The winding, never-ending trail system of Bend, Oregon has long been a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s hiking, running, biking or dog walking, these trails offer something for everyone. However, this may soon change. Federal budget cuts have eliminated expected funding for seasonal trail maintenance, raising concerns about how these trails will remain accessible and safe in the future.

The Deschutes Trails Coalition was set to receive a $200,000 grant to maintain trails this summer, but the funding was canceled due to cuts made by President Donald Trump. Both trail crews and seasonal workers might be out of work, leaving nonprofits scrambling to find funding and face hiring freezes. 

Trail runners are also feeling the impact. Leighton Allen, a sophomore at Summit High School and a member of the school’s track and cross country teams, expressed frustration over the loss of maintenance funding.

“We head down to Shevlin all the time. If those old back trails weren’t cleaned up regularly, it would be a nightmare to run even a few miles,” she said.

With nonprofits like Trailkeepers of Oregon losing $500,000 in federal support, the outdoor community is stepping up through fundraisers and volunteer efforts. But, like Allen, many worry that without federal assistance, the region’s treasured trails will suffer long-term neglect.