Benham Falls - Deschutes River in Bend, OR

Sometimes a walk to a waterfall is so much more. Perhaps, it was just the day (which was sunny and warm), or the gentle sounds of the water and the birds chirping in the reeds (before the roar of the falls). But, I think it was also special knowing that these falls are where they are because of LAVA. 

Yep, volcanic activity from the Newberry Volcano located several miles from this location has been responsible for moving a portion of the Deschutes River and creating a couple of new waterfalls in the process.  Of course, this occurred about 350,000 years ago, but the lava is still present on the east side of the river – a reminder of the past eruptions from Newberry.

We took a great little hike from a parking area next to the river, which led to the falls.  Along the way we crossed the river once and observed a great wildlife habitat just upstream of the bridge.  Written info along the way explained that sections of trees had been tied together and to the bridge supports intentionally to prevent debris from hitting the bridge. Over time, this developed into an island, of sorts, which today has become a native habitat.  We managed to get a couple of shots of Cedar Waxwing birds there.

Soon after crossing the river onto the west side, we began to see the lava pushed up near the opposite side.  In some areas there was a bit more land mass on the eastern bank, but always the lava was evident - even after so many, many years.

It was getting very warm and the water looked quite appealing, but also deep and cold, with a somewhat swift current – so no cooling off in those waters.  We did not see any rafts, but in a recent post by Life's Little Adventures, rafts were noted along the rapids.

Soon the swift current grew faster and a roar could be heard for quite a while before we actually reached the “white water”.  First, there were rapids, more rapids, then the falls and then more rapids – wow, what a wonderful display from Mother Nature (with the help of the ancient action of the lava eruption).

Walking back was peaceful and enjoyable under the scattered shade from large conifers along the trail. 

New Growth on Pines

Interesting Tree Growth

We now know that, prior to the volcanic eruption ~350,000 years ago, this section of the river bed used to be some distance east of its current location. And, probably many other changes have transpired here since then - most well before the advent of man living here.  Let's hope any future eruptions are minor, or far, far away in time.