We’re in the back half of summer now and, while wildfire smoke may curb some of your outdoor plans, you shouldn’t need me to tell you to make the most of these warm, sunshine-filled days.

With temperatures forecast to reach the mid- to high-80s this weekend, it’s going to be a beaut. Expect clear, sunny skies all weekend long and temperatures to cool off into next week.

This is the time of year to get out to the Cascades’ high country. Plan to head into the mountains for your hikes and other adventures and make sure you have the proper pass or permit for your destination. Some ares in the Central Cascade Wilderness require day-use permits, and all require permits for overnight use. The U.S. Forest Service website to secure a permit.

Below are some recommended spots for recreation this weekend. For mountain bike and other trail-specific updates, check out bendtrails.org and the BendTrails Facebook group.

Paddle, fly-fish with mountain views at Hosmer Lake

Popular for canoeists, kayakers and other paddlers, Hosmer Lake offers breathtaking views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister and Broken Top along with wildlife. The views can also be enjoyed from the shallow lake’s shoreline.

According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website, anglers currently report good fishing for brook and rainbow trout. The brook trout average 14 inches. Those thinking about heading to the lake to fish are encouraged to get on the water early in the morning before the recreational kayak and paddleboard crowd arrive, and before surface water temperatures become lethal to trout. The lake is fly-fishing only with barbless hooks and catch-and-release for all species.

Hosmer Lake is off of Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, about a 45-minute drive from Bend. The lake is nearly 200 acres and nearly 5,000 feet above sea level with an average depth of 3 feet.

Check out the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website for more fishing reports.

Take the Mrazek Trail into high country

The Mrazek Trail, which starts just west of Shevlin Park, is a classic summer route that opens up much of the western, high-elevation trails like Trail 99, Metolious Windigo and Farewell. These can take riders all the way into Sisters or connect them to the Skyliner and Swampy Lakes Area trails. The full trail is 13 miles long and climbs over 3,000 feet. This a great place to start for mountain bikers looking for a full day out on the trails in the high country.

Secure camping spot for end of summer now

Campgrounds go quick in Central Oregon. The Sunriver and La Pine area, along the upper Deschutes River, is a popular spot for large family weekend gatherings and reunions, and there are few better ways to get together with extended family than hanging around a campsite. The area has a variety of campground options, but most are booked over the weekends through the next couple of weeks. Campsites are available at Big River Campground and Bull Bend Campground during the week but, for the most part, all sites are reserved Thursday through Sunday for the month of August. Some alternative grounds in the area with more availability in the next few weeks are Prairie Campground, across Highway 97, and Pringle Falls Campground, upriver from La Pine State Park.

If you’re looking for something a little more remote and first-come, first-serve, head out east to the Prineville area and check out Big Bend Campground or Castle Rock Campground. Both are along the Crooked River, just downstream of Prineville Reservoir, with access to day-use areas, hiking, fishing and paddling.

For a full list of conditions updated regularly, visit bendbulletin.com/explore/conditions.

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