1 Of The Best Views In Oregon

Pete’s Cabin has one of the best views in Oregon. Pictures of the view can be amazing, but nothing compares to being there. It’s like a dream or a fairy tale.

We purchased this property in 2002 because we knew it had one of the best views in Oregon. The property is approximately 10 miles west of Post, Oregon, the state’s geographical center.

You can make up stories about why it was called Post, like because it has a post office, or the one about the post in the ground out in the field behind the post office, but the truth is it was named after its first postmaster, Walter H. Post.

I suppose that’s why we call this Central Oregon. Looking out from the covered patio above, the Ochoco National Forest is to the left, the Maury Mountains are to the right, and the Crooked River, as it meets the Prineville Reservoir and the state park, is in the center.

I grew up in Portland. My dad was often called Pete, and he loved the high desert. We would go deer hunting in areas near here and around Central Oregon. I guess that sums up why we call this place Pete’s Cabin.

People Have Come From All Over The World To Enjoy One Of The Best Views In Oregon

My wife and I have had guests at Pete’s Cabin from Australia to The Netherlands and all over the United States, to mention a few. The reasons they come can vary, but nobody wants to leave once they arrive. The sweeping vistas and rolling hills sweep them off their feet.

Does this view compare to views from the historic Columbia River Highway? No, it does not. The Columbia Gorge is one of those views you will never forget. The view from Pete’s Cabin is just different. It incorporates a sense of loneliness, and the quiet surroundings are hard to find in other scenic sites.

You should bring the best binoculars you can find to appreciate all the things you’ll miss without them. If you have none, it’s not too late to check out what’s available with free delivery on Amazon’s website. This Vortex Optics Razor offers all the features for bird watching and long distance.

Other Things To See Along With The Best Views In Oregon

1. Unbelievable Scenery: Pete’s Cabin overlooks a vast landscape of Eastern Oregon. It offers panoramic views of the Crooked River, Prineville Reservoir, Maury Mountains, and the Ochoco National Forest. Bring your best camera and prepare for awesome sunrises and weather events. Try to locate our own private painted hills.
2. Dark Sky Oregon: In 2021, Prineville Reservoir State Park became Dark Sky Oregon, Oregon’s first International Dark Sky Park. That puts Pete’s cabin is about one mile from Prineville Reservoir State Park. Bring your telescopes and binoculars for an eye-popping experience.
3. Seclusion and Privacy: This Eastern Oregon cabin is ideal for guests looking for peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its secluded location ensures privacy and tranquility, allowing visitors to unwind completely in a quiet, peaceful setting.
4. Outdoor Activities: The property is surrounded on three sides by Federal Reserve and BLM land. For those who love the outdoors, the cabin provides easy access to various activities, such as hiking trails (there are natural hiking trails and what we call deer trails, so bring your hiking boots), biking, fishing, and bird-watching in the warmer months. For me, winter is a time to cozy next to a warm fire. Not to be confused with Steens Mountain, but don’t miss the hike to Steens Pillar.
5. Comfort and Convenience: Pete’s Cabin combines rustic charm with modern amenities, and we ensure our guests have a comfortable stay without missing out on any luxuries they are accustomed to, such as a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding.
6. Pet-Friendly Accommodation: We get it. Pets are part of your family. Pete’s Cabin welcomes up to two dogs. You will have to leave the third dog at the sitters. We want you to enjoy your vacation. I’m sorry about the third dog.
7. Ideal for All Types of Travelers: Whether you’re planning a romantic holiday, a family getaway, or a solo adventure, Pete’s Cabin can appeal to all types of travelers looking for an unforgettable stay.
8. Local Attractions: In addition to the natural attractions, the cabin is conveniently located 18 miles from Prineville, one of the oldest towns in Eastern Oregon (not to be confused with the Central Oregon Coast and the Pacific Coast). You can explore Smith Rock State Park or visit the Painted Hills Unit. While at the Painted Hills Unit, don’t miss the John Day Fossil Beds. Summer is a great time to visit Bend and go tubing on the Deschutes River.
9. The Asterisk Observatory: Smith Rock State Park and a local landowner came together to allow people to appreciate and learn about the International Dark Sky Places Program. So hike around Smith Rock State Park in the evening and stay to observe the dark sky.

Sunrise From Pete’s Cabin: One Of The Best Views In Oregon

There are just some things that seem to mesmerize and create a sense of peace and relaxation. The view in the morning as the sun rises is just one of those. You sort of want to stop the sun from rising and stretch out the moment.

Nothing can compare; it’s just one of the most beautiful places in Oregon. You may not like Juniper trees (sometimes we refer to these trees as weeds), and it’s not a lush forest, but the natural beauty is still there.

The Prineville Reservoir is not the deepest lake, with a maximum depth of 130′. That depth is about five miles away from what you see in the image below, near the dam.

Stay At Pete’s Cabin And Witness Some Of The Best Views In Oregon

Currently, Pete’s Cabin is listed with both VRBO and Airbnb. My wife and I have stayed at several other vacation rentals on various trips and always check the reviews to guarantee a good stay. We don’t always get what we expect. Usually, because the description is not accurate.

I don’t think that will be the case if you come to visit Pete’s Cabin. You can check out the reviews by clicking the buttons below.

Pros And Cons When You Witness The Best Views In Oregon At Pete’s Cabin

You could say I’m joking, but I’m not. You have to experience this place. When we first arrived on the property in 2002, my wife and I stood at the slope overlooking the reservoir and the south end of the state park; our jaws dropped. We first said to each other, “We don’t know how right now, but we have to buy this place.”

Once You’ve Experienced The Best Views In Oregon At Pete’s Cabin, You’ll Want To Come Back

In the reviews I hope you have researched, the number one reason most of our renters return is one of the best views in Oregon, along with all the other things I’ve been discussing in this post. It’s a package deal. We couldn’t believe how fast the people signed up to come and enjoy the serenity and beauty of it all.

It was like out of a movie script: “If you build it, they will come.” And they have. Pete’s Cabin has become a well-visited natural recreation site.

How To Get To Pete’s Cabin To See What I Call One Of The Best Views In Oregon

Today’s world of tech and maps on our phones makes getting places much easier than when I was a kid. But we knew nothing better than looking at one of those folded-up maps they gave away free when you bought gas.

When booking through VRBO or Airbnb, you will receive complete instructions on what’s expected of you as a renter and how to open the door. Clicking on the orange buttons above will give you interior pictures and more information about your stay. You’re not charged anything to click on the buttons.