Gravel Bike Ride, Bend, 30 miles, 1,100 feet of gain
Details
Let’s dust off the cobwebs and hop on the Water and Lava route, only we will start from Old Mill and we will ride up to Benham Falls and back.
We start in town at the Old Mill walking bridge; if you don't know the place, just plug in Red Robin in Old Mill Bend and look for the walking bridge next to it.
You can read the route description here:
https://dirtyfreehub.org/routes/oregon/water-lava/. The part that we added between downtown Bend and the official start of the route is a paved bicycle path.
This is a paid event ($10). If you’ve donated to Dirty Freehub in the past 12 months, use the promo code “Water” for a free entry.
We roll out of the parking lot at the posted time. This is not meant to be a race but a social outing. After all, it’s nice to chat and get to know other people. The goal is to have fun, meet other people, and sneak in a ride. Some of you may decide to go past Benham Falls but I am planning to turn around. We will regroup as appropriate split the group into smaller segments.
You MUST have the route downloaded and are able to use your device or phone. I plan on riding about 10-12 mph. I will pull out of the start, exactly on the posted start time.
If the weather takes a dive, you can assume we are canceling but we will also post on Meetup page.
Sorry to say, but this is NOT a no drop ride. (Gosh, there are a lot of NOs in that last sentence.) but we WILL regroup a few times. This ride is also unsupported.
Text or call Linda at 541 550 8930 with any questions.
To participate:
1. You must be registered for the event and as such agree to the Meetup and BACE rules. These include one’s concurrence that cycling can be dangerous and cause serious bodily injury or even death. The organizers of this group and its members will not be held responsible for the actions of any participant at any event.
2. Please do not bring pets.
3. You must wear a helmet.
4. You must be an adult.
5. You must be self-sufficient.
Liability Waiver
By registering for this event, you agree to the following liability waiver.
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Dirty Freehub Group Ride Waiver
Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, and Assumption of Risk Agreement
(Version 1.2 / Dated August 2, 2025)
By registering for any organized group bike ride led by Dirty Freehub through [[MeetUp.com](http://meetup.com/)](http://meetup.com/) (or any other registration platform used by Dirty Freehub), you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to the following terms and conditions. Participation in these rides is conditional upon agreement to this waiver.
1. Acknowledgment of Risk
I understand and acknowledge that participating in a group bike ride organized by Dirty Freehub involves inherent risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, collisions with other cyclists, vehicles, pedestrians, or objects; accidents caused by road hazards, gravel, weather conditions, wildlife, and mechanical failures; as well as risks associated with riding in remote areas with limited access to emergency services. Such risks can result in serious injury or death.
2. Assumption of Risk
By registering for the ride, I voluntarily and knowingly assume all risks associated with my participation, including those resulting from the actions or negligence of other riders, third parties, or environmental conditions. I understand that it is my responsibility to ride safely, wear appropriate safety gear, and maintain my bicycle in proper working condition.
3. Release of Liability
I hereby release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless Dirty Freehub, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, agents, and any affiliated individuals or organizations (collectively referred to as "Dirty Freehub") from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses, including but not limited to personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death, arising out of or in connection with my participation in the group ride.
4. Indemnification
I agree to indemnify and hold Dirty Freehub harmless from any and all claims, causes of action, damages, judgments, costs, or expenses, including attorney’s fees, that may arise as a result of my participation in the group ride or from any breach of this agreement.
5. Medical Treatment
I understand that Dirty Freehub does not provide medical services, supervision, or insurance coverage for participants. In the event of an injury, I consent to receiving medical treatment deemed necessary by emergency personnel and agree to be financially responsible for any costs associated with such treatment.
6. Fitness to Participate
I declare that I am physically fit and capable of participating in the group ride. I confirm that I will ride within my abilities, follow all traffic laws, and adhere to