The whitewater play park and paddle trail wave has hit the country and Bend needs to be a part of it. Not only is whitewater the fastest growing Olympic venue, but the number of US paddlesport enthusiasts has grown from 24 to 48 million from 1994 to 2000. Likewise from 2000 to 2002, rafting increased 26%, canoeing 33% and kayaking 37%. Newer boat designs and increased access to streams has spurred this phenomenal wave of interest in paddling.

Paddle trails throughout the country have increased the convenience and access to rivers. With federal, state and local funding, communities are developing new paddle trails on local rivers which provide increased opportunities for people to experience nature, exercise and enjoy rivers that are mapped out and easily accessible.

At the same time, whitewater has come into the front yard of Americans with the introduction of whitewater paddleparks. Over 30 US cities and towns have added play parks in their downtown areas, elevating many of them, Vail, Salida, Boulder, Steamboat Springs and Santa Fe, to premier paddling destinations. All of these whitewater towns are finding that these “park and play” spots offer paddlers of all abilities a venue to improve their skills in a safe environment close to home while providing enhanced tourism for the town.

Bend is clearly one of the hot recreational towns. From its world renowned rock climbing nearby, mountain biking, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and golfing to name a few of the outdoor activities, Bend is attracting singles, families and retirees alike who are looking for active, healthy lifestlyes in a beautiful mountain setting.

The Deschutes River, with its class I-V stretches, adds to Bend’s appeal as an outdoor recreational mecca. Whether paddlers want to float on its moving water watching eagles and osprey soaring overhead or to boof down one of its class V waterfalls, they are experiencing a taste of the myriad recreational opportunities the Deschutes River and Bend have to offer. BPTA would like to enhance Bend’s appeal as a hot paddling destination.

BPTA incorporated in 2005 to expand river access for paddlers by promoting a paddle trail and whitewater play park in Bend. The paddle trail will extend recreational use on the Deschutes River by providing safer river access and passage while preserving its natural state. It will parallel the scenic Deschutes River walking trail through Bend in addition to connecting to other recreational trails.

The concept for the whitewater play park is for it to be in Bend’s front yard, offer play features for all levels of paddlers and provide a family friendly environment where joggers, spectators, and visitors can stop for awhile to watch paddlers practice some of the latest playboating moves.

Within the next few years the paddle trail and whitewater park can be a reality.

With your support, IT CAN HAPPEN.

Click here for more information about how you can help.