#Sunriver Trip Bend Oregon | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

uncompute · 8 years

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Bend

Chatting with a friend about how terrifying it is to say goodbye to everything you know, and everything that is comfortable, and everything that is easy, to try something new (Hi, Irissa!). I’ve never been the most adventurous person and my personality actually craves consistency and the dependable. So the first few weeks of this trip (and if I’m honest, every few weeks since we’ve been gone) were (and occasionally continue to be) really hard.

I couldn’t pick up the phone to call my Mom (which I wanted to on several occasions) because just the thought of talking to her made me sob. I remembered a talk I heard one time about how you should never call or write home if all you have are negative things to say because it frames your situation in a way that is impossible to change. I heeded that advice and waited until I had my first really *great* day in Bend to call home. It took a while for that to happen, mainly due to the unreal amount of snow and ice on the ground, causing us to fall down multiple times while walking anywhere and get our car stuck every time we tried to get groceries or go on a hike.

The first *great* day was after I had gone to my first yoga class, something I hadn’t ever done by myself, and Dave and I had gotten drinks at a Brewery afterwards and chatted with some locals. After that evening, I was finally ready to share some of my experiences with the people I care about most. And I think I was ready to embrace the city for all it has to offer. Which is a lot, despite having over 18 inches of snow dump on us the day after we arrived, and it being January. So without further adieu, here’s what we found in Bend after a month.

Hikes: Deschutes National Forest: There are miles of forest available for off-leash hiking with your dog, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and more. We opted just to do a short hike due to not having any proper equipment. We were not disappointed.

Sahalie Falls/Clear Lake: After googling some sweet hikes, we decided to try and head to Clear Lake, about an hour from Bend. We didn’t realize that the several feet of snow on the ground might have any impact on our hikes. We weren’t discouraged though, especially after landing at Sahalie Falls and finding this view.

Clear Lake was virtually deserted and so Dexter got to have an off-leash experience. We could only hike on paths that had been packed down by other hikers and snowshoers, and Dexter found out the hard way several times what happens if you deviate from the path. You wind up thigh-high in snow.

Tumalo Falls: Our friend Alex made the long trek out West to visit us and we opted to hike Tumalo Falls one day while he was in town. The road to the Falls is closed so you have to hike 2.5 miles on the road to see it. Totally worth it.

Alex explored the area while Dave and I worked (gotta pay for these AirBnB’s!) and mentioned Smith Rock State Park is amazing. We were sad to have missed it.

Pilot Butte: This is an easy 1 mile up, 1 mile down hike right in the center of town. We went on a sunny day and could see for miles. Bring your yaktraks, folks! Dave and I were slippin' and slidin' all over the place. Fun times. Also this picture is awful because we only had my phone and it only takes selfies and is v old.

LaPine State Park: We hiked to the “Big Tree,” the biggest tree in Oregon. In theory, this was an easy hike. However, we opted to try it on a rainy day where the snow caved beneath our feet constantly. Not so easy.

Shevlin Park: A gorgeous park 5 minutes from the city. We did a 5 miler in the snow with Dexter and he didn’t move the rest of the day.

Beverages: Bend has no shortage of coffee shops and breweries. Some of our favorite coffee shops included Bluebird, which had a London Calling tea latte that will blow your mind. We frequented Backporch Coffee Roasters as it was a short walk from our apartment, and Spoken Moto, this amazing combination motorcycle garage/coffee shop that also serves beer. Dave was in heaven. I think his heart is still there, smelling that grease and drinking way too many iced coffees.

We attempted the Bend Ale Trail, which involves hitting 10 of the 20 million breweries in Bend. While we didn’t get to them all (our livers thank us), we did stop by 10 Barrel, Silver Moon (Katie’s favorite), Sunriver, Crux (another favorite), McMenimans, and Deschutes.

Both times we went to Silver Moon they had something awesome going on- the first trip was to see Lief Whitaker talk about climbing Mount Everest twice and the second time was to come in last place during Trivia.

We tried to take pictures of McMenimans’, this huge brewery/restaurant/movie theater/hot tub/outdoor complex but they didn’t turn out. We went to a High Gravity brew fest here and enjoyed the fact that many of the bars and restaurants have outdoor fire pits where you can drink and eat outside regardless of the temperature.

We also made sure to try some of the beer from other breweries, including Upworthy, Cascade Lakes, Goodlife, and Boneyard. All delicious. Personal favorite: Silvermoon’s 97 IPA. Tastes like home.

Food: We really tried our best to not spend all of our money on food in Bend. We ate the most amazing brussels sprouts at Crux Brewing Company, had some delicious burgers at Brother John’s Ale House, and the best brunch ever (?) at Chow (thanks for the recommendation and gift card, Mikey and Lauren!).

Other mentions: Thanks to Dave’s Brother Kevin and his wife Steph, we went on this awesome tour called Shoes, Views and Brews on Mt. Bachelor, the big mountain in the area best known for skiing. We snowshoed, stopped and tried different beers from local breweries, and got to catch some amazing views. This was unlike anything we’ve done and so worth it.

I got to attend a free teacher training put on by the National Forest in Bend all about teaching outdoor education in early childhood education. It was an amazing program that allowed me to see how schools out West are incorporating the outdoors into their daily curriculum- nerd moment.

We also tried to go to this K-9 keg pull, a race where a bunch of dogs pull kegs around. We drove out to the race only to find out it was cancelled due to the weather. #bummer.

That’s it and that’s all. ’Til next time, Bend.

