Outdoor Accessibility in Bend: A Guide for Enjoying Summer

Bend, Oregon, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend offers everything from scenic mountain views to lush forests and sparkling rivers. But what makes Bend truly special is its commitment to making the outdoors accessible to everyone, including residents and visitors with disabilities. This blog highlights some of the best wheelchair-accessible trails, parks, and scenic spots in the area, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes Bend has to offer.

Accessible Parks in Bend

Accessible parks are designed to be inclusive, featuring amenities like inclusive playgrounds, paved paths, and accessible restrooms. These parks provide a welcoming environment for relaxation and recreation, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the outdoors.

‍Park 1: Pine Nursery Park

• Location: Northeast Bend, OR
• Facilities: Pine Nursery Park offers an inclusive playground, paved walking paths, and accessible picnic areas. The park's wide, flat trails are perfect for wheelchair users, and the playground is designed with inclusive equipment for children of all abilities. There are also accessible restrooms and ample parking available.

Park 2: Harmon Park

• Location: Westside of Bend, OR
• Facilities: Harmon Park is another excellent choice for accessibility. It features a fully accessible playground, paved paths along the river, and accessible sports facilities, including tennis courts and a basketball court. The park's location along the Deschutes River provides beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Park 3: Farewell Bend Park

• Location: Southwest Bend, OR
• Facilities: Farewell Bend Park boasts an inclusive playground, accessible fishing platforms, and paved paths that wind through the park and along the river. The park also offers accessible restrooms and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Recommended Accessible Trails in Bend

Trail 1: Deschutes River Trail (Old Mill District)

• Location: Old Mill District, Bend, OR
• Length: 3 miles round trip
• Accessibility Features: The Deschutes River Trail in the Old Mill District is a beautifully paved path that runs alongside the picturesque Deschutes River. It offers gentle slopes, smooth surfaces, and multiple rest areas with benches, making it ideal for wheelchair users. The trail is well-maintained and provides access to shopping, dining, and scenic views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Trail 2: Drake Park Loop

• Location: Drake Park, Bend, OR
• Length: 1.5 miles round trip
• Accessibility Features: Drake Park Loop is a charming trail that winds through one of Bend's most iconic parks. The path is paved and relatively flat, with plenty of shaded areas and scenic spots to rest. It circles Mirror Pond, offering stunning views of the water, trees, and local wildlife. Accessible parking and restrooms are available, making this trail a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Trail 3: Shevlin Park Loop

• Location: Shevlin Park, Bend, OR
• Length: 2.5 miles round trip
• Accessibility Features: Shevlin Park Loop provides a serene nature experience with its paved, wide trail that meanders through the forest. The trail is designed to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, featuring gentle grades and numerous benches along the way. The park also includes accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a great destination for a day out in nature.

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Lava Lands Visitor Center. Photo credit: visitcentraloregon.com

Scenic Spots

Scenic Spots Overview

Experiencing Bend's natural beauty is essential, and there are numerous accessible viewpoints and scenic drives that allow everyone to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Central Oregon.

Accessible Scenic Spots

Scenic Spot 1: Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint

• Accessibility Features: Pilot Butte offers a unique opportunity to drive to the top of an extinct volcano for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The paved road to the summit and accessible viewing platforms make it easy for everyone to enjoy this spectacular vantage point.

Scenic Spot 2: Lava Lands Visitor Center

• Accessibility Features: The Lava Lands Visitor Center provides accessible trails and exhibits that explore Central Oregon's volcanic landscape. The paved Trail of the Whispering Pines and the accessible Lava Butte Summit Trail offer stunning views of the lava fields and Cascade Mountains.

Scenic Spot 3: Tumalo Falls Viewpoint

• Accessibility Features: Tumalo Falls is one of Bend's most iconic waterfalls. The viewpoint is accessible via a short, paved path from the parking area, allowing everyone to enjoy the majestic sight of the 97-foot waterfall. Accessible restrooms and parking are available at the trailhead.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Preparing for Your Visit

Planning an accessible outdoor excursion in Bend involves a few key considerations:

• Research Accessible Trails and Parks: Use resources like local tourism websites or accessibility guides to identify suitable locations.
• Check Accessibility Features: Verify the availability of accessible parking, restrooms, and trail conditions before heading out.
• Pack Essentials: Bring necessary items like water, snacks, sun protection, and any mobility aids or medical supplies you might need.

Safety and Comfort

Staying safe and comfortable during your outdoor adventures is crucial:

• Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially during hot summer days.
• Protect Against the Sun: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know where you're going and when you plan to return.

Exploring Bend's accessible outdoor offerings is a rewarding experience that everyone should enjoy. From scenic trails and inclusive parks to breathtaking viewpoints, there's something for everyone in Central Oregon. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature, and don't forget to share your own experiences and tips for accessible outdoor adventures in Bend.We'd love to hear about your favorite accessible outdoor spots in Bend and surrounding areas! Share your experiences and ask any questions about accessibility features in the comments below. For further inquiries about visiting Bend's accessible outdoor destinations, feel free to reach out. Happy exploring!