The Old Mill District is a popular destination not only for historic sightseeing, delectable restaurants, and eclectic boutique shopping, but also for those who want to have a little bit of fun on the water on a river floating adventure! Read on to learn more about floating on the river in the Old Mill District.
What to Know Before You Go to The Old Mill District
Floating on the Deschutes River is a popular summertime activity in Bend, meaning that the city and its locals have the process down pat. For visitors, however, there are a few points to be aware of before getting in the water.
First, make sure that you and your guests can swim. This might seem like an obvious point, but the Deschutes River can be deceptively calm and lead visitors to having a false sense of security. While it’s a calm river for the most part, certain points of the river have rapids that, if you’re not prepared for, can take you off-guard. The most popularly-traveled portion of the Deschutes River runs from Riverbend Park to Drake Park. Halfway through, there are rapids. If you do not wish to ride the rapids or you have children with you, exit before the Colorado Avenue Bridge and make the short walk to McKay Park, where you can re-enter the river.
The Right Gear for Fun on the River
Next, you have to have the right gear. River tubing might immediately conjure up images of floating on fun pool toys in fun shapes or with fancy features like radios and coolers, but the type of tube you’ll actually need is a heavy-duty rubber inner tube. Rental tubes are available from local retails, as well as in Riverbend Park in the Old Mill District.
Life jackets are also a must; state laws say that all paddleboarders, boaters, and children under the age of thirteen years must wear a life jacket. Additionally, they require boaters and paddleboarders have whistles on hand. Life jacket rentals are available for free rental at Riverbend Park, at the Sun Country Trailer.
It’s also forbidden to consume alcohol while partaking in recreation in or around the river. As such, alcohol is banned from the parks surrounding the river. Our suggestion: have fun out on the river, then hit up the Bend Ale Trail afterwards!
Bend Vacation Rentals – Your Guides to All Things Bend
Whether you’re in town with friends, for a family gathering, or honeymoon, there are plenty of activities to enjoy! For additional information on river floating and other exciting activities in the Old Mill District Bend, contact our team! Our reservation specialists can reserve your lodgings in one of our incredible vacation rental properties today!
