Bend parks officials look to curb damage in north Shevlin Park as use grows

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- As Bend continues to expand, city park officials are working to stay ahead of environmental damage in a lesser-used area of Shevlin Park that’s seeing a surge in visitors.

Bend Park and Recreation District staff are presenting an updated trail plan for North Shevlin Park during a board meeting Tuesday evening, aiming to address issues caused by increasing foot traffic tied to nearby development, including Skyline Ranch.

Historically, most visitors have gravitated toward South Shevlin, known for its extensive trail network and popular gathering spots. But that’s beginning to shift.

With more people entering from the north side, unauthorized trails and informal parking areas have emerged along Shevlin Park Road — leading to erosion and damage to sensitive habitat.

“I don't think or hope that anybody would intentionally just disregard it,” said Bend resident and frequent park user Tom Donohoe. “But they might not really be cognizant of what that actually is doing. And then if it starts, people will see that one walking trail — and then it gets worse.”

District leaders say the goal is to manage that growth before impacts become more severe, while still improving access for the community.

“We sharpened our pencils and we refined that plan trail alignment to meet up with those new neighborhood connections, but also to provide access to that park,” said Henry Stroud, Principal Planner for the Bend Park and Recreation District.

The proposed refined trail plan outlines options to formalize certain paths, create designated access points and address environmental damage already occurring in the area. The effort builds on a planned trail first included in the district’s 2024 comprehensive plan update.

Unlike Tuesday’s regular business agenda, the Shevlin discussion is informational. Board members are expected to provide feedback rather than take formal action.

Park officials say planning now is key, especially as visitation continues to climb. Data shows a significant increase in use on a main North Shevlin trail, from fewer than 10,000 visitors in 2015 to more than 24,000 in 2025.

Some community members believe small changes could help guide behavior and protect the landscape.

“I think if Bend Parks could actually maybe even get some small signs in certain areas that they really want protected, hopefully people will carry that throughout, to stay on the trails,” Donohoe said.

For now, park users like Donohoe are encouraging others to be mindful while enjoying the space.

“I would say it’s just — try and be a good steward when you’re here,” he said.

The Bend Park and Recreation District board meeting runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the district office on Southwest Columbia Street, with a virtual attendance option available via Zoom.