Spring trail adventures in Bend, Oregon
Trail it up in Bend, Oregon
In Central Oregon, “Spring” can be warm and sunny, or, it can be cold and snowy, so locals jokingly call this time of year “Spring-ter. This year has brought a ton of late snowfall, but it’s still looking good to get outside. (Let’s face it; we Oregonians will head outside whatever the weather…) Keep in mind that snow/ice are still on many walkways and trails, so plan accordingly.
If you’re visiting Central Oregon, you’ll see why we locals are proud to call it home. The amazing views we get to see every day are almost unreal. From the mountains, to the rivers, to the wooded forest land, to the amazing waterfalls, each trail you hike (or run, or bike) offers its own charm, beauty, and ‘personality’. And, it doesn’t matter how many times you explore the same trail, it never ever gets old.
Hit the trails: Around Town
Hike, bike, or run, we’ve got you covered with 65+ miles of managed trail in town (BPRD) and hundreds more throughout Central Oregon, there’s always a new adventure to be found. Whichever trail you choose to explore, please don’t forget your manners. We take trail etiquette pretty seriously around here, so know the rules before you head outside.
One of our personal favorites, and a favorite to many locals and visitors alike, is the Deschutes River Trail. You can hop on the trail at numerous ‘starting points’ and go as far as you’d like – a mile or 10+ miles. And, no matter how far you go, the scenery along the way doesn’t disappoint.
The great thing about this river trail is that it hooks up to many other trail systems around town, so you can start at the Old Mill District shopping area (fuel up with caffeine at Strictly Organic!) and ultimately end up in the middle of the woods. Or, do a quick 3 mile loop past Farewell Bend Park, along the river, and back to the Old Mill area/Riverbend Park.
- Trail directory {Bend Parks and Recreation District}
- Shevlin Park trail system
- Pilot Butte
- Popular Bend running trails
- Popular Bend hiking trails
- 12 Best Running Trails in America, According to People Who Run for a Living
Hit the trails: Snowshoeing
With the recent heavy snowfall, you may want to strap on some snowshoes and do some mountain (or in town) exploring. Make sure you have the correct gear (all available to rent or purchase in town ) and head up to the trails for some peaceful – or heart pounding – snowy adventures away from the hustle and bustle.
Map – Snowshoe rentals in Bend, Oregon:
For those looking to break fresh tracks on their own, there a number of retail stores that rent equipment and sell trail maps. All five Sno-parks along or near Century Drive allow snowshoeing. Be courteous to your cross country ski friends and make your own tracks alongside the established ski trails. (Source: Visit Bend)
You can even experience a guided snowshoe tour during the daytime, in the moonlight, around a bonfire, or with beer (because, Bend).
Hit the trails: Mountain + Fat Biking
Central Oregon is a mecca for bike riders all year long. With more than 300 miles of singletrack throughout the area – from Sisters to Prineville, Sunriver to Bend to Redmond – mountain bikers come to town to take advantage of the plethora of trails.
Map – Bike rentals in Bend, Oregon:
Happy trails to you!
