Derek CarlsonThe north coast of Oregon is one of our favorite parts of the state with long sandy beaches, stunning sea stacks, and, of course, the mouth of the Columbia River which has been drawing ships to the region for centuries. This ship traffic means there was historically a need for low-tech navigational aids to help … Read more
Derek CarlsonBend is a city nestled between the high desert and the shadow of the Cascade Mountains. While there are endless recreation opportunities around town like skiing at Mt. Bachelor or mountain biking at Phil’s Trail there are also a ton of trails right in town that make for the perfect day hike in Bend. Over … Read more
Derek CarlsonSummers in Bend are a magical time but, unfortunately, it also means the return of wildfire smoke. As a parent to two young kids, it can be tough to find things to do in Bend when smoke lingers for days on end and ruins what would otherwise be a beautiful summer day. It feels like … Read more
Derek CarlsonAstoria is a quaint seaside (well, technically it is riverside) town that has become a must-visit for its stunning views, fascinating history, lighthouses to visit, a plethora of breweries and restaurants, and tons of fun things to do with kids. Did you know that Astoria, Oregon is not only the oldest city in Oregon but … Read more
Derek CarlsonLooking for the best restaurants in Bend? Well, then we have you covered! As a local and self-proclaimed foodie (even if we don’t get out as much as we used to now that our kids make dining a less than enjoyable experience. HA!) we have tried almost every notable restaurant in Bend and have the … Read more
Derek CarlsonCoffin Mountain trail is a steep and gorgeous trail in the Central Oregon Cascades that explodes with color when the wildflowers are in bloom. This short but steep trail will take you through pockets of wildflowers, across meadows that are filled with beargrass, offer up views of almost every major peak in Oregon, and finishes … Read more
Derek CarlsonDid you know that Central Oregon has the highest density of caves of any region in Oregon? There are more than 350 known caves in Deschutes National Forest alone! While not all of these cave locations are publicized or open to the public there are still plenty of caves that are open to explore and … Read more
Derek CarlsonBend has a reputation for being a burger and brewery type of food town. Those that say that aren’t necessarily wrong but they’ll also be overlooking a lot of hidden food gems. Bend has grown up a lot as a food city over the last decade with incredible options for Italian, fine dining, pastries, and … Read more
Derek CarlsonPizza is one of those dishes where you can ask 50 people what their favorite is and get 50 different answers. In the past Bend was not necessarily known as a pizza aficionados paradise but in recent years some amazing options have opened up to go along with the old standbys. For me personally I … Read more
Derek CarlsonLocated on the Eastern side of Mt. Hood, Tamanawas Falls doesn’t get nearly the attention that its cousins in the gorge command. That doesn’t mean it isn’t worth the visit though! These falls cascade into a gorgeous natural amphitheater and, with a short scramble, you can even walk behind the falls and feel the power … Read more