This one was just beautiful. The conifers of central Oregon and their rocky pedestals continue to amaze us. Every state has natural beauty both blatantly and subtly different from that in other states, and of course this isn’t confined to state lines. Oregon, while late in the game, is not to be under-appreciated.
Jaylen and Jon Y taking the final descent through the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness.
Ride Overview
Mileage: 79.0
Elevation: +4926’/-5243’
General Direction: Navigate southeast via residential roads to reach OR 7, follow this road as it curves west over the first two major climbs for 50 miles, then turn right at the junction with U.S. 26, follow for the last major climb and descend for the final 21 miles until reaching the stayover at the eastern end of John Day.
Points of Interest: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Malheur National Forest, Strawberry Mountain range, John Day River Valley, Powder River, Phillips Lake, Whitney and Austin (ghost towns)
This, for miles . . .
Tales of the Trail
The space under the sky became filled with pines just as quickly as it had become filled with sand the day before. Within fifteen miles out of Baker City, we were immersed in the beauty of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The spaced-out pines and firs were enchanting, and a surprising amount of grazing cows could be seen in seemingly invented fields nearby. Similar to Day 3 out of Lehighton, PA, this route was defined by its three large climbs and descents, topping out at just over 5000’ of elevation each, the longest climb lasting eight miles.
If only I could tell you the context.
Sunrise bike shadows against a rock face on the way out of Baker City.
Sam M and Paul beginning the first climb of the day.
Sandwiched in the two spacious valleys surrounded by greenery between these climbs were two railroad ghost towns: Whitney and Austin, which groups explored as a way to take a rest from the climbs prior. The route itself gave us incredible views of Wallowa-Wittman as well as the Malheur National Forest, and upon reaching mile 62 within the third descent, we were treated to a truly vast outlook over the John Day River Valley and Strawberry Mountain Range. Challenging yet beautiful, an unstoppable combination for a ride like today’s.
Patrick, Emily, Jean, JB, and Hanna (NP) entering Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.
Whitney, an abandoned railroad town from the early 20th century. Hanna and Jean (NP) took some time to bike through the town itself and capture some really cool pictures (and hopefully no ghosts!).
Olivia, Sam R, and Nabeel working on a flat during a downhill stretch.
We reached the 1500-strong town of John Day, and our stayover at the Assembly of God, in the afternoon. A pizza donation from Figaro’s and a soda contribution from the church were satiating and the team played a game of Empire hosted by Jaylen afterward. We continued to work on our bikes, talk to family and friends, have uncommon but traditional and fun hose showers, and nap after this tiring 79-mile day. Tomorrow is another camping day as well as an 86-miler with 5600’ of climbing into Ochoco National Forest at the heart of Oregon.
Making the climb.
Sam M among the pines.
Plenty of descents to be had into John Day.
Cyclist’s Corner
Today’s Rider: Patrick Jamison, Ride Leader
How are you today? I’m great, doing very well! Tough day today but felt very rewarding.
In your opinion, what makes a good I4K teammate? Someone who is patient, thinks of others, is funny, and communicates their needs.
Where was the best ice cream you’ve had so far? The best ice cream was probably at Sweet Cow in Boulder, but the best shake that I’ve had was from Johnny’s in River Forest, IL. Johnnys is a 10/10 shake taste-wise, and a 10/10 shake price-wise with unbeatable value. Sponsor me please.
How have you improved in handling the bike during the ride? Faster speeds feel much more comfortable. When we’re above 30 mph, it used to be very worrisome, but now it feels no different than 20. Shifting also feels as though it’s second nature; I don’t even have to think about it much of the time.
If you could snapshot one favorite or at least special sight, place, or moment in your mind that you’ve experienced on the bike, what would it be, where was it, and on what ride day? The Colorado River from Frisco to Eagle was possibly the most beautiful bike ride I’ve ever been on. It was so cool to be next to the rapids while on a bike path. The mountain, the river, just overall great vibes and a recipe for getting lost in the miles.
In ten words or less, how will you remember this ride when we complete it? A summer that just felt right.
Please visit the rider profiles page on the website to learn more about this year’s riders! :)
O’s for Oregon!