Photo: Ed Dorsett
Photo: Ed Dorsett
Photo: Abbie Schutjer
Deschutes River Trail
★5.0(11 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 1-4 hours depending on route length and number of park stops👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers enjoy short stroller-friendly sections between parks, elementary-aged kids love biking the longer stretches and stopping at playgrounds, while teens appreciate the scenic jogging routes and kayak-watching opportunities.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
The Deschutes River Trail offers families a stunning multi-use paved pathway that winds along the Deschutes River through the heart of Bend. With gentle terrain perfect for little legs on bikes or scooters, multiple parks and playgrounds along the route, and breathtaking river views that keep kids engaged, this trail is ideal for active families wanting to explore Bend's natural beauty at their own pace.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, paved pathway perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers of all skill levels
- ✓Multiple riverside parks with playgrounds for activity breaks
- ✓Stunning views of the Deschutes River with opportunities to watch kayakers and paddleboarders
- ✓Wildlife spotting including ducks, geese, herons, and fish in the clear river water
- ✓Shaded sections with towering ponderosa pines for hot summer days
Pro Tips
- 1.Start at Drake Park or Riverbend Park where there are playgrounds, restrooms, and easy parking to break up your trail adventure
- 2.Rent bikes or surrey cycles from nearby shops on Galveston Avenue for a fun family ride without the hassle of bringing your own
- 3.Pack a picnic and plan stops at the grassy areas along the trail - kids can play while parents enjoy the river views
- 4.Download an offline map as the trail has many access points and it's easy to customize your route length based on kids' energy levels
- 5.Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting - kids love watching ducks, geese, and occasional river otters along the water
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings or late afternoons during spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer mornings (before 10am) are ideal to avoid midday heat, while the trail is less busy on weekdays than weekends year-round.
What to Know
The trail is completely free to use with multiple public parking areas throughout Bend, including lots at Drake Park, Riverbend Park, and First Street Rapids. Restrooms are available at major park access points, and the paved surface is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Seasonal Notes
The trail is accessible year-round, though winter may bring snow and ice requiring caution. Spring offers wildflowers and rushing river flows from snowmelt. Summer is most popular but can be hot midday. Fall provides stunning foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it arguably the best season for family visits.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Jackson's Corner for fresh pizza and kid-friendly options, or grab smoothies and healthy snacks at Nektar Juice Bar, both within minutes of popular trail access points.
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