After a much-needed rest in Sisters, Oregon, Joe Miller pushed deeper into the backcountry on Day 7 of his 11-day ride along the Oregon Timber Trail Adventure Route. Joined by fellow rider Hoyt, he left behind smooth singletrack and dove straight into one of the trail’s most notorious stretches—the sandy, sun-baked Old Santiam Wagon Road leading toward Big Lake and McKenzie River. Between deep sand, historic wagon tracks, and breathtaking views of Mt. Washington, the day tested every ounce of endurance he had left.
That night, at the historic Fish Lake Remount, Miller met two fellow bikepackers—including Chris Kratsch of Old Man Mountain—sharing stories, gear, and much-needed camaraderie beneath the stars.
Day 8 brought a welcome reprieve: smooth gravel, light traffic, and a long, scenic climb to Breitenbush Hot Springs, where a surprise massage and a soak in the hot pools marked the calm before the storm of the final three punishing days ahead.
