A Dog-Friendly Guide to Bend, Oregon
In Bend, adventure is always better with your best friend along for the ride - and we're not just talking about the two-legged kind. With miles of trails, sprawling parks, river access and plenty of places where pups are welcome, Bend makes it easy to plan a Central Oregon getaway without leaving your dog at home. At The Newberry Hotel, we're happy to welcome four-legged travelers, too. Our downtown Bend location puts you and your pup close to parks, trails, outdoor adventues and plenty of opportunities to explore the city together.
Hit the Trails Together
For many visitors, a trip to Bend starts outdoors, and there's no reason your dog has to miss the adventure.The city and surrounding entral Oregon landscape offer seemingly endless opportunites to get outside, from leisurely riverside walks to longer hikes through the high desert and forests.
Right in town, the Deschutes River Trail offers a beautiful way to experience one of Bend's definint natural features. Pack some water, leash up your pup and spend the morning exploring before heading back downtown for the rest of your day.
Keep in mind that leash requirements vary depending on where you explore, and some natural areas do not allow dogs at all. It's always a good idea to check the rules and current trail conditions before setting out.
Let Them Run: Bend's Off-Leash Dog Parks
Sometimes a walk simply isn't enough. Fortunately, Bend has nine designated off-leash areas where dogs can stretch their legs, play, and make new Bend Friends. One standout is the Bob Wenger Memorial Off-Leash Area at Pine Nursery Park, with nearly 19 fenced acres and a separate small-dog area. Riverbend Park is another favorite, offering a fenced off-leash area with river access - especially appealing when temperatures rise. For smaller travelers, designated small-dog areas can also be found at Alpenglow, Ponderosa, Pine Nursery, and Riverbend parks. Whichever you choose, Bend asks dogs to remain leashed in public areas outside designated off-leash zones, so keep that leash handy between adventures.
Take a Walk Along the Deschutes
Not every outing needs to be an expedition. One of the pleasures of visiting Bend with a dog is simply heading outside for a walk. Follow the Deschutes, wander through one of the city's parks or spend an unhurried morning exploring Bend on foot. With pine trees overhead, mountain air and the river never too far away, even the daily dog walk can feel like part of the vacation. Just note one important exception when planning your route: dogs are not permitted in Riley Ranch Nature Reserve, including the North Reach of the Deschutes River Trail.
Explore Downtown Bend
Staying downdown means you don't need to get in the car every time your pup needs an outing. Step outside The Newberry and make a day of exploring Bend together. Downtown's walkable streets make it easy to browse, stop for coffee, find a patio or simply take in the easygoing energy of the city. bend's love of the outdoors spills naturally into its culture, and dogs are very much part of the local scene.
Because individual businesses and patios set their own pet policies, check before settling in - and don't be surprised if your dog gets just as warm a welcome as you do.
Make Time for the River
When summer arrives in Central Oregon, the Deschutes becomes Bend's gathering place. Riverbend Park is an especially useful stop for travelers with dogs thanks to its designated off-leash area and river access.
If your pup loves the water, build some splash time into your itinerary before finding a shady spot to relax. As always, pay attention to posted rules and current river conditions, and keep your dog under control around other people, pets and wildlife.
Be a Good Bend Dog
Bend's outdoor spaces are a big part of what makes the destination so special, and a little consideration helps keep them enjoyable for everyone. Keep your dog leashed unless you're in a designated off-leash area, pick up and properly dispose of pet waste, stay on established trails and respect wildlife. When venturing farther afield, check that dogs are permitted at your destination before you go and follow any site-secific regulations.
A leash, waste bags, portable water bowl and plenty of water are worthy additions to your Bend adventure kit - along with a towel for the inevitable wet or dusty paws.
Stay in the Heart of It All at The Newberry
After a day of trail walks, river splashes and downtown exploring, there's nothing better than having a comfortable place for both of you to recharge. At The Newberry Hotel, pets are part of the adventure. Our downtown Bend location makes it easy to experience the best of the city while keeping your four-legged companion close - from morning walks and afternoons outdoors to an evening spent exploring downtown.
So pack the leash, bring the treats and don't forget your pup. Bend is calling and this is one getaway your best friend doesn't have to miss.
