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BIKING

CRATER LAKE PREMIERE & CASUAL INNS

Now this is living! Summer sun shining. Cold beverage in hand. Feet up, kicking back on the deck of Crater Lake Lodge. Marveling at the indescribable blue of the water... There’s nowhere you need to be and nothing you need to do. If there were, why would you want to? Thirty-four vigorous miles around the rim this morning, with views of Crater Lake from every angle—each new vista somehow even better than the last. You’re still feeling mesmerized. And completely content. You might even say you couldn’t wait for tomorrow... if life weren’t so perfect today.

15BCKIR1B (10/28/14)

When you only have a week and it’s really got to count, Backroads makes it worthwhile.

Paul Brody - Woodside, CA

Click HERE to read more guest reviews

6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS Click HERE for departure dates and pricing

details

ROUTE RATING LEVELS 2–5 See below for details

TO RESERVE YOUR TRIP Sign up online HERE or call

800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) or 510-527-1555

Open daily 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Pacific time

NEVER SUBCONTRACTED We operate our own trips around the globe. That way we control the quality—and we're fully responsible for your great experience. TWO SUPPORT VANS We provide two support vans on all of our trips* so you can count on us to be there when you need us, regardless of the route you take. THREE LEADERS Our trips have three leaders*, for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. Guests consistently score our leaders 9.7 out of 10, telling us they make all the difference. THOUGHTFUL TRIP DESIGN We know how to create exceptional travel experiences, ensuring that you get the most from every moment as your trip unfolds. MULTIPLE DAILY ROUTES Being able to choose among several expertly designed routes each day gives you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace. WE CELEBRATE MIXED ABILITIES To accommodate varied activity levels, you need three leaders, two vans, multiple route options, detailed directions, a rating system showing if shuttles are required, and plenty of well-matched riding/hiking companions.

*95% of Backroads guests travel with the support of two or more vans and three leaders. The remaining 5% are on trips with very few guests where only one van and two leaders are needed to maintain our high standards.

Click HERE to learn more about the Backroads Quality Index

3 QUESTIONS? Call 800-462-2848

Day 1 On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in the Backroads T-shirts) at 8:30 a.m. in the lobby of Inn at the 5th (541-743-4099), located at 205 East 6th Avenue in Eugene. (For more information on this hotel, see “Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip.”) Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today’s ride. Shuttle to Diamond Lake 2½ Hours

Biking Options: Diamond Lake Route: 10 Miles* (400’ elevation gain) Rim Route: 23 Miles* (2,100’) Crater Lake Lodge Route: 30 Miles (3,200’)

*with shuttle

Welcome to Oregon! From Eugene we shuttle east to Diamond Lake where your Backroads Trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk on biking techniques and safety. Enjoy a scenic mellow ride around Diamond Lake and a lakeside picnic lunch before continuing on through a rolling landscape. With its strands of white-bark pine trees hills and stunning views of the lake, this route is the perfect introduction to biking in Crater Lake National Park.

If you’d like to skip the busiest section of the route, hop in the van and grab a snack, or ease your legs into the hilly terrain and ride just to the rim of Crater Lake. If you’re feeling up for more miles continue climbing along Rim Road for sweeping views across the water.

We spend the next two nights at historic Crater Lake Lodge, a small national park lodge harkening back to a

bygone era with its rustic charm, crackling fireplaces and cozy atmosphere. Tonight we meet for a welcome wine reception before dinner in the lodge’s lakeside dining room. Lodging: Crater Lake Lodge

Day 2 Biking Options: Cloudcap Route: 20 Miles (1,900’ elevation gain) Rim Road Route: 34 Miles (3,600’) Pinnacles Route: 46 Miles (5,100’)

This morning fuel up with breakfast and get ready for an incredible ride around Crater Lake. While the lake surface may be level, the encompassing volcanic rim isn’t—sizeable ups and downs serve up 3,600 feet of elevation gain in just 34 miles. And with views of cobalt water and craggy snow-dusted peaks, you might find yourself stopping at virtually every pass to take in the scenery.

