Deschutes National Forest advances plans for a 10-foot-wide paved path between Bend and Lava Lands Visitor Center

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes National Forest said Thursday that it has chosen a preferred alternative for ia nearly seven-mile planned paved path that's planned to extend from Bend south to the Lava Lands Visitor Center.

Bend-Fort Rock District Ranger Kevin Stock said in a final decision notice that they have decided to implement Alternative 2, allowing for construction of a 10-foot wide paved path with 2-foot shoulders.

The path will begin at Knott Road and parallel Highway 97 on the east side of the highway, connecting to the High Desert Museum; this segment is approximately 1.9 miles.

The path will then cross under Highway 97, using a pedestrian undercrossing, and continue on the west side of the highway connecting to National Forest System Lands, a segment that's approximately 0.3 miles.

The path will then continue on the west side of Highway 97, connecting to Lava Butte. At Lava Butte, the path alignment will go through the lava flow, "creating a unique experience for trail users" in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Stock said. The path will then cross Lava Butte Road and connect to Lava Lands parking lot.

The segment of paved path on National Forest System roads is 4.5 miles. The forest's decision is limited to actions on National Forest System Lands.

Project information and associated documents can be found on the Deschutes National Forest website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/deschutes/projects/57665. The final decision notice can be read in full below

For more information about the specific activities authorized with the decision, contact Alicia Bergschneider, Forest Environmental Coordinator of the Deschutes National Forest, by email at Alicia.Bergschneider@usda.gov or by phone at (541)647-8966.