Feed your body & mind as local experts share their knowledge about topics important to you. Bring your own brown bag lunch; dessert and coffee are on us. This is a free event. Presented in partnership with PacificSource Health Plans. April 20: Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones (first session) With Rita Weick of VegNet Bend
Feed your body & mind as local experts share their knowledge about topics important to you. Bring your own brown bag lunch; dessert and coffee are on us. This is a free event. Presented in partnership with PacificSource Health Plans. April 30: Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones (second session) With Rita Weick of VegNet Bend
This 37-acre park is in one of Bend’s rapidly growing areas and will serve as a hub for recreation activities, community gatherings, opportunities to enjoy nature and connections to trails.
Alpenglow Park includes an open lawn area, bouldering, playground, seasonal sprayground, event pavilion, off-leash area for dogs, future demonstration garden, and several accessible trails and multi-use pathways.
With less than 8% of the park space being lawn area, Alpenglow Park is intentionally abundant with natural areas. The views of the Cascades showcase the high desert landscape and incorporate mature stands of ponderosa pine and juniper trees.
Alpenglow also has accessible pathways and trail connections, bringing new recreation and transportation possibilities for a wide variety of users. There are 2.2 miles of ADA-accessible paved paths, including a 0.9-mile perimeter loop path. There are 1.3 miles of soft surface natural trail too.
The bouldering area is a first for a Bend park. Three structures include natural routes, set routes with hand-holds and accessible routes with rope assist climbing for adaptive climbers and climbers with disabilities.
The park also includes two shade structures, parking and 12 bike racks. Portable restrooms are available during colder months; permanent restrooms are available during warmer months.
5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
61049 Southeast 15th Street, Bend, OR, USA
(Directions)
Alpenglow Park – Picnic Shelter (by the restrooms)
Perfect for your next gathering, the picnic shelter is located near the playground and splash ground, and is just a short walk to the bouldering features. More info:
6 rectangle picnic tables
Inflatable not permitted
Adjacent to paved trails, playground and splash pad
Restrooms and drinking fountain
Lighted shelter
Electrical outlet at shelter
Alpenglow Park – Covered Stage
Adjacent to an amphitheater-style grass lawn, this 39-foot by 17 -foot covered stage doubles as a covered picnic area when it’s not being used for events. More info:
Rectangle movable picnic tables
Inflatable not permitted
Adjacent to paved trails, playground and splash pad
To report a maintenance issue or lost and found: (541) 388-5435
For feedback on the parks, trails or facilities, email Park Services.
The bouldering area is another first for a Bend park. Three structures include natural routes, set routes with hand-holds and accessible routes with rope assist climbing for adaptive climbers and climbers with disabilities.
Climb at your own risk. Climbing involved inherent and other risks and cannot be made completely safe. Observing these practices does not guarantee you will be free from harm.
Rules of Use
Do not exceed established height limits. Understand your route before you begin climbing. Seek qualified instruction. If you are unfamiliar with any aspect of bouldering, or landing a controlled fall, seek qualified instruction or appropriate supervision. Watch out above and below. Don’t interfere with other climbers on the wall and check your descent route or fall zone when exiting. Clear the fall zone. Don’t leave shoes, packs or other items where falling climbers might land on them. Boulder over padded surface. We recommend use of supplemental pads. Position them properly and avoid landing on the edges. Do not move pads without informing other climbers on the wall. Every fall is a ground fall. Be aware that you may lose your grip or footing, or that holds may break or spin, resulting in a fall. Falls from any height can cause serious injury or death. Report unsafe conditions or behavior. Contact BPRD at (541) 388-5435 with questions or to report damage.
Routes
The bouldering area includes multiple types of climbing routes.
Natural Routes
The climbing surface is natural rock-like that has been enhanced with climbing features such as climbable cracks, gaps, ledges and overhangs. These features add the ability for climbing routes without hand-holds.
