North West Crossing Hullabaloo

Looking for something last minute to do on a Friday night?  Check out the North West Crossing Hullabaloo!  Featuring the NW Cross Crit, an annual kids' and adults' crit races, live music, food and of course, BEER!  Read on for the schedule for race times, events and music, complete with a map.

NorthWest Crossing Hullabaloo

The 5th Annual NorthWest Crossing Hullabaloo, presented by Country Financial is Friday, June 29, 2012! The Hullabaloo is a celebration as unique as its name. This unofficial kickoff to summer features food, fun, music, bike races and more, all in a friendly, street festival atmosphere. It’s a party and everyone is invited!

Kids, Crit, presented by Umpqua Bank – 3:30-4:00pm

A popular race with kids 11 and under, this year’s Kids’ Crit course is around the uniquely round Compass Park, located in the heart of NorthWest Crossing. At approximately 1/3 of a mile, participants are grouped by age, and (starting with the youngest racers first), will complete a number of laps appropriate for their age:
3 and under: 1 lap
4-5 years old: 1 lap
6-8 years old: 2 lap
9 – 11 years old: 3 laps
Participation is free but pre-registration is required at the Umpqua Bank store located on NW Crossing Drive by noon on Friday, June 29th. Download the registration form. Participants must wear a helmet and meet in Compass Park by 3:20pm. Prizes will be awarded for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd places in each age category. Free ice cream from the Umpqua Bank Ice Cream Truck provides a very cool and yummy finish!

2012 Hullabaloo Mainstage, presented by The Garner Group and Carrera Audi presents…

4:00pm     Anastacia
5:30pm     Five Pint Mary
7:00pm     3 Leg Torso
8:30pm     Storm Large
Anastacia is a singer songwriter who moves through musical genres like a fearless explorer traveling the world. Familiar sounds of Americana, folk rock, bluegrass and a hint of eastern spice, drive Anastacia’s expression of external and internal observations creating a vehicle for her storytelling. Anastacia composes her music and filters it through her long-time band members weaving a unique and unlikely combination of sounds such as banjo, saxophone, stand-up electric bass and violin. Anastacia creates an expansive atmosphere through her dynamic voice and style of delivery. Poetry and music collide to ignite an uplifting, thought-provoking, high-energy experience.
Five Pint Mary is Bend’s own hometown Celtic folk-rock band. Upbeat, loud, and rollicking, Five Pint Mary plays their own unique blend of Celtic folk rock with an edge of punk. Drawing from traditional and original Irish/Scottish/New Foundland music by the likes of the Chieftains, the Pogues, the Young Dubliners, Great Big Sea, Flogging Molly, Five Pint Mary delivers a fresh sound that is rocking and fun.
3 Leg Torso creates charming, elegant and daring modern chamber pop music infused with equal parts tradition and innovation. Since the ensemble’s humble start in 1996 with spontaneous street performances, they have been featured on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered and at the San Luis Obispo Mozart Festival, successfully toured the east and west coasts, released four CDs (two with New York spoken word artist, NPR contributor and Duplex Planet founder David Greenberger), composed and recorded film and documentary scores as well as licensing music for film and television both in the US and internationally, written new evening length works commissioned by the Portland Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA), and performed both their original compositions and their arrangements of traditional music with several symphony orchestras. Influenced by tango, Eastern European folk and other world music traditions, their cosmopolitan musical style embraces wit and humor within thoughtful, uncommon and beautiful musical arrangements.
Storm Large has been singing and entertaining audiences around the globe for more than 20 years. With her band, The Balls, she has toured all around the US, Canada, New Zealand, Spain, Iceland and Singapore. Taking a break from rock touring in 2007, she ventured into new territory and played Sally Bowles in Cabaret and fell in love with the theater. In 2008 she wrote a musical memoir, “Crazy Enough” that ran for five sold-out months at Portland Center Stage in 2009 in Portland, Ore. Following its opening success, “Crazy Enough” ran at the 2010 Edinburgh Fringe Festival earning rave reviews, and was a featured show at the 2011 Adelaide Cabaret Festival in Adelaide, Australia, and has a Broadway run in the works. Storm was recently in the world premiere of Randy Newman’s ” Harps And Angels” at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles, and with all her free time she has performed several sold-out performances with the Oregon Symphony. She has spent most of the past year as the guest vocalist for Pink Martini, touring the US and Europe. She is also a writer and activist.

