by Leah Rogers

Created on: May 28, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Sun River, Oregon, is a quaint city surrounded by lakes, rivers, parks, and mountains. Located at the base of the Cascades, with dry summers and temperate winters, hikers and skiers love to frequent the city. Fishing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and camping are just some of the few attractions it offers.
For the past 30 years, Sun River has held a annual Summer Music Festivals. With musicians such as Maestro Lawrence Leighton Smith, Misty River Band, pianist Thomas Lauderdale, jazz and blues singer Shirley Nannette, violinist Paula Bird, Sun River's own Music Festival Orchestra, and many more, music lovers are in for a treat. During the Summer Music Festival, held August 6 though the 23rd, you are provided the option of listening to music outside during a picnic, down by the river, during dinner, or inside the Sun River Resort Great Hall.

Another great tourist attraction is fishing. Those who love trout are in for a treat. Known for its large steelhead and Redsides trout, the Deschutes River is a big hit with fishers. Also located by the river is the Deschutes National Forest, which offers outings such as horseback riding, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking.
For those who enjoy parks, the Crater Lake National Park is located nearby Sun River. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and holds beautiful blue waters that capture your attention. Crater Lake is inside a volcanic basin, which was formed when Mount Mazama collapsed over 7,700 years ago. Due to rocks falling and snow, Crater Lake National Park is usually closed during the winter, but opens during the summer.
Beautiful log cabins are available for those who desire to rent one. With scenic views of the mountains and surrounding areas, tourist enjoy staying at the resorts. Each hold amenities such as hot tubs, hammocks, decks supplied with BBQ's, and some even offer fishing poles for those interested in fishing.
Perhaps one of the most beautiful things one could visit is the High Desert Museum, located near Sun River in Bend, Oregon. Tourist are offered the chance to see an array of different animals and the habitats they live in. You are offered a chance to adopt a Bird of Prey Center animal. You can also participate in the plant healing walk, led by naturalist who explain the healing powers of plants. The museum offers the tourist chances to learn about the history of the Wild West with actors dressed in historic apparel who explain the lives of the stage coach drivers, seamstresses, Wells Fargo Agents , and many others. You are also able to buy handmade art created to imitate those made in the past.
With so many attractions and events held year long, it is no wonder why Sun River, Oregon is a popular place with tourist. With the advantage of being surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, and parks, it is the place to visit for those looking for a time of relaxation and enjoyment.

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