Ride the Rim 2015 - Cycling Crater Lake National Park - Oregon

Envision a volcanic caldera formed over 7,700 years ago.  Nestled in this caldera is a lake so spectacular it leaves you speechless.  Now picture the deepest, prettiest colour of blue that you can imagine.  Add old growth forests, snow-capped peaks and open meadows blanketing the volcano’s outer slopes.  THAT is Crater Lake, one of Oregon’s natural wonders.  Located in Crater Lake National Park, the area is a mecca for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.  From sightseeing to back country hiking, skiing and camping, there are many activities to keep visitors busy.

Wizard Island

We were drawn to the Park to participate in Ride the Rim, one of Crater Lake’s vehicle-free days.  During the event motorized traffic is excluded along East Rim Drive.  Cyclists, walkers, joggers and hikers are invited to share the scenic byway.  It was an incredible opportunity to experience the crater and we were thrilled to be taking part!

Panoramic View from East Rim Drive

I am sure cyclists around the world would agree that nothing beats a car free ride.  Whether it be a trail, special event or early morning outing the sheer joy of riding alone on the road, without the fear of being run over or the smell of exhaust is something to be treasured.  What struck us most about the ride was the beauty and the silence.  At first it seemed surreal, almost eerie, to be cycling side by side along the rim of a crater in total silence, but we quickly became accustomed to it.  We felt even more connected to the natural beauty of the area.  A once in a lifetime experience, for sure!

Our day began early.  We packed up the camp stove, oatmeal and coffee and enjoyed a sunrise breakfast on the rim of the crater.  We ate in silence as we watched the morning light hit Wizard Island, which in fact is a volcano inside a volcano.  Unbelievable!

You can't beat the view 

Wizard Island is a volcano in a volcano

Fueled by breaky and inspired by the scenery, we decided it was time to hop on the bikes.  To say the ride was physically demanding would be an understatement.  The route is 33 miles long and we would argue there is not an inch of “flat” on the entire route.  You are either grinding and mashing your way up or screaming downhill at speeds that make most cyclists (apart from the Young Stuff and Road Warriors) nervous.  Fortunately, the route features thirty overlooks and pull-outs, and we stopped at each and every one of them!  We giggled as we read the route description, “cyclists unaccustomed to high altitudes may find that the elevation makes breathing difficult.”  Although we climbed to 7,700 feet, I would suggest it was the long, steep climbs that made breathing “difficult.”

North Junction Parking Area at 7,025 feet

Rock walls line this section of the route

The water is a deep, deep blue colour

We were excited to see a huge cross section of people, all ages, all shapes, sizes and fitness levels participating in the ride.  It was a festive day and we were amazed at the many different styles of bikes we saw:

• Racing bikes
• Mountain bikes
• Touring bikes
• Cruisers
• Trail a Bike
• Electric bikes
• Recumbent bikes
• Hand Pedal bikes

Volunteers manned rest stops along the route and provided water, snacks and encouragement to the riders.  There was a sense of camaraderie amongst the participants and we enjoyed sharing stories and laughs at the look-outs and rest stops.

Approaching the Mount Scott Rest Stop

Riders break up the climb and enjoy the views

Unfortunately, my day ended on a low.  I lost the mental game and I think it will haunt me until we return to Ride the Rim again.  We descended from the Dutton Ridge rest stop to the Park Headquarters.  As we approached the gate, volunteers cheered us on and directed us to the bike shuttles.  I was thrilled!  What a sense of accomplishment.  It was then that Rob pointed out our car was parked at Rim Village and that we needed to keep going.  I felt a deep sense of despair as we began to cycle up West Rim Drive.  The climb was quite steep and this stretch of road was open to vehicles.  After a wonderful car free day it felt quite overwhelming to me to be cycling in traffic.  I battled for a couple of miles, and then I QUIT.  I never QUIT!  I can’t believe that I QUIT! Rob looked at me in disbelief, but wisely decided not to argue with me.  I turned back to wait at the shuttle point and Rob rode alone to retrieve the car.  As soon as he was out of sight, I regretted my decision.  I debated trying to get back on the bike, but I simply didn’t have the mental or physical strength.  It was a great lesson in mind over matter and I vow to return to complete the ride…..because despite the end to my day, this was one of the most beautiful, challenging and unique day trips we have ever done.

Crater Lake captured our hearts!

Phantom Ship - resembles a small sailboat

Thanks to the event organizers, sponsors and incredible volunteers and kudos to those who imagined a car free day on the Rim.  We can’t think of a better way to experience Crater Lake!

Thank you Ride the Rim 2015

Giggle of the Day:

From Mount Hood to the coast, Oregon is one of our favourite States to visit!  Magnificent beaches, lush forests and friendly folk make it a hot spot for outdoor adventures.  We would be remiss to point out that Oregon also has a reputation for its “hippie” culture and it was Oregonian hippies who provided us with our giggle of the day.  We crossed the border into Oregon, made our way over the Columbia River and successfully navigated through Portland when we decided to pull in to a rest stop and stretch our legs.  As we approached the parking lot we spotted this custom ride…..complete with motivational quotes and a chicken coop on the roof.  Welcome to Oregon!

Here we go...again!

Map and Route Tips:

Travel Oregon created a wonderful promo campaign featuring the 7 Natural Wonders of Oregon.  Take a peek at their video, and then book your vacation.

Crater Lake National Park has two motels and two campgrounds.  Reservations are recommended and can be made in advance.  We pitched our tent at Mazama Campground.  Check out the Lodging and Camping Brochure.

Campsite at Mazama Campground