After the Rim Road Route, extend your ride with an out-and-back to Pinnacles Overlook. A bumpy, gradual decent leads you to a curious geological formation of fossil fumaroles known as The Pinnacles. These 100-foot-tall spikes appeared some 7,700 years ago when erupting volcanic gasses mixed with airborne minerals to form long, thin spires that poke out from the side of the mountain.

Following the ride, the afternoon is yours. For more fresh air, your leaders can point you to nearby walking trails that lead to some astounding vantage points. Or take it easy with a book and a beverage on the lodge’s panoramic deck. This evening make your way to the main dining room for dinner at your leisure. Lodging: Crater Lake Lodge

Crater Lake Biking 4

PREMIERE & CASUAL INNS*

CRATER LAKE LODGE 2 NIGHTS (CASUAL INN) Perched on the crater’s rim, this classic national

park lodge transports you to a bygone era.

Crater Lake National Park 888-774-2728 or 541-594-2255

www.craterlakelodges.com

THE OXFORD HOTEL 2 NIGHTS A luxury boutique hotel ideally located amid the

shops, galleries, cafés and brewpubs of lively downtown Bend.

Bend 877-440-8436 or 541-382-8436

www.oxfordhotelbend.com

FIVEPINE LODGE 1 NIGHT (ABOVE) Soak up the elegant Western-style ambience at this lodge, nestled in beautiful surroundings and

featuring a brewpub, athletic club and even a movie house. (pool, spa)

Sisters 877-661-4228 or 541-382-5174

www.fivepinelodge.com

*with 2 Casual Inn nights at Crater Lake Lodge

KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this

itinerary. We’ll be certain to notify you of any important changes prior to departure; other changes

may be communicated on trip by your leaders.

Day 3 Shuttle to Cascade Lakes Highway 2 Hours

Biking Options: Elk Lake Route: 25 Miles* (600’ elevation gain) Bend Route: 57 Miles (2,400’)

*with shuttle

After shuttling into the eastern foothills of the Cascades this morning, hop on your bike and set off on the magnificent and lightly trafficked Cascade Lakes Highway. With the mighty peaks as your backdrop, cruise through pine forests, lava fields and endless lake-dotted valleys. Designated a National Scenic Byway, the Cascade Lakes Highway—a cyclist’s dream—leads through a beautiful untouched stretch of Oregon. Today’s lunch at lovely Elk Lake offers a staggering view of Mount Bachelor. If weather cooperates, the lake’s calm refreshing waters are perfect for a swim.

Once you’ve dried off, push on into the heart of the Cascade Mountain Range. Cycle amid the region’s most famous peaks, including Mount Jefferson, Broken Top and Three Sisters, then spin around the base of Mount Bachelor. Today’s ride ends with a heart-pumping five-mile climb that transitions into a smooth descent into the bustling town of Bend.

Upon arrival in Bend, check in at the Oxford Hotel, our home for the next two nights. This “eco-chic” property prides itself on providing luxury accommodations with minimal environmental impact. When you’re ready, grab dinner at one of Bend’s restaurants, cafés or brew pubs while exploring the vibrant downtown. If you’re having trouble deciding, ask your Trip Leaders for recommendations. Lodging: The Oxford Hotel

5 QUESTIONS? Call 800-462-2848

ROUTE RATING INFORMATION The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2–5.

LEVEL 2

21–30 miles 2–4 hours

LEVEL 3

31–40 miles 3–5 hours

LEVEL 4

41–55 miles 4–6 hours

LEVEL 5

56–75+ miles 5–7+ hours

Review the “Route Rating” section on the web for

more details on daily route options.

PRICES & SCHEDULES All prices and schedules were current at the time of

printing, but are subject to change at any time.

Day 4 Biking Options: Tumalo Park Loop: 15 Miles (1,200’ elevation gain) Twin Bridges Loop: 33 Miles (1,800’)

Prepare to be awestruck as today’s ride takes you through the scenic countryside surrounding Bend. Soak up expansive views of the Cascade Mountains as you pedal past sprawling ranchland, along high-desert landscapes and beside the scenic Deschutes River. This 250-mile long river originates high in the Cascades at Little Lava Lake, which was formed by the lava flows of Mount Bachelor. On the final leg of your journey, let the Deschutes lead you into Bend—aptly named for its location along the river—before retiring your bike for the day.

