If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience Central Oregon’s winter beauty, a snowmobile tour with Octane Adventures is an absolute must. Nestled across from the entrance to the 10 Mile Snow Park in La Pine, Octane Adventures provides the perfect launch pad for exploring the snowy wonderland of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the breathtaking Paulina Caldera.
Getting Started
As we pulled into the parking lot on a crisp 20-degree day, the warmth of the small Octane Adventures office was a welcome reprieve. Outside, rows of snowmobiles—or “sleds,” as they’re often called in snowmobile slang—were lined up and ready for action. Octane Adventures ensures you’re fully equipped for the journey, providing helmets and goggles to every rider. If you’re missing gear, no worries—they offer everything you need for rent, making it easy for anyone to hit the trails, whether you’re a seasoned snowmobiler or a first-timer.
After a quick safety briefing and introduction from our guide, Forest, we were geared up and ready for an epic four-hour tour through the heart of the Paulina Caldera.
The Journey Begins
We departed directly from the Octane Adventures office, riding down a groomed trail to an open field not far from the entrance to the 10 Mile Snow Park. This field, blanketed in fresh powder, gave us the perfect opportunity to test out our machines. We practiced sharp turns, built our confidence, and even had some fun ripping around and seeing what the snowmobiles could do. This warm-up made us feel more comfortable and ready for the adventure ahead.
East Lake
Our first major destination was East Lake, a stunning body of water nestled in the caldera formed after a massive volcanic eruption over 75,000 years ago. Fun fact: the Newberry Caldera is one of the largest in the United States, spanning 17 square miles! Forest shared fascinating insights into the area’s geology, including how East Lake nearly freezes over every winter. The snowy landscape and the stillness of the frozen lake were awe-inspiring.
Paulina Lake
Next, we made our way to Paulina Lake, which rarely freezes due to the geothermal activity beneath its surface. This lake is a haven for year-round fishing, thanks to its slightly warmer waters. Fun fact: Paulina Lake is fed by underground hot springs, making it a favorite spot for Kokanee salmon and Brown trout! With breathtaking views of the caldera and abundant wildlife, this stop was truly memorable.
Paulina Peak
The crown jewel of the tour was Paulina Peak. At 7,984 feet, the peak offers unparalleled views of the Cascade Mountain Range, hints of Crater Lake, the Three Sisters, and the sparkling lakes below. Fun fact: Paulina Peak is the highest point of the Newberry Volcano and provides a 360-degree view of Central Oregon’s volcanic landscape. The ride to the top was exhilarating, and the panoramic vistas were worth every second.
Lunch at Paulina Resort
After descending the peak, we stopped at the rustic Paulina Resort, accessible only by snowmobile during the winter. The cozy lodge was bustling with riders and families, creating a lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a hearty meal of cheeseburgers, fries, chicken strips, and tots—fueling up for the final leg of our journey. To top it off, we toasted with a perfectly crafted Bloody Mary and a Corona with lime, a nod to summer memories at Paulina Lake.
Paulina Falls
Our final stop was Paulina Falls, a mesmerizing cascade that occasionally freezes over in winter. Fun fact: Paulina Falls drops 80 feet and is fed by the outflow of Paulina Lake, creating a year-round spectacle. While we didn’t see any ice climbers during our visit, the falls are known to attract adventurous climbers when conditions are just right, making for an epic winter challenge.
Wrapping Up the Adventure
As our four-hour tour came to an end, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible sights, thrilling rides, and warm camaraderie. A special thanks to Forest for expertly guiding us through this winter wonderland, Willa for helping capture the experience, and the team at Octane Adventures for making it all possible.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, Octane Adventures is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced snowmobilers. Their team ensures you’re set up with everything you need, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. They offer 2-hour and 4-hour tours, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule.
Pro Tip: Dress warmly, and don’t forget your camera—you won’t want to miss capturing these stunning landscapes!
Plan Your Adventure Today
Ready to book your snowmobile adventure? Visit Octane Adventures’ website to learn more about their tours and reserve your spot. Central Oregon’s winter playground is waiting for you!
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