An Introduction to ExplOregon

I've always been a fairly physically active person. Whether it be high jumping for the University of Oregon or playing in an adult softball league, I have always been drawn to the idea of physical exercising. I decided that this particular year I would invent an exercise routine that was unique and original. It is my goal to truly experience the state of Oregon in a way that not a lot of people have done before. In the next few months, I have planned a variety of long-distance biking trips across this state. This blog will be a reflection and record of my experiences and hardships that I will undoubtedly face in these next few months from training to the actual rides. It is my hope that I can take you along this adventure and give you an accurate representation of what I am doing and the sights and sounds of what I consider to be the most beautiful state in the country.

What gave me the inspiration to do such a thing? I have lived in Oregon my entire life, and I have seen many of the wonders here. But it just seems like I am lacking a tangible bond with what is offered here. I want to get a first-hand look at what makes this place so desirable. Besides this, I really want to get some exercise in my daily life, and this felt like a fun way of doing that.

My first long trip will be this upcoming Tuesday as I pull out a fifty-plus miler ride on the Row River Trail from Creswell to Disston. I will then be doing a few local trips in and around Eugene/Springfield riding first around Spencer's Butte to get some hill work in, then riding up to Marcola for a little more distance work. Once those trips are completed, I will attempt my first century ride on the Willamette Valley Bike Route from Salem to Eugene. The next week will be a trip up Highway 242 for a ride on the McKenzie Pass. Following that ride will be a two-day excursion on Highway 101 from Newport to Coos Bay. The penultimate ride of the will be the famous rim ride in Crater Lake National Park. The finale will be a two-day century ride on the OC&E Woods Trail from Klamath Falls to Bly.

For the past few weeks, I have been training on my Kona Smokewagon by riding nearly every day from my residence in Creswell to my workplace in Eugene. It is about 12 miles each way, and I attempt to ride a different route each time to explore different terrains and road conditions. After those rides, I believe I am ready to embark on this adventure to see the State of Oregon's most precious treasures by bicycle.

I am excited that you will be along for the ride and share in this exciting viyage with me!

It's not the destination that matters, but the journey.