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i-globalone · 5 years

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There are an abundance of reasons to choose the state of Oregon for your next vacation. The ninth largest state in the union is located on the west coast, directly below Washington, and there seems to be a little bit of everything that a person could want when they are trying to ‘get away from it all’. From ocean beaches to mountain ranges, and from rivers to crystal streams, Oregon has some of the best countryside available in America. There is no doubt as to why you have chosen it as the destination for your next get away. But where should you stay? It can be difficult to decide when you are unfamiliar with the place. Fortunately for you and yours, there is a wide variety of incredible accommodations all over Oregon. Excellent hotels and lodges can be found most anywhere, with some of the very best being close to the coast for your enjoyment. For those who desire to be near the mountains, there is something for you too. The fact is, you can find one of Oregon’s best hotels in just about any vicinity in the state, so never fear. If you want the very best when it comes to lodging, Oregon has plenty to offer.But how do you know which hotels are the best, and which ones to avoid? That’s what we’re here for. By compiling a list of twenty of the very best hotels in Oregon, we have done the work for you. Below you will find it, from number twenty to number one, with number one being the very best, of course. We have also made notes of some of the amenities each has to offer, its location, and other conveniences you will find there. If this doesn’t make planning your trip more simple, nothing will. So read on and discover…20. Best Western Premier Boulder Falls InnLocated in Lebanono, Oregon, the Best Western Premier Boulder Falls Inn is beautiful, comfortable, and affordable. Rooms are available in Kings, Queens, or Suites, and feature large 42” televisions, microwave ovens, refrigerators, pillow-top mattresses, and come with a complimentary full breakfast. They also offer Garden View rooms and suites for those who enjoy a nice vista. Mobility accessible rooms are available to accommodate a wide variety of needs, as are pet-friendly rooms (as available). This hotel also features on-site dining with a lounge, a conference center, and a1-acre Japanese garden for the enjoyment of their guests. 19. Brasada RanchThis incredibly beautiful location offers much more than lodging. Guests can take advantage of the spa, go horseback riding, play golf, work out in the Athletic Center, swim, and much more. Lodging options include cabins, cabins with guest rooms, and rooms in the all-inclusive ranch house, and they are pet-friendly and perfect for the entire family. There are kids activities available, unforgettable dining options, and conference rooms. Book your wedding here, or better yet check out some of the real estate they have available. This 1,800 acre resort is located in the Powell Buttes, right outside of the town of Bend, Oregon. This is one lodging option you will never forget.18. Sunriver Resort – A Destination HotelOffering both hotel rooms and vacation rentals, Sunriver Resort is located in the town of Sunriver, and it offers some very spacious, beautiful rooms with surroundings to match. The hotel offers a spa, fine dining, and a huge list of activities that include a stables, skiing and snowsports, a marina, biking, tennis and pickleball, a nature center and observatory, yoga, and so much more, so there is something for everyone in your family. Boasting the largest selection of vacation rentals in the area, Sunriver can match you and your family with the perfect rental for your seasonal getaway. Wedding accommodations and conference rooms are also available at Sunriver. The town of Sunriver has a convenient airport for those who need it, as well. The lodge also offers photography services so your memories can be kept, and there are pet friendly accommodations too. Ask about their real estate options!17. Hotel LuciaThis downtown Portland hotel is often referred to as the ‘Quintessential Portland Hotel’ and is a recipient of the Conde Nast Traveler 2019 Readers’ Choice Award. Found right in the city’s heart, Hotel Lucia boasts a boundless photography collection, large, spacious rooms, and on-site dining at The Imperial, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the Pacific Northwest. The building the hotel is housed in is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is quite exquisite. Travelers will enjoy the feel of old with all the modern amenities when staying here. Hotel Lucia is a boutique hotel that is in walking distance to just about everything from the Tom McCall Waterfront Park, as well as a number of cocktail bars, shops, and galleries. This hotel features bundled specials with the booking of one of their Deluxe, Premium, or Superior rooms, as well as with their Accessible Rooms and Suites. Wonderfully modern with an antique flavor, the Hotel Lucia is a go-to Portland choice that has stood the test of time. 16. The Benson HotelThe Benson is another luxury Portland hotel that is also another historic landmark. Built in 1913, the hotel features a rich European design will omitting no modern need or desire. It was voted the Best Portland Hotel in 2012, and has entertained many presidents and heads of business. Guests staying in the recently remodeled rooms will find that they are right in the Pearl District, which conveniently offers a bit of everything from breweries to bookstores to boutiques, and access to a variety of performing arts events is right within reach as well. There are also two ballrooms on-site that are the perfect venue for conferences, weddings, or any other formal even you may need to book. Guest can also take advantage of the available conference rooms and private dining rooms so their meetings or private gatherings will be more intimate and comfortable. The Benson is another one of the finest luxury hotels in Oregon.15. Hotel deLuxeYet another Portland boutique hotel, the Hotel deLuxe is also a winner of the Conde Nast Traveler 2019 Readers’ Choice Award. Built in 1912, the hotel was designed with the Golden Age of Hollywood in mind, using a unique blend of modern art and art deco to get that particular feel. Classic film screenings, afternoon teas, and their special signature amenities make the Hotel deLuxe stand out from the rest. Guests may enjoy cocktails in The Driftwood Room and savor the delectable Pacific Northwest dishes served up at Gracie’s, an elegant on-site restaurant. Also located in downtown Portland in the Goose Hollow neighborhood, guests will find that they are in close proximity to just about anything they are interested in doing, With reasonable prices, accommodating amenities, and an exquisite aesthetic that is loaded with comfort, Hotel deLuxe is a wonderful choice for your trip to Portland.14. Tu Tu Tun LodgeIn preparation for their 50th Anniversary Celebration, the Tu Tu Tun Lodge will be closed until April of 2020, but we’re sure it will be more than worth it when they return. Prior to these renovations, the Tu Tu Tun Lodge was definitely one of Oregon’s best, and a favorite all the way around. Located in the southwest corner of Oregon, only 40 miles from California, the lodge is designed so that the outdoors actually complimented the aesthetic, which seems to motivate guests to let go of all stress and anxiety, put up their feet, and simply relax. Located near the Rogue River, the rooms at this lodge have been named after a variety of different sites and spots on that river. There are two roomy suites available above the Main Lodge which offer amazing views and incredible comfort. Houses are also available which sleep two to six people and provide another level of privacy for those who prefer to keep more to themselves during their stay. Feel free to visit the Tu Tu Tun Lodge website for more information on prices and reservation information for 2020. 