Traveling long distances with a dog takes some planning because they need a break and a good run every couple of hours.

But finding the right place away from traffic where they can walk or run safely can be challenging.

That’s why a stop on I-84 West at Farewell Bend State Park in Oregon last week was a pleasant surprise. It was just the right time for a lunch break. We had stopped there several times over the years on trips to Portland and Seattle but never noticed the fenced unleashed dog running area. It’s a surprisingly large space with a few shade trees, picnic tables and a view of the Snake River. There is a day-use fee of $12 for non-residents of Oregon.

The state park is a cool, shady rest on the upper reaches of Brownlee Reservoir. It has plenty of space for a long stretch after driving and is also known for bird watching. Historic markers and interpretive displays provide visitors with information on Farewell Bend’s significance on the Oregon Trail. The park is open year-around.

You can get in a longer hike with your dog on leash by walking through the day-use area and the campgrounds.

By the way, Farewell Bend has RV and tent campsites which are open from the second Thursday in April until the last Tuesday in October. Limited first-come, first-served camping may be available in B-loop during the winter months. Reservations can be booked up to six months in advance at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Keep this in mind if you are traveling late and need a place to stay or if you just want to go camping in a place along the Snake River, a little over an hour from the Treasure Valley.

Farewell Bend State Recreation Area is about 25 miles northwest of Ontario on I-84.

Do some planning on your next long-distance trip, stop for lunch and walk the dog. The pooch will appreciate it.

Footnote: Readers often ask how did Farewell Bend get its name. Oregon Trail emigrants followed the Snake River for more than 300 miles. At this sharp bend, the trail turned northwest away from the river and they said farewell to the river.