Morning: Depart Minneapolis early and head west on I‑94, crossing into North Dakota. Stop at the Grand Forks Riverfront for a quick stretch and photo opportunity.
Afternoon: Continue through Montana, enjoying the expansive plains and the Little Bighorn Battlefield viewpoint. Refuel and lunch in Bozeman before tackling the final mountain passes.
Evening: Arrive in Bend after roughly 24 hours of driving (including rests). Check into your hotel and unwind with a casual dinner at the vibrant Old Mill District waterfront.
Find HotelsMorning: Stroll along the Deschutes River Trail, taking in the crisp river air and city skyline. Grab a coffee at a local café on 5th Street.
Afternoon: Explore the boutique shops and art galleries of downtown Bend, then picnic in Drake Park with views of the Cascade foothills.
Evening: Dine at a farm‑to‑table restaurant in the Old Mill District and enjoy a sunset walk along the river promenade.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to the High Desert Museum for interactive exhibits on the region’s wildlife and pioneer history.
Afternoon: Head to Smith Rock State Park, hiking the iconic Misery Ridge for panoramic views of the volcanic cliffs.
Evening: Return to Bend for a relaxed dinner and, if you’re up for it, a nightcap at a local brewery.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit Tumalo Falls, walking the short trail to the cascading waterfall and enjoying the surrounding forest.
Afternoon: Ascend to Mt. Bachelor for a scenic gondola ride and optional short hike on the summit trail.
Evening: Pack up and begin the drive back toward Minnesota, stopping for an overnight stay in Boise, Idaho, to break up the return leg.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, add a day to explore the nearby Newberry National Volcanic Monument or extend your stay on the Central Oregon Coast for beach scenery. To shorten the trip, skip the Mt. Bachelor gondola and limit the drive back to a single long day with strategic rest stops.