Bend and Central Oregon are home to resplendent landscapes—including khaki-colored high desert, towering mountain forests, and winding waterways through it all. And with hundreds of miles of trails exploring those scenic sites, the region has become a hotbed for trail running in recent years.
That affection for the sport is buoyed by year-round accessibility and outings for runners of all skill levels. So to help you plan your next trip, we’ve put together a look at some of the best places to run, and how to start trail running, around Central Oregon:
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- Deschutes River Trail System
- Central Oregon Canal Trail
- Shevlin Park
- Phil’s Trail System
- Horse Butte Trailhead
- Dry Canyon Loop – Redmond
- Smith Rock Running Trails – Terrebonne
- Peterson Ridge Trail System – Sisters
- Suttle Lake Loop Near Sisters
- Trail Races & Running Events in Central Oregon
- Tips for Trail Running in Central Oregon
Keep reading for tips on trail running near Bend, Oregon.
The Best Trail Runs in Central Oregon
Here’s a rundown of the region’s top trail runs—complete with mountainous excursions, rolling river paths, dog-friendly trails, and local favorites.
Deschutes River Trail System
The Deschutes River Trail is actually two disconnected stretches of trail along its namesake waterway, but no matter: Both sections provide gently graded inclines, occasionally wide paths, numerous access points, and plenty of scenery for when you need a breather. Run between the Old Mill District and the South Canyon Reach for a mostly flat trip through urban and wooded settings, begin at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve for occasional views of Cascade peaks, and tackle the Deschutes River Trail between Dillon and Benham falls for an easy break from the hustle and bustle of the region. Before setting out, consult the Deschutes River Trail Map to plan an outing suited to your time constraints and skill levels.
Central Oregon Canal Trail
The Central Oregon Historic Canal Trail is the rare hidden gem when it comes to Bend running trails. The U-shaped path cuts through the southern edges of Bend while connecting with the Deschutes River Trail and largely following (you guessed it) a quiet canal. The path is a mix of dirt, gravel, and paved areas, and leashed dogs are welcome on the quiet trail. Keep an eye out along the way for waterfowl, deer, and other wildlife.
Shevlin Park
Shevlin Park is a local icon, and it’s easy to see why. The park sits just outside Bend city limits, is covered in groves of old-growth ponderosa pine trees, and is home to nearly two dozen miles of trails—a welcome touch of variety that allows runners to choose the right mix of distance and elevation gain. The six-mile Loop Trail, for instance, is ideal for longer runs with rolling hills. Start planning your next run with a breakdown of Shevlin Park Trails.
Phil’s Trail System
The dog-friendly Phil’s Trail Complex is synonymous with mountain biking—but for athletes looking for some of the best Bend running trails, its network of singletrack paths provide the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating jog. Newer runners appreciate the variety of terrain that can be reached from Phil’s Trailhead, while advanced runners can tackle the area’s more technical singletrack. Check out the Phil’s Trail Map to find the right paths for your next outing.
Horse Butte Trailhead
Just 10 miles southeast of Bend, the Horse Butte Trailhead offers access to dozens of miles of trails at the edge of the Central Oregon high desert. There, runners encounter rolling terrain, gradual climbs, and wide-open views of the surrounding landscapes. Start planning with help from the Horse Butte Trail Map. Note that the Horse Butte trails are popular with mountain bikers, especially in winter, and the trail network’s lack of shade means it can be especially warm on summer afternoons. And while the trails are technically dog-friendly, you won’t find any water sources on site.
Dry Canyon Loop – Redmond
Who says you need to travel far from town for a trail run in Central Oregon? The Dry Canyon Trail sits just one mile from downtown Redmond but feels much further away with landscapes that include open meadows and ancient juniper trees. In all, the 7.8-mile, out-and-back trail features a mix of paved and dirt trails with limited elevation gain. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Smith Rock Running Trails – Terrebonne
Smith Rock State Park is one of the top outdoor destinations in Central Oregon—hosting miles of trails, boasting wide-open views of the region’s high-desert landscapes, and offering several thousand climbs for rock climbers of all skill levels. The park’s trails, meanwhile, deliver a wide range of experiences to active runners. Those seeking out a challenging climb can tackle the Misery Ridge Loop, while runners focusing on distance can follow the River Trail—which parallels the Crooked River with rolling hills and minimal elevation change. Get the scoop on Smith Rock trail running to plan your next trek.