13. Inn at the 5thEugene, Oregon’s Inn at the 5th is a boutique hotel that offers elegance and modern charm to its guests. Geared towards those interested in booking celebrations, participating in wine tasting, and the love of fine dining, it can be found at the 5th Street Public Market downtown. Guests will find everything they could want or need is close by for their convenience. Upon arrival, guests are served wine and then taken to their room. Available rooms include modern amenities, as do the spacious suites they have available. Enjoy fine food and cocktails at Marche & Le Bar, the on-site restaurant and lounge, or head out and explore all that downtown Eugene has to offer. The hotel is also located within walking distance of the Alton Baker Park, the Matthew Knight Arena, the University of Oregon, and more.12. The Oxford HotelBend, Oregon’s Oxford Hotel has perfected the art of making guests as comfortable as if they were at home, bathing them in luxury at every turn. Guest can choose between our regular guest rooms, our extended-stay rooms, and pet-friendly rooms, or if needed, The Oxford has prepared spacious and comfortable Accessible Rooms to make you stay as relaxing and convenient as possible. Our on-site restaurant, 10 Below, features the delicious works of executive chef Darrell Henrichs, who uses the only the finest ingredients, locally sourced, to bring you the best Pacific Northwest dishes imaginable. We also offer an array of extra amenities that are available to all of our guests, including in-room extras like organic bath product, or our exclusive pillow menu. When you venture out of your room you can head to the workout facility, then top it off by indulging in our Jacuzzi Spa, Sauna, & Steamroom. We also provide charging facilities for our guests with electric cars, and while your car is charging you can explore the downtown area on one of the complimentary cruiser bicycles available to you. A fine hotel with an even better reputation for comfort and service, The Oxford has earned its four stars.11. Stephanie InnCannon Beach, Oregon is home to the Stephanie Inn, an oceanfront luxury boutique hotel. Featuring spacious, comfortable rooms, the very best Pacific Northwest dishes, specialty classes and experiences, and a full-service spa, guests well be pampered beyond their expectations. Available for reservation are oceanfront rooms and oceanfront corner suites. Dormer Rooms and Dormer Suites are also situated oceanfront, as are the Janice Kay room and the Premier Suite. Also available are the oceanfront mini-king and carriage house accommodations, plus a wide array of mountain view rooms to suit your tastes and desires. Cannon Beach Fine Dining is on site to satisfy your cravings, and countless other amenities are offered to you during your stay. Breathtaking views, incredible culinary fares, and luxurious rooms await the guests at Stephanie Inn. 10. Heathman HotelThe Heathman Hotel is another luxury hotel located in downtown Portland, and like the others, it has qualities that make it stand on its own. While it is in close proximity to many of the same downtown shops and attractions as the others, the Heathman provides is guests with abundant information that will familiarize them with available methods of transportation available to them in the area. The Heathman also has a variety of room styles for guests to choose from, including Deluxe, Premier, Corner, Suites, and Accessible Rooms, and each is attractively decorated and equipped with plenty of extras like Provenance Signature amenities and in some cases, convenient bars stocked with local fares. Eat in-house at Headwaters restaurant and drinks at the Russian Tea Room, or venture downtown, if your taste demands it. The Heathman is also available for weddings, conferences, and other events; just call for availability and book what you need!!9. DossierDowntown Portland’s Dossier Hotel is another Readers’ Choice Award winner that seems to keep things focused on Portland life, with locally-inspired amenities and artwork to the food. Let the staff at Dossier arrange things for you, and they will fill your schedule with activities that are designed to familiarize guests with the area and the area’s culture. Rooms include Standard, Premium, Premium Corner, Loft Suite, and Penthouse versions. Each room is tastefully designed with modern décor, and the hotel provides both standard and specialized amenities to make your stay more comfortable. Exclusive Signature Events are available, and change on a weekly basis. For example, you can socialize while you exercise with the Run Club, or visit Rosa Rosa one evening for their tasty Aperol Spritzes. The Dossier Hotel makes provision for all your wants and needs, and are anxiously waiting to take care of you during your stay in Portland.8. The Porter Portland by Hilton: A Curio CollectionWith a city the size of Portland, we shouldn’t be surprised at the number of luxury boutique hotels located in the downtown area! The Porter Portland by Hilton is added to the list, and contributes its own style of hospitality, on a much more modern level than many. With amenities that include a business center with modern audio and video technologies, basic furniture for children (ie: high chair, playpen, crib, etc.), In-house bar and lounge, ATM, area transportation services for adult conveniences, a fitness center and accessibility conveniences, and finally , free wi-fi and fee breakfast. Wonderful views of the river and city skyline are easy to see from the rooms, which are available as standard guest rooms, suites, and accessible rooms. The Porter Portland also provides excellent event services, and it is close to shopping, parks, museums, and much more.7. The Duniway Portland – A Hilton HotelThis particular boutique hotel by Hilton has décor that was inspired by Abigail Scott Duniway, an American pioneer woman…it encompasses Portland’s artsy, independent side. Guests will love the Jackrabbit PDX, the in-house restaurant featuring cuisine by celebrity chef Chris Cosentino. Take advantage of the generous hotel amenities and services, which offer many of the same business and personal conveniences as the Porter Portland, with the addition of a coffee shop, in-room massage and spa services, laundry services, safety deposit boxes, a pet-friendly environment, and room service, just to name a few. Rooms are large and comfortable, and are available in a variety of ways, including Accessibility Rooms, Standard Rooms, Suites, and Pet-Friendly accommodations. Finally, The Duniway is more than happy to give you a rundown regarding any events or activities taking place nearby during your stay so you can enjoy you time there and get the very most out of