Deschutes River Trail

The Deschutes River Trail is one of Bend’s finest pathways, running all the way from Sunriver to Tumalo State Park (albeit with some gaps). The trail is popular and is easy to access from multiple points around town. In this guide we’ll look at a scenic 3.7 mile out and back section that starts and ends at Sawyer Park and leads to the beautiful Archie Briggs Canyon Natural Area.

Begin from Sawyer Park off O.B. Riley Road. You’ll cross over the Deschutes via footbridge. Follow the signs that say “to Deschutes River Trail.” Once you get to the trail turn right.

The navigation from here is fairly simple - just stay on the Deschutes River Trail. You’ll begin to leave the river behind as you hike above it. As you near Archie Briggs Canyon Natural Area you’ll arrive at a viewpoint with some informative plaques.

Continue onward. The trail makes a brief descent, then ascends to another viewpoint with a bench. This is the far end of the natural area and a good turnaround point. Enjoy the fantastic views of the Deschutes River and several prominent Cascade Peaks in the distance including Mt. Washington, Mt. Jefferson and Black Butte.

Return the way you came back to Sawyer Park.