Yesterday Dad and I backpacked out of Pamelia Lake and headed towards the World Famous McKenzie River Trail. I’ve hiked part of it before, and have wanted to bike it ever since. That’s what I did the last two days. I lost a lot of sweat, and a fair amount of blood on the way.
We biked from the trailhead down to Clear Lake. It’s an easy ride higher on the river. Anybody can bike that section. However, on the way back to the truck I mobbed around Clear Lake. It was brutal. I had to peddle through lava fields in the summer heat. I carried my bike a good part of the way. There’s lots of loose lava rocks, and roots to mess with you. I made it around the beautiful lake, but I was exhausted. Next time I’m asking around about the trail, or hiking it before I ride. Do your homework. It took a lot longer than expected, but I loved it.
Biking on the McKenzie is not for beginners. It’s very challenging. It’s both rocky, and steep. I got caught going downhill when I hit a rock and flew over my handlebars. I hand planted on lava rock and rolled. I thought I broke my leg for a second, but its just swollen. I was wearing a helmet, but I have scratches everywhere. Dropping an F Bomb in the silent forest made me feel better. My hands were sticking to the rubber bike grips from the blood. Right after falling, my chain fell off. I finally got it free, and back on, but ended up greasing my wounds. I washed up in the river, and got back on.
You know it’s been a good trip when you’re as beat as I am now. It’s all sore. Time to rest, and regenerate. I’m going to the Belnap hot springs tonight. My dad is running there now on the trail, and I’m meeting him for dinner. I’ve never been to Belnap. I will have a review for you later.
Go prepared if you ever bike the McKenzie River Trail. Wear protective gloves, and a helmet. I carried a Camelbak hydration pack with a filter, so I could dip into the blue water. I took more photos today, but you should see it for yourself. I plan to raft the river next.
Now I have to attend to all my wounds. Cleaning dirty scratches and scrapes sucks. These are going to be a pain for awhile, but I’m glad I biked here. I’m more experienced. I went solo, but it’s smarter to go with a buddy or a group. Enjoy the pictures!
Cameron McKirdy
Survival Bros by Cameron McKirdy 