The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bend

There are over 25 dog-friendly hiking routes around Bend, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. Most of these trails are rated as easy, making them accessible for many dogs and hikers.

The dog-friendly trails around Bend are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 33 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic beauty, well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes with their dogs.

Yes, a significant number of the dog-friendly trails around Bend are rated as easy. For example, the Deschutes River – Rimrock Trailhead loop from LOGE Bend is an easy 6.6 km (4.1 mi) route along the river, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another great option is the Deschutes River – Rimrock Trailhead loop from Cinder Cone Natural Area, which is just over 6 km (3.7 mi) and also rated easy.

While most trails are easy, there are several moderate dog-friendly options for those seeking a bit more challenge. The Deschutes River – Rimrock Trailhead loop from Deschutes Brewery is a moderate 16.7 km (10.4 mi) hike with more elevation gain, offering a longer adventure. Another moderate choice is the Deschutes River – Cascade Lake Welcome Station loop from Cinder Cone Natural Area, spanning 12.2 km (7.6 mi).

Absolutely! The Bend area is known for its beautiful waterways. The Deschutes River Trail, which features prominently in many dog-friendly routes, offers continuous scenic river views. While not directly on the listed routes, the region boasts stunning waterfalls like Dillon Falls and Upper Falls — Deschutes River, which are part of the broader natural monuments around Bend and can be accessed via nearby trails.

Bend's unique location offers a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect trails winding through lush forests, along the picturesque Deschutes River, and into high desert plains with volcanic rock formations. Many routes also provide panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, including peaks like Broken Top and the Three Sisters.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes around Bend are convenient loop trails. For instance, the Rimrock Trailhead – Deschutes River loop from Cinder Cone Natural Area is a moderate 7.8 km (4.8 mi) loop, perfect for exploring without retracing your steps.

While hiking with your dog, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. The View of Bend from Pilot Butte offers panoramic city and mountain views. You might also spot the Active Fire Lookout Lava Butte, a prominent volcanic feature. For impressive mountain vistas, look for highlights like the View of the Three Sisters from Sizemore Road.

Bend offers great hiking opportunities year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, but be mindful of the heat, especially in the high desert areas, and ensure you bring plenty of water for both you and your dog. Winter can offer unique snowy adventures, but some higher elevation trails may be inaccessible.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most trails in Bend, but it's crucial to always keep them on a leash unless otherwise specified in designated off-leash areas. Always pack out waste, and be respectful of wildlife and other trail users. Some wilderness areas or specific parks might have stricter regulations, so it's always good to check local signage.

To find less crowded trails, consider hiking during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) or on weekdays. Exploring some of the longer, moderate routes, like the Deschutes River – Rimrock Trailhead loop from Deschutes Brewery, can also lead to a more solitary experience compared to shorter, more popular paths.