NWX Crit, presented by BendBroadband – 4:30 – 9:00pm

The 5^th annual NWX Criterium, presented by BendBroadband is back with exciting races for pros, masters, juniors and amateur cyclists. This year’s NEW course provides participants with a broader view of the neighborhood and features a nice long straightaway finish on John Fremont. Visitors won’t want to miss the action and with races starting at 4:30pm and concluding at dusk, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see some amazing athletes.
SCHEDULE:
3:30pm – Registration opens at the Start/Finish area on John Fremont Street
4:30pm – JUNIORS – 25 minutes
5:00pm – WOMEN – 35 minutes
5:40pm – TANDEM – 35 minutes
6:25pm – CAT 4/5 MEN – 40 minutes
7:15pm – CAT 3 MEN – 45 minutes
8:10pm – PRO/1/2 MEN – 50 minutes
If you’re interested in participating, an OBRA License and helmet are required. Annual and one-day licenses will be available for purchase. Pre-registration is just $20. Day-of registration is $30 or $20 + 5 cans of food to benefit a local food bank. Race produced by Central Oregon Racing.

The Bluefish Dental Kids Stage

Bluefish Dental is hosting our Kids Stage which this year will be full of flying canines, exotic reptiles, music and of course, a little magic! Take a few minutes to relish this kid-friendly and awe-inspiring entertainment.
SCHEDULE:
4:30pm – K9 Kings Flying Dog Show, just east of the Bluefish Dental Kids Stage
5:00pm – Interactive Magic Show by Bill the Magician
5:30 – L-F7, Middle School Rock Band featuring Laurenne Ross, US Ski Team member and several MBSEF racers
6:30 – Exotic Reptile Show by Reptile Zone, LLC
7:30 – Bedtime Stories with Megan Griffith, Librarian from Seven Peaks

Win some wheels!

The great folks at COUNTRY Financial have an awesome giveaway for one lucky young Hullabalooer! Enter to win a sweet youth bike, valued at $300, as well as other great prizes. Winners will be announced on the Hullabaloo mainstage prior to Storm Large’s performance. To enter, just print out and complete this handy-dandy entry form and return it to a COUNTRY Financial office near you or to their booth at Hullabaloo on June 29th. View complete contest rules.




And don’t fret! We’re giving away wheels for the grown-ups too. How does a Porsche sound? Carrera Motors is donating a 48-hour rental of one of their luxury cars for you to enjoy. And what’s more, they’re teaming up with local non-profit, Healthy Beginnings and donating proceeds from raffle tickets to the organization whose mission is to make sure kids 5 and under get a healthy start in life. Raffle tickets are just $5 each or 5 for $20. With a retail value of $750, this is sure to be a hot ticket item! Tickets are available now at Carrera Motors on Third Street and at The Garner Group located in NorthWest Crossing. Tickets will also be available to purchase by the Carrera car display at Hullabaloo. The lucky winner will be drawn on the Mainstage before 3 Leg Torso’s performance at 7pm. Winner need not be present to win.

Get it in gear and get here!

As a sustainable community, NorthWest Crossing would like to encourage Hullabaloo-goers to consider alternative forms of transportation. For neighbors who bike to the festivities, there will be ample bike parking available next to Pisano’s Pizza; just be sure to bring your own lock!
The Cascades East Transit system offers bus service to NorthWest Crossing via the #3 route, which operates until the 6:00 hour.
The Green Energy Bus will also be offering FREE shuttle service, 4pm – 10pm to and from downtown Bend. Pick-up/Drop off site is 900 Wall Street at the top and bottom of every hour.
We understand that sometimes, a vehicle is necessary. Parking is available at Summit High School, as well as street parking. We ask that you be considerate of our residents and their landscaping when parking on the street, taking care not to block driveways.
And when you shouldn’t drive home, Sober Dudes will be on hand to drive you (and your vehicle) home safely! Look for them by the mainstage.

Hullabaloo goes green…

C3 Events and NorthWest Crossing are excited to launch our “Towards Zero Waste” campaign, as we work with local partners to make a huge impact on our community in terms of preservation. Come visit our “Toward Zero Waste” stations throughout the event grounds to dispose of your recycling and compost, and chat with our wonderful volunteers in green about the campaign.