Set Routes
Part of the climbing surface is designed to use hand-holds. Beginning of routes are identified by the use of color-coded medallions or tags.
The seasonal sprayground is the first of its kind for the park district and an often-requested park amenity.
The sprayground is closed for the season.
Water play provides a wide range of users the space to develop social, emotional, cognitive and physical skills.
In addition to providing a space for users of all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds, the new sprayground will provide a reprieve from hot weather, free of charge.
The sprayground is controlled by a timer and sensors, using less than 4 gallons of water per minute cycle.
Reclaimed water from the sprayground will enter landscape swales in the parking lot and eventually return a portion of water to the natural water table.
Seven Steps of the Sprayground System
Potable Water Supply
Water supplied to this sprayground comes from a domestic service and is treated to levels that meet state and federal standards for consumption.
Sprayground Management System
The operation and management of the sprayground is controlled by BPRD staff using a smart controller and wall mounted manifold. This technology allows the district to have full control over hours of operation, length of time sprays remain active and the amount of water used each day.
Activation Bollard
Spray features are activated by someone pressing the button on the activator post. This sends a signal to the controller and manifold, allowing the spray sequence to begin.
Spray Features
Fourteen ground and boulder sprays evoke thoughtful and imaginative play for kids and adults of all abilities. The sensory experience provides a new and exciting opportunity for community members to play, engage and grow.
Water Collection
After water has been circulated through the system, it is then collected using specialized and strategically placed drains and diverted to begin the reclamation process.
Irrigation
Reclaimed water from the sprayground enters the landscape swales located in the park’s main parking lot, irrigating the plant material in those specific landscape beds. In addition to conserving potable water, water reuse can save money, as the reclaimed water lowers the overall demand of new water being pulled into the site.
Perhaps most importantly, reclaimed water use allows BPRD to provide this amenity to the public without additional demand on the potable water system.
Percolation
Once the reclaimed water has passed through the landscape beds, it naturally filters through the earth, making its way to replenish the natural water table.
The off-leash dog areas at Alpenglow Community Park feature agility course obstacles, which is a first for Bend Park and Recreation District.
Course features can be found both in the large and small-dog areas and include a see saw, A-frame, tunnel, weave poles and more.
Dogs are a part of many Bendites’ lives and involved with their owners in many recreational adventures. In Bend, there’s so much to do with your four-legged friend including:
Children under the age of 12 are not allowed in Bend off-leash areas unsupervised. Here is some guidance for those with children in an off-leash area:
Not all dogs are child-friendly. Do not allow your child to approach or pet a strange dog without the owner’s presence and approval.
A running, squealing or screaming child may become a target for many dogs, because the child resembles an injured animal or prey.
Do not let your child have toys or food in an off-leash area.
Children are more susceptible to contracting intestinal worms and other infections from touching grass where feces or urine are present. Be sure your children (and you) always wear shoes in an off-leash park area and wash hands after touching dog play toys.
Small Dogs in Off-Leash Areas
When it comes to off-leash areas, a designated space for small dogs to have a play and activity level that's in their proportion rather than with big dogs can be a great option for small dog owners.
Currently, there are fenced small dog areas at Alpenglow, Riverbend, Pine Nursery and Ponderosa Parks. The criteria for small dogs is less than 15 inches at the shoulder and under 25 pounds.
Alpenglow Park - 61049 NE 15th St. Agility course available
Riverbend Park - 799 SW Columbia St. River access available
This garden is a collaboration by Bend Park & Recreation District, Oregon State University Extension Service and Central Oregon Master Gardener Association.
Our garden highlights four distinct types of gardening to appeal to a wide variety of gardeners in Central Oregon. Each type of garden design demonstrates plants best suited to the high desert including those that may be pollinator friendly, fire-resistant, native or water-wise.
The garden combines a selection of adaptable plants and sustainable landscape practices, resulting in an attractive and thriving garden design. Our beds feature four designs including low maintenance, small urban, pollinator and fire-resistant.
