Hello hive mind.
I'm prepping to race the OTT, and was going to get out this weekend for a 3 day shakedown ride. Target mileage is at least 150, maybe 200 miles. Ideally I would be able to ride similar terrain (even *the* terrain). As it is very early in the season by Oregon standards there is still quite a bit of snow and very few trails have been cleared. Luckily, I happen to live in Bend, but am willing to travel probably 5-6 hours to get to a decent route. My wife is also willing to pick me up wherever I wind up (within reason).
Some things I have considered:
– following the Three Sisters Three Rivers route as far as I could make it (with modifications just outside of Bend)
– Just heading north to the Metolius and then dicking around up there, then hopping on the 3S3R route and getting a lift from belknap
– I would like to explore around Hood, I saw the Gunsight Ridge route but honestly the first 60 miles are pavement and that's kind of a turn off. I also considered linking the Anaxshat Passage with some OTT but it seems pretty gravelly. (via the u/PNWbikepacking vid, what's up dude love your vids). Would the Mt. Hood dirty reacharound route be a good match?
Thanks in advance!
by smicycle