(Found on the NW Crossing Event's website!)

Victoria J. Smith
Loves to Work & Play in Bend, Oregon
 www.AlpenglowVacationRentals.com

June Festivities!

So much is happening this weekend!  We have the Bite of Bend and the 4 Peaks Music Festival.

I will give you the rundown on both!

Bite of Bend - June 23rd - 24th.

Straight from the website:

THE STERLING BANK BITE OF BEND PRESENTED BY AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

DOWNTOWN BEND

Saturday and Sunday, June 23-24

Hours:

Saturday,	11:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sunday,	11:00 am to 7:00 pm

The Sterling Bank Bite of Bend presented by American Family Insurance is Central Oregon’s largest, most exciting and fastest-growing charity event and festival. This event is free to the public and includes activities for the whole family such as the live Top Chef competition, performance stage, beer garden, fine food and wine, the 3rd Annual Beer Run, as well as a children’s area; not to mention the many local food booths.

The Sterling Bank Bite of Bend presented by American Family Insurance celebrates our local culture and highlights the foods of our region, including Oregon Wines and Liquors.

Join us for The Bite of Bend this summer and celebrate the fabulous foods of Oregon!

There is also a 5k Beer Run, if you Pre-register before June 22nd it's $20 dollars and you get a Beer Run Growler!  You can register here 

The race starts at noon on Sunday!

It wouldn't be a Bend Summer Event without free Music!  Check out some of the bands playing this weekend!

SATURDAY JUNE 23

11:00 am Bill Keale

12:30pm Joanna Lee

2pm Leif James

3:30pm Harley Bourbon

5:00 pm Stairway Denied: Tribute to Led Zeppelin

6:30pm The Autonomics

8:30pm Whitey Morgan and the 78′s

SUNDAY JUNE 24

11:00am Allen Byer

12:30pm Franchot Tone

2:00pm TRIUR AMADAN

3:30pm RaiseTheVibe

5:00pm The Polyrythmics

Another Bend Event happening is the 4 Peaks Music Festival

Although, you can no longer buy tickets unless you know someone, you CAN still buy tickets for a Live Stream for $15.

You can buy the live stream HERE

I, personally, can't wait to enjoy these fun events in a place that I call home!

Thanks and see you out there!

Vanessa

 Victoria J. Smith
Alpenglow Vacation Rentals, LLC
Bend, Oregon

Bend Oregon Makes Top 10 For Best Bicycling Destination In The US...AGAIN!

Bend Oregon Makes Top 10 For Best Bicycling Destination in the US

Look out Boulder, CO, here we come!

Yes, we have once again gained recognition for our sunny blue skies, excellent dry weather and great climbs for bicycle enthusiasts according to Bike Radar.  Pack up your bikes, bring your gear, book a first guided ride on Bend's pristine trails with Cog Wild and round out the day sipping beer at the Deschutes Brewery or one of several breweries that Bend is fondly known for and relax in one of our vacation rentals!

Best cycling destinations in the US

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By Fred Dreier in the US | Wednesday, Jun 20, 2012 3.35pm

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Riders in front of the Cascade Range, just outside Bend, Oregon (Jill Rosell)

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It’s time to fire up the family wagon, tie down the bikes and hit the road for a cycling vacation. But where to go? BikeRadar conducted an informal survey of pro and amateur riders from various regions of the US to pick 10 of America’s best cycling destinations. 

MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Marin is hardly a secret in the cycling world, and you’ve undoubtedly heard a buddy’s gushing account of the redwood-lined roads and trails that crisscross Mount Tamalpais, Muir Woods National Monument and the Marin Headlands. Guess what? Your buddy is spot on, as Marin County offers up a never-ending supply of sublime loops and out-and-backs, just a short spin across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.
From Mill Valley, the 2,600ft climb up Mt Tamalpais rewards riders with a twisting descent to Stinson Beach and Highway 1. The Bolinas Ridge trail from Olena to Fairfax takes off-road riders along tracks that helped give birth to the original mountain bike. And if you’re looking for a serious challenge? Start in San Rafael and tackle the Mount Tam Century’s 100-mile lollypop course.
What it offers
– The challenging but beautiful Mount Tamalpais climb.
– Highway 1’s route through Stinson Beach and Tomales Bay.
– Classic mountain bike trails in Fairfax and Bolinas.
Why it’s the best
Some of the country’s most scenic rides, just a short spin from San Francisco.
How to get there
Fly to San Francisco International Airport and drive north on Highway 101, across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Best bike shops
Fairfax Cyclery, 2020 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Fairfax,  (415) 721-7644
Bici Sport, 143 Kentucky Street, Petaluma, (707) 775-4676
Tam Bikes, 357 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, (415) 389-1900
ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
The south-east’s most revered cycling town, Asheville is home to a plethora of long, hilly road loops through the Blue Ridge mountains, as well as challenging mountain biking in nearby Pisgah National Forest.
“We have no flats anywhere – you’re always climbing or descending,” said Mike Smith, a lifelong Asheville resident and employee at Liberty Bicycles. The highest point east of the Mississippi, Mt Mitchell, is a 35-mile ride away on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville offers a wide range of dining and hospitality opportunities, too, but we recommend grabbing a cold one at the Wedge Brewing Company.
What it offers
– Highest climb east of the Mississippi.
– Challenging mountain bike trails in Pisgah National Forest.
– The endless, wide roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Why it’s the best
For a combination of road and mountain biking, no place east of the Mississippi comes close.
How to get there
Asheville has its own regional airport, or a two-hour drive east of Charlotte will get you to where you need to be.
Best bike shops
BioWheels, 76 Biltmore Avenue, (828) 232-0300
Liberty Bicycles, 1378 Hendersonville Road, (828) 274-2453
Pro Bikes, 610 Haywood Road, Suite B, (828) 253-2800