Portland.6. Kimpton RiverPlace HotelOne of three Kimpton Hotels on our list today, the Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel is located in downtown Portland, right on the waterfront. Wonderful views are provided thanks to this convenient, enjoyable location. Guests can get to know each other in the communal living area, and available rooms include deluxe suites and cottages, in addition to the standard rooms and accessibility rooms that are available. An inviting courtyard is open to guests, and meals can be taken in the on-site restaurant, King Tide Fish and Shell. Private dining is also an option at the RiverPlace. Extended-stay suites are available as well, and provide all the modern conveniences needed for those who plan to be at the hotel for more than just a few nights. The RiverPlace features ‘elevated’ amenities that include bar and spa services, in-room dining, a fitness center, business services, event planning, high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary use of in-room yoga mats, a pet-friendly atomosphere, coffee and tea service, childrens’ DVD library, concierge services, and much, much more.5. Kimpton Hotel Monaco, PortlandThe second Kimpton hotel on our list is the Hotel Monaco in downtown Portland. Like the first, it offers all-inclusive guest amenities as listed above, but this particular hotel is the winner of several awards for service. Added amenities that differ for those listed above include a daily Social Hour with wine tasting, live music, craft beers, and locally produced spirits. The Dosha 5th Avenue Spa is another extra, public bicycles, a 24/7 fitness center, and 24-hour in-room dining service by the on-site Red Star Tavern. For an additional $24 service fee, guests will receive daily use of the Quiet Room, unlimited local and long distance calling, a ten-credit to the Red Star Tavern, access to their Press Readers’ Selection, 24-hour use of the business center, updated Wi-Fi speed that will allow usage by five guests, and entertainment every night in the community living area. Rooms are modern, beautifully furnished, and comfortable, and the same room options are available as those of the Kimpton RiverPlace, from the standard guest rooms and specialty suites to the accessible rooms and services. It’s also a great hotel for events and business conferencing as well.4. SentinelSentinel is a hotel in downtown Portland that is housed in historic buildings formerly known as the Elk’s Lodge (in the West Wing) and the Seward Hotel (East Wing). Originally built in 1909, architect William Christmas Knighton implemented Early Modern and Arts and Crafts styles with Vienesse influence. A visionary-based art collection is on display in the Gallery. Amenities include the Provenance Well + Fit Center, morning coffee and afternoon beverage services, a complimentary Well + Fit Kit, Domaine Serene Wine Lounge’s wine tasting events, Local Spirit hour, 24-hour fitness center access, pet-friendly accommodations, bicycle rentals, MIRROR fitness classes, and much more. Room décor is suited to that of the hotel in general, with a modern taste that is inviting and relaxing. Room styles include Deluxe, Premiere, Executive Parlor Suite, Executive Terrace, Bridgetown Parlor Suite, Terrace Studio Suite, and Accessibility Accommodations. This is a beautiful hotel that is also perfect for business meetings, weddings, and other events.3. Kimpton Hotel Vintage, PortlandOur third and final Kimpton hotel on the list is the Kimpton Hotel Vintage in downtown Portland. Hotel Vintage offers amenities like those of its siblings, with the addition of an adult game lounge, urban tasting room, and an incredible cork art display that is inspired by modern graffiti. This luxurious, yet offbeat hotel also features the on-site Bacchus Bar, the II Solito restaurant featuring Chef Matthew Sigler, ‘Wine Down’ Dinners, and private dining, if desired. Other amenities offered, beside those like the other two Kimpton hotels offer, are the wine tasting events in the community living room, featuring 117 wine partners, Happy Hour from 4pm to 6pm in the Bacchus Bar and a $10 bar credit, in-room dining with food by II Solito, Artelier Bloem Bath amenities, and a curated locals guide to help you get an easy start on your time in Portland. This wonderful hotel almost feels like going someplace where you know everyone and everyone knows you…sort of like going to visit a long, lost friend.2. The Nines – A Luxury Collection HotelPortland’s Hotel The Nines is a five-star hospitality facility that is steeped in luxurious surroundings and generous amenities. Named to pay homage to the phrase ‘dressed to the nines’, the hotel is housed in Portland’s Meier & Frank Building, which was a place centered around high-fashion in its day…hence the name. The Nines offers luxury rooms that are decorated with the history of the area in mind, with satin draperies, versatile fireplaces, incredible views, and original Pacific Northwest artwork. The Nines Suite is a signature room steeped in luxury and plenty of space (1768 square feet!) Enjoy the view from the oversized windows, and marvel at the nine-foot ceilings. The Meier & Frank Suite is a 1536 square-foot suite that is saturated in historic décor, yet offers all of the desired modern amenities. Choose between having your meal at the Urban Farmer Steakhouse or Departure Restaurant and Lounge, and get a great workout the next morning at The Nines Fitness Center. This beautiful old historic hotel has much more to offer than what can be listed here, and it a first choice in the Portland area.The Allison Inn & SpaAt last, our number one choice for the best hotel in Oregon is the five-star Allison Inn & Spa, located in Oregon Wine Country in Willamette Valley (far from the hustle and bustle of Portland). The resort sits on 32 acres of land that is rich with the natural beauty of the area, and it offers 77 rooms and 8 suites that share four levels with other services housed there. The four levels are the Terrace, Spa, Main, and Penthouse. The Allison Spa features 12 treatment rooms, a fitness center, whirlpool, and swimming pool and terrace. Dine at the Jory Restaurant and Bar, an Allison Inn & Spa exclusive, and plan on your most important meetings and events being held at The Allison; you can count on their professional and efficient staff doing an incredible job, no matter what your even may be. Finally, indulge in some of the most wonderful wine tasting activities that Wine Country has to offer, from ‘Pinot Noir at the Allison’ to the sampling of regional wines, and finally the Willamette Valley Activities, which offers something for everyone in your family. From the décor to the lush countryside that surrounds it, and including all they offer their guests in the line of extras, The Allison Inn & Spa easily earns the number one spot as the Best Hotel in Oregon!There are so many fine hotels to choose from that one wouldn’t even know where to begin. That’s why we ranked them for you…to help you decide. There are plenty of luxury boutique hotels in the Portland area for those who love the city and all it offers. For those of you who are country folk, there is more than enough her for you as well. Don’t hesitate to take your pick, then pick up the phone or go online and make your reservation today. You don’t want to miss out on any of the incredible things going on in Oregon!