Once you’ve wrapped up your morning ride, there’s plenty of time this afternoon to explore the city. Stroll to nearby Drake Park, a riverfront park with miles of walking paths and acres of green space. From there you can walk along the shore of Mirror Pond or make your way to the world-famous Deschutes Brewery for a

refreshing microbrew. If you’re interested in learning more about Bend’s rich history, head to the Deschutes Historical Museum to take the Bend Heritage Walk, a free 30-minute tour of downtown.

We dine on some of Bend’s best cuisine tonight at a favorite local restaurant. Lodging: The Oxford Hotel

Day 5 Shuttle to Smith Rock 1½ Hours Smith Rock Hike 4 Miles (700’ elevation gain) Afternoon Sisters Route 37 Miles* (1,300’)

or Bend Route 72 Miles (2,400’)

*with shuttle

Today’s destination is Sisters, Oregon, but how you get there is up to you. If you want to start the day with a hike, take a quick shuttle to Smith Rock. This famed rock formation was created by the surrounding volcanoes and the meandering Crooked River—a tributary of the Deschutes River that twists and turns through the park’s sparse, beautiful landscape. Smith Rock State Park is well known for its dozens of professional-level climbing options. Look closely and you might spot a sport climber high on the face of its sheer cliffs.

If you prefer to bike this morning, forgo the hike and tackle a challenging spin from Bend. Enjoy some incredible mountain views, fragrant pine trees and— since biking in Oregon wouldn’t be complete without them—a few hills to test your legs! The midway point of your ride is Smith Rock State Park, where cyclists and hikers regroup for a picnic lunch.

Following lunch, hop on your bike and pedal to the charming Western town of Sisters via one of Oregon’s scenic bikeways. After your ride, relish some downtime at this evening’s inn, FivePine Lodge. Jump in the heated outdoor pool, grab a drink at Three Creeks Brewing Company or pamper yourself with a massage at the Shibui Spa.

Crater Lake Biking 6

Tonight’s farewell dinner is at Jen’s Garden, a quaint cottage restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine. Lodging: FivePine Lodge

Day 6 Biking Options: Windy Point Route: 26 Miles* (1,200’ elevation gain) Belknap Hot Springs Route: 39 Miles (2,400’)

Shuttle to Eugene 1 Hour

*with shuttle

Today’s ride on the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway is among the best rides in Oregon. The meandering route features lush valleys, ancient lava formations, snow-capped peaks and staggering scenery in every direction. Looking for one last challenge? The Byway’s long ascents and speedy downhills make it a favorite among serious cyclists. For a more relaxed ride, shuttle to Windy Point for a route with less climbing but the same incredible views.

The week’s final ride comes to a close at Belknap Hot Springs where you can unwind with a rejuvenating soak. This small, family-run resort rests on the banks of the McKenzie River and features a pair of mineral-rich thermal pools. After your mineral bath, take a stroll through Belknap Gardens, home to acres of meticulous-ly manicured flowers, koi ponds and fountains.

Finally we shuttle back to Eugene where we say our goodbyes after a memorable week of riding together. Please see “Arriving & Departing” for end-of-trip logistics.

Arriving & Departing See Day 1 for meeting time and location.

To make our morning meeting time, plan to arrive in Eugene at least one day before the trip starts.

CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP On the last day of the trip, Backroads provides transpor-tation back to Eugene, with a drop-off at the Inn at the 5th around 3 p.m. The shuttle then continues to the Eugene Airport, arriving around 3:30 p.m. If you plan to fly out of Eugene on the last day of the trip, please schedule your flight for after 5 p.m. to allow time for check-in.

FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS This trip begins and ends in Eugene. We recommend flying into the Eugene Airport (airport code: EUG; www.flyeug.com). For help arranging air transport to and from your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Our expert travel advisors are ready to share their insiders’ knowledge of Backroads and our worldwide destinations. These professional agents are available to assist you with any of your travel needs. Call 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected

7 QUESTIONS? Call 800-462-2848

with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.

TRANSPORTATION FROM THE EUGENE AIRPORT TO OUR MEETING LOCATION The Inn at the 5th (www.innat5th.com; 541-743-4099), our meeting location on Day 1, provides complimentary airport shuttles for guests. Contact the hotel for details.

