Deschutes River Trail Bend
A scenic urban trail along the Deschutes River, offering diverse landscapes, from serene ponds to thrilling whitewater.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Deschutes River Trail Bend
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic urban trail along the Deschutes River, offering diverse landscapes, from serene ponds to thrilling whitewater.
"A beautiful place to clear your mind and refresh your soul in nature."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly dirt and rock, so sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for comfort.
🐶 Leash Your Pup
Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirror Pond
Drake Park
A serene urban oasis where the Deschutes River widens, perfect for a peaceful stroll or enjoying the sunset.
Bend Whitewater Park
Near Drake Park
Experience the thrill of river surfing or watch skilled surfers navigate the waves in this unique urban park.
Riverfront Views
Throughout the trail
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Deschutes River, lush greenery, and the surrounding natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly dirt and rock, so sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for comfort.
🐶 Leash Your Pup
Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.
🚫 No Bikes Allowed
This is a pedestrian-only trail. Cyclists should use designated bike paths elsewhere.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Farewell Bend Park has limited parking; consider alternative access points if it's full.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly dirt and rock, so sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for comfort.
🐶 Leash Your Pup
Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.
🚫 No Bikes Allowed
This is a pedestrian-only trail. Cyclists should use designated bike paths elsewhere.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Farewell Bend Park has limited parking; consider alternative access points if it's full.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Even on cooler days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Deschutes River Trail for its accessibility, natural beauty, and relaxing atmosphere. It's a highly recommended spot for walks, runs, and enjoying the outdoors. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and it's important to remember it's a pedestrian-only trail.
"The Deschutes River trail is a very accessible 2.5 mile loop that starts from Farewell Bend Park. The park acts as a trailhead and has very limited parking so you may have to go to the other side where there is a larger parking lot. If you are lucky and get a space it is a beautiful Green Park with lots to do including a playground for kids and wonderful River access. The trail itself is multi-directional and is wide in most spaces. Conditioning required is limited with moderate hills and mostly flat trails. Many people utilize this trail for family walks or trail running. Dogs are welcomed the bikes are not. This is a purely pedestrian trail. Views are wonderful and it is a great way to enjoy some exercise. Essentially you hike a little bit over a mile into a bridge that loops you back the other way. Definitely a must-do. If you want to extend the walk / hike just continue through the park on the paved trails."
D. Sheldon
"Awesome sauce. Love this trail! So relaxing and nice to walk in nature. I highly recommend this to anyone"
Shawn L.
"Awesome park. Lots of people walking the trail. Adults and children with their dogs. I saw a lot of kids walking with their teachers and watching nature. Lots of dogs. I loved walking right next to the river although I saw some bikers using another trail nearby. Beautiful trees and lots of birds."
Diana Paguaga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Deschutes River Trail in Bend, Oregon, is accessible from multiple points. A popular trailhead is Farewell Bend Park, which offers river access and a playground, though parking can be limited. Other access points can be found along the trail, including near Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
While direct public transportation to specific trailheads might be limited, Bend has a bus system that can get you close to areas like downtown and Drake Park, from which you can access the trail. Check with local transit for routes and schedules.
Parking can be challenging, especially at Farewell Bend Park. Many visitors suggest looking for larger parking lots near Drake Park or exploring street parking in adjacent neighborhoods.
Yes, the Deschutes River Trail is easily accessible from downtown Bend, particularly near Drake Park and Mirror Pond. This offers a convenient way to combine your trail experience with exploring the city.
Absolutely! The Deschutes River Trail in Bend is a fantastic destination for a day trip from Portland. The drive is scenic, and the trail offers a refreshing escape into nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Deschutes River Trail is a public park and trail system, so there are no tickets or entry fees required to access it.
The Deschutes River Trail is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific park hours may vary, so it's always a good idea to check local park information if you plan to visit very early or late.
