The Bend Oregon Deschutes River Trail, also referred to as the Bend Oregon river trail or the Deschutes Trail, is a multi-section trail great for hiking and running that parallels the Deschutes River both in and near Bend.
There are a variety of options for hiking the Deschutes River Trail, with loops of various lengths, as well as both paved and unpaved sections.
In this hiking guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiking this trail including different routes, trailheads, and other local tips.
As local’s, we hike these sections of the Deschutes River Trail often, and are excited to share what we know with you, so that you may enjoy this beautiful part of the Deschutes River.
Deschutes River Trail Overview
The Deschutes River Trail can actually refer to a lot of individual sections of trail, but they all parallel the beautiful Deschutes River, regardless of location.
The trail can be divided up into three main areas:
- Upriver of Bend (Southwest)
- In Bend
- Downriver of Bend (North)
There are sections that are completely natural, with no development whatsoever. In contrast, there are parts (e.g.,Old Mill District) where the trail is paved and adjacent to restaurants, shops, and parking.
Take a look at the map below to get your bearings.
Deschutes River Trail Map
Use the interactive map below to see the areas of the Deschutes Trail mentioned in this article. You can also expand the map to view in a new window.
Hiking the Deschutes River Trail: Lots of Options
Upriver of Bend (Southwest)
Upriver of Bend, the Deschutes River is almost completely natural, with over 16 miles of continuous trail between Bend and Sunriver to the Southwest.
There are a number of trailheads to access different sections of this reach. Our favorites are Meadow Day Use Area (closest), Benham West Trailhead, and Dillon Falls Trailhead.
In Bend
Within the town of Bend itself, there are two main parts of the trail. These are the Old Mill Area (upriver of Drake Park) and First Street Rapids Area (downriver of Drake Park).
The Old Mill Area has a nice 3-mile loop that is mostly natural. You can park at Riverbend Park and head upriver. There are two bridges that allow you to make a loop. This is one of our favorite hikes in Bend. This loop is often called the Deschutes River south canyon trail.
In addition, for a completely paved and more in-town experience, head downriver of Riverbend Park to explore the Old Mill District, and Bend Whitewater Park, where you can watch people surf the river wave. The loop options vary in length.
The First Street Rapids section is also a nice hike, and offers a hillside view of the Deschutes River. Park at Pioneer Park and head downstream. You can go as far as you want, up to about 3 miles in one direction.
Downriver of Bend (North)
Downriver of Bend there are two main trailheads and a trail connecting them. This is often referred to as the lower Deschutes River Trail. Park at either Riley Ranch Nature Reserve or Tumalo State Park. Whichever one you park at, hike to the other one!
We recommend parking at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve, as there is no day use fee. There are also some nice viewpoints to see. However, realize that dogs are not allowed at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve, so park at Tumalo State Park instead.
FAQ
How long is Deschutes River Trail in Bend?
There is no than one section of trail. In total, there are over 25 miles of what we consider to be part of the larger Deschutes River Trail in Bend, but it is not continuous.
Where do you park for the Deschutes River Trail?
You can park at a variety of trailheads, depending on the section of trail you wish to see. Our go to spots to park are Riverbend Park, Pioneer Park, Meadow Day Use Area, or Riley River Ranch Nature Reserve.
Are Ebikes allowed on Deschutes River Trail?
Most sections of the trail are unpaved, narrow at times, and can be crowded, which makes for less than ideal biking conditions. Ebikes are not recommended on the Deschutes Trail, and they may be prohibited in some sections.
Where does the Deschutes River Trail start?
There are different trailheads where you can access the trail along the Deschutes River, ranging from the source at Little Lava Lake all the way to it’s terminus at the Columbia River.
Conclusion
We hope you found this Deschutes River Trail hiking guide helpful. As local residents, we love these trails along the Deschutes River and hike them often.
As a result, we are happy to share our knowledge with you so you may experience the beauty of the trail for yourself. We ask that you respect these natural areas, and leave no trace to preserve them for future enjoyment of Bend residents and visitors alike.
In fact, you may also be interested in learning about more things to do in Bend, including Bend’s best coffee and cafes, restaurants, and breweries!If you’re visiting or living in Bend, check out our other articles about Central Oregon and our Bend travel itineraries. Happy adventuring!