Ride around Asheville and you should expect nothing but climbs and descents
TUCSON, ARIZONA
We don’t recommend Tucson in the summer, but the city is one of the country’s best cycling destinations from December through to March, when conditions are usually a steady 70 degrees and sunny. The winding Catalina Highway climb up the 9,100ft Mount Lemmon is one of the south-west’s most famous climbs.
Sandy mountain bike trail networks crisscross the nearby Rincon, Santa Rita, Catalina and Tucson mountain ranges. You’re bound to see a smattering of pro riders on the Saturday Shootout group ride, which meets at the Starbucks at University Blvd, just west of the University of Arizona campus. Watch out, though – the Shootout reaches top speed as soon as riders clear the city limit.  
What it offers
– Winter riding taking in some stunning roads and climbs.
– The Willow Springs, Starr Pass and Robles mountain bike trail networks, plus the La Milagrosa and Chiva Falls trails in the Rincon mountains.
Why it’s the best
When the rest of the country is buried by snow and rain, Tucson is high and dry.
How to get there
Flights into Tucson International Airport are regular. Otherwise, it’s an eight-hour drive east of Los Angeles or a two-hour drive south of Phoenix.
Best bike shops
Sabino Cycles, 7045 E Tanque Verde Road, (520) 885-3666
Fairwheel Bikes, 1110 East 6th Street, (520) 884-9018
Ordinary Bike Shop, 311 East 7th Street, (520) 622-6488
AUSTIN, TEXAS
Texas’s capital is heaven for group rides. Each day, between five and 20 organized road outings leave from various meeting spots around the city. Some, such as the Sunday RoadKill and Wednesday Hump Day Nooner, are conversation paced socials. Others, such as Saturday’s Tri-Cyclist, are traditional, fast-paced rides. The online calendar at Austin on Two Wheels is a helpful guide to the various events.
The riding around Austin ranges from flat and fast to hilly, with challenging climbs in the Balcones Canyonlands wildlife refuge north-west of town.
What it offers
– Year-round road riding.
– Group rides every day of the week.
– Flat and hilly terrain.
Why it’s the best
If Austin is good enough for Lance Armstrong to train in, chances are it’s good enough for you.
How to get there
Flights run daily to and from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Best bike shops
Mellow Johnny’s, 400 Nueces Street, (512) 473-0222
Austin Tri-Cyclist, 923 Barton Springs Road, (512) 494-9252
Bicycle Sport Shop, 517 South Lamar Boulevard, (512) 477-3472
DURANGO, COLORADO
There’s a reason the world’s best mountain bike racers favoured Durango during the sport’s Nineties heyday. The extensive trail networks that crisscross the surrounding San Juan mountains start downtown. “It’s the only non-ski resort town I’ve been to where the trails are accessible right from town,” said pro mountain biker Todd Wells, who lives in Durango.
The 500-mile Colorado Trail connects Durango with Denver, and provides numerous alpine loops through pine forests. The Overend Mountain Park trails (yes, it’s named after local mountain bike hero Ned Overend) also start in town. And the Hermosa Creek, Kennebec Pass and Cascade Creek networks provide longer loops for more skilled and adventurous riders.
The town also has worthy road riding, including the 55-mile trek across the Coal Bank and Molas passes to Silverton. And when you’ve hung up the bike for the day, head to The Summit for a pint and burger.
What it offers
– Mountain bike trails for all levels of riders, starting downtown.
– Road climbs of more than 12,000ft passes on the historic route to Silverton.
– An easy base for those who want to explore the Colorado Trail.
Why it’s the best
Ned Overend, John Tomac, Missy Giove and many other greats of American mountain biking cut their teeth on Durango’s trails.
How to get there 
Durango has a regional airport (Durango-La Plata County) with regular flights from Denver.
Best bike shops
San Juan Cycles, 48 County Rd 250, (970) 259-6014
Mountain Bike Specialists, 949 Main Ave, (970) 247-4066
Durango Cyclery, 43 East 13th Street, (970) 247-0747
PEAK TO PEAK HIGHWAY, COLORADO
Colorado’s oldest official scenic byway, the 65-mile Peak to Peak Highway made our list because of the numerous road and mountain bike routes that spring from its pavement, as well as its soaring views of the Front Range.
Starting at Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the route winds south on Highway 7 beneath the 14,259ft Longs Peak and on to Black Hawk. It undulates between 7,500 and 10,000ft along the route. There are numerous bailout options along the route, with Golden Gate, Coal Creek, Boulder, Left Hand, Jamestown and South St Vrain canyons leading down to the flats.
Want a challenge? From Black Hawk, ride over to Idaho Springs and tackle the 23-mile climb up 14,265ft Mt Evans.
What it offers
– 65 miles of long climbs and fast descents at the foot of Colorado’s Front Range.
– Golden Gate, Coal Creek, Boulder, Left Hand, Jamestown and St Vrain canyon descents.
– Mountain biking at the Eldora ski resort, just outside Nederland.
Why it’s the best
Lung-busting altitude just a short drive from Denver and Boulder.
How to get there
Get to Denver, then drive for about an hour and a half, heading for Estes Park.
Best bike shops
Estes Park Mountain Shop, 2050 Big Thompson Avenue, (970) 586-6548
Happy Trails Bicycle Shop, 98 Highway 119 SNederland,(303) 258-3435
BEND, OREGON
Forget about Oregon’s rainy reputation – Bend is kept high and dry on the Cascade range’s soaring volcanoes, which also supply numerous road climbs and mountain biking trails. Many cyclists liken Bend’s high, arid climate to that of Boulder, only without the competitive crowds of bike racers and triathletes.
Looking for a road ride? Check out the route for the Cascade Cycling Classic, the longest-running elite stage race in the US. And if you’re a mountain biker, the trails from Mount Bachelor to Bend provide 45 miles of challenging singletrack.
Don’t feel like exploring on your own? Contact the folks at Cog Wild, who provide guided tours and shuttle runs to the best trails in the region. Of course, no ride is complete without a stop at one of Bend’s many breweries. We recommend Deschutes or the Bend Brewing Company.
What it offers
– Extensive opportunities for mountain, road and cyclocross fans.
– Year-round riding in a high but dry climate.
– Long climbs.
Why it’s the best
Just like Boulder, only without the crowds.
How to get there
If you can get to Portland International Airport it’s a three-and-a-half hour drive on Highway 97.
Bike shops
Sagebrush Cycles, 35 SW Century Drive, (541) 389-4224
Hutch's Bicycles (541) 382-6248

