If you are new to the area, this trail is a great place to start. The Deschutes River Trail is easy, scenic, and starts just west of town. The ride follows the river as it flows around the lava field that caused it to change its course. This will be one of the first rides to be free of snow in the spring, and the last to get covered with snow in the fall. Mid-October is also a great time to ride the trail to see the many aspen groves turning yellow against the black lava backdrop. This ride will be a little sunnier on cold days than rides in the woods like the Phil's network.
Because of the beauty and proximity to town, the trail is at least as popular with hikers as it is with mountain bikers. As the town grows, there are more of both and there is a possibility that bikers could lose their privileges. Be sure to slow down or stop for hikers. If they step off the trail for you, be sure to say thank you as you slow down anyway. Leave your sponsored looking jersey and time-trial race face at home. This is a good ride to mellow out, take breaks and look at the scenery. There are starting to be lots of semi-retired CEO types moving to the area that we don't want focusing their abundant energy and talent on removing bikers from their newly acquired trail.
Less experienced riders will probably enjoy the trail the most by starting at the Lava Island Falls day parking area and riding upstream. If riding to Benham Falls from this starting point is not enough, the ride to Sunriver and/or the Blackrock Trail can be added and are equally easy although a little rockier. There is one steep but short switch back between Aspen Camp, and Dillion Falls that may have to be walked by beginners, but don't give up it gets easy again.
Getting to the Unofficial Trail Head:____ In Google Maps copy and paste "SW Century Dr/CR-46 @44.019450, -121.374360" as a destination. Head east on the dirt road toward the Entrada Lodge and you will cross the trail very near the lodge.
Getting to the Lava Island Trail Head:____ In Google Maps copy and paste "NF-4100-800 @43.985100, -121.400610" as a destination.
Getting to the Benham Falls (from 97 for Sunriver folks) Trail Head:____ In Google Maps copy and paste "Benham Falls Rd @43.931260, -121.413340" as a destination.
Getting to the Blackrock Trail Head and the Lavalands Visitor Center:____ In Google Maps copy and paste "Unknown road @43.909480, -121.359170" as a destination.
