Hopefully, this week’s rain and cool weather was a welcome change for readers. It certainly had an impact on local trails.

Rain and snow over the past week has packed down sandy and dusty trails. Reports on the BendTrails Facebook group say the lower trails are tacky, while some of the higher trails, like South Fork, had snow as of midweek. Expect dryer weather starting this weekend. After Friday, there is no precipitation in the forecast through next weekend.

Temperatures this weekend are supposed to near 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with lows in the mid-30s. Forecasts predict sun and temperatures to rise into next week.

Below are some recommended spots for recreation this weekend. For mountain bike and other trail-specific updates, check out bendtrails.org and the BendTrails Facebook group.

Great conditions along Oakridge’s A-T-C-A

Point-to-point route A-T-C-A was in fantastic shape last week, according to a report on the BendTrails Facebook group. The route is an expert-level combination of trails — Upper Alpine, Tire Mountain, Cloverpatch and Lower Alpine — often shuttled.

From point to point, it makes for 24 miles of net-downhill riding. It includes a total of 7,000 feet of descending and over 3,500 feet of climbing. Of course, it can be broken up in sections if you’re hoping for a shorter day on the bike. It’s also e-bike friendly.

The route features plenty of riding in the forest and open areas with breathtaking views. Beware that the past week’s rain could have impacted conditions. This would be a good route to do in the next couple of weeks or save it for the spring or early summer.

Oakridge is nearly a two-hour drive from Bend, so this would make for a full day outing. So might as well ride the whole route if you’re making the journey.

Fall River recently stocked, fishing year-round

According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website, the Fall River was stocked with trophy trout in early October. Fly-anglers continue to report excellent and consistent fishing on the river. Anglers have found nymphing — using artificial flies that imitate aquatic insects in their larval state — and stripping small streamers to be the most effective methods.

New regulations are in effect for Fall River. The river is closed to fishing below Fall River Falls Oct. 1 through May 21. Above the falls, Fall River remains open year-round.

The river is restricted to fly-fishing with barbless hooks only. ODFW staff have noticed an increase in lures being used in Fall River and remind anglers that the use of lures and bait is prohibited.

Hiking in Oregon’s redwoods sparks imagination, serenity

The Fall River runs just north of La Pine and is about a 35-minute drive from Bend.

Check out the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website for more fishing reports.

Explore, revisit sections of the Deschutes River Trail

During the colder and darker months of the year, it becomes harder and harder to get out for some exercise. Gym workouts and outings in town are way more appealing. The Deschutes River Trail may be the most obvious for a quick jaunt through Bend. If you typically use portions of the trail nearest to you, try some new ones. There are incredible sections to explore.

One of my favorites is Awbrey Reach, north of Sawyer Park, around the northern side of Awbrey Butte. This section of the trail is winding and mildly rolling and offers spectacular views of the High Desert and the Deschutes River and its bedrock below. Other options include River Run Reach, just south of Awbrey Reach, and South Canyon Reach, south of the Old Mill District.

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