going down to the bottom of the fall with a rope railing for support. It is the perfect spot to have a snack or dip your toes in!
  • After you’ve enjoyed the falls, head back up the trail to the winery and enjoy a flight!
Fun Winery Hike near Winston-Salem North Carolina

Can’t Live Without It: Everything I Won’t Go Hiking Without

I wouldn’t call myself an intense hiker, but I do go for leisurely walks in the woods by myself a lot and I am very serious about my solo hiking essentials when it comes to hiking gear for women. It might be a quick loop with my dog after work or getting out while on a family trip. I use it as a way to spend quality time with my sidekick (my dog), get exercise, and spend some time away from my computer.

When hiking alone, there are always precautions to take, no matter where you are. When I am hiking alone, I have a list of things I don’t leave without.

There are so many reasons for each of these items. Most of these solo hiking essentials are for safety when it comes to unwanted company on the trail, whether wildlife or other. I recommend thinking about where you carry each of these things and how easily you can access them. My first aid kit sits at the bottom of my bag. It is not the quickest to get out, but I know exactly where it is and what is in it. My whistle and pepper spray are secured to my backpack strap where I can easily grab them. They are on quick-release clips if I need to pull them off.

Don’t forget to plan your trip ahead of time, tell someone where you are going, and bring the safety essentials. Hiking by yourself is my favorite form of self-care. There is no better way to end a workday, spend time with my dog, and enjoy the beautiful landscape around us. But it is so important that you take proper precautions, prepare before you go out, and never start a hike without telling someone else where you are.

Happy Trails! 🥾

Planning your next outdoor adventure? Read about my favorite places for kayaking and tubing near Washington County MD

Weekend getaway to Sunset Beach North Carolina

There is no better quick trip than an end-of-summer getaway to the beach and Sunset Beach North Carolina is the perfect place. While I live for the mountains and love visiting quirky little towns, the beach will always hold a special place in my heart. My favorite time to go has always been September when the weather is a tad cooler and the busiest part of the season has passed.

Sunset Beach North Carolina, the southernmost beach on Brunswick Island in North Carolina, is a quaint and quiet little town along the shore, making it the perfect end-of-season beach trip. We stayed close to the beach, just over the waterway, where there are only a few stores and a coffee shop nearby.

The beaches are as pretty as ever, with pampas grass lining the boardwalks and soft white sand. We spent most of the weekend chilling in the waves and reading under a beach umbrella.

Sunset Beach North Carolina at night with stars

Here are some must do things:

Rent bikes to explore the area

Coastal Grounds offers coffee for your morning and ice cream to cool down. Stop in to rent bikes, beach gear, linens, and more.

Visit the Sunset Beach Pier

Take a walk down the scenic pier, learn about its history, and get a bit to eat! You can also catch live music during peak season till the end of August.

Kindred Spirits Mailbox

Take a mile ish walk to see the Kindred Spirit Mailbox on Bird Island which holds the wishes, thoughts, prayers and dreams of those who visit. The mailbox was a mystery for years until the 2010s when a man told the story of putting in the mailbox. Read more about the significance of the mailbox and when to visit here.

Get a seafood boil in SC

Nothing makes a beach vacation like a big plate of seafood. Take a quick drive down to Hurricane Juels for some seafood and cocktails. Sit on the porch by the water to watch all of the boats go by.

Hit some shops on the way back

On your way back to Sunset Beach, you will see tons of funky shops along the road way and in Calabash, including some antique and consignment shops, small bookstores, and more.

Christmas in the summer

Callahan’s of Calabash is a fun shop that goes on forever with fun t-shirts and all your favorite touristy must haves as well has a whole store dedicated to everything Christmas!

Things to pack:

What To Do With The Girls In Downtown Frederick Maryland

So you are visiting for the weekend? Or your besties are coming to visit and you don’t know where to go? Downtown Frederick has it all! Spend a girls’ day in downtown Frederick walking around and taking in the beautiful sights that this historic Maryland city has to offer.

The endless small businesses and shops along Market Street and Patrick Street are what make thisThe endless small businesses and shops along Market Street and Patrick Street make this town unlike any other. Stop for brunch, pop into the indie bookstore, and end your day with a flower flight at The Frederick Floral Bar’s build-your-own bouquet station.

Read more from Frederick MD here

Brunch Stop

One of Frederick’s newest restaurants offers southern-style cooking and delicious craft cocktails. Stop in for brunch at a place a little off the beaten path. The walk to Bentztown will take you along the less populated scenic path along Carroll Creek.