If you are not staying at Inn at the 5th before your Backroads trip OmniShuttle (www.omnishuttle.com; 800-741-5097) provides service between the Eugene Airport and downtown hotels. The trip takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately $24.

Oregon Taxi (www.oregontaxi.com; 541-434-8294) also provides service from the airport to downtown Eugene. The ride costs around $25–$35.

DRIVING YOUR CAR TO EUGENE If you plan to drive to Eugene, you can leave your car at Inn at the 5th for the duration of the trip.

Climate The climate in south-central Oregon is typically mild, but keep in mind that weather conditions will vary significantly in the different areas we visit during this trip. Temperatures in the Cascade Range can get chilly, especially at Crater Lake (at 7,000 feet), where you’ll want to have warm layers handy. In both Sisters and Bend, the summer can bring hot days with tempera-tures sometimes reaching into the 90s and above. Rain is possible (though uncommon) during the summer. Because we’ll be at both high and low elevations, it’s important to be prepared for a range of weather conditions. See “Suggested Packing List” in your Travel Planner for more details on clothing and gear.

Crater Lake

Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

High °F 39 44 51 59 67 76

Low °F 19 21 25 28 32 37

Precip. inches 3.0 2.4 1.9 1.3 1.4 0.7

Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

High °F 85 84 77 65 48 39

Low °F 42 41 35 28 24 19

Precip. inches 0.4 0.4 0.6 1.2 2.9 4.4

Bend

Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

High °F 41 44 51 57 65 72

Low °F 24 24 28 30 36 42

Precip. inches 1.5 1.1 0.7 0.8 0.9 0.7

Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

High °F 82 81 74 62 47 39

Low °F 48 46 40 33 28 23

Precip. inches 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.6 1.4 2.2

Crater Lake Biking 8

Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip For help making hotel reservations for before and after your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent, or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Call 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time. Of course, we also recommend extending your stay at any of the hotels we visit on this trip; see the accom-modations sidebar for details.

Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for starting double-occupancy rates. Note that the chart reflects the internet and/or best available rates, which were accurate at the time of printing, but hotel rates are always subject to change. Also be aware that some hotels may require a minimum stay. We recommend that you consult directly with the hotels for specific details, as these requirements can change depending on the season and time of the week. Book early, especially during peak travel season!

EUGENE Inn at the 5th (Our meeting location on Day 1 and a drop-off location on Day 6) Inn at the 5th provides luxurious accommodations in the heart of Eugene. The inn is within walking distance to shops and restaurants, and is a short jaunt to hiking trails and outdoor adventures. (spa) | 205 East 6th Avenue | www.innat5th.com | 541-743-4099 | 70 rooms & suites| Rates:

C’est La Vie Inn Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this charming bed-and-breakfast is awash in old-world charm. Lavish ornate rooms and exceptional service await at this Eugene gem. | 1006 Taylor Street | www.cestlavieinn.com | 541-302-3014 | 5 rooms | Rates:

La Quinta Inn & Suites Eugene This hotel is just a short drive from the Eugene airport. It’s an ideal place to stay for a good night’s sleep before an early flight. (pool) | 155 Day Island Road | www.laquintaeugene.com | 800-753-3757 or 541-344-8335 | 73 rooms & suites | Rates:

Valley River Inn This newly renovated Eugene landmark is located on the banks of the Willamette River and features private balconies, impeccable service and is bicycle friendly! (pool) | 1000 Valley River Way | www.valleyriverinn.com | 800-543-8266 or 541-743-1000 | 257 rooms & suites| Rates:

9 QUESTIONS? Call 800-462-2848

The Campbell House Inn & Restaurant This historic inn has a classic bed-and-breakfast feel, from the fireplaces to the four-poster beds. | 252 Pearl Street | www.campbellhouse.com | 800-264-251 or 541-343-1119 | 18 rooms & suites | Rates:

SPECIAL HOTEL SAVINGS Backroads has negotiated special rates for our

guests at many hotels around the world. To find hotels with these exclusive Backroads savings, please visit www.backroads.com/hotelsavings.