Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle
A 4-mile out-and-back on the clear Deschutes River through Bend with Cascade mountain views, Mirror Pond, and Class I-II riffles.
At a Glance
Distance
4 miles
Estimated Time
1.5-2.5 hours
Difficulty
Intermediate
Route Type
Out & Back
Water Body
Deschutes River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
You'll paddle the Deschutes River through the heart of Bend, Oregon, with the Cascade peaks as your backdrop. The route follows the river north from the Old Mill District through Drake Park, where Mirror Pond creates a calm flatwater section perfect for SUP or a relaxed paddle.
The water is cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and springs from the Cascades. Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters volcanoes are visible from the water on clear days. Below Mirror Pond, the river picks up speed through fun Class I-II riffles.
Bend has one of the highest per-capita paddling rates in the US, and you'll understand why once you're on the water. Arrive early on summer weekends to grab parking at Riverbend Park.
Highlights
- •Clear Cascade mountain water
- •Mirror Pond flatwater section
- •Views of Mt. Bachelor and Three Sisters
- •No shuttle needed — out and back
Safety & Hazards
Stay upstream of the Colorado Ave dam and whitewater park. Do not paddle past it. Deschutes water is cold (50-60°F) even in summer. Crowded on summer weekends. Arrive early.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle?
- Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle is rated intermediate difficulty. Stay upstream of the Colorado Ave dam and whitewater park. Do not paddle past it. Deschutes water is cold (50-60°F) even in summer. Crowded on summer weekends. Arrive early.
- How long does Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle take?
- Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle covers 4 miles and typically takes 1.5-2.5 hours.
- When is the best time to paddle Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle?
- The best seasons for Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle are summer and fall. Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle is on Deschutes River.
- What activities are available on Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle?
- Deschutes River: Old Mill District Paddle supports Kayaking, SUP, Canoeing. Highlights: Clear Cascade mountain water, Mirror Pond flatwater section, Views of Mt. Bachelor and Three Sisters, No shuttle needed — out and back.
Parking
Free parking at Riverbend Park off Columbia Street. Additional parking at Farewell Bend Park and Drake Park. Downtown lots near Drake Park may have 2-hour time limits.
Turnaround Point
Colorado Avenue Dam (Mirror Pond)Must turn back
The dam at the north end of Mirror Pond blocks upstream passage. Turn back here and retrace the scenic section through Drake Park and the Old Mill District.
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