There is a new trail at Mt Bachelor that goes to the Pine Marten Lodge; it is 4.5 miles one way and an easy grade, with really nice views. The Really Cool Thing about it: The folks at Mt Bachelor let you ride the chairlift down for free when you hike up! So we will have a leisurely hike up; you can pack a lunch or buy lunch at the lodge, and then we’ll ride the lift down.
But wait... there's more! There is another new trail from Pine Marten Lodge to the summit. The first 1/3 mile is a moderate grade and it has a nice viewpoint at about 8200 ft. If you're feeling leisurely you have an option to ride the lift up and just do this shorter hike, or if you’re really ambitious you can hike up from the bottom, go past the Lodge, and do this upper section as well… and still take the lift back down. If you want to ride the lift up, the lift ticket is $28 for adults and $25 for seniors; it's $5 less if you book the tickets online. If you have already purchased a season pass for next winter the chairlift ride is free! See Bachelor website for more info. Feel free to email me if you have questions.
Distance: 4.5 to 5 miles; it's less than a mile for those just doing the upper trail. Plan on spending 5 hours including drive time to/from the trailhead.
Elevation gain/loss: 400 ft or 1400 feet or 1800 ft gain, depending on the option chosen; the elevation loss is mostly compliments of Mt Bachelor!
What to bring: Ten essentials, water, snack/lunch, and proper footwear (no tennis shoes or sandals). Bring a windbreaker for the chairlift ride as it can be chilly. Trekking pole is recommended if you hike to the upper viewpoint. Dogs are not allowed on this hike.
Difficulty level: Easy/Moderate
Number of hikers: No limit, but please register so I know how many to expect.
Carpooling: Carpooling can be arranged at the meeting place. If you ride with someone, please donate to their gas fund. Be generous for obvious reasons.
Meeting place: The Grove in NW Crossing: 921 NW Mount Washington Drive, Bend. We'll grab a table in the general seating area, near Thump. Come early to grab a coffee and chat with others before we arrange carpools. Be prepared to leave by 9:00 am sharp!
Contact: Sue Sullivan
