A Chapter Ride for the Books

You know you’ve had a great day on the bike when you come back with a full stomach and an empty gas tank. I have to say the Rose City HOG chapter ride led today by Mike Webb (aka “Phil In”) was one of the best rides I’ve ever been on in this area. Lots of spectacular views, twists and turns, and outstanding food as we wound our way around Mount Hood and into Parkdale for some of the best barbeque ever.

Leaving Latus this morning with about 20 bikes we headed on backroads to Sandy where we took Wolf Drive to SE Ten Eyck Road. This backroad through the Sandy River area in the foothills of Mount Hood National Forest is filled with twists and turns and fresh crisp mountain air. It was a pleasure to ride with so many friends through such a beautiful part of Oregon.

Exiting on highway 26 east we traveled to highway 35 north along the backside of Mount Hood. I’ve always loved this drive because of the abundance of mountain views. As you come around the east side of the mountain you’ve got a snow-capped view of Mount Hood in your rear-view mirror one moment and Mount Adams looming in front of you the next. Even this time of year there was snow on the ground and the air was fresh and invigorating.

From highway 35 we took the Cooper Spur twisting through more beautiful mountainous terrain into Parkdale to the Apple Valley Barbeque. I have to say I think this is the best BBQ I’ve had in this area. The ribs fell off the bone and the meat was moist and flavorful. The spicey BBQ sauce had just enough of a pop of flavor and complemented the meat perfectly.

For dessert we headed to Panorama Point County Park to take a group photo. I got a little nostalgic while there because I was so happy to be in such a beautiful place with so many wonderful friends and also because the location itself reminded me of my time with my grandmother in Switzerland. The views of the valley below with the mountains in the horizon were so similar to those from the villages I spent time in over there.