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Deschutes River Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 447 Google reviews · Running trail in Bend, Oregon · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- 12 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Deschutes River Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic 12-mi. trail meandering through forest, canyons, and basalt formations along the Deschutes River.
What runners say about Deschutes River Trail
“Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes River Trail stands out as a truly magnificent destination for nature enthusiasts.”
“Great for hiking, running, or biking.”
“Dog owners will find it an excellent place to bring their furry companions, as the trail is dog-friendly and offers plenty of space for them to explore.”
11/26 It's been amazing! I love the trail, wonderful place for jogging, walking and even photography This would be my 3rd time visiting the Deschutes river but in other areas and each visit no matter what part of the river you visit It's just gorgeous
Very pleasant walk along the river. One side is more of a walking path, and the other seemed more like a hiking path.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes River Trail stands out as a truly magnificent destination for nature enthusiasts. This expansive trail offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal location for both leisurely strolls and more vigorous…
Love the “wilder” part of the Deschutes River trail. There is a trail that goes on either side of the river for a few miles. You can cross over a mile or so down. Spectacular views.
Trail conditions & character
“Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes River Trail stands out as a truly magnificent destination for nature enthusiasts.”
“Dog owners will find it an excellent place to bring their furry companions, as the trail is dog-friendly and offers plenty of space for them to explore.”
“Exceptional dirt trail along the river and connection to paved trails into the city and neighborhoods.”
“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.”
“Its well-maintained paths and gentle terrain make it accessible to hikers of all skill levels, while still providing a sense of adventure and discovery.”
“Exceptional dirt trail along the river and connection to paved trails into the city and neighborhoods.”
“Great loop or I sometimes stay on the west side to soak up the sun.”
“Conditioning required is limited with moderate hills and mostly flat trails.”
“5 mile loop that starts from Farewell Bend Park.”
Plan your run at Deschutes River Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Loop distance12 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitebendparksandrec.org
- Phone(541) 389-7275
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–10 PM |
Running trails near Bend
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
River Canyon Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 91 reviews
Relaxed park with pine trees and a 3-mile loop trail along the Deschutes River.
First Street Rapids Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 378 reviews
Family-friendly park featuring picnic tables, and a restroom, plus a riverside trail.
GoodDog!
4.8 ★★★★★ 315 reviews
Wooded, vast area for dogs to roam off leash on myriad trails, as well as river access and walking loops.
Sawyer Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 825 reviews
Waterfront park featuring trails, picnic tables and grassy areas, plus a bridge.