Farewell Bend Park

From Bend Parks and Recreation: "Farewell Bend is located along the Deschutes River near the base of the Bill Healy Memorial Bridge. The park features a canoe launch and natural marsh areas. It has become a popular launching location for float trips on the river. The Deschutes River Trail runs the length of the park and connects the park to the Old Mill District to the northeast, to Riverbend Park across the river and to the new South Canyon Trail Bridge to the south. There are two viewing shelters, a boardwalk along the river, interpretive signage and a playground which Kiwanis assisted in building.A large picnic shelter with a capacity of 36 is available in addition to two small shelters which accommodate 4 each."

Additional Comments:


This is one of Bend's nicest playgrounds.  The play structure is larger than it appears and pays homage to the area's lumber mill history.


The main play structure is larger than it first appears, and the roof provides much needed shade.  The big circular saw "blade" and the log motif on the north side are unique.


A secondary play area is a bouldering pit.  It's surrounded by a low rock wall.  Kids can work on their rock climbing skills here, but the biggest rock is pretty tall.




Restrooms: Permanent restrooms are located right next to the playground.

Additional notes:  There are lots of paved trails that connect to the Old Mill District and Riverbend Park.  You can make a loop (approx. 2 miles by crossing the footbridge at Farewell Bend Park, continuing downstream to the Old Mill Footbridge, and coming back on the east side of the river.

Water Hazards: There is a small pond near the playground, and there is river access at various points along the trails.
Parking:  Parralel parking exists along Reed Market Road in turnouts, but it can be very busy with river users.  If I had my way, I would mark several spaces as "Playground Use Only".  If you can't find parking, you may want to a nearby playground such as Blakely Park, Columbia Park, or Harmon Park

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