http://www.globalone.com.np/2019/12/the-20-best-hotels-in-portland-oregon.html

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lanalcole-blog · 5 years

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Today is day 8 of our camping trip. We have finally got into the 80’s here with 2 days left on our trip. We are having a blast and doing as much as we can fit in each day from brewery tours to kayaking the Deschutes.

We are camping in Central Oregon about 25 minutes south of Bend. We’ve seen about 100 deer, 3 elk, 2 river otters, bald eagles, osprey, mink, coyotes and pups.

We’ve had our share of thunderstorms this past week but they seem to be behind us now as the weather is amazing today! We hope for possibly a night hike this evening and one more float down the river before we pack everything up on Sunday.

We are expecting more company today. My cousin and her family and also my second oldest son Jared will be arriving tonight. Should be a fun campfire with lots of family around!❤️

We’ve probably seen over 150 deer this past 10 days.

Hunting in the wildflowers

These river otters are always fun to watch. The icky water didn’t keep them from being silly otters… 😳

Mt Bachelor

We watched this coyote catch breakfast one morning. I was happy to see him catch something because his front right leg is injured, and he hobbled along a bit.

It’s now Sunday morning and we are about to start packing up for home. What an awesome trip. We enjoyed every moment we were here. I can’t wait to come back again!

This trip will always be unique because of the storms we experienced during first part of our trip. It’s strange how so much rain, hail can hit us in a short period of time and then be 80’ the next day. My son Jayden definitely won’t forget the thunder anytime soon.

Thanks for following us on our summer trip. ❤️

#summer2019, #familyvacation, #colecampfireblog, #coyotes, #baldeagles, #kayaking, #swans, #otters, #centraloregon, #thousandtrails, #sunriver, #glamping, #camping, #wildlife, #photography,

Summer Vacation 2019, Today is day 8 of our camping trip. We have finally got into the 80’s here with 2 days left on our trip.

#blog #camping #Cole campfire blog #coyotes #deer #family time #glamping #otters #photography #photos #summer vacation 2019 #wildlife Photography

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gtfovacations-blog · 6 years

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Bend, Oregon is the West Coast’s Secret Outdoor Sports Paradise

Cindy Wright of River Wright Photography/Visit Bend Facebook What if there were a place where you could wake up in the morning and ski, whitewater raft in the afternoon, and enjoy a round of golf or hiking in the early evening? There is. Bend’s location in the high desert — with the Cascade Mountains to the west, open desert to the east, and volcanic monuments to the south —puts this central Oregon city at the perfect confluence of mountain, forest, river, and plain, making it one of the few West Coast locations suitable for nearly every outdoor sport you can imagine. Here are the best outdoor things to do in Bend, as well as the best places to stay, eat, and drink while you’re in this secret sports mecca.

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When it comes to outdoor recreation, Bend is a big hitter. Check out all its many options, from rafting to biking to hiking. White Water Raft the Big Eddy The Deschutes River is a major tributary of the Columbia and is responsible for draining almost all of the Eastern flank of the Cascade Mountains. That means water, and lots of it. In the spring, when snowmelt rushes down from the peaks of the Cascades, the river runs especially high, creating the perfect proving ground for novice and expert whitewater rafters alike. Bend’s Sun Country Tours will pack you up, provide you splash suits, and drive you to the Deschutes’ best rafting sections: the Big Eddy. There, experienced guides will lead you on an three- (or more) mile adventure through still spots bound by beaver dams and ancient lava flows and over rushing, white-knuckle Class III rapids. The water’s cold, the scenery is beautiful, and the trip is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Ski Down a Volcano

Chase McPeak/The Manual Bend’s closest ski resort is located at the base of Mt. Bachelor, a dormant volcano. Because of the mountain’s steady cone-like topography and elevation over 9,000 feet, Mt. Bachelor is one of the only mountains in the world that you can ski down every single face — and from the summit, no less. Yes, a chairlift will take you within a short hike of the mountain’s peak, where you can head north, south, or east down the slopes. Challenging enough for expert skiers with plenty of lazy green runs for beginners, Mt. Bachelor is the type of place you can take the whole family. And, with over 450 inches of snow a year and a steady mid-winter base of 150 inches, Mt. Bachelor can be skied from fall to late spring. In fact, Bachelor’s 2018 closing date was May 27. Mountain Bike Dense Forests

Next to skiing, there’s no better way to careen down a steep mountainside than on a bike. Just outside of Bend, Cog Wild tours will take you on a few downhill doozies and cover transportation, bikes, and snacks. Cog Wild leads mountain biking enthusiasts on a full-day run from Mt. Bachelor all the way down to Bend. Trails are mostly composed of packed, Central Oregon dirt and weave through new- and old-growth forest. With plenty of options for every skill level, Cog Wild works with you and your biking companions to create the most appropriate, thrilling, and adventurous trip possible. Not into biking in the heat? They also offer winter fat bike tours. Play a Round of Golf (or Two)