Other brunch spots to consider

Shopping

Take a walk down Market Street and Patrick Street to visit all of the unique shops. You’ll find the perfect gift for any friend and a few things for yourself 😘 You will also pass beautiful murals, yummy chocolate shops, and some of the best food Frederick has to offer.

The Frederick Floral Bar

The Frederick Floral Bar is new to Frederick and has the most insta worthy windows there are! Make sure you stop in and make your own Floral boutique, pick out some dried flowers for the table, or get a flower crown to brighten your day! They also offer floral arrangement classes that make a perfect evening out with your besties!

Curious Iguana

Frederick’s Indy Bookstore is peaceful, fun, and a must-visit when in Frederick. Curious Iguana’s amazing staff is always ready with recommendations and you are guaranteed to find something you’ll love! Check out their sister store, The Dancing Bear Toys & Games just two blocks over on Patrick Street too!

One of my favorite parts of Curious Iguana is their travel section for guides, interactive journals, and interesting biographies!

Perfect Truffle

Perfect Truffle offers way more than just chocolate! They are the only place in Frederick that makes their own ice cream in house. Stop in for a frozen treat, a box of chocolate, and imported chocolate bars!

Pro tip: They have Olde Bay Caramel truffles in the summer for those that really want to experience Maryland 🦀

Market Street has 7 blocks of fabulous things to see. Keep going up to 4th street for The Record Exchange, and 6th street to Gravel and Grind coffee shop or Olde Mother Brewing!

Here are a few of my favorite stores

Experiences

Not only can you find some fun shops and tasty restaurants along the historic brick streets or Frederick, you will find some unique experiences to be has too! Here are a few to try:

Happy Hour

The one and only way to end your day is for happy hour at Frederick Social on Carroll Creek. They offer a tap wall of local brews, wines, and cocktails that you can’t get anywhere else. You can pick a favorite or try them all while enjoying food for all allergies and preferences! Their open seating space always has the best vibes with Foosball, shuffleboard, board games, and more to keep you entertained. Plus, they are super family friendly!

Frederick is a fabulous town to explore and no matter which street you end up on, you will love the small business you come across and the beautiful historic buildings that line the small streets. Weather you are talking a girls day in downtown Frederick, exploring with the fam, or taking a little you time, you will find something fun to see!

Floating Antietam Creek in Washington County

I have been floating on the Antietam Creek more times then I can count since I was about 10 years old. One of my favorite summer activities growing up was floating on the river in tubes with friends or paddling with my family on a Saturday.

Within a 40 minute drive of Frederick, there are several spots for a river trip like the Potomac if you want something a little wilder or the Monocacy for a chill day but the Antietam, though a little further from home, will always be my favorite.

The Atietam is smaller in width then most of your local options and rangers from a few inches deep to about 3 feet at some points. The water moves a little faster then most of the Monocacy river and offers a few fun but non intimidating class 2 rapids interspersed through the runs.

The Runs

We have three different runs on our rotation. While there are plenty of other access points from Devils Backbone to the Potomac River, this is where we always end up going.

Middle Bridge off of Shepherdstown Pike

This creek access while a little steep is an easy access point and drops you right above your first rapid. I recommend avoiding the actual parking lot as the erosion has created a large dip that can scrape your car. You can park on the side of Shepherdstown Pike.

Molly’s Hole at Burnside Bridge

Molly’s Hole is a 2 foot “waterfall” right above the river access where you can take out or put in. After you go down Molly’s Hole, you will pull out about 30 feet ahead on the left side. There are two parking spots for boat loading and unloading and a small parking lot up the hill a few yards. While this is an easy spot for put in or take out, you should only plan to leave one car here as there is limited parking.

Antietam Creek Campground at the Potomac River

The Antietam Creek Campgroup is a part of the C&O Canal and sits right where Antietam Creek meets the Potomac river. If you choose to float to the end, you can take out here where you will find yourself on the C&O Canal with a short walk to the loading zone. There is a small parking lot and tons of parking along Canal Rd for bikers, hikers, boaters, and floaters. You will get out of the water on the left side just past the aqueduct above you. You will notice the small, muddy beach

This spot is the most difficult to take out as the hill going up to the tow path is very very steep and you have to pull all of your equipment up. Make sure you bring good shoes to make it up the hill a little safer. This is also the only access point where you cannot pull up within 30 feet of the access. It is a very easy walk to the parking lot but still a wase to carry all of your stuff so keep that in mind while packing.

