While technically outside the city limits, heading to the Rimrock Trail network off Cascade Lakes Highway feels like you don’t even leave Bend.
Of course, once you venture into its trail system into its diverse terrain, you feel far away from the city.
The Rimrock Trail Near Bend, Oregon
Classic Central Oregon Landscape Just Outside Town
The Rimrock Trail Network near Bend offers a scenic escape for mountain bikers, hikers, or anyone who wants to talk their dog for a walk.
Whether you’re after a challenging ride or a leisurely hike, this trail delivers panoramic canyon views, diverse terrain, and a rejuvenating experience in Central Oregon’s high desert landscape.
It’s also a great way to access the Deschutes River. There are trails that traverse down to the river, and gentle paths that follow in both directions.
The Rimrock Trail Basics
One of the best features of this trail network is how easily it is to access from Bend. The Rimrock Trailhead is located just off Cascades Lake Highway southwest of town.
A paved path leads from the neighborhoods along Century Drive past Tetherow until you see signs directing you left towards the trailhead area.
More details on the Rimrock Trail Network:
- Trailhead Location: 18768 State Hwy 372, Bend, OR 97702
- Parking: Gravel Parking Lot (Free)
- Permit Required: None
- Trail Network: Many Possible Loops, from 1.1 to 2.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, ~150 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Dog Friendly: Yes, Off-Leash! Read Below
Accessing and Parking at Rim Rock
You can ride your bike directly to the trailhead from many parts of Bend. But if you drive, there’s ample parking at the trailhead.
There are also restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead area. Plus maps to help you plan your route.
Biking the Rim Rock Trail System
Rimrock is a multi-use area, its great for hiking, letting your dog loose, or just going for a walk down to the river. But usually Nicole and I are there to go biking.
We’ve done many different routes, mostly loops that are a few miles and are great for after work or when you want something fun without traveling far from town.
Our ‘normal’ route is to take the Gooddog Trail from the trailhead all the way to the Deschutes River. You can then return via the Sirius Trail, creating about a 3-mile loop.
The trails are typical Bend single-track gravel and dirt. There will be some rock sections and an occasional overlook.
But also sweeping descents into small canyons, and short navigations between and around boulders.
Hiking the Rim Rock Trail Network
If you refer to the Rimrock Trail Map, you’ll see that lots of other shorter possible loops exist, using the Rimrock Rover Trail, which make for short, easy, and enjoyable hikes.
Hiking at Rimrock is yet another reason we love Bend. There are a plethora of long, epic hikes around Bend.
But here, you can be outdoors in the wilderness by traveling just 5 minutes outside town.
What Makes Rim Rock Great for Dogs
Pretty much anytime you visit the Rimrock area near Bend, you’ll find lots of locals with their dogs.
That’s because Rimrock is a popular off-leash area for dogs, and a place for four-legged friends to run free, including down along the Deschutes River.
Wrap Up and More Information and Resources
Rimrock Trail near Bend delivers a high-desert experience complete with canyon views, sweeping ascents, mild challenges, and Deschutes River access—all minutes from town.
It’s a perfect after-work or short outdoor getaway for hiking, biking, or dog walking.
Want more info on biking, hiking, and exploring the Rimrock Area? Check these resources:
If you are looking for more adventures in Bend, check our Best Hikes Around Bend and Best Things to Do in Bend articles!