Tetherow It may come as a surprise to some that there are over 30 golf courses in Central Oregon, many of them just outside of Bend proper. One of those is located at Tetherow Resort, a recent addition to Bend’s resort lineup and one that takes its design cues from lodges, cabins, and the high desert. Open from April to November, the 18-hole championship, semi-private course was designed by David McLay Kidd, the award-winning architect of Bandon Dunes and Castle Course in Scotland. Another great golf option in the area is Sunriver Resort. For all your options, take a look here. Hike on Dragon Glass

Wikimedia Commons It’s easy to think of Jon Snow from Game of Thrones when hiking at Newberry Volcanic Monument, just south of Bend in Deschutes National Forest. From massive, obsidian (dragon glass!) flows that you can walk on (just don’t take the rocks!), to lava tubes (which you can tour with Wanderlust Tours), to standard forest and hill-hikes, the 54,000 acre National Monument is a geology buff’s dream. And, at 12,000 acres (about the size of Rhode Island), the volcano is still very much alive and well. Think about that when hiking up to the caldera.

Eat

After all that hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, and golfing, stomachs will be empty and food will be needed. Luckily, Bend — like Oregon’s best-known city, Portland — is an up-and-coming food town. From steakhouses to breakfast joints, there’s something for every person and palette. Drake

Drake Think Parisian bistro meets local neighborhood diner-cum-steakhouse, and that’s close to the atmosphere, food, and service at Drake. With dishes like citrus- and brown sugar-brined pork chops, grilled beef tenderloin, and buttermilk fried chicken, Dungeness crab cakes, and salt-roasted marrow bones, Drake offers up expertly cooked meats in a quiet, casual atmosphere. Drake is also no stranger to elevated mixology. The proof? A sazerac composed of duck fat-infused rye, absinthe, sugar cube, and Peychaud bitters. The Blacksmith

The Blacksmith/Facebook What happens when an old blacksmith shop (which is reportedly haunted) becomes a modern, from-scratch kitchen and steakhouse? You get Bend’s Blacksmith. Leather booths and banquettes, along with low-lighting and dark walls, make for a very old-boys club feel. The food also adds to this atmosphere in the form of steak and fries, surf and turf, and the Blacksmith Signature Tomahawk, a 24-ounce, bone-in ribeye that is bacon-glazed and topped with foyot and gremalade with preserved lemon, lavender, and minced shallots. Looking for a drink to go with that giant steak? Try the Austin’s Anvil, a take on the Manhattan with Bulleit Rye whiskey, Bordeaux cherry juice, orange bitters and simple syrup over ice with a cherry and orange garnish. McKay Cottage

Chase McPeak/The Manual Before hitting the slopes or the rapids, a full stomach is a requirement. McKay Cottage can easily help with that. The best place for breakfast in Bend, McKay’s morning menu consists of all the favorites done especially well. From the standard American breakfast of eggs, bacon, potatoes, and toast to sweeter fare like lemon ricotta pancakes with fresh summer berries to heartier dishes like salmon hash to any kind of omelette that can be imagined, McKay’s Cottage will not disappoint when 7 a.m. rolls around and there’s a full day of mountain biking ahead. Fun fact: The cottage was moved to its current location in 1973. Spork

Spork In Oregon, it should come as no surprise that some of the best restaurants used to be food carts. Spork is no exception. Beginning life in an Airstream Tradewind, it wasn’t long before Spork’s popularity necessitated a more permanent location. Now, with a brick-and-mortar location and a huge line out the door for every dinner service, Spork is one of Bend’s most in-demand restaurants. A discordant, but altogether pleasant mash-up of Latino, African, and Southeast Asian foods comprise the menu. Think dishes like spicy pork noodles (warm rice noodles, fish sauce, fried pork shoulder, peanuts, cilantro, fried wontons, bean sprouts and more) and pozole rojo (a Mexican stew). In short, head to Spork for wild flavor combinations available nowhere else in the Pacific Northwest. Sparrow Bakery

The Sparrow Bakery Breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, pastries, and bread. That’s all Sparrow Bakery does and that’s all they ever need to do. A cult favorite of Central Oregon, Sparrow Bakery’s beignets are a miracle and the baguettes could bring a Parisian to tears. We recommend the chouquettes, aka sugar topped pastry puffs.

Drink

What is food without drinks? For the parched, Bend has plenty of breweries, bars, and beer halls to slake your thirst, but the following two destinations are standouts. Crux Fermentation Project

Chase McPeak/The Manual Good beer, good food, and a great location all contribute to Crux Fermentation Project being our pick for the best brewery in Bend. With every type of beer imaginable (sour, saison, IPA, pilsner, imperial IPA, American stouts, lagers, and porters), Crux has a pint for everyone. On top of the badass brews, Crux Fermentation also offers up some of the best pub grub in the area. Do not leave without ordering the charcuterie board and the pretzels. Trust us on this one. 10 Barrel Brewing

10 Barrel Brewing Company/Facebook Since its opening in 2006, 10 Barrel Brewing has expanded to include brewpubs in several other states (Colorado, California, and Idaho) in addition to its flagship brewery in Bend and a few outposts in Portland. Year-round beers include Apocalypse IPA, Joe IPA, and Out of Office (a hoppy pilsner). With a fantastic outdoor patio and pub food (think pizza, burgers, fish and chips, and other sandwiches), 10 Barrel Brewing is the perfect spot to drop in for a little apres ski (or raft or hike or bike). Order the cast iron cookie pie to top it all off. Don’t worry, all those calories can easily be burned off in Bend.

