2022 Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder: Day Four – Oakridge to La Pine – The “Queen” Stage

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Let the fun of the “Queen” stage begin!

“The Grand Tour of Gravel” – https://www.oregontrailgravelgrinder.com

  • 5 Days of Gravel
  • 4 Nights of Camping
  • 350 Unbelievable Miles (Pioneer experience)
  • Gravel adventure through the heart of the Cascades in Oregon

2022 OTGG Day 4 Video Experience

Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription.

In this video, JOM of the Gravel Cyclist crew takes on the Pioneer route option, ridden at shooting video / survival pace 🙂 and knocks out the fourth of five stages. Training for this experience in North Florida wasn’t an option, so JOM toted along reasonably low gears to get over most of the climbs. It is important to note that a good level of fitness and skills, particularly for descending, are recommended to tackle each day of the Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder.

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Nice & neutral roll out

Continued from Above:

“This five-day event will challenge and reward racers and adventure riders not only on the epic days in the saddle but the celebration of the gravel tribe each night at camp. We take care of all of the details and support you on your journey – from tents to gourmet food to professional massage and nightly entertainment – you’ll come away sore, accomplished, and with unmatched tales and friendship from the trail. This Grand Tour of Gravel will be the adventure of your life time!”

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
The first of two notable climbs of the day

Two Ride Options

The Pioneers

Ready to race the Oregon Trial? Do you want to test your limits and push yourself in the most challenging and beautiful scenery? Then you are a PIONEER! 362 Total miles, 33,560 feet of elevation (adjusted slightly for 2022 due to weather leading into the event).

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Things become rather steep towards the summit

The Settlers

Looking for a true ride experience on the Oregon Trail? If you want the adventure but not the pressure of a race? Then you are a SETTLER! 312 Total miles, 24,867 (adjusted slightly for 2022 due to weather leading into the event).

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder

More about Stage 4 from the OTGG Website

“For the Pioneers, we have something interesting this year…an enduro-style day set up. Riders will start the day touring around the reservoir before hitting Aid Station #1, where we will have the start of an uphill race. Competitors will race this uphill segment, have a 2-mile, neutral ride, and then hit Aid Station #2, where lunch will be offered, music, beverages, and an opportunity to regroup with your friends.”

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
A stuck truck, but, its owner did free himself a little later

“After refreshing, riders will then take on the second segment of the day- the downhill leg- descending on the tight, technical logging roads back to the Hill’s Reservoir. This segment will be the second timed segment of the day. Overall stage results will be based on the combined timed of both the uphill and downhill segments. Both timed segments will apply to the overall GC and time bonuses will be offered for both.”

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
The second notable climb of the day, yikes

“Riders will then descend to the South Fork of the Willamette River before climbing once again up and over the Huckleberry Mountain and into the old logging town of Oakridge. Oakridge is an interesting community that has gone from being a depressed logging town to recently finding its footing in recreation and tourism, boasting some of the most spectacular mountain bike trails and riding in the country.”

Additional Photos

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The laughing group assembles for the climb ahead
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This gent walks to stretch his back, whatever it takes

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Snow in late June!
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A wee bit slushy

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Improvise or ride deep water…
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The laughing group takes to the woods
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Onward!
2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Plenty of steep, punchy climbs to sting one’s legs

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder

2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Loose sand in spots called for skills & allowing the bike to float
2022 oregon trail gravel grinder
Plenty of loose conditions in the final 15 miles
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Welcome to La Pine, Oregon!

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