Join High Sierra Pilots for the Deschutes Poker Run, a scenic morning of flying through the heart of Central Oregon where pilots will visit several regional airports, collect playing cards along the way, and return to Bend to see who finishes with the best, and worst, poker hand of the day.

This event takes pilots around the Deschutes River region and the surrounding high desert, offering beautiful views of Central Oregon landscapes, mountain terrain, and classic regional airports.

The Deschutes Poker Run is designed to be simple, relaxed, and social. It is a great excuse to get out flying, meet other pilots along the way, and enjoy a morning in the air.

Event Schedule

The Poker Run window will be open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Pilots may begin the run at any time during the morning. Start at Bend Municipal Airport, visit the participating airports in any order, and return before noon to turn in your cards.

Winners will be announced during a lunch gathering at noon back at the High Sierra Pilots Bend location.

Participating Airports

Start and Finish
Bend Municipal Airport (KBDN)

Poker Run Stops

Redmond Municipal Airport (KRDM)
Prineville Airport (S39)
Madras Municipal Airport (S33)
Sunriver Airport (S21)

Pilots may visit the airports in any order.

Distance and Flight Time

The full route around Central Oregon covers approximately 90 to 110 nautical miles depending on the order you choose.

Typical leg distances are roughly:

KBDN to KRDM — 16 NM
KRDM to S33 — 20 NM
S33 to S39 — 27 NM
S39 to S21 — 38 NM
S21 to KBDN — 12 NM

A typical Cessna 172 cruising around 105 to 110 knots can expect roughly 0.9 to 1.1 hours of cruise time.

Allowing for climbs, descents, and pattern work, most pilots will spend approximately 1.4 to 1.8 hours total flight time completing the run.

Most participants can comfortably complete the event within the morning window.

How the Poker Run Works

Each participating airport will have a volunteer host with a deck of cards.

When you land, walk up to the Poker Run table, draw one card from the deck, and keep it.

Visit all participating airports and collect five cards total.

When you return to Bend, present your cards to record your poker hand.

Standard poker rankings apply.

Snacks at Every Stop

Each airport will have a small welcome table hosted by a volunteer, along with a treat for arriving pilots.

You might find donuts at one airport, snacks at another, or other small surprises along the way. These stops are a chance to stretch your legs, meet other pilots, and enjoy the morning.

Club Member Benefit

This event is sponsored by High Sierra Pilots.

Core members flying club aircraft may receive up to 2.0 hours of flight time comped, meaning those hours will not be deducted from the member’s flight hour bucket during the Poker Run.

Prizes

Best Poker Hand Prize
A $200 Hilton hotel gift card, valid at Hilton properties across the United States.

Worst Poker Hand Prize
A “Worst Hand in Central Oregon” Trophy

Finish and Awards

All cards must be turned in by 12:00 PM at the High Sierra Pilots Bend location.

Pilots will gather for lunch and prize announcements shortly after noon.

Join the Run

Start your engine, head out over the Deschutes country, and come play your hand in the Deschutes Poker Run.

It is a great excuse to spend a morning flying some of the best terrain in Central Oregon.