Did you know Bend is a great place for outdoor recreation with your pup? Of course you did! But did you also know some of the trails, paths, parks, and walkways seasonally change from leashed to off leash? This is off leash season my friends, and it’s awesome.
Throughout summer (aka tourist season) the trails are jam packed. With people and their dogs from all over.
Most areas require that you keep your dogs on leash during your outdoor summer adventures.
But, during the winter months (aka the local’s season) the trails are a bit more empty. This allows for more room to stretch out for you and your pup. Enter off leash season!
BUT before you toss that leash in the trash and run wild with your best friend – let’s talk about exactly what “off leash” means in Central Oregon. Off leash season comes with greater responsibilities.
Keep these things in mind when exploring with your dog this season:
Every area has different leash laws
Prior to heading out into the vast High Desert or dense woods, know that every area has different leash laws.
Some trails are controlled by the National Forest Service, some are under the jurisdiction of local governments, while others are public lands and managed by federal government agencies.
Some trails require leashes in certain areas, but not in others. Be sure to check online for specific trail rules, and double check any signage once you arrive.
Recall is key
The best way to keep your dog safe during off leash season is to make sure you have taught them proper recall. You must also make sure you are present and aware of your surroundings.
Wild animals, other hikers, and uncertain terrain are just a few things to look out for during your off leash experience.
The written rule from Bend Parks and Recreation is:
“In designated off leash areas a handler shall keep their domestic animal under control at all times such that it is within the unobstructed sight of the handler, remains responsive to voice commands, or other methods of control.”
Your dog must also be under your voice control at all times. That means that they must have a firm grasp on recall and that you don’t allow them to venture out of your sight.
This is to keep peace on the trail for EVERYONE that uses it.
Keep the peace
The law requires that your dog not “harass or intimidate” other people, dogs, or wildlife. Keep in mind that not everyone likes dogs (I know it’s crazy! But true!).
You are responsible for your dog’s behavior and any damage they cause.
Your off leash dog cannot show any aggression, and if they misbehave in any way, they must be leashed up on a trail, or removed from the park immediately.
Another thing to keep in mind is that on most trails and in all dog parks, each human is only allowed to have three off leash dogs with them at a time.
If you have four dogs you must either leash one of them up, or bring a human companion to help you manage them all.
Tag, you’re it
While out enjoying off leash season, be sure you and your dog are prepared for anything.
Dress them in a collar or harness that displays their city license, rabies tag, and an up to date ID tag.
Even if your dog has never left your side, it’s always a good idea to keep them tagged up in case you get separated.
It’s also a good idea to keep a small first aid kit on hand for any minor injuries they might accumulate while frolicking through the trails.
Leave no trace
And one last big rule: you are always responsible for picking up your dogs poop!
And since they are not allowed out of your sight, that should be no problem.
Poops must be discarded in proper garbage bins, which sometimes means packing it up and taking it home with you. Gives a new meaning to pack it in, pack it out!
Carry a leash at all times
When you are in a designated off leash area (whether on the trail or in a fenced park) you are still required to carry a leash on you at all times.
The reason for leash laws is to keep everyone safe and happy while they share the space.
A leash should not be seen as a punishment, and proper leash walking is a great way to bond with your dog.
Please remember that dogs are to be on leash in all areas of Bend city limits, except for those designated off leash areas.
Breaking this law could not only cost you a minimum fine of $300, but could also result in the injury, loss, or death of your beloved pup.
Something as simple as a nylon leash could save your dog’s life.
Here are some of Central Oregon’s favorite off leash trails:
Deschutes River Trail
Dogs are required to be leashed within the Deschutes River Corridor from Meadow Camp south to Benham East Day Use Area beginning May 15 until September 15. During this time dogs can be off leash while in the water.
Good Dog Trail
off leash year round, but note that once the Deschutes River Trail meets Meadow Camp, your dog must be leashed up during those summer months.
Upper Tumalo Reservoir
Off leash year round, but please keep in mind that the reservoir itself is off limits to both dogs and humans.
Phil’s Trail System
This is a great place to go mountain biking with your off leash dog, but be mindful of other cyclists and make sure your dog can be both seen and heard by others.
Cascade Lakes Hwy Trail System
Dogs are required to be leashed from July 15 to September 15 on high use sections of the Moraine Lake, Green Lakes, Todd Lake Basin, and Broken Top trails. During this time they can be off leash while in the water.
Wanoga sno-park
Groomed snow trail that allows off leash fun in the winter months. Be aware of skiers, sledders, and snowmobiles.
Edison sno-park- Ungroomed snow trail great for snow shoeing with your off leash dog in the winter. Watch for snowmobiles.
Some of Bend’s favorite off leash parks
1. Big Sky Park- Large fenced park with grassy areas and trails.
2. Riverbend Park- Small, fenced, gravel park with river access & a fenced small dog area
3. Ponderosa Park- 4 acres of fenced trails & a fenced small dog area
4. Awbrey aka Hillside Park- 5 acres unfenced park with trails
5. Pine Nursery Park- 17 fenced acres with trails and a large grass field, also has a fenced small dog area.
6. Overturf Park- 4 fenced acres on a steep hill
7. Hollinshead Park- 3 acres of unfenced, grassy landscape
Author: Dena Vogt
Dena has worked in animal care most of her life, specializing in dog care. She and her RottenChow Link own & operate Adventure Pup in Bend, OR