Stay

While there are plenty of great places to stay in Bend’s city center, the best places are found outside city limits, closer to the mountains, rivers, and trails. Tetherow

Tetherow Located between Bend and Mt. Bachelor, Tetherow Resort is a combination hotel, vacation rental, and permanent community. Flanked by the previously mentioned golf course and with pristine views of the Cascade Mountains, Tetherow is the perfect place to lay your head if you’re heading up the mountain for skiing, snowshoeing, or other snow sports. Each resort room offers plenty of storage space for your skis, boots, and other winter gear without spilling into the room’s living space. A clubhouse, three restaurants, fitness center, and outdoor pool and hot tub round out the Tetherow’s amenities. Sunriver Resort

Sunriver/Facebook With 300 days of sunshine a year, Sunriver Resort, just south of Bend, is another great option to rest your weary bones between running rapids and bombing down hills. Much like Tetherow, Sunriver offers hotel rooms, vacation home rentals, and permanent living communities. A fantastic spa with men’s only hot tub, steam room, and sauna provides ample options for relaxation, while the resort’s multiple eateries fill even the emptiest of stomachs. Rooms include fireplaces, balconies, and rustic charm all wrapped in a clean and modern package. Riverhouse on the Deschutes

Riverhouse on the Deschutes Built on either side of the rushing Deschutes River, Riverhouse on the Deschutes is located just five minutes north of downtown Bend and 30 minutes from Mt. Bachelor. Rooms are spacious and many having direct views to the river (which also means the calming sound of water if you open your window); all have fireplaces. Riverhouse’s restaurant, Currents, is a fantastic dinner option with an unbelievable view of the river and local dishes such as stuffed Oregon rabbit loin and Oregon albacore tuna make the most of the state’s bounty of beautiful ingredients. Bunk and Brew Hostel

Bunk + Brew Hostel For a place decidedly less fancy than the above, check out Bunk and Brew Hostel. As one of our writer’s described Bunk and Brew: “This sustainable retreat is a part of the City of Bend’s Registered Historic Society and was remodeled by its new owners (and avid explorers at heart), Frankie and Jota (or “J” in English) to become an affordable lodging option for wanderlust travelers …. Book a room or bunk for as little as $39 a night, plus free breakfast — hello fresh-baked bread — free city maps, and linens and towels included.” For traveling on the cheap, you can’t get much better than this. Take heed, ski bums! Read the full article

#Outdoorsports

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pamagrimes-blog · 7 years

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Chicken Mom and The Big Eddy

“The River can kill you in a thousand ways.” ~ Paul Serone, Anaconda

As I stood on the banks of the Deschutes River in Central Oregon staring into the jaws of what I assumed would be certain death, it was Jon Voight’s voice I heard above the roar of the rapids. His infamous line from one of the worst horror flicks of all time, Anaconda, kept repeating over and in my head. There were other voices in my head that day, too, voices that screamed: “Run fool, run!”

Let me start by explaining that I’m a bit phobic when it comes to the water. I get nervous if the bathtub’s too full. But my desire to be a “fun mom” to our three sons forced me to set aside my phobia and book our family’s first white water rafting trip. So there I was, facing Class III rapids that made my heart beat faster than Trump can tap a tweet.

Our family had never been white water rafting, but our boys were anxious to try it. After some exhaustive internet research, I found Sun Country Tours in Sunriver, Oregon. They offered an entry level three hour excursion known as The Big Eddy Thriller. Sun Country’s website boasted rave reviews and photos of happy families giggling like fools as they plunged into the frothy white torrent. We, too, could be happy giggling fools, and all for the low, low price of only $60 each!

On the morning of the excursion, we arrived at the Sun Country offices in high spirits. Our boys spilled out of the van like happy puppies, anxious for the adventure ahead. At that moment it felt great to be the “fun mom.” The moment wouldn’t last long.

At the front desk, an athletic-looking young man greeted us with a stack of legal forms. “What is all this?” I asked my husband as we leafed through the paperwork. “We’re signing away our rights to sue them if anything goes hideously wrong,” he said.

Oh, snap! Shit just got real.

As I watched each of my boys sign away their rights on the dotted line, I felt my first tingling of trepidation. What kind of mother lets her kids do this? The fun kind, of course!

Once the paperwork was complete, we boarded a rickety school bus that would drive us 45 minutes north to the Deschutes National Forest. There we’d be paired with a guide and dropped into the Upper Deschutes River.

I watched the other passengers for signs of fear or concern. If anyone was nervous, they were covering it well. People chatted and laughed, seemingly unconcerned about what was to come. The sunny weather slowly gave way to overcast skies, and a light rain began to fall. I took this as an ominous sign.

I turned anxiously to my husband and asked, “Are you looking forward to this?” He pulled me close and whispered in my ear, “It’ll be a blast.” I found this of little comfort as the closest my husband had been to rafting was riding Splash Mountain at Disneyland.

After bumping our way through the forest for a few miles, the bus finally came to a halt. The driver pointed to a path and told us in broken English that we were to follow it down to the river.

Dutifully we tromped down the switchbacks to a clearing where a team of professional guides and six large yellow rafts awaited us. One young man was handing out life jackets, and I lunged at him as if we were about to board the Titanic.

We were assigned a tour guide and a raft. Our guide, Patrick, was a small, wiry guy who looked barely old enough to shave. I’d pictured someone more like Thor steering us down the river, someone who possessed the upper body strength to pull a hysterical woman from the swirling rapids. I gulped but said nothing, afraid to expose my chicken heart and lose my fun mom cred.

Our raft had a few seats left, so Patrick assigned two additional passengers to our group; Ava and her 19-year-old daughter Tiffany, or as I dubbed them; Sporty Spice and Baby Spice.

Dripping in Nike athleisure wear Sporty Spice was nothing short of an Amazon, complete with rippling biceps, perfect white teeth and a thick blonde mane. Sporty introduced herself locking my hand in a vice-grip. I tried not to wince as she crushed most of the 27 bones in my hand.

