Deschutes River Trail

The Deschutes River Trail follows the river through and south of Bend, linking parks, neighborhoods and wild stretches of riverbank. Within the city it passes Farewell Bend Park and the Old Mill District, where paved and gravel paths are popular with walkers, runners and cyclists.

Farther upstream and downstream the trail becomes a narrower dirt path through ponderosa pine and juniper, with views of the river, lava rock and the Cascade peaks. Some sections are rougher than the urban stretch, so check the surface if you need a smooth, stroller-friendly route.

Access points include the Old Mill District, Farewell Bend Park and several trailheads along the river. The trail is open year-round, though snow and ice can make winter sections slick. The river is also a good place to watch ducks, osprey and other birds.