Run Oregon loves running – that’s no surprise. But we also love the Pacific Northwest and all that it has to offer. Running is a part of us, but it does not fully define us. In our new “Make a Day of It” feature, we aim to showcase some great local non-running events and highlight where to run and how to make the most of your experience! The most recent location for our runcation series was last month at Tetherow.
First the Running:
Tetherow is pretty much a train runners dream running basecamp. Even a simple Google Maps will showcase the location (just SW of town) sits nearby a few trailheads that literally open up and connect to as many miles as you could ever want. The C.O.D Trail has easy access, which will quickly lead runners into the mountain biking trails with Phil’s Complex via Marvin’s Garden Trail (note: I have ran here before and I recommend giving mountain bikers the right of way, a friendly smile and wave, and you are good to go). Or, if you head up Skyline Ranch Road a little further, you can connect with KGB to get there as well. Phil’s Trailhead is great place to start to experience all the great trails in the area. Another great nearby is the famed Deschutes River Trail, 11 miles of blissful running which actually connects with a few others to get you all the way to Sunriver!
COD Trail
During our trip, I did a nice 8+ mile out-and back along the Haul Trail and paved Rimrock Trail. If you head one way on the Haul Trail, you can head right into town or head the other way and end up at the Cascade Lakes Welcome Station & Trailhead.
Rimrock Trail (paved) – probably easier to navigate in the summer
Or, if you are up early enough or arrive in non-golfing weather, you can do a nice, well-marked 5k loop on the paved cart paths meandering through the on-site Tetherow Golf Club. We did this and it was a perfect shake out run following the drive over.
Tetherow Loop
Basically, you could stay at Tetherow for an entire month and not even come close to all the trail options. I highly recommend using Bend Trails as your running resource guide. They have pretty up to date information on trail conditions across much of Central Oregon.
If you are hoping to stay inside (which I did on my final day due to time restrictions and 30 degree morning temperatures), make a reservation at Tetherow Sport & Cafe. They have a second floor fitness center, complete with cardio and weight machines, bikes, and plenty of room to get in any sort of workout you want. And those views aren’t bad either.
And afterwards, schedule yourself a post-run soak in the heated pool and spa. It’s so nice in the crisp mountain air!
The Property:
First and foremost, if you are concerned about a staycation, please review their COVID-19 factsheets that include everything from cleaning techniques, to county-wide restrictions, to reservation needs. It’s very comprehensive.
There are two options when staying at Tetherow – 50 beautiful eco-friendly hotel rooms (all with unique sizes, configurations and views) or a vacation homes (varying from 1-5 bedrooms) for a little more space or distance. We stayed at a corner king unit which came complete with a bed, sleeper sofa, fireplace, coffee/fridge nook, HUGE bathroom, and some wonderful views.
Even in cold temperatures, the amazing views of the golf course and the Cascades were very enjoyable from the balcony. King rooms generally run around $224-284/night, though obviously this varies depending on the season. These suites’ small seating area is absolutely perfect for us to spread out to eat a to-go dinner. However, for us, it was the first week that Deschutes County opened back up to indoor dining, so we happily got to sample some of the Tetherow deliciousness – and not be in freezing temperatures when doing so.
Refueling:
Tetherow has three on-site dining options – the Row, Solomon’s, and the Café. The Cafe is within Tetherow Sport and is the simplest dining option – featuring grab-and-go items, healthy meals and snacks, and even cocktails (we grabbed a bloody mary to enjoy in the spa on the day we left). The Row is sort of a middle ground – a more casual sit-down dining option that features something for adults and kids alike. There are a dozen beer taps and almost 3 dozen other canned and bottle options. It also provided possibly the best biscuits and gravy I have ever had.
Finally there is Solomon’s – Tetherow’s fine dining option. They have an amazing rotating menu (and extensive wine list) that showcases all things PNW. They even have been featured on the list of the 12 Best Burgers You’ll Find in Bend by VisitBend.com.
At the recommendation of the Tetherow staff, we went with the Waygu Burger. Now, I am not a huge burger fan in general – in fact, I probably elect to actively bypass burgers more than I crave them. However, this burger was something else. It was punch you in the face delicious.
Clearly, you don’t really haaaaave to leave the resort to eat and drink well. However, Bend’s ethos is exploration, so if you desire to head off-property, I would recommend Spider City, Crux, and Good Life breweries. I have fallen in love with Spider City’s beer (they have recently had some distribution over here in the Valley), and both Crux and Good Life’s outdoor areas are pretty solid, though can get crowded. If you are into wine, we recommend checking out Bledsoe Family Winery, which has roots in Walla Walla (we stopped into the WW tasting room during a previous Run Oregon Road Trip feature), and the brand new Stoller Estate tasting room – a well-known winery based in Dundee.
*Note – please remember to call / order ahead during COVID-19 to ensure outdoor seating availability and to-go options. As of this writing, Deschutes County is in the “High” risk area and can do indoor seating with distancing.
Overall:
Whether for running or just getting away somewhere for a few days – Tetherow should be at the top of your list. It is somehow elegant and classy, without being stuffy or over the top. It can cater to your cocktails and running side, as well as your dressing up and sipping on a bottle of wine side. It’s perfect for couple’s weekend away, and even for a “bring the kids and dog along” excursion. It’s perfect for a winter excursion or a summer trail running jaunt. Whatever you are comfortable with in the months/years to come, and however you plan to enjoy your time, I truly believe Tetherow has you covered.
Tetherow details:
Address: 61240 Skyline Ranch Road Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (844) 431-9701
More about Tetherow:
Tetherow encompasses 700 acres on Bend, Oregon’s desirable west side. We boast an 18-hole golf course, 50-room boutique hotel, pool, three restaurants, vacation rental homes, event pavilion, golf academy and various residential neighborhoods. We are proud of our employees and their dedication to the Tetherow vision. Additionally, we ensure environmentally-sound philosophies and practices are integrated into nearly every aspect of the resort’s development.
Many thanks to Tetherow for allowing us to check out their property! Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
