Bend Oregon

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Bend Oregon

After spending the past several weeks in the mostly rocky and arid regions of Idaho, Utah and western Colorado we arrived in Bend Oregon on 6/23.



The lush beauty of the evergreen forests and the Deschutes River which runs right through
the center of town were immediately apparent with Mt. Bachler in the distance.



The city has done a tremendous job creating many hiking and biking opportunities
along the river in Drake Park




And if you get hungry on your urban hike you are never too far
from a local brew pub or food truck



The city of Bend has done a great job of keeping the old town feel of the downtown.
The old historic buildings like the High School, Post Office, shops and Theater
along the main street are well maintained  and still in use.



Outside the city are many opportunities to hike in the more natural,
volcanic environment of the area.



You can hike through the large lava flows from the many area volcanos have created in this
area over millions of years.
Never knew this but there are large collections of obsidian (volcanic Glass)
throughout certain areas of the lava flows




We even went under ground to hike in the lava river caves at the
Newberry National Volcanic Monument





It was one mile in and one mile out through ancient lava tubes
with nothing but flash lights to light the way




After so much lava and subterranean hiking we went back to the river outside of town
where it still flows fast wild





It really is spectacular here with so many outdoor opportunities


For a little perspective, in the photo below you can see a the tiny orange spec in the overlook 
of the huge Tumalo Falls..... that is me



Looking down the water fall


This area is beautiful and offers so much for anybody who wants to be outdoors.


Definitely on the list of possible places to settle down...… 


In a couple of years...




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