Cycle Oregon just posted its 2013 route, and I am currently wallowing in self-pity that I can’t afford to go this year. (I’ve done the 2004, 2008 and 2009 rides.) This year’s route travels through some of Oregon’s most gorgeous scenery, including my favorite campsite in the whole state, and also goes along most of the route my mom and I took when we visited Steens Mountain last year. What a ride!
To aid in wallowing, I watched this video from last year’s ride, which perfectly encapsulates the Cycle Oregon experience. The camaraderie, the scenery, the occasional weirdness, the amazingly warm welcomes from small host towns, and best of all, the feeling that you are doing some good in the world just by getting on your bike and riding. (Well, that and paying your entry fee, which is really where the good stuff originates.)
It’s long, but if you’d like an inside look at one of the best bike tours in the US, this is a great way to spend half an hour.
(Best in 720p and full screen, of course.)
Oh, Oregon. What a sweet half an hour that video provided. *sniff* Idaho’s great and all, but it’s not home.
I think I hear a dusty old Cannondale calling my name.
Dust it off, oil that chain and climb on!
In another six weeks or so, yes.
We still have snow on the ground!
It’s never too early to clean.
So true. Nor too late!
Added this to the 2014 projects, thanks!
Great to hear about the ‘to be studied’ Willamette Valley to coast trail, especially using the old railroad through the forest… that’s something to look for. One of my favorite bike trails here is the Banks-Vernonia, that for the most part runs on a re-purposed railroad. To think about a full Valley to Coast one is just insanely appealing. Yes!
Tell you what — when that proposed trail is finished, I’ll jet over and we’ll ride it.
That’s (also) a deal, but since that may take at least a couple of years, let’s see if we can make it to the next Cycle Oregon (or the one after that). I’ll start training. Just not sure a year will be enough.
Count me in!!! The CO Weekend ride was in Vernonia in 2007 and I’ve since wanted to go back to that area to ride. Lovely area!
Ha! I had a feeling we could count on Power Wench. Sounds like we’ve got a future date for a Valley to Coast ride. And in the meantime, Paulo, you might be able to talk me into that other date…
I agree, that route is so appealing!
Safe bicycling, always!