Run Oregon Road Trip to the Sunriver Resort

Run Oregon loves running – that’s no surprise. But we also love the Pacific Northwest and all that it has to offer. Running is a part of us, but it does not fully define us. In our “Make a Day of It” feature, we aim to showcase some great local non-running events and highlight where to run and how to make the most of your experience!

The most recent location for our runcation series is a new stay at Sunriver Resort.

While I personally relish my visits to Sunriver for the exceptional running opportunities, convincing my wife and kids to join in is a breeze (which isn’t always the case when I reveal “runcation” ideas. The appeal of Sunriver Resort extends far beyond its running trails, boasting a plethora of top-notch amenities and activities that ensure a memorable experience for the whole family.

First the Running:

If you’ve experienced the charm of Sunriver before, you’re likely aware of its allure as a haven for runners. Spanning an impressive 3300 acres, the resort offers an extensive network of paved running and biking trails, catering to runners of all preferences and distances.

For those lodging at the resort (and even those who aren’t), the 5-mile River Loop Bike Path (map) is an absolute must for runners. Conveniently accessible from the back of the main lodge, this path meanders along the airport, tracing the picturesque Deschutes River, before looping back past the scenic Meadows Golf Course. Its flat terrain, coupled with its stunning vistas, makes it an ideal choice for guests staying at Sunriver Lodge.

For those seeking a longer route, it’s as easy as consulting the same map and pinpointing those telltale orange dots denoting the network of paved trails. With a bit of exploration, you can chart a course that winds through the expansive community areas, offering a diverse range of mileage options. With Sunriver Resort as your running hub, you’re perfectly situated to explore the captivating terrain of the high desert on foot.

The Spot:

With an extraordinary setting featuring wide-open spaces and stunning vistas, the Sunriver Resort is the ideal place to run and experience the beauty of Oregon’s High Desert. Sunriver Resort truly epitomizes beauty and warmth, offering all the amenities one could desire, and then some. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of summer or the serene snowfall of winter, the resort is a haven for those seeking miles of tranquility amidst the towering pines.

Our relationship with Sunriver Resort spans over a decade now, with occasional visits that always leave us feeling like we’ve discovered a hidden gem. It strikes the perfect balance of offering a sense of seclusion while providing amenities tailored to families, couples, or anyone seeking a running retreat. The resort’s charm lies in its welcoming embrace, offering stunning vistas, delicious food, and a plethora of enjoyable activities.

Historically, we have ran races here (when the Sunriver Marathon and Half was a thing – RIP), rocked out at concerts, and sat by firepits with Smores in hand. Amidst the open spaces, there’s ample opportunity to unwind and recharge. The lodge itself embodies a blend of modern updates while retaining its cozy aura, a characteristic that has charmed guests – us included- for a half century.

Our Room:

When it comes to accommodations at Sunriver Resort, our go-to choice has always been the Lodge Village options. Their proximity to the main lodge and trails makes them incredibly convenient, and the suite versions offer ample space, especially for larger families (5) like ours. Our Lodge Village Double Queen Suite, spanning a generous 900 square feet across two levels, provided everything we needed and more.

The suite boasted all the amenities one could ask for, from a large TV (perfect for the kids or catching up on hockey playoffs) to a full kitchen equipped with all the essentials. Plus, the addition of a pull-out couch in the suites makes the sleeping arrangements ideal for families or running groups alike.

While the interior of the room was certainly impressive, the real highlight was the patio, ranging from 15 to 30 square feet. With some of the most picturesque and serene views around, it truly felt like a slice of paradise right outside our door.

Refueling:

Sunriver holds a special place in my heart for its outdoor wonders—running, hiking, and all-around exploration. Yet, there’s another side to it: the tranquil embrace of the high desert air, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. The Sunriver Resort holds a middle ground – providing both a basecamp for your outdoor adventures, while also a more casual sanctuary, providing everything necessary to unwind and recharge. It’s the ultimate blend of adventure and rejuvenation.

Food

There are a few solid restaurants and breweries in the Sunriver area, but the Resort itself offers a variety of indoor and outdoor dining options with restaurants for every occasion.

Arriving at Sunriver Resort late on a Friday, there was no better way to shake off the weariness of the journey than with a relaxing in-room dining experience at the Lodge Kitchen. Nestled within the main lodge, this restaurant doubles as an excellent brunch spot, offering not only a menu brimming with delectable options but also panoramic views of the surrounding area and majestic Mt. Bachelor through its expansive windows.

Another highlight of our stay was the Owl’s Nest, a delightful spot perched on the top floor of the main lodge. With a history dating back to 1969, it offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, offering casual bites and a selection of drinks, with a spotlight on brews from Bend breweries, naturally. What sets it apart is its late-night hours, making it the perfect destination for winding down after a day’s adventures.

There are a few other cafes to grab some quick bites – like the Backyard Cafe and Bar and The Spotted Frog (which is at the Cove Pool). Needless to say, you should be squared away. The Backyard Cafe and Bar, as well as The Spotted Frog over at the Cove Pool area provide quick bites too.

Rejuvenation

During our stay, we made sure to immerse ourselves in as much as we could. Our first stop on this front was the Sage Springs Spa. Whether you’re still in the fitness groove or fully embracing relaxation, the resort has you covered.

For those in need of some Zen time, the spa awaits with a range of treatments, from massages to facials, or you can opt for a private Oasis Room experience. We did a little decompressing in the Steam Room as well as checked out the indoor hot tubs and saltwater lap pools as well.

Speaking of pools, the Cove Pool has had some amazing upgrades since the last time we were there (2019). It is right on resort property and is a great location with stuff for swimmers (and/or sunbathers) of all ages. In fact, we used to typically spend most of our non-running free time there as a result with our younger kids.

Now added to the mix is a newer indoor pool space which adds a larger waterslide and lazy river – making it perfect for all seasons.  There is a lot of covered area and poolside food and drink service to your seat.

Cross Training

The on-site fitness center offers a variety of classes such as strength training, yoga, and even SUP sessions. And let’s not forget the Pickleball courts. Sunriver Resort boasts an impressive array of courts – 10 outdoor and 8 indoor – making it an ideal place to learn this growing sport.

Plus, being exclusively available to resort guests means you’re unlikely to have to wait for court time. We thoroughly enjoyed learning the game on our own time – but there is also an option of getting private lessons from the club pro.

Speaking of cross training, we rounded off our activities by renting bikes from the Bike Barn. With over 40 miles of paved trails to explore, biking offers a refreshing change from pounding the pavement on foot. From cruisers to 10-speeds to electric options, there’s something for everyone, including both adults and kids. Each reservation includes a helmet and lock for added convenience.

Overall:

It’s a place where you can truly take a deep breath, immerse yourself in nature, and find peace in every season.