Digging Into the Past With the can-you-believe-we-actually-celebrate-this Columbus Day holiday just behind us, it’s a good time to learn about and reflect on the folks that inhabited this land well before ol’ Chris made a wrong turn on his way to stock spice cupboards. So how serendipitous is it that these two events are taking […]
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Whychus? Do ‘Em Both
Whychus is sure to please
Chush Falls Chush Falls, also known as Lower Whychus Falls, is one of three proximate falls on Whychus Creek. The three have been said by some to rival Yellowstone for scenic value. I can’t stand behind that claim, but ours are something special and a much shorter trip to boot. The official trail ends at […]
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High Desert Heroes
Celebrate a combined 75 years of Central Oregon conservation
Central Oregon would hardly be the place it is today were it not for the blood, sweat, and acumen of so many engaged residents willing to pull together. This year, the holy trinity of Central Oregon conservation groups are celebrating some pretty big anniversaries with events highlighting their many successes. Central Oregon Land Watch Central […]
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Going to Great Heights
High-elevation hikes in the Cascades
Well, it’s that time of year; the kids are back in school, the leaves are changing color, and there’s a pleasant nip in the air signaling that indeed fall has arrived. For many, this means it’s time to hang up your hiking boots and dust off your ski gear. But wait, not so fast! Now […]
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Go Here 9/16-9/23
Going to the extreme
For most, you might achieve an adrenaline rush by running a road race or taking on the steepest mountain bike trail. What those endeavors have in common is that your feet, for the most part, are firmly planted on terra firma. If these activities don’t quite do it for you, here are some suggestions for […]
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On the Rocks
Climbing opportunities for every skill level
Think rock climbing in Central Oregon and the mind naturally gravitates to Smith Rock State Park, termed the birthplace of American sport climbing, and its thousands of bolted routes. But, for those less experienced climbers seeking the thrill of scaling walls, Bend Endurance Academy’s Climbing Program Director Mike Rougeux, a 15-year climbing veteran, has some […]
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Where the Dogs Are
Bend has a reputation for going to the dogs, or at least accommodating them. A number of breweries, restaurants, and other businesses accommodate pet owners, even leaving out water bowls for our canine companions during the summer’s heat. But with their popularity comes controversy, especially regarding humans allowing their dogs to run off leash or […]
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Pitch a Tent
These campsites may fill quickly, so don’t delay
Everyone’s definition of camping is different. For some, it means towing their full-amenity travel trailer to the RV park with full hookups, playground, and swimming pool. On the other extreme, camping means parking the car (or locking the bike) and heading as far into the Three Sisters Wilderness as possible. For most, somewhere in between […]
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Go Here 8/19-8/26
Look Up!
Last week’s visit by the annual Perseid Meteor Shower turned Central Oregon’s eyes to the sky. For some continued star-gazing, here are some nearby—and not so close—locations for taking in the marvels of the sky on any optimal evening. Simply go where it’s dark A quick drive out to Tumalo Reservoir Road (head west until […]
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Make Your Own Summer Camp
Go Here 8/12-8/19
Dave Dallas is well qualified to recommend activities for kids—he teaches third grade at Amity Creek School. He and his wife, Mary, are also known for their participation in strenuous outdoor activities. Dave is a triathlete who recently completed his first Ironman in Coeur d’Alene. Mary’s preference is cyclocross and mountain bike racing, and also […]
