Leading up to the holidays, I tend to feel much busier with many to-do items and a growing number of events on my calendar. In the bustle of this festive season, holiday responsibilities start feeling stressful rather than fun.

Moving my body and spending quality time in nature, either by myself or with a companion, helps me feel happier when I become overwhelmed by all the holiday activities. The good news is that we have access to many easy, short hikes right in town.

If you’re like me and could use some quality time outdoors to keep things in balance this season, consider these five trail suggestions to help ease holiday burnout.

South Canyon Reach

We are lucky to have easy access to the impressive Deschutes River Trail. There are several popular sections of this expansive trail system, but I especially love the South Canyon Reach. It’s an awe-inspiring hike in the heart of Bend and my all-time favorite place to recharge. When my family and friends are in town and want to get outside for a bit, I take them on this trail for some gorgeous scenery, fresh air and exercise. It’s always a big hit.

You’ll enjoy wandering alongside the Deschutes River as it rushes through a beautiful canyon with plentiful large trees lining the path. The views are serene and refreshing. It’s not too strenuous or long, just about 3 miles and designed as a loop. It’s a popular trail and many people use it, but it seldom feels crowded and always leaves me feeling rejuvenated after my hike.

Features of this trail include natural surface, gravel, boardwalk, boulders, river views, canyon views, some steep inclines, bridges, parking, a loop trail and restrooms at Riverbend and Farewell Bend parks. Access is at Farewell Bend and Riverbend parks.

Big Sky Park Trail

Located at Big Sky Park in northeast Bend, the Big Sky Park Trail features impressive mountain views from a gravel path that travels around the edge of the park. The trail is just under 1 mile, with a fairly level grade. I love walking through the old juniper trees and soaking up the fresh air and High Desert landscape. This trail is an easy place to unwind after work or a hectic day of holiday shopping, and it’s perfect for an evening stroll while watching the sunset behind the Cascades.

Access is at Big Sky Park. There is plentiful parking, as well as restrooms, a dog park, playground, picnic shelters and bike park features.

Sawyer Park trails

Tucked along OB Riley Road in northwest Bend, this system of trails can offer great adventure, right in the heart of town. Bridging both sides of the Deschutes River, the trails showcase the beauty of the park and the river. From Sawyer Park, you can explore the Deschutes River Trail — the Awbrey Reach section to the north, or the River Run Reach section to the south. I love visiting the trails that pass through Sawyer Park. It’s a perfect place to take photos of the many birds and animals that call this area home.

Access is available at Sawyer Park and Sawyer Uplands Park. Features include nature and river views, wildlife, gravel and paved paths, a bridge over the Deschutes River and limited parking.

Shevlin Park trails

As far as Bend trails are concerned, Shevlin Park tops the list as one of my favorite places to go for a walk. Similar to the Deschutes River Trail, this trail system provides stunning scenery within city limits. Wandering along Tumalo Creek and towering trees always brings me peace.

Bend park trail locator

Bend park trail locator

Learn more about these trails and other great places to get outside this winter at bendparksandrec.org/parks-trails/trail-locator. The trail locator lists trails that have paths cleared in icy conditions.

There are many miles of trails available to explore, including shorter loops and longer, more challenging hikes. The trail system connects back toward town for an even longer run or ride.

Access is at Shevlin Park. Features include water views, forest land, gravel, natural surface and paved trails, wildlife viewing, and limited parking.

The Outback Trail

The Outback Trail is a hidden gem that connects Shevlin Park and Discovery Park, passing through 30 acres of High Desert landscape.

This trail offers impressive mountain views and can be a great place to walk and reflect on what the holiday means to you.

Access and parking are available at Discovery Park. Features include paved, gravel and natural trails, mountain views, and the very cool Women of Discovery mural located in the undercrossing at Northwest Crossing Drive.

Learn more about these trails and other great places to get outside this winter at bendparksandrec.org/parks-trails/trail-locator. The trail locator lists trails that have paths cleared in icy conditions.