Salmon Run

The Salmon Run, now in its 38th year, is the unofficial start of Central Oregon’s running season. On a crisp April morning in Bend, about 186 runners gather at Riverbend Park for a half-marathon that traces the Deschutes River through juniper and pine. The course is mostly flat, with 75% paved sidewalks and 25% dirt trail, making it a fast and scenic option for first-timers and locals alike. Runners come from about 13 states, and while the field is intimate, the loyalty is real—about 7% of finishers return year after year.

The race unfolds along riverbanks and through wooded parkland, with the snow-capped Cascades visible in the distance. Aid stations and mile markers keep the route clear, and the spring weather (average 31–54°F) is ideal for racing. The finish on the lawn at Riverbend Park leads straight into a post-race party with music, food, and local beer. Winners in open and master’s categories take home gift bags and ribbons, but the real prize is the relaxed, community-driven vibe that has kept this race going for decades.