Peterson Ridge Trail System – Sisters
The Peterson Ridge Trail System begins just south of downtown Sisters and is beloved by mountain bikers—but it’s also home to some of the best running trails in Central Oregon. More than 20 miles of trails sport a mix of single-track and wider dirt paths that can be mixed and matched for loops of varying sizes; some even afford panoramic views of nearby Cascade Range peaks. If you’re bringing Fido, you’ll find a few off-leash areas along the way. Learn more with a look at the Peterson Ridge trail map.
Suttle Lake Loop Near Sisters
Suttle Lake resides about 14 miles northwest of Sisters along Highway 20, and its position at the doorstep to the Cascades makes the reservoir a popular stop throughout the year. For their part, trail runners enjoy the 3.5-mile Suttle Lake Loop for its forested setting, occasional Cascade peak views, gradual (yet only occasional) elevation changes, relatively easy trailhead parking, and easy access to the Suttle Lodge—where an on-site bar and the summertime Boathouse sling creative cocktails and light bites. Friendly note: The loop is dog-friendly.
Trail Races & Running Events in Central Oregon
Trail running is so popular in Central Oregon, a number of trail races and events have taken root around the region.
The region’s oldest half-marathon is the Dirty Half Marathon, a community staple for more than 20 years. The run begins on pavement before giving way to forested footpaths with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain; highlights include bucolic forests and occasional views of nearby mountain peaks. Every August, meanwhile, the Haulin’ Aspen event offers 6.5-mile, half-marathon, and full marathon runs through the Deschutes National Forest. Dedicated runners can tackle the Three Sisters Skyline—a challenging half-marathon and 50K near the Three Sisters Wilderness. Run The Rock is another popular 50K and half-marathon, taking runners through Smith Rock State Park and across the Crooked River National Grasslands in the Central Oregon high desert.
Tips for Trail Running in Central Oregon
If you’re going for a trail run in Bend, Oregon, you’ll want to keep a few tips in mind before setting out:
Basic trail running etiquette: Always yield to horses on the trail, give other runners plenty of time to react when signaling that you’d like to pass, try not to go off-trail to pass (or let someone else pass), and check trail conditions before lacing up your sneakers—especially if it’s recently snowed or rained and the trails might be muddy.
Hydration: Central Oregon’s high elevation, frequent sunshine, and warm summertime temperatures can quickly cause dehydration—so you’ll want to hydrate before your run and bring plenty of water. Some busier trailheads (like Smith Rock State Park) may have drinking water, but it can’t hurt to check ahead and plan accordingly.
Dog-friendliness: We’re fans of your furry, four-legged family members—but you’ll want to research your preferred trail’s dog-friendliness before digging out the leash. You may also want to take into account how warm the temperature might be that day, whether water sources are available along the trail, and concerns around wildlife; rattlesnakes can be found all over Central Oregon, especially in the sun-kissed high desert, and are most active between late spring and early fall.
Since you can’t spend your entire vacation on a trail run, learn about all the fun things to do when you visit Bend, Oregon; our guide includes kid-friendly activities, the city’s top eateries and food carts, shopping, and other outdoor opportunities. For a look at fun activities across the wider region, consult our guide to the top things to do in Central Oregon.
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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The Best Hiking Around Sunriver, Oregon
Sunriver, Oregon is known for two things that might not come as a surprise: ample sunshine, and plenty of rivers and waterways. Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest at the base of the Cascade Range, Sunriver is a perfect destination for people who want to explore and see the best of the local landscape. The surrounding area is filled with tall pines and forested lands with meadows dotted throughout. The forest often gives way to a dry and volcanic landscape, contrasted by the refreshing rivers, lakes and ponds that can be enjoyed on a hot summer day. Want to get going? Here are five jaw-dropping hikes for you to try in and near Sunriver.
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Central Oregon Hiking Trails
Head east on Highway 20 (Greenwood Avenue) to the Pilot Butte State Park. The parking area and trailhead are just east of the butte. Walk on either the nature trail or the paved road. The road is also for vehicle traffic, weather permitting. It is a wonderful viewpoint for the entire Bend area. This hiking trail is one of the most popular in Central Oregon.