I wouldn’t mind spending it in Bend, Oregon during the middle of May. I’d want to wake up early in a comfy bed. I’d eat something delicious. Then, for one of the highest forms of existence, I’d go for a crust cruise around the eastern slopes of the Cascades. Before the crust fully softened, I’d go back and swap out for classic skis that I’d want to take out on some Pistenbully groomed tracks. After lunch (and a nap) it would be time to find some twisty pedal-friendly trails to zoom through on a hardtail. Because I’m in Bend for this dream, I’d head over to Phil’s trails where it’s almost as fun to bike up as it is to flow down. After a post ride snack, I’d cruise my pedal pony down to town. My first stop would probably be for an early evening dip in the cold freshness that is the Deschutes River. It would be that time of night when the sun is low over the mountains and the fish are feeding on evening caddis. Feeling very alive, I’d want to take-in my senses- elegant stands of ponderosas, pungent smells of juniper and sage. Maybe I’d stop-in and check out some live music along the way. I’d want to then head home, and sit down for a big group meal with lots of open, honest conversation and really good, healthy food. A nice night walk, tea, a good book.
If I Had One Day To Live…
Low-Angle Lifestyle Camp Bend Oregon May 13-18
This camp isn’t for most people. Most people already have plans. Most people don’t want to wake up early to ski in May. Most people don’t want to share a house. Most people aren’t reading this. But you are. This camp is for you.
Our home-base is a five bedroom (eight bed) fully equipped vacation house in the heart of Bend’s idyllic North West neighborhood. Each morning, there will be a passenger van leaving around 7:30am to take those who want to ski up to Mount Bachelor Nordic Center for epic spring skiing along side the likes of three-time World Cup Campion Jessie Diggins and the rest of the U.S. Ski Team. The afternoons are for you to do whatever you want. You can hop on your bike and head west to access the legendary Phils Trails mountain bike network that’s right next to our house. You could go east, (on foot if you wanted) towards downtown Bend, and the Deschutes river. Fly fishing, town-happenings, river floating, gyms, pubs, it’s all right there for you to explore. There will be an optional group dinner served at the house each evening around 7pm with quiet hours after 10 pm.
If you’re interested but can’t make the whole camp, that’s totally understandable. Reach out with the dates you can make (three night minimum) and we will work out an adjusted rate for your stay.
Winter and summer in the same day, it’s happening in Bend this May.
About Marshall
Marshall grew up in Missoula, Montana and has been on cross country skis from the time he could walk. He raced on a national level throughout high school and as a member of Montana State’s division 1 ski team. After college, Marshall spent several years working in the bike industry before he returned to skiing, this time as a coach. Over the past seven winters, Marshall has coached everyone from first-timers to elite level international competitors. He specializes in teaching skiers how to relax on their skis so they can gain efficiency and experience more joy through more gliding.
Marshall is also the co-founder of Unplugged Wellness, a Salt Lake City community-based organization that promotes public health through screen-less, Nature based group movement. They also host multi-day supported backcountry bike and foot adventures. More info on Unplugged happenings here.
What is Low-Angle Lifestlye?
In backcountry skiing, slopes less than 30 degrees are considered “low-angle” which means they’re significantly less prone to risk of sliding in an avalanche. Outside of skiing, low-angle lifestlye is relative. It’s about knowing and growing-out our edges. It’s about balance through challenge and rest. Mostly, it’s about living and playing in a way that (hopefully) we can do again tomorrow.
Low-Angle Lifestyle Camp Bend May 13-18.
Spaces are very limited, to lock in your spot or to ask any further questions, please reach out. (406)207-0981