Oregon Outback Adventure | 2 hrs.

Exploring central Oregon’s stunning landscape becomes an adventure when you hop on this 2.5-hour ATV tour from Bend. For $349 per group (up to four people), you’ll spend your time zipping along forest paths and over ancient lava flows at the Newberry Volcanic Monument and Deschutes National Forest. With a small group of no more than seven, you’ll get plenty of personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide, Chase, who’s praised repeatedly for his friendly and informative style.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible it is for families and beginners alike. The all necessary equipment and instruction are provided, so even if you’re new to off-road vehicles, you’ll feel confident and safe. Plus, the chance to see breathtaking scenery—like lava fields and lush forests—makes this a memorable way to connect with nature. One minor consideration is that there are no bathroom stops during the tour, so plan accordingly if you might need a quick break.

This experience is perfect for active travelers eager to enjoy Oregon’s outdoors without committing to a full-day adventure. It suits families, small groups, or anyone looking to add some adrenaline with a side of natural beauty. If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling the wind in your hair while exploring volcanic landscapes, this tour hits all those marks.

This experience made our article of The Top 16 Tours In Bend.

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including children (most can participate).
• Educational aspect: Guides share insights about the area’s natural history and ecology.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a safer riding experience.
• High praise for guides: Chase and other guides are friendly, professional, and knowledgeable.
• Stunning scenery: Lava flows, forests, and mountain views stand out.
• Value for money: All equipment, helmets, and fuel included—no hidden costs.

Exploring Central Oregon on an ATV: What to Expect

This Oregon Outback Adventure combines excitement with education, making it an ideal way to experience some of the region’s most compelling sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The tour begins at a meeting point in La Pine, about 30 minutes south of Bend, where you’ll join your group and get fitted with helmets and safety gear. Your guide, Chase, will give a brief safety orientation before heading out.

The Itinerary: Two Stops for Two Distinct Experiences

First Stop: Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Here, you’ll hop into your Polaris XP 1000 RZR, a four-seater ATV that’s praised for being both powerful and easy to handle. As you drive over ancient lava flows and around volcanic buttes, you’ll notice how the landscape has been shaped by volcanic activity. Reviews highlight the great terrain and the speeds tailored to keep the ride exciting yet safe, especially for families. One traveler commented, “Great terrain and speeds just right for an exciting, safe ride. My 9-year-old grandson had a blast riding shotgun.”
This stop offers a chance to really appreciate how volcanic activity has defined the landscape, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or simply soak in the sense of scale and history. The lava fields are a highlight, providing a stark contrast to the forested areas you’ll see later.

Second Stop: Deschutes National Forest
The second part of the tour takes you deeper into the forested regions, with trails winding through towering trees and over gentle hills. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for Oregon’s lush wilderness. Reviews repeatedly mention the breathtaking scenery and hidden gems that guides like Chase point out along the way. One guest summed it up as “the best way to explore the national forest with knowledgeable guides showing you the best trails.”
Throughout this part, you’ll learn about the area’s ecology and natural features, making the ride both fun and educational. The small group size ensures that your guide can share stories and answer questions, making it more engaging than a large bus tour.

Equipment and Safety

All DOT helmets (ranging from XS to 3XL) and fuel are covered in the price, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs or gear. The guides are professionals, and one reviewer called Chase “outstanding—friendly and informative.” This focus on safety and education makes the ride accessible to most travelers.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

From the reviews, it’s clear that the ATVs are a blast to drive, with many noting the thrill of speeding along trails and the excitement of exploring off-road terrain. The speed and terrain are described as being just right—enough to get your adrenaline going without feeling unsafe.
Expect to stop a couple of times for photo ops and short walks, which break up the ride and give you a chance to take in your surroundings. Since there are no bathrooms on tour, it’s best to come prepared or use facilities beforehand.

The Review Highlights

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with many describing Chase as “amazing” and “outstanding.” The scenery earns high marks, with comments like “breathtaking views” and “beautiful scenery and fantastic trails.”
The value for money is another big plus—reviews mention how the included equipment, fuel, and instruction make the price more than fair. Families, in particular, love how “my grandson had a blast,” and others note that even people new to ATVs found the ride accessible and enjoyable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re looking for a quick outdoor adventure that combines adrenaline and scenic beauty, this ATV tour is hard to beat. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to see Oregon’s volcanic and forest landscapes from a unique vantage point. Families with children as young as nine have found it a perfect mix of fun and safety, especially with the knowledgeable guides ensuring everyone is comfortable.
It’s also ideal for those who want a small-group experience with personalized attention, rather than a large, impersonal tour. If you have a curiosity about volcanic history or just crave a bit of speed and dirt, this adventure delivers.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $349 for up to four people, this tour provides great value, especially considering all gear and instruction are included. It’s a half-day activity, making it a manageable addition to a broader Oregon itinerary.
One aspect to keep in mind is the lack of bathroom facilities during the tour, so plan accordingly. Also, most trips are booked about nine days in advance, reflecting its popularity, so early booking is wise if you’re planning a trip to Bend or La Pine.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives with a touch of adventure, this tour will hit the spot. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers, families, or anyone eager to experience Oregon’s volcanic landscapes up close and personal. The small group setting and professional guides ensure a safe, fun, and informative outing. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned ATV rider, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable outdoor experience without requiring extensive prep or experience.

Is this ATV tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention a 9-year-old grandson having a blast. As long as your child is comfortable with riding and following safety instructions, they should be good to go.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, DOT-approved helmets in a wide range of sizes are included in the price, ensuring safety and comfort for all.

What should I wear?
Since you’ll be riding outdoors, wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against dirt and bugs, especially in forested areas.

Is there a bathroom break during the tour?
No, there are no bathrooms on the tour, so plan to use facilities beforehand or be prepared for a quick stop at the beginning or end.

How many people will be in my group?
Up to seven travelers, ensuring a small, personalized experience with plenty of attention from your guide.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Oregon Outback ATV Adventure offers an authentic taste of central Oregon’s volcanic past and lush forests, all wrapped into a memorable 2.5-hour ride. It’s an excellent way to combine adventure, education, and spectacular scenery, making it particularly appealing to active families, outdoor lovers, and small groups looking for an intimate experience. The guides’ friendly expertise and the well-maintained equipment ensure you’ll feel safe and well-cared-for, while the stunning scenery guarantees plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’ve ever wanted to feel the wind in your hair while exploring lava fields and forest trails, this tour delivers on those dreams. It represents good value, given the inclusiveness of gear and instruction, and it’s a surefire way to add some excitement to your Oregon trip. Just remember to book early, come prepared, and enjoy the rugged beauty of central Oregon from a truly unique perspective.