Central Oregon’s High Desert pulses with a rugged energy, and Redmond’s trail runs channel that vitality into every step. Here, the paths are more than dirt tracks—they’re invitations from the land, daring runners to test endurance against rolling hills, forested stretches, and volcanic outcrops. The most popular route, within the Paulina Trail System, offers roughly 13 miles of terrain that varies from smooth singletrack to rock-strewn ascents, with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain. These trails don’t just challenge your legs; they engage your senses, with ponderosa pines swaying, sagebrush brushing past, and the faint murmur of Dry Creek urging you onward.

The diverse surfaces demand tactical footing: firm dirt alternates with loose gravel and occasional slick roots, making trail shoes with solid grip a must. Start early, as Central Oregon’s high desert sun intensifies by midday, sending temperatures soaring and drying out water sources. Hydration is non-negotiable here, and ingraining steady sips into your pace preserves strength over the distance.

Trail markers are clear but sporadic, so keeping a familiar map or GPS app helps prevent wandering off the beaten path. Wildlife keeps a wary eye on passing runners—mule deer and red-tailed hawks are common, some curious, others firmly elusive. Spring blossoms highlight fields of sage and lupine, while fall ushers in crisp air and shifting colors that play shadows on volcanic ridges.

Distance runners will thrive in the steady rhythm these trails command, while casual hikers can tailor loops under five miles, exploring minor side paths that flirt with Dry Creek’s lip. The pathway’s natural flow speeds feet and minds alike, crafting a steady dialogue between body and environment. It’s a landscape fiercely itself, neither tamed nor gentle—perfect for those who seek adventure with practical grit.

To prepare, balance your gear between light comfort and readiness for shifting temperatures. Pack electrolytes, attempt some off-trail conditioning if rocky or uneven terrain feels new, and remember that the hardest climb rewards with spacious views where sky meets desert. Whether pacing yourself or pushing tempo, the Central Oregon trail runs around Redmond are a physical challenge and a quiet conversation with an eager landscape ready to respond to your every move.