Luckily, there are some simple solutions that can help protect trees so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy them for years to come. First, always use padding between your anchor material and the tree. To be effective, the padding needs to cover everywhere that your line comes in contact with the tree, think of it as giving the tree a good, solid hug. Many slackline manufacturers make padding that you can purchase, but padding can be as simple as a blanket or piece of carpet. In addition, anchoring is only allowed to juniper or ponderosa trees that are at least 18 inches in diameter as these trees will be strong enough to support you and your friends. Never anchor to signs, fencing, light poles, playground equipment or any park structure. Not only is this a safety concern and against park rules, but it can cause significant damage.

People are welcome to slackline and use hammocks in Bend’s parks when following these guidelines:

• Tree trunks must be protected with padding, blankets or carpet placed between the tree and the anchor line. Ensure that the tree trunk is fully protected and no bark is exposed to the anchor line.
• Use only Juniper or Ponderosa trees and only those that are at least 18 inches in diameter. If you need help identifying appropriate trees, please call Park Services.
• Use only nylon webbing.
• Lines may be no higher than 30 inches above the ground and no longer than 80 ft.
• Trees may not be damaged in any way including no cutting of branches, use of screws or nails, etc.
• Slacklines and hammocks may not be left unattended.
• For visibility, mark the slackline with bright ribbons and use a spotter at all times to ensure public and slackline participant safety.
• Slacklines may be erected for up to 2 hours at a time.
• Ensure slacklines do not obstruct vehicle or foot traffic in the park and do not block trails, walk-ways, roads or parking areas.
• There may be up to three (3) slacklines set up together in one area of a park; additional slacklines areas may be set up at least 100 yards away.