BEND, Ore. – The Deschutes National Forest has finalized the decision for the West Bend Trails Project, which is located on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, west of Bend. The project aims to enhance trail-based recreation while minimizing the impact on natural resources and ensuring the safety of wildlife habitats.
The primary objective of the West Bend Trails Project is to provide a variety of trail opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. The final plan addresses issues such as confusing trail intersections and visitor conflicts, while promoting better connectivity and a more diverse range of trails.
According to the Forest Service, the project will involve several key changes, including the rerouting of approximately 8.8 miles of existing trails and the construction of 17.5 miles of new trails. In addition, around 33.3 miles of system roads will undergo Travel Management actions, and roughly 17 miles of unauthorized trails will be decommissioned.
The Forest Service emphasized that the decommissioning of unauthorized trails will help reduce disturbances to wildlife and prevent illegal activities in areas critical for winter shelters. The agency also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the public has access to sustainable, well-managed recreational spaces.
“The actions taken in this project will improve trail connectivity, reduce confusion at intersections, and provide additional types of trail opportunities for visitors,” a statement from the Forest Service said. “By decommissioning unauthorized trails, we will also protect wildlife and reduce the potential for illegal activity, which can negatively affect sensitive winter habitats.”
The public had the opportunity to review and comment on the project plans earlier this year, and their feedback has been incorporated into the final decision. As the project moves forward, the Forest Service is confident that it will provide both a better recreational experience for trail users and long-term benefits to the local environment.
