August 28: Bend Loop: A Parade of Mountains
Something I love about a great summer adventure is reconnecting with loved ones when I get back. Today’s ride took me to Bend, Oregon to spend the afternoon with my best friend Michelle Martin as our plans to meet up last weekend were thwarted by car trouble. The ride south through Detroit Lake and north through Government Camp took me past a veritable parade of white-capped mountains.
One of the fun things about going to Bend is that there are so many routes to choose from. Today I headed east on highway 22, following the Santiam River for miles as it wound its way through Lyons and Mill City on its way to Detroit and the Santiam State Forest. The area is still in the process of recovering from the fires of 2020, but I could still see lots of beautiful evergreens next to the rippling blue waters.
After passing the dam, I was struck by the beauty of the clear, still, deep blue water of Detroit Lake. I had not taken this route to Bend in several years and had forgotten how striking the large lake was nestled in the trees of the Santiam Wilderness.
The real stars of the day for me though, were all the glorious mountains, both on the way to Bend and as I was heading north. I am a softie for white-capped mountains and there were so many to admire. Heading east into Sisters along highway 20 I had a great view of South Sister, the tallest of the three sisters at over 10,000 feet and beautifully framed by lush foothills.
The lunch at Jackson’s Corner was fantastic. I ordered the huevos rancheros, a triple-decker creation made from grilled corn tortillas layered with black beans, egg, chorizo, and a variety of cheeses and sauces. Michelle and I also split the cheesy sticks, an item on the kid’s menu but delightful nonetheless as it was made from pizza dough covered with melted cheese and accompanied with a marinara dipping sauce. It was wonderful to have several hours with my best friend over a great meal.
Heading north after lunch, I was treated to views of Mount Washington and Three Fingered Jack on my left, towering above the farms and meadows next to me. Shortly thereafter I was greeted by the familiar visage of Mount Hood looming in front of me as I headed towards Government Camp and home. What a great day!
