This weekend it's shaping up to be beautiful weather east side of the
Cascades for the 14th annual Bend's Big Fat Tour
. If you haven't got your fill of mountain
biking this season this is a great opportunity to experience some of the
best riding that Central Oregon has to offer. Remember you can ride one,
two or all three days and non-riders can still attend Saturday nights
party. (While you're riding perhaps they'd also enjoy Saturday mornings
famous annual Skyliner's Winter Sports Swap
, a 35 year Central
Oregon tradition.)
Check out the BBFT FAQ page to learn
more about course marking, weather and BBFT's totally excellent food stops.
BTW - this is a 100% volunteer event put on by the same folks that have
spent years building and maintaining MTB trails all over the region. All
proceeds from the event go to support local organizations - no fat cat
promoters taking home a big paycheck here - it's all about the ride!
Here's a synopsis of the rides with
the expected weather (as of Tuesday):
Day 1 - "Friday, October 17 is the Sacred Ochoco Loop. One hour East of
Bend, past Prineville into the Ochoco National Forest this ride takes us
through Old growth Ponderosa, Fir and Spruce, alpine meadows and rocky
outcroppings. The route crosses over two summits - Round Mountain and
Lookout Mountain, the latter being entirely within a Roadless Area. The
route is 90% singletrack and the conditions can vary greatly according
to the weather. Come prepared for anything, especially to have your mind
blown!"
Weather forecast for the Ochoco-John Day Highlands: Friday, partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs 60 to 65.
Day 2 - "Saturday, October 18 is the Classic Mt. Bachelor to Town with
Epic riders completing the circuit around Mt. Bachelor. Check back later
to find out the final route - some things we like to keep as a surprise.
All rides are shuttled from town, but don't let that lull you into
believing the ride is easy. Epic riders will tackle almost 80 miles,
Recreational riders will face almost 50. It's the jewel in the crown of
single track riding in Bend."
Weather forecast for Central Oregon: Friday night through Saturday
night, partly cloudy. Lows 31 to 39. Highs 56 to 66.
Day 3 - "Sunday, October 19 is the Cache Mountain Finale. This classic
figure-eight loop climbs about 2000' in elevation and descends forever.
This year we are contemplating a modification to this route, so please
check back here when the time draws near. BBFT Veterans will tell you
this is their favorite day, it's like the hangover cure and the social
ride, all while surrounded in stunning Fall colors. Epic ride finishers
will be awarded the highly coveted "No Whiners" Patch of Honor after
this ride ends. Hope to see you there!"
Weather forecast for North Oregon Cascades: Sunday, partly sunny. Free
air freezing level 8000 feet.