The Bridge to Molly’s Hole

Approx. 1 – 2 hours
3 or so small rapids + Molly’s Hole drop
Rope swing

Molly’s Hole – Potomac River

Approx. 2 – 4 hours
4 + longer rapids

The Bridge – Potomac River

Approx. 4 – 6 hours

The run time will completely change based on the water levels and how fast it is moving. Make sure to check the water gage before you go. It has been averaging about 2.4 or higher when we go.

What To Take

  • Kayaks or tubes
  • Car plug air compressor
  • Lifejackets (required by law to be on every tube or vessel for every person. You can get fined if you don’t have one!)
  • Water tight cooler
  • Container for trash (Make sure to take all trash home with you to properly dispose of it)
  • Waterproof speaker
  • Water
  • Watershoes
  • Carabiners (Get locking carabiners to keep water bottles and dry bags attached if you flip over)
  • Dry bag (Make sure to put in your keys, phones, and any other important items)

Hidden Gems of Downtown Frederick

Downtown Frederick is home to some of the cutest boutiques, delicious eats, and Insta worthy spots you can find. While you will find tons of fun on the main drag of Market Street, there are plenty of must see stops a litter feather up or a side street over. Here are some of my favorite hidden gems and off the beaten path places that are a must see when visiting. How many of these Hidden Gems of Frederick have you been to?

Delizia Cafe

Maybe not so hidden but definitely one you need to check out! Delizia is a cozy cafe in the main block of Patrick Street. The cafe, though it may look small from the front, stretched back with two more dinning rooms in the back. This is the perfect meeting spot, afternoon lunch, and remote working destination. They calming atmosphere and delicious food is just as wonderful as the owners!

Truth & Beauty Kitchen and Bar

I’ll be honest, Truth & Beauty is my very favorite restaurant… like ever. The food is to die for, the staff is the best, and you get the best view of Carroll Creek on a Sunday morning or during the winter when the boats are lit up. The wings are my favorite 😉

Take Root

If you have made your way down Church St and over to Shab Row, Take Root isn’t so much f a hidden gem. In fact, it is probably one of your favorite shops now. This precious little plant shop as tons of unique plants, pots, and advice on what is best for your space!

Ivy’s Haven Boutique

A little newer to downtown, Ivy’s Haven Boutique is a fun and cozy clothing shop in one of the historic cabins at Everedy Square. You will find all your favorite trendy and cute clothes.

Augusta Rose

Augusta Rose sits on Patrick Street up a few steps and in the blue door! This little gem is tucked between the rows and haves some of the cutest clothing, home décor, and Maryland themed goodies! Say hey to Penny, one of our favorite downtown shop dogs, try on a new dress and enjoy this sweet boutique.

Sweet Clover

All the way at the end of Patrick street, you will find the new Sweet Clover shop! This place has all the vintage inspired home decor you are looking for (plus some you weren’t!). From fun velvet couches to sleek glass barware, you will find something new for your home!

Jessica Jordan Co.

While this funky little earing shop is on the first block of East Patrick Street, you might have walked right by the basement boutique. Down a few steps, you will find a bright, cheery, and unique little shop that you will want to visit again! Jessica Jordan Co. carries tons of adorable and funky earrings in tons of styles and themes. You’ll find lots of cute jewelry, fun accessories, and favorite keepsakes!

Perfect Blend Cafe

This is a downtown employees favorite spot, that should tell you everything! Perfect Blend Cafe is a short walk down West Patrick Street and you will not regret the detour for lunch. The flat bread pizzas, sandwiches, and drinks are so good!

Another Slice Of Cake

A newer addition to downtown, this sweet little bakery will take you father down Market Street. Up a few steps, the building is so charming, and the sweets are so good! You will definitely want to stop to get your sugar fill from Another Slice Of Cake!

McClintock’s Back Bar

McClintock is no secret to downtown Frederick but if you didn’t know it was there, you would never find it! McClintock’s Back Bar is downtowns Speakeasy. In a parking lot off Carroll Street and through some very large doors, the chill vibe and ridiculously good cocktails will have you wanting to stay!

Check back to see more fun spots and new places to visit! Have you been to any of these?

Sail Frederick: Everything To Know About The Carroll Creek Boats

If you happen to be from Frederick, you have probably seen the boats on Carroll Creek every winter. If you live further away, maybe you’ve seen pictures… It has come to my attention that while so many people know and love the captivating creations that float down Carroll Creek from November to March each year, most don’t know about the amazing purpose of this event and the work so many are doing to better our community while bringing more tourism to Frederick Maryland in the cold months of the year. Don’t worry! I know a thing or two about it!

Let me introduce you to Sailing Through The Winter Solstice.

What Is Sailing Through The Winter Solstice?