The Cascade range’s snowy peaks make a striking background in Bend, Oregon
LEHIGH VALLEY, PENNSYLVANIA
One of the north-east’s unofficial cycling capitals, the Lehigh Valley region of Allentown and Bethlehem offers an easy cycling getaway for riders from New York and Philadelphia. The region is dotted with challenging hills and covered in a network of small farming roads, many of which are used by the area’s Amish residents.
The Delaware river valley provides challenging terrain, especially around the towns of Jim Thorpe and Palmerton. The Lehigh velodrome has been holding regular track races since 1975, and is the reason a smattering of pro roadies and track cyclists still live and train in the area. And the Lehigh Wheelmen Association, which has been around since 1951, organizes group rides and races each week.
What it offers
– Hilly riding on empty farm roads.
– Trexlertown’s Lehigh velodrome.
– Regular group rides and a robust cycling infrastructure.
Why it’s the best
Only an hour-and-a-half west of New York City and two hours north of Philly, it’s well within reach for a weekend getaway.
How to get there
From New York, head west on Interstate 78 for 90 miles. From Philadelphia drive north on I-76 to I-476 for 75 miles.
Best bike shops
Genesis Bicycles, 126 Bushkill St, Easton, (610) 253-1140
Bike Line, 1728 West Tilghman Street, Allentown, (610) 437-6100
Cutters Bike Shop, 418 East 3rd St, Bethlehem, (610) 419-4027
BURLINGTON, VERMONT
Burlington is up there, about 35 miles shy of the Canadian border, but the mountainous terrain and seclusion make it a paradise for cycling (once the snow has melted). The riding is punctuated by steep, short passes such as the App, Lincoln and Middlebury gaps. We recommend tackling the Smuggler’s Notch climb on Highway 108, which is part of a larger loop to Stowe ski area and back.
For off-road riding, check out the local Catamount ski area, which is the gateway to several great trail networks. Catamount also has a weekly Wednesday night mountain bike racing series. Pro cyclist Lea Davison, who grew up in nearby Jericho, recommends the resort as a ride-in, ride-out option. “It’s the idyllic Vermont bed and breakfast option, with trails right out the door, road loops and swimming holes close by.”
What it offers
– Pristine mountain climbs and off-the-beaten-track remoteness.
– Rooty, rocky, East Coast-style mountain biking.
– Flatter roads along Lake Champlain.
Why it’s the best
You’ll be the only one on the road.
How to get there
Get a flight to Burlington International Airport, or head north from Boston on I-93 and I-89 (about four hours).
Best bike shops
Local Motion, 1 Steele St 103, (802) 861-2700
Earl’s Cyclery & Fitness, 2500 Williston Road, South Burlington, (802) 864-9197
Cycle Loft, 28 Cambridge St, Burlington, (781) 272-0870

The edge of Lake Champlain provides a natural route in Burlington, Vermont
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
You don’t need to race horses to appreciate the derby city. Louisville sits at the southern edge of the Ohio Valley, possibly the best region for rural road riding in the mid-west.
But we’re most excited about Louisville as a cycling destination because the city will host the 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships from 29 January to 3 February. You don’t have to be a hardcore fan to appreciate cyclo-cross, which provides some of the most spectator-friendly and exciting action in pro bike racing. Check it out.
What it offers
– UCI cyclo-cross for 2013.
– Year-round riding on challenging terrain.
– A variety of group rides hosted by the Louisville Bicycle Club.
Why it’s the best
The cyclo-cross worlds don’t come around every day.
How to get there
Louisville has its own international airport, with regular flights from many major cities.
Best bike shops

Related articles

• How to pack your bike
• Best bike boxes and bike bags

Related links

• Best cycling holidays
• BikeRadar Training Routes

On Your Left, 618 Baxter Avenue, (502) 749-6775
Bicycle Sport, 132 Breckenridge Lane, (502) 897-2611
VO2 Multisport, 131 St Matthews Ave, (502) 290-7433
Feeling inspired? Find mountain biking holidays in the US with MuchBetterAdventures, or share your top American cycling routes with BikeRadar Training.
You can follow BikeRadar on Twitter at twitter.com/bikeradar and on Facebook at facebook.com/BikeRadar.

 Victoria J. Smith
Alpenglow Vacation Rentals, LLC
Bend, Oregon

Nathan Borchelt of the Away Network Enjoys Bend Oregon

Bend Oregon enjoyed a visit from Nathan Borchelt of Gorp.Com and the Away Network this past spring.  While most of the country turned up empty for snow, Bend had its fair amount and more is believed in the upcoming seasons ahead.  The thought of having Nathan return floats in our heads, but for now, this what he had to say about his Bend experience:

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By Nathan Borchelt
04/12/2012

The back porch of Mount Bachelor in November 2011… and the snow kept on coming (Mount Bachelor Resort)

The only evidence of winter we saw in our Washington, D.C., HQ this season was exactly three snow flurries (and one of those happened in October!). Otherwise, the winter of 2011-2012 has been more a prolonged foreplay into spring, and much of the country has witnessed the same, sad fate.
Except for places like Mount Bachelor.

