Deschutes River Trail (Pioneer Park to First Street Rapids Park)

This section of the Deschutes River Trail takes hikers and bikers alongside the Deschutes just north of downtown Bend. To access the trail you’ll want to begin at Pioneer Park, just off Northwest Wall Street.

Pioneer Park is one of Bend’s oldest parks. You’ll walk through the open grassy area to reach the Deschutes River Trail. The trail then follows the river downstream. Some beautiful large trees provide shade and beauty during this stretch.

The Deschutes is wide and shallow until you walk past a small dam. The river then resumes its usual flow as you enter into First Street Rapids Park. This park spans both sides of the river and is a popular river access point for canoes and kayaks.

You’ll cross the river via pedestrian bridge and continue following the Deschutes River Trail on the opposite bank. The river soon mellows out. This calm section is a perfect place to watch for wildlife including beavers, otters and of course many species of birds.

You can continue walking the Deschutes River Trail to Sawyer Park, or turn around at any point you wish. Just retrace your steps back to Pioneer Park to finish the hike.