Sailing Through The Winter Solstice is the group that created this whole shebang. It is a sister organization to Color On The Creek, a Non-profit that grows and plants the flowers in the creek every spring.

From my understanding of how this whole thing came to be, two individuals had an idea to put a sail boat in Carroll Creek one winter after the flowers were removed for winter. That boat immediately capsized, as have many more since then both in the water and on land. Since that first attempt at sailing in Frederick, the fleet has grown to 27 boats in the water. You can also find the two landsharks (boats that live on land) at The Wine Kitchen and Brewers Alley.

Every boat is sponsored by a company and each benefits a local charity. After the boats launch in November, voting opens for the public to “vote for your boat”. Every $1 = one vote and goes to the boats chosen charity in March. This event has grown exponentially over the years and brings tons of people to Frederick, creates a one of a kind winter display, and raises money and awareness for several local charities.

You can vote for you favorite boat and make donations here!

How Does It Happen?

It’s all volunteers! The boats are launched the week before Thanksgiving. Each boat has a crew that is responsible for their boat but it is a huge group of volunteers that help to get the boats in the water and secured.

The core group that runs Sailing Through The Winter Solstice are all volunteers too. These are the people who coordinate the launch with more volunteers, forklifts, and a crane. They spend countless hours consulting boat sponsors on construction, placement in the creek, how to anchor it, and so much more.

Who Are The Boat Sponsors?

Local companies and organizations sponsor and build the boats! Olde Towne Landscaping, Hood College, and The Ausherman Family Foundation have had their sponsored boats in the creek for several years! There are a lot of seasoned sailors and plenty of boats being added to Carroll Creek every year.

How Can You Take Part?

There are a few ways! You can always vote for your favorite boats! You can also volunteer with Sailing Through The Winter Solstice and Colors On The Creek. Have you ever thought to yourself ” I really want to know what it’s like to be in the Carroll Creek”? I have never wondered that but now I know and you can too. You can find information about that by reaching out to Color On The Creek.

Photos by Nic Smith Photography

A Girls Road Trip Through Oregon

Miranda and I take an annual summer trip to explore somewhere new and do something different. This year, we did a girl’s trip through Oregon. We flew out for a week, rented a car, and saw all we could in our time here. Check out the gallery at the end of this post!

Here is our version of a girls trip in Oregon:

Day one we landed in Portland, picked up our rental car and headed to University Place Hotel & Conference Center. It was the perfect quick stop that was cozy, clean, and conveniently located. After checking in and freshening up from the long flights, we wandered around Portland and grabbed dinner at Tope. It is a charming, rooftop restaurant and bar located inside The Hoxton Hotel with margaritas and tacos!

While Portland was not one of our longer stays on this trip, we made sure to visit Powell’s Bookstore to stock up for the trip and Donuts from breakfast from Voodoo Doughnut. As tourists, it would be wrong not to stop at both!

Smith Rock State Park & Bend

The next morning, we officially headed out on our Oregon road trip and drove 3 hours to Smith Rock State Park near Redmond.

We hiked The Misery Trail which feels appropriately named… The trail is about 4 miles around the park. It starts with some pretty intense uphill switchbacks that will bring you to the top of the ridge for some amazing views. It is all downhill after that with more shade, wildlife, and beautiful views. You’ll see rock climbers enjoying the morning and plenty of other hikers taking in the natural scenery. 

Definitely start this hike earlier in the day. You will start out on the most intense part of the hike directly in the sun, assuming you go right like we did. Bring plenty of water and snacks for refueling. It wouldn’t be the ultimate Girls Trip through Oregon if you don’t want to pass out a little while hiking.

We drove 40 minutes to Bend and stayed in the Campfire Hotel. We got dinner at Boneyard Pub, which has some fantastic food and strong drinks. This was defiantly one of our favorite food stops on the trip. We sat outside, enjoyed nachos and several drinks while planning for the coming days.

We stayed two nights in Bend to explore the scenery and local color. Shopping in the Old Mill District and dinner by the water from Greg’s Grill. We grab breakfast at Cafe Des Chutes and walking around the shops at 50 SE Scott St. 

We also spent a lot of time enjoying the Campfire Hotel and all they have to offer!

Tamolitch Falls, Salem & Silver Falls State Park

After leaving Bend, we drove out to Tamolitch Falls in Lane County. Here, you can hike 2.5 miles to the Blue Pool. This was easily my favorite hike of the trip. The hike is through beautiful forest and puts you out at the Blue Pool which is unlike anything I have seen. The pool is made by a natural underground spring and seems unreal with how blue it is. The trail itself is a pretty easy, flat hike that puts you above the pool. To get down where you can get in is a slightly treacherous climb down so be prepared. You can jump in the pool which is an average of 37 degrees. We brought sandwiches and enjoyed lunch before climbing back up and hiking the 2.5 miles back. 

