This trail follows the western side of the Deschutes River for the first 12.5 miles then crosses to the Sun River side. Heading south on this trail is traveling upstream on the river thus some elevation is gained, about 300 ft going this direction. This is a very well planned and built trail that runs through several park areas along the river that can be very busy with other users at times. Most all of these areas are accessed off of Road 41 and offer numerous starting points. Along the section between the Big Eddy Rec site and Dillon Falls (about 2.5 miles) there are a couple different routes all marked by different signage, there are also maps at all the kiosks along the way. Although the route nearest the river is always open to MTB through here it is encouraged to use the alternate MTB route during high use times- summer weekends, holidays, etc.
The trail itself is a great singletrack that climbs and descends ridges as it follows the river. There is a little technical area within the first couple miles but after that it is a fantastic novice/intermediate ride through the woods. Scenery along the way is incredible, with many waterfalls, lava rock formations and wildlife to see. As you near Benham Falls there are a couple trails heading west away from the river, these climb up to Benham Butte and beyond. Following the river trail past Benham Falls brings you to a footbridge across the river and another 2.5 miles of great trail to Sun River. A left turn after the footbridge will lead along the Blackrock trail through the lava fields 4 miles to the Lava Lands Visitor Center on Highway 97.
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