Shevlin Park

Natural Features

Tucked away just minutes from downtown Bend is an almost 1,000-acre natural area with a history dating back to 1921, when the Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company donated the land to the city. Walking through Shevlin Park today, you're surrounded by tall old-growth ponderosa pines while the sounds of Tumalo Creek accompany your walk through the woods.

The creek creates a vibrant riparian corridor that's home to diverse wildlife and offers a peaceful escape from city life. If you're able to visit in autumn, you're in for a special treat - the colorful larch trees put on a spectacular show against the evergreen backdrop, transforming parts of the park into a painter's palette of fall colors.

Trails and Outdoor Experiences

The park features an extensive network of trails for hikers, runners, and mountain biking enthusiasts. The signature Loop Trail stretches about 6 miles along the canyon's edge, rewarding you with beautiful vistas of the surrounding landscape and glimpses of Tumalo Creek flowing below.

For a more leisurely experience, the Tumalo Creek Trail meanders alongside the water on relatively flat terrain (though be prepared for the occasional root or rock). What's nice about Shevlin is how it accommodates everyone - from those seeking an easy stroll on paved paths to adventurers looking for more challenging routes through the hills.

When winter blankets the landscape, the trails transform into perfect routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Despite being so close to town, you'll often feel like you've wandered deep into the wilderness due to the park's expansive grounds.

Fishing and Water Features

Near Aspen Hall, you can find a charming children's fishing pond stocked with trout - it's an ideal spot for young anglers to cast their first lines. The clear water allows kids to see the fish they're trying to catch.

Tumalo Creek itself offers numerous access points as you explore the trails. You'll discover small beaches and shallow areas that make perfect cooling-off spots during summer months. The sound of flowing water accompanies much of your journey through the park.

Amenities

When hunger strikes, you'll discover several designated picnic areas complete with tables scattered across the park. For larger gatherings, a covered pavilion provides plenty of seating, while more secluded tables near the creek offer intimate dining spots surrounded by nature.

Aspen Hall acts as the park's premier event space, hosting everything from weddings to community gatherings. It comes equipped with a commercial-grade kitchen and can comfortably accommodate over 60 people, with ample parking nearby.

You'll find clean vault-style restrooms in the parking areas and at strategic points across the park. The well-maintained grounds stay pristine thanks to conveniently placed dog waste stations and garbage cans.

Accessibility and Dog-Friendliness

Shevlin Park offers a nature experience just a short drive from downtown Bend. Most main pathways accommodate strollers, and several scenic bridges span Tumalo Creek, making crossings both practical and picturesque.

Four-legged friends are welcome within the park, however you'll need to keep them leashed. The trails are popular with dog owners, and your pup will appreciate the occasional creek access points for a refreshing splash during warmer months.