Fitness Paddling in Bend - Where to Go
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Maps courtesy of Google and Navtech. Blue is the Deschutes River. Yellow are major roads. White are minor roads. Brown are footbridges. |
2.
East Drake Park
This isn't an "official" put-in, but kind of a launch spot of opportunity. I store an old sea kayak at a nearby friend's house and this is a convenient place to launch when I shoulder carry the boat and walk over to Drake Park. Park on the street and head down to the water. Look for a large culvert that drains into the river just right off the brick path. There are some large lava rocks that naturally act as steps leading down to the water. Once you've found the spot, go back and get your boat. Watch your step as you lower your boat into the water. I don't recommend this spot for launching a K1, surfski or a boat you don't want to get scratched up. The mid-calf deep water is pretty mucky for getting in and out and the abrasive lava rocks are pretty tough on your gelcoat if you scrape against them. I'd love to see some of the large rocks in the water removed and a small dock installed (similar to Brooks Park - #1) or some sand or gravel added to make a graded launch point. back to where to paddle |
| last modified April 1, 2005 |