If you’re at all like me, highs in the mid-80s in the forecast are a warning to get my workout — ride, run, whatever — in early. I’d rather be on or in the Deschutes River or sipping a beer at a picnic table under an awning at one of the many local establishments than out in the Deschutes National Forest with an empty water bottle when the Central Oregon sun looms high.

Fortunately, we heat-despising kinsmen don’t have to worry about that just yet.

This weekend’s weather is supposed to be rather cool and overcast with temperatures reaching the high-60s and low-70s. But after a chance of rain Monday, the mercury will start rising dramatically into next week. Which makes this weekend a great opportunity to savor the mild, midday weather of High Desert spring.

According to last week’s report from Deschutes National Forest trail crew supervisor Joe Welke, deep snow persists in the high country, but as the snowline recedes, access is slowly expanding. Most trails above 5,000 feet have at least some snow. Welke said forest visitors should expect a late melt-out. Broken Top Trailhead had 7- to 8-feet of snow above 6,500 feet as of May 23, Welke reported. For anyone looking for a June ski or snowshoe, Dutchman Sno-park still has adequate snow for winter recreation. Temporary signs have been removed, so visitors are responsible for their own navigation.

Be aware of possibilities for prescribed burning near Phil’s and Wanoga area trails this week. Check the national forest website for alerts and closures when heading out to trails west of Bend. Also, check out bendtrails.org and the BendTrails Facebook group for more specific trail updates.

Below are some recommended spots for recreation this weekend.

Ochoco trails cleared and riding well

Local groups have cleared trails in the Ochoco National Forest of trees and debris this week, according to reports on the BendTrails Facebook group, making it a great time to head east of Prineville for some grassy and technical singletrack. (Thanks y’all!) Lookout Mountain and Round Mountain trails may still have snow near the top but, otherwise, recent reports say these trails and others across Highway 26 are in good shape.

According to bendtrails.org, Lookout Mountain could easily be one of the best sustained downhill trails in Central Oregon. From the summit, the trail drops about 3,500 feet in seven miles. The first few miles are rough, rocky and technical, but the trail becomes faster and more flowy as you descend, with just a few short uphill punches. The other side of the highway has popular trails Cougar Creek and Scotty Creek and newer-trail Bandit Springs, all of which have been recently cleared. These trails make for great hiking and trail running as well.

Lookout Mountain’s lower trailhead, on Ochoco Creek Road off of Highway 26, is nearly an-hour-and-20-minute drive from Bend. Mountain bikers looking to ride the Cougar area trails can park at either Cougar East or Cougar West trailheads.

Rainbow trout on Lava Lake

Lava Lake is open to fishing all year. The lake is about an hour drive from Bend and difficult to access during the winter months when Cascade Lakes Highway is closed. But the highway just opened last week and anglers have recently reported good fishing for rainbow trout, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Lava Lake was formed as a result of lava flows creating a dam along its east shoreline, according to the Deschutes National Forest website. And due to the extrusive vegetation occurring in the shallow areas, it appears to be relatively old.

Trails just out the door

Bend has a variety of trails that wind and weave their way through town. No matter the weather, it’s always nice having options that are a quick stroll away from home. Whether it’s the Deschutes River Trail, Larkspur Trail or Archie Briggs Canyon Trail, all offer a great, quick option on a weekday or compact weekend schedule.

Check out Bend Park and Recreation District’s trail locator to find the closest trail near you. Also, if you’ve been training over the winter months and would like some friendly competition, the FootZone Dirty Half Marathon is Saturday morning, and Bend Pride is putting on a 5K as part of its celebrations this weekend. Bib up and race other local runners and yourself.

Hit Suttle Lake trails, water in early season

Suttle Lake, just off Highway 20, offers great nature viewing, tame trails and a wide-selection of water activities. Bound on all sides by mixed conifer forest, the lake is deep and clear with the west end best for seeing waterfowl. The lake covers an area of 253 acres and has 3.5-mile loop trail around it that was recently re-routed by forest service crews and partners. A good fishing option too, the lake has populations of naturally reproducing kokanee, plus brown trout, whitefish, and crayfish. With an average depth of 44 feet and maximum depth of 75 feet, it’s also not bad for swimming and paddleboarding.

For a full list of conditions updated regularly, visit bendbulletin.com/explore/conditions.