Run to the top of an extinct volcano! The Larkspur Trail is the gem of Eastern Bend, and while it curls out into some urban streets, the best section is undoubtedly Pilot Butte Park, where the trail plateaus with a stunning view of Bend’s high desert. From Larkspur’s northern terminus, just off NE Neff road, it’s about 1.5 miles to the summit on a steep but gradual wide dirt path. When you’ve enjoyed the view to your heart’s content, head down to the other end of Larkspur on the south end of the park. Return via the base of the mountain for a roughly 5 mile tour.
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Essentials
- 4.4 miles RT
- 447 feet
- Pilot Butte Park
- NE Neff ARd.
Current Weather & Forecast
Bend, US
6:14 pm,
Jun 18, 2026
overcast clouds
25°C
L: 24°
H: 26°
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Other Routes in Bend, OR
The highlight of running in central Bend. Paved paths run along the river from Drake Park downtown, south to Farewell Bend Park. Beautiful river views, several parks, numerous loop options. Adjacent historic neighborhoods are nice add-ons.
River Run Reach, including First Street Rapids Park is a popular spot for a roughly 4 mile out and back over groomed gravel.
You won’t find many McMansions around Bend, but if you’d like to explore some of the nicer residential areas of the city on your run, there’s no better choice than Northwest Crossing (affectionately shortened to NWX) which was built on a Ponderosa Tree Farm.
At over 600 acres, Shevlin Park is Bend’s largest park — and it has a great 6 mile loop curling around the rim of Tumalo Creek canyon. The park is 3 miles from Bend. Tumalo Creek rambles through the park with several foot bridges.
The local runners at FootZone recommend heading out on Phil’s Trail, which is the common name for a network of several trails that span a total of about 40 miles between Skyliners Road and Route 372. Starts about 4 miles west of Bend.
When it comes to running in Bend, the team at Footzone is the most trusted source for great route advice. In fact, they’ve mapped out a series of road runs between 3 and 10 miles in length to help you choose the best streets to sprint on.
A worth-it destination run! Easy trail run on a canyon valley floor along a river with stunning views of towering rock spires. Located 1/2 hour north of Bend. More advanced trail running options as well. Also fun to watch the rock climbers!
Run a paved path across a basalt lava flow! This is among the running highlights at the Lava Lands, only 15 minutes from Bend. Other great options include running the Lava Butte hill, a 5.3-mile paved multi-use path, and several trail running options.
The Green Lakes/Soda Creek Loop is for those who are serious about trail running — 12 miles of it over smooth dirt singletrack.
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