While many of the country's ski resorts were quietly plotting ways to truck in snow (like Whistler/Blackcomb did for the 2010 Winter Olympics), this resort outside of Bend, Oregon, has seen near-steady snowfall throughout the season--so much so that the mountain now boasts a seasonal total of 447 inches...and counting, with three inches falling within the last 24 hours, and a 15-foot-deep base.

And, like moths to a flame, the skiers and riders are on their way. Legions of national and international alpine, freestyle, and Nordic teams will be leaving their snow-starved homes to train at Bachelor this May. Likewise, recreational skiers and 'boarders have found some much-needed solace in Bachelor's good fortune. The resort, which will stay open through Memorial Day weekend, is now offering its Spring Season Pass for $159 (adult), giving you daily access to the slopes through April, and Thursday through Sunday in May. This is a steal, especially when you consider that one daily adult lift ticket goes for $73.

The mountain also hosts a wide variety of special events, including the Spring Concert Series, sponsored by the seminal Deschutes Brewery. Pair that with the wide array of non-skiing activities throughout the Bend region (including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park), and spring just got a whole lot more interesting.

Oh, and last year Bachelor boasted enough snow to re-open for skiing...on July 4. So if you can't get there before Memorial Day, start planning a multisport vacation to really celebrate our country's independence.

For one-of-a-kind lodging in Bend and the surrounding area, we highly recommend Alpenglow Vacation Rentals. Its cache of luxury rental houses are a welcome change from the hotel scene and offer full kitchens, hot tubs, and ideal proximity to Bend. Owner Victoria Smith, an avid outdoorswoman, can also help arrange a veritable smorgasbord of activities throughout the region, from skiing and riding to fishing, climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking (to name a few).

Bend awaits Nathan's return, and until then we wish him Happy Trails!

Living and playing in Bend, OR,

Victoria J. Smith
Alpenglow Vacation Rentals

Bike Love at the Sea Otter Classic, 2012 with Cog Wild

Attending the Sea Otter Classic for the first time was an adventure that is highly recommended.  Having just had a knee surgery to repair a couple of meniscus tears in late February, I was excited to go on my first mountain bike ride post knee surgery successfully, although it was a short one.  Cog Wild was gracious enough to include Alpenglow Vacation Rentals in their annual camping/biking/marketing trip this year, which proved to be a great success.

Camping at the Laguna Seca Racetrack in Northern California was more like what our group affectionately referred to as "glamping".  What is glamping you ask?  Hot shower trailer, running water with several flushing toilets complete with a mirror in close proximity and regular trash pick up, sans campfires to my surprise! So many good people camping on "king of the hill" knoll, complete with a long favored tree which was a premium spot, complete with views of California rolling hills everywhere as far as the eye could see and the Monterey Bay.  For several years, Cog Wild has reclaimed their spot annually on an envied knoll and with neighbors such as Webcyclery of Bend, Oregon, Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles with their custom bus, equipped with white leather sofas, WiFi, flat screen television, sound and light system and a host of other amenities, the atmosphere of celebration and anticipation was in the air.

L to R: Woody Starr, Lev Stryker, Russ Risdon & Sara Connelly of Cog Wild & Coveted Banner

The most interesting part of this whole trip was the cultic-like following that our own beloved Cog Wild has at this event.  With many new and old visitors to our booth arriving all day, everyday and even sometimes more than once: one couple that has shown their Cog love and dedication annually by showing up to the event daily, donning their favorite Cog Wild shirts of their choice to say hello, give big smiles and great conversation.  Past patrons reveled in dropping by to share and reminisce about the "time when we visited Bend and went on this cool ride with you guys!" was a constant theme of the weekend.  One morning, we showed up to the booth find that one of Cog's oldest banners had been stolen.  I couldn't tell whether they were more bummed about the stolen "artifact" or chagrin and smirk at the thought that of the whole weekend, this was the ONLY theft that occurred at the entire event.  We had all hoped to someday either see it show up as recycled hand bags someday or hanging proudly on some bro-brah's wall in their man cave.