Girls Trip through Oregon

We drove to Salem for the night before heading out again. While we would have loved to explore the city more, most shops were closed by the time we arrived and left early the next morning to drive to Silver Falls State Park. We hiked the Trail of Ten Falls but cut across the Winter Trail to cut it a little shorter. While some things say this trail is 7 miles, others say the trail is closer to 9. By cutting across, we still saw 7 of the falls and hiked 6 miles. Most of the trail is pretty flat with certain trails that are more accessible to those who cannot hike the entire trail. 

Tillamook Bay & Coastal Highway

We drove 2 hours to Tillamook Bay where we stayed at The Hotel Garibaldi and had dinner at Sand dollar restaurant and lounge. A perfect stop to enjoy drinks while watching the sunset.

We drove up the Coastal highway and stopped at a few antique stores and fun shops on our way to Cannon Beach. We grabbed lunch at the Pirates Cove Restaurant. They had great seafood dishes and the best view of the water below. Their desserts were also giant and looked amazing! This restaurant is a must on your drive!

Cannon Beach & Ecola State Park

We stayed 2 nights in Cannon Beach at The Lighthouse Inn. Though the room didn’t have AC (most don’t in the area), the room was lovely and the hotel offers fresh baked cookies, had a rootbeer float party, and gave us post cards to mail back home. It was a fabulous little place!

During the two days we spent at Cannon Beach, we explored the town, read on the beach, saw the tidepools, and enjoyed some downtime. We made our way out to Ecola State Park and hiked the Clatsop Loop which was about 3 miles and while hilly, was a relaxing, shaded hike with great views of the beach and lighthouse.

Girls Trip through Oregon in Cannon Beach

We tried a few different restaurants like Bill’s Tavern & Brewhouse and Pelican Brewing for dinner, Insomnia Coffee Co and Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters for breakfast and grabbed from late night drinks from Other Brother’s Bar.

All in all, this timeline worked out perfectly for us. We felt like we had enough time at the places we wanted to see, had plenty to do without being too overwhelmed and a good amount of time between hiking to recover.

You can download our full Girls Trip through Oregon itinerary now!

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Girls Trip through Oregon
Girls Trip through Oregon
dinner in Bend on a Girls Trip through Oregon
art studio in Oregon while on a road trip
Cafe Des Chutes for the best Girls Trip through Oregon
Girls Trip through Oregon
Campfire Hotel Mimosas

Campfire Hotel: Bend, OR

During our road trip through Oregon, our favorite stay was hands down, the Campfire Hotel. From the theme and décor to the services and staff, this hotel is so charming and you will fall in love with it as quickly as we did.

The Campfire Hotel located in Bend, Oregon, is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This boutique hotel is known for its cozy and rustic atmosphere and provides a unique experience for guests. It gives off a very 1960s vibe with the camping theme décor. It is cozy and comfortable and provides all the amenities you could want during your stay. The rooms have camp chairs, pool towels, plastic camp cups, a vintage-style radio, snacks, and drinks for purchase.

They offer room service and have an extensive breakfast menu to help you start your day.

We really enjoyed the pool and hot tub. We sat at the pool for hours swimming, sunbathing, and reading during our down time on this trip and it couldn’t have been more relaxing. The bar is close by with fantastic drinks and the best doggo bartender you could hope for! Be sure to schedule pool time for yourself, you’ll be glad you did! I highly recommend the Campfire Old Fashioned while you are enjoying the sunset.

The large fire pit is the best evening activity. The hotel hosts musicians and other events some nights and you can purchase a smores basket or mimosa bucket to enjoy fire side (We did both).

Campfire Hotel Mimosas

You can spend your whole day relaxing on the property or go explore the local color. There is plenty to see just a short drive away. From bars and restaurants to shopping and nightlife. You will want to take a trip out to the Old Mill District for an afternoon and explore Downtown Bend.

It is near several outdoor attractions. You can go hiking or biking on the numerous trails, or indulge in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding on the Deschutes River.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or simply looking for a tranquil getaway, the Campfire Hotel in Bend, Oregon, provides a charming and memorable experience for all. If you are taking a trip this way any time soon, you will want to stay here!

Check out some of the sights from our stay in Bend

Campfire Hotel Mimosas
Cafe Des Chutes for the best Girls Trip through Oregon
art studio in Oregon while on a road trip
dinner in Bend on a Girls Trip through Oregon