Deschutes River and Sun-Lava Trail Loop

You can typically find parking at the Lava Lands Visitor Center, which provides direct access to the Sun-Lava Trail. Another option is near the community of Sunriver, which connects to sections of the loop.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter can be beautiful, but some sections might be icy or snow-covered, especially the unpaved parts.

While the trail itself doesn't typically require a specific hiking permit, some access points, like the Lava Lands Visitor Center, may require a recreation pass or charge a day-use fee as part of the Deschutes National Forest. It's always a good idea to check current regulations before you go.

The loop offers diverse terrain. The Sun-Lava Trail sections are primarily wide, paved asphalt paths, with some packed gravel. These sections are relatively smooth. In contrast, the Deschutes River Trail portions are unpaved, featuring natural dirt surfaces that can be rocky and narrow in places, especially the Lava Island section with its volcanic rock formations.

You'll experience a blend of volcanic landscapes and riparian environments. Look for black lava fields, towering Ponderosa pines, and views of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and Lava Butte Cinder Cone. Along the Deschutes River, you'll see rapids, small falls, and unique island formations. A short spur near the railroad tracks leads to Benham Falls, a lovely spot with a boardwalk.

The paved sections of the Sun-Lava Trail are multi-use and generally accessible, making them suitable for families and some mobility devices. However, the unpaved sections of the Deschutes River Trail are more rugged, with dirt, rocks, and steep climbs, which may not be suitable for all users.

The full loop is about 7.5 km (4.6 miles) and generally takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. Your actual time may vary depending on your speed, stops for photos, and which specific sections you choose to explore.

Yes, the unpaved sections of the Deschutes River Trail, particularly around Lava Island, are more challenging with rocky terrain and steeper climbs. For a unique experience, the paved Sun-Lava Trail offers stunning views of ancient lava flows and volcanic features, while the river sections provide a serene riparian environment.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll hike along parts of the Deschutes River Trail, the Lava-Benham Trail, and the Sun-Lava Trail, among others. It also briefly uses National Forest Development Roads 605, 9790, 600, and 9702.

Keep an eye out for ground squirrels and lizards, especially along the paved sections. Near the Deschutes River, you might see various bird species. The diverse habitats of pine and juniper forests, lava fields, and riverbanks support a variety of small mammals and birds.