And The Winners ARE:

2nd From Left, Angela Mart of Webcyclery, Bend Oregon

 Bend came with its own local bragging rights when Webcyclery's Angela Mart took the second place podium finish in Category II Women's 40-49 Cross Country Mountain Bike Race completed with a painful elbow injury resulting in 5 stitches.  Way to go Angela!

Also, a blind beer tasting event occurred at the party hosted by mtbr.com between Bend's Boneyard Beer's RPM IPA and Russian River's Pliney The Elder.  Of course, the smooth tasting Boneyard Beer was the victor in this long awaited taste challenge!

With the event being filled to the hilt with bike racers competing in almost every aspect of bike racing events and categories, and every type of bike item to be shown, bragged about and sold to bike lovers everywhere, this is an event not to be missed.

Departing the event with a smile on my face, great memories and anticipating my future mountain bike rides pumping the pedals on the trails back at home in my new socks with a new appreciation for "Bike Love"!

Loving Life Playing & Working In Bend Oregon,

Victoria J. Smith
Alpenglow Vacation Rentals
Bend, Oregon
1.877.437.5957 or
541.385.7100

Smith Rock Spring Thing

As a climber, Smith Rock State Park has been home to me (Vanessa) for little over a year now.  In the last 2 or 3 years of my climbing interest, I have met an abundant amount of people that will forever be in my heart.  Everyone knows everyone in this community, everyone has the same struggles no matter what experience level they are at and comes together when they are needed.

Beautiful Smith Rock State Park

Needless to say, the 20th Annual Smith Rock Spring Thing went off with a hit!  With a $4,000 grant from the American Alpine Coalition, the volunteers and the Smith Rock Group organization were able to put up new stairs to make access easier to the climbing areas.  180+ volunteers helped out this weekend and finished a ton of projects.  All of these projects help keep Smith Rock a beautiful destination for climbers, hikers, and mountain bikers alike.  It was great to see how many people wanted to help!

Grant Ortman and Ethan Holt lifting a heavy rock to help a wall settle in.

The Volunteer party afterwards was a ton of fun as well!  There was yoga, slacklining, tons of food, prizes and great company.  I can honestly say that I am looking forward to next year and to see all the projects that will come of it.

Myself discussing with Walker (BEA climbing team kid) the importance of community service.

Both Victoria and I are very excited to be apart of an awesome community!

Come participate in local events during your stay here!

Vanessa Burdick for:

Alpenglow Vacation Rentals

Bend, Oregon

541.385.7100

http://www.AlpenglowVacationRentals.com
(photos taken by Victoria J. Smith)

Cinco De Mayo!

So many things are happening on Cinco De Mayo in Central Oregon!

Here is some information about the Salmon Run that was found on the Old Mill's event website.

Salmon Run

5/5/2012

Join us for the 24th annual Salmon Run in Riverbend Park on Saturday, May 5. 
Enjoy a fun and festive post-race party with a variety of booths, beer and snacks. Hot chocolate and coffee will keep you warm during the awards ceremony and while you cheer on the kids in the Little Fry run. Come out and show your support for the Environmental Center!
Both the 5K and 10K run/walk are brand new for 2012. The courses will be single-loop, starting and ending at Riverbend Park.
Little Fry Run (10 and under) The Little Fry Run is for kids ages 10 and under and will consist of three age-appropriate distances. The Little Fry Run is also part of our brand new Kids Rock the Races program, a passport program that allows kids to collect stamps and earn prizes for participation in five specific races.

Visit Salmon Run for more information and to register for the event.

So if you love to run be sure to check this race out!

 Or, if you feel like doing a good deed, participating in the 20th Annual Smith Rock Spring Thing would be a good idea.

The Smith Rock Spring Thing is an annual clean-up event that helps keep Smith Rock a beautiful place for all. 

Volunteer efforts takes place from 8 am-2 pm at Smith Rock, in which those who participate will pick the projects that they would like to assist on.  These range from picking up trash to helping build new stairs on Misery Ridge. 

A volunteer appreciation dinner is held from 3:00-10:00 pm, which consists of climbing sponsor booths, free yoga, dinner, a slideshow, and an auction/raffle!  

Both Victoria and Vanessa will be out and about working at this event!

Come participate in local events during your stay here!

Vanessa Burdick for:
Alpenglow Vacation Rentals
Bend, Oregon
541.385.7100
http://www.AlpenglowVacationRentals.com