Day 13: Mitchell, OR to Bend, OR (Tumalo State Park)

We woke up early so that we would be ready to go when Pat arrived with the van to take us to Powell Butte. A group of four college students were also getting ready to head east the way we had just come. One of them was having knee issues and rather than tackle the steep Ochoco Pass was hitching a ride with Pat as well into Prineville. It was crazy to think that in about 40 minutes by car we were through the mountains that took us nearly 4 hours to climb the other day. We were overwhelmed by how kind Pat and Jalet, the owners of the hostel were. After saying goodbye to Pat, we cycled a pretty easy 20 miles into Bend.

Once we we got to Bend, we quickly located food, but lodging seemed to be an issue. In most other towns/cities, RV parks allow hikers and bikers to tent camp, but the ones in Bend do not. So, our choices were to find an air bnb or ride the 6 miles out of town to Tumall State Park and campground. It was funny because as we were discussing this, the gentleman sitting behind us who was interested in our travels offered to let us stay in a rental property he was fixing up. Plus side - free shelter in Bend. Downside - no working shower. So, here we are, 6 miles out of town at the State Park. It’s a beautiful night and after being on the highway all day, a quiet place to relax and unwind.