If you want a vacation that’s more than just lying around on a beach, take a turn off the beaten path to Bend, Oregon. The region lies in a high desert climate, perfect for tumbleweeds and junipers, with only about 12 inches of rain a year. All that sunshine means plenty of days to play outside — and you’ll want to play outside. All around are beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and dense evergreen forests. You’ll see runners, bikers, hikers and horseback riders along every road, taking in the views. Like other cities in the state, Bend (population 75,000) is a progressive town that prizes and protects its natural resources and emphasizes healthy and green living.

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