Dry Canyon Trail: Redmond’s Volcanic Gorge Hiding in Plain Sight

Redmond often gets overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors, but tucked into the heart of this growing city lies one of Central Oregon’s most unexpected outdoor gems. Dry Canyon is a 3.8-mile paved trail that descends into an ancient volcanic gorge — complete with dramatic rock walls, resident wildlife, and wildflower displays that rival anything in the region. And unlike the trailheads that require a 30-minute drive into the mountains, this one starts steps from downtown.

For anyone exploring Central Oregon’s smaller communities or considering Redmond as a home base, Dry Canyon is reason enough to slow down and stay awhile.

Volcanic Origins

The canyon owes its existence to ancient lava flows from the Newberry volcanic system, with rock walls dating back roughly 400,000 years. Walking the trail feels like stepping into a geology textbook — rust-colored basalt columns rise on both sides while layers of volcanic material tell the story of eruptions, erosion, and transformation across millennia. Sagebrush and juniper cling to the upper slopes, and the overall effect is something between a city park and a desert wilderness hike.

Running north to south through town, the canyon creates a green corridor connecting neighborhoods on either side, with multiple access points allowing residents and visitors to hop on wherever convenient.

Trail Details

The paved trail covers 3.8 miles end to end with just 137 feet of elevation change — gentle enough for virtually anyone. Grades stay between one and four percent throughout, making it one of the most accessible outdoor experiences in the region for wheelchair users, strollers, and adaptive equipment. A leisurely walk from one end to the other takes around 90 minutes, though many visitors simply explore a section from whichever access point is closest.

Adventurous types will find several singletrack side trails branching into the canyon walls, offering mountain biking and hiking options with more challenging terrain and closer views of the geological formations.

Wildlife and Wildflowers

The canyon supports a surprisingly diverse ecosystem for an urban setting. A colony of yellow-bellied marmots inhabits the rocky walls and provides reliable entertainment for photographers and families alike. Coyotes, mule deer, and cottontail rabbits emerge during the quieter hours of early morning and dusk, while red-tailed hawks and kestrels work the thermals overhead. Spring transforms the canyon floor with blooming balsamroot, lupine, and desert paintbrush — a vivid contrast against the dark volcanic rock.

Getting There

Bowlby Park offers the most convenient trailhead with ample parking and a clear map kiosk, located about one mile from the trail’s southern end. Additional access points connect from residential streets along the canyon’s length. The trail is equipped with restrooms, picnic areas, and water stations. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout.

For the most dramatic scenery, start at one of the central access points where the canyon walls reach their tallest heights and the geological features are most impressive. Afterward, Redmond’s Sixth Street corridor offers a growing collection of restaurants and cafes to reward your efforts.

About Chance & Tianna

Team Homeward Found · Realty One Group Discovery

Chance and Tianna Jackson are a husband-and-wife real estate team serving Bend, Sunriver, Three Rivers, La Pine, Redmond, Prineville, Tumalo, and Sisters. Between military roots, marketing expertise, and years of investing in Central Oregon, they guide retirees, families, Veterans, and investors through buying, selling, and relocating with a level of care that only locals can offer.

Chance Jackson

Oregon Realtor® · Top Producer

(503) 816-2780

Mr.ChanceJackson@gmail.com

MLS #201227270

Tianna Waite-Jackson

Oregon Realtor®

(503) 207-8636

Ms.TiannaJackson@gmail.com

MLS #2012482478