For nine months of the year, the Deschutes River through Bend’s Old Mill District is a tranquil, picturesque waterway dotted with an occasional paddle boarder or kayaker enjoying the peace and quiet while sometimes maneuvering around a lone duck or gaggle of geese.
But between roughly Memorial Day and Labor Day, the water between Riverbend and Drake parks takes on a new role with a plethora of slow-moving, multi-colored inner tubes, paddleboards, kayaks, and other floatation devices guided by 250,000+ people looking to cool off and partake in one of Bend’s signature summer activities.
Floating the river is on the summer calendar for just about every local and visitor alike. Trust us and learn to plan ahead, respect the wild river for what it is, put safety first and have fun as intended.