Intermediate MTB on Skyliners and Tumalo Creek Trails out/back

We had so much fun last week on this route! Let’s do it again but extending it out on Tumalo Creek Trail to the falls. This is a climbing ride regardless of the direction. This is intermediate level because we will not be stopping much; the black flies and hornets were bothersome whenever I stopped. The total is 17.5 miles and approx 1200-1400′ elevation gain. I’m figuring 2 hours and 15 minutes ride time and then rest and bathroom break at Tumalo Falls for approx 3 hours total time, not including any mechanicals/flats.
There is NOT a bathroom at this location of the start. Please arrive 10-15 min early so we are ROLLING at 8:30 AM. Many folks plan on the designated timing to get to appointments afterwards. THANK YOU.

MEETING at the bottom on ROAD 300 where it intersects with Skyliner’s road (the paved road which takes you to Tumalo Falls). **It is 5.2 miles from the Washington/Skyliner’s roundabout on the left hand side.* See the map below for meeting location. Park close to one another because they have eliminated some former parking with big boulders.

We will SLOWLY spin up the red gravel road which quickly turns into dusty road (smoother since graded for trucks) for 2 miles to the top of Lower Whoops where “the bench” used to be and take Skyliner’s and Tumalo Creek trails out/back. This is where we will turn back and complete 17.5 miles back to the car. Skyliner’s trail is undulating whereas you think it should be riding all up hill one direction and downhill to return since it parallels paved Skyline’s Road. It’s a very fun twisty trail with just the right amount of technical challenge to keep one awake. This is one of my all time favorite trails in Bend!
Questions, text Michele Farneth at 541 678 3263

Cancelation notice: Rain/smoke may cancel – check meetup by a time at least 1 hour prior to the ride. Weather changes so I’ll typically show up in hope for the best unless it’s a flat out downpour.

Contact:

1. You MUST sign up to go on this ride. After you press ATTEND, be sure to fill out the “Complete Your RSVP” form with your cell number and Emergency Contact Information, then Submit. PLEASE CANCEL AT LEAST 24 HOURS BEFORE RIDE SO THOSE ON WAITLIST CAN ATTEND!
2. Bella rides are “no-drop” rides and no one will be left behind. IN CONSIDERATION OF OTHERS,PLEASE CHOOSE A RIDE THAT IS SUITED TO YOUR PRESENT SKILL LEVEL FOR DESCRIBED RIDE. THANK YOU!
3. If you choose to leave the group by going significantly faster, or taking a different route, you have an obligation to let the leader know. When you leave the group, you are on your own.
4. No guests are allowed on this ride. You MUST be a current Bella member to attend.