A swan idles below the Deschutes River Trail near First Street Rapids Park, an idyllic place to idle.

The Deschutes River Trail is always a fine destination to walk off a holiday meal, get some sunshine or just spend some time in nature. And if you’re in the vicinity of downtown Bend, First Street Rapids Park, located just blocks to the north, makes for quick and easy access.

Situated on the west side of the river beneath Awbrey Butte, the Deschutes River Trail affords views of paddlers both sitting down and standing along with wildlife that includes ducks and at least one swan that appears to be living below the rapids.

From First Street Rapids, with just a short stretch of on-street walking, it’s possible to connect to Sawyer Park, which also straddles both sides of the river, and continue north to Archie Briggs Canyon.

Getting there: 1980 Northwest First Street, Bend. Parking is limited at the end of NW First Street (north of Portland Avenue) and at the western end of NW Revere Avenue, but the park’s footbridge connects both sides of the river and park. There’s even a section of trail that connects to Pioneer Park

Contact: 541-389-7275.