You know those buddy comedies where they match two physical opposites? That was Sporty Spice and me. I was the Jonah Hill to her Channing Tatum. Sporty was the alpha-female, a blond Xena Warrior Princess, while I was the poser in cheap aqua shoes and a tattered baseball cap.

Sporty Spice offered to take the bow position as she was an “experienced power rower.”

Of course, she was.

“These Class III Rapids are child’s play,” Sporty scoffed. “I’ve been down class V rapids; you wear a helmet for those.”

Our guide Patrick seemed overly impressed, confessing he’d never even seen Class V rapids. This exchange did nothing to boost my confidence in him. It looked as though our lives would be in the hands of Sporty Spice. I prayed she was as tough as she looked.

Before climbing into our raft, Patrick announced the middle seat was open. It was the safest spot in the boat and came with a panic strap. My hand shot up. “I’ll take it if no one else wants it!” I offered a little too quickly. My boys shook their heads.

Uncool.

I’d outed myself as the chicken of the group. I wanted to be the brave mom but let’s face it; Sporty Spice had that job locked down. “You’ll be fine,” Sporty said slapping me on the back so hard that I gagged on my gum.

We shoved off and eased downriver toward the first group of Class I Rapids. They were a snap. I began to relax and unclenched a little. Next up were the Class II Rapids. These were a little wilder but thrilling, and our team navigated them with ease.

Between rapids, Patrick pointed out various lava rock formations, Osprey nests and other local points of interest. My boys were having a blast, smiles all around. Fun mom comes through again! I was beginning to think this white water rafting thing was a piece of cake. But that feeling would be fleeting.

As we rounded the bend, Patrick announced we’d be going ashore to scout the upcoming Class III Rapids so that he could explain some necessary maneuvers. Securing our raft, we trudged through the water and hiked uphill into the forest to get a better view of the rapids below.

When I first laid eyes on those rapids, I froze. I was unable to conceive that my entire family, would momentarily be careening down them on what amounted to a flimsy rubber sheet.

These were nothing like the rapids we’d experienced. What lay before us was a churning, roaring torrent of water, a river wild, thunderous and dangerous with sheer drops at every turn. My stomach began to percolate.

As everyone eagerly gathered to view the river, I hung back reviewing my options. I could walk back to Sunriver, sure it was a 30-mile trek, and I was in the middle of the freaking Deschutes Forest but what was my alternative? Panic set in. I was trapped. There was only one way out, and it was over those churning rapids.

Suddenly I didn’t give a rat’s ass about being fun or cool or brave. I was the chicken mom and would embrace it wholeheartedly!

While I kvetched, Patrick explained how to stay afloat on the rapids if thrown from the raft. My mouth went dry, and I clutched Patrick’s arm. “Do you mean we might go down the rapids….without the raft?” Patrick patted my hand and assured me that many people claim it’s the best part of their trip.

What???

Nowhere on Sun Country’s website did it claim “You’ll have a jolly old time when you’re tossed from the raft and sail down the rapids on your ass.” To add to my anxiety, Patrick began checking our life jackets, because as he put it, “If not tightly cinched, the river could rip them from our bodies.”

Was this guy messing with us?

Suddenly our happy family rafting trip had turned into The River Wild, Anaconda and Deliverance all rolled into one. I could almost hear the strains of banjo music wafting through the breeze.

“The river can kill you in a thousand ways.”

“You seem a little nervous, Pam,” Patrick said cinching my life jacket. I nodded vigorously, unable to contain my mounting fear. “Did the profuse sweating, dilated pupils, and dry heaving tip you off?” I asked. Patrick merely smiled and reassured me we’d be okay.

Having no other option, I hoisted myself back into the raft, grabbed ahold of the panic strap, and put on a brave face. “Okay, let’s do this thing!” I barked.

As we shoved off the embankment, Patrick threw out one last warning. “Whatever happens — stay away from the jagged lava rocks, they’ll shred our raft.”

I threw up in my mouth. Just a little.

Oars poised we headed downriver and into the gaping maw of the rapids. Our group navigated the first two sets of rapids with precision, dodging and weaving through the heavy water. The last of the Class III Rapids lay before us. Every muscle in my body was clenched and ready for the drops and turns we were about to face.

We took the first drop and found ourselves heading directly into a solid wall of water. The wave crashed over us, drenching us and sending our boat directly toward the jagged rocks. The jagged rocks Patrick had just warned would “shred our raft.”

There was a moment of quiet panic as, collectively, we realized we were about to get deeply screwed. In a split second, Patrick was yelling commands. “Back, back, row back! NOW!”

Without an oar, I felt helpless and having nothing else constructive to do I repeated Patrick’s directives. “Back! Back! Back!” I shrieked. Sporty Spice sprang into action, rowing backward with the strength of ten Amazons, plus two!

Thanks to teamwork we narrowly avoided the jagged rocks. Once out of harm’s way we could relax and enjoy the rest of our tour. We bounced through the final group of Class II Rapids and pulled ashore where our bus awaited us. The trip was over. We’d made it.

Once ashore Sporty Spice asked me how I liked my first white water rafting experience. I had to be honest, as phobic as I am, it was unforgettable. And now that I was safely on dry land I could admit that it had been thrilling.

That day on the Deschutes I came face to face with my worst fear. I had no way out, no way back and no choice but to forge ahead. Fear is part of being human, but sacrifice is part of being a mom. In the end, my desire to create an unforgettable memory for my boys outweighed my chicken heart. I’m not saying I managed it with any amount of dignity or aplomb. But at least I DID it.

Now that they’ve had a taste, my boys can’t wait to go white water rafting again. They’re busy planning next year’s trip; a half day excursion down Class IV Rapids. Will I go? Of course! What else would a fun mom do?

#travel #family #adventure #parenting #humor

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