As you stroll through our garden, note the variety of groundcovers, perennials, trees and shrubs that have been planted. Use the plant labels to identify plants that you like, paying special attention to plant groupings.
Look for signs that illustrate key characteristics of each unique garden design and apply these principles to your own home landscape.
Be inspired by the serenity and beauty of the garden!
We love our furry friends, but please no pets in the garden.
We’re happy to share that Alpenglow Park’s art piece, Zenith, was installed at the park in August 2022. On behalf of Art in Public Places, BPRD and the BPRD Foundation, thank you again to the more than 1,400 people who submitted input on the art sculpture for Alpenglow Park.
The sculpture is made of cor-ten steel and is 18-20 feet tall.
“The intention for the design was to create a work that has a symbiotic relationship with the natural environment with it’s simple reaching shapes and natural patina finish,” said artist Troy Pillow.
Alpenglow Park – Picnic Shelter (by the restrooms)
Perfect for your next gathering, the picnic shelter is located near the playground and splash ground, and is just a short walk to the bouldering features. More info:
6 rectangle picnic tables
Inflatable not permitted
Adjacent to paved trails, playground and splash pad
Restrooms and drinking fountain
Lighted shelter
Electrical outlet at shelter
Alpenglow Park – Covered Stage
Adjacent to an amphitheater-style grass lawn, this 39-foot by 17 -foot covered stage doubles as a covered picnic area when it’s not being used for events. More info:
Rectangle movable picnic tables
Inflatable not permitted
Adjacent to paved trails, playground and splash pad
The bouldering area is another first for a Bend park. Three structures include natural routes, set routes with hand-holds and accessible routes with rope assist climbing for adaptive climbers and climbers with disabilities.
Climb at your own risk. Climbing involved inherent and other risks and cannot be made completely safe. Observing these practices does not guarantee you will be free from harm.
Rules of Use
Do not exceed established height limits. Understand your route before you begin climbing. Seek qualified instruction. If you are unfamiliar with any aspect of bouldering, or landing a controlled fall, seek qualified instruction or appropriate supervision. Watch out above and below. Don’t interfere with other climbers on the wall and check your descent route or fall zone when exiting. Clear the fall zone. Don’t leave shoes, packs or other items where falling climbers might land on them. Boulder over padded surface. We recommend use of supplemental pads. Position them properly and avoid landing on the edges. Do not move pads without informing other climbers on the wall. Every fall is a ground fall. Be aware that you may lose your grip or footing, or that holds may break or spin, resulting in a fall. Falls from any height can cause serious injury or death. Report unsafe conditions or behavior. Contact BPRD at (541) 388-5435 with questions or to report damage.
Routes
The bouldering area includes multiple types of climbing routes.
Natural Routes
The climbing surface is natural rock-like that has been enhanced with climbing features such as climbable cracks, gaps, ledges and overhangs. These features add the ability for climbing routes without hand-holds.
Set Routes
Part of the climbing surface is designed to use hand-holds. Beginning of routes are identified by the use of color-coded medallions or tags.
Sprayground
The seasonal sprayground is the first of its kind for the park district and an often-requested park amenity.
The sprayground is closed for the season.
Water play provides a wide range of users the space to develop social, emotional, cognitive and physical skills.
In addition to providing a space for users of all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds, the new sprayground will provide a reprieve from hot weather, free of charge.
The sprayground is controlled by a timer and sensors, using less than 4 gallons of water per minute cycle.
Reclaimed water from the sprayground will enter landscape swales in the parking lot and eventually return a portion of water to the natural water table.
Seven Steps of the Sprayground System
Potable Water Supply
Water supplied to this sprayground comes from a domestic service and is treated to levels that meet state and federal standards for consumption.
Sprayground Management System
The operation and management of the sprayground is controlled by BPRD staff using a smart controller and wall mounted manifold. This technology allows the district to have full control over hours of operation, length of time sprays remain active and the amount of water used each day.
Activation Bollard
Spray features are activated by someone pressing the button on the activator post. This sends a signal to the controller and manifold, allowing the spray sequence to begin.
Spray Features
Fourteen ground and boulder sprays evoke thoughtful and imaginative play for kids and adults of all abilities. The sensory experience provides a new and exciting opportunity for community members to play, engage and grow.
Water Collection
After water has been circulated through the system, it is then collected using specialized and strategically placed drains and diverted to begin the reclamation process.
Irrigation
Reclaimed water from the sprayground enters the landscape swales located in the park’s main parking lot, irrigating the plant material in those specific landscape beds. In addition to conserving potable water, water reuse can save money, as the reclaimed water lowers the overall demand of new water being pulled into the site.
Perhaps most importantly, reclaimed water use allows BPRD to provide this amenity to the public without additional demand on the potable water system.
Percolation
Once the reclaimed water has passed through the landscape beds, it naturally filters through the earth, making its way to replenish the natural water table.
Dog Off-Leash Area
The off-leash dog areas at Alpenglow Community Park feature agility course obstacles, which is a first for Bend Park and Recreation District.
Course features can be found both in the large and small-dog areas and include a see saw, A-frame, tunnel, weave poles and more.
Dogs are a part of many Bendites’ lives and involved with their owners in many recreational adventures. In Bend, there’s so much to do with your four-legged friend including:
Children under the age of 12 are not allowed in Bend off-leash areas unsupervised. Here is some guidance for those with children in an off-leash area:
Not all dogs are child-friendly. Do not allow your child to approach or pet a strange dog without the owner’s presence and approval.
A running, squealing or screaming child may become a target for many dogs, because the child resembles an injured animal or prey.
Do not let your child have toys or food in an off-leash area.
Children are more susceptible to contracting intestinal worms and other infections from touching grass where feces or urine are present. Be sure your children (and you) always wear shoes in an off-leash park area and wash hands after touching dog play toys.
Small Dogs in Off-Leash Areas
When it comes to off-leash areas, a designated space for small dogs to have a play and activity level that's in their proportion rather than with big dogs can be a great option for small dog owners.
Currently, there are fenced small dog areas at Alpenglow, Riverbend, Pine Nursery and Ponderosa Parks. The criteria for small dogs is less than 15 inches at the shoulder and under 25 pounds.
Alpenglow Park - 61049 NE 15th St. Agility course available
Riverbend Park - 799 SW Columbia St. River access available
This garden is a collaboration by Bend Park & Recreation District, Oregon State University Extension Service and Central Oregon Master Gardener Association.
Our garden highlights four distinct types of gardening to appeal to a wide variety of gardeners in Central Oregon. Each type of garden design demonstrates plants best suited to the high desert including those that may be pollinator friendly, fire-resistant, native or water-wise.
The garden combines a selection of adaptable plants and sustainable landscape practices, resulting in an attractive and thriving garden design. Our beds feature four designs including low maintenance, small urban, pollinator and fire-resistant.
As you stroll through our garden, note the variety of groundcovers, perennials, trees and shrubs that have been planted. Use the plant labels to identify plants that you like, paying special attention to plant groupings.
Look for signs that illustrate key characteristics of each unique garden design and apply these principles to your own home landscape.
Be inspired by the serenity and beauty of the garden!
We love our furry friends, but please no pets in the garden.
We’re happy to share that Alpenglow Park’s art piece, Zenith, was installed at the park in August 2022. On behalf of Art in Public Places, BPRD and the BPRD Foundation, thank you again to the more than 1,400 people who submitted input on the art sculpture for Alpenglow Park.
The sculpture is made of cor-ten steel and is 18-20 feet tall.
“The intention for the design was to create a work that has a symbiotic relationship with the natural environment with it’s simple reaching shapes and natural patina finish,” said artist Troy Pillow.