Parking at trailheads like Farewell Bend Park is typically free, but spaces can be limited. Some areas might have metered parking, so it's wise to have some change or check parking signs.
No, the Deschutes River Trail is a public access area and does not require reservations. It's first-come, first-served for parking and trail access.
For general walking, hiking, or enjoying the scenery, no permits are needed. If you plan on more organized group events or specific activities, it's best to check with the Bend Parks and Recreation Department.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Deschutes River Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It features mostly flat terrain with some gentle hills, making it suitable for family walks, trail running, and casual hikers.
The trail system along the Deschutes River in Bend is extensive, stretching over 30 miles. A popular loop from Farewell Bend Park is about 2.5 miles, but you can extend your walk by continuing on paved trails.
Yes, dogs are very welcome on the Deschutes River Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's a great place to bring your furry friends for an outing.
No, the Deschutes River Trail is strictly a pedestrian-only path. Cyclists should utilize other designated bike trails in the Bend area.
You can expect beautiful views of the Deschutes River, lush riparian vegetation, and the surrounding high desert landscape. Sunsets along the trail are particularly stunning. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the trail itself is primarily a natural pathway, you'll find numerous dining options in the nearby Old Mill District and downtown Bend, which are easily accessible from the trail.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots along the trail and in adjacent parks like Drake Park where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
Directly on the trail, amenities are minimal to preserve the natural environment. However, the Old Mill District and downtown Bend, which are adjacent to the trail, offer plenty of cafes and snack options.
The Old Mill District offers a variety of restaurants with river views, and downtown Bend has a vibrant culinary scene with options ranging from casual breweries to upscale dining.
Alcohol consumption is generally permitted in Bend's parks and public spaces, including along the Deschutes River Trail, but always check local ordinances and be respectful of others.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere along the river offers stunning photo opportunities! Mirror Pond, the bridges, and areas with vibrant fall colors or sunset light are particularly picturesque.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Sunsets over the river are especially magical.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
You might spot various bird species, squirrels, and other small wildlife. The river itself is also a subject, with kayakers and sometimes surfers.
The bridges crossing the Deschutes River, the Bend Whitewater Park, and the serene Mirror Pond are all iconic spots for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
+1 Keep an eye out for wildlife and the dynamic action at the whitewater park for unique shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Deschutes River
For the more adventurous, the Bend Whitewater Park is a must-visit. This innovative park features three distinct channels designed for various water activities, including world-class river surfing. Even if you're not participating, watching the surfers navigate the waves is an exhilarating experience. The park also includes a fish ladder, highlighting the river's ecological importance.
Beyond the active pursuits, the Deschutes River is also a place for relaxation and reflection. The trail meanders through scenic areas, offering numerous spots to sit, enjoy a picnic, or simply breathe in the fresh air. The changing seasons bring new beauty, from the vibrant greens of summer to the golden hues of fall and even a dusting of snow in winter.
Navigating the Deschutes River Trail System
Many sections of the trail are paved, making them accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual walkers. However, some parts are unpaved, consisting of dirt and gravel, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended. The trail is multi-directional, meaning you can hike or walk in either direction, and it's designed for pedestrians only – no bikes allowed.
For those looking to extend their adventure, the trail connects to other pathways and parks, allowing for longer hikes or runs. The Old Mill District and downtown Bend are easily accessible from the trail, offering opportunities to combine your outdoor excursion with shopping, dining, or exploring the city.
+1Seasonal Beauty of the Deschutes River Trail
Summer is peak season for river activities like tubing and floating, with the water offering a cool respite from the heat. The trail is vibrant and bustling with visitors enjoying the long, sunny days.
Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking display of autumn colors. The golden aspens and changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for a hike, and the cooler temperatures are ideal for exploring.
Even in winter, the trail holds a unique charm. A fresh dusting of snow can make the scenery particularly beautiful, offering a serene and peaceful experience, though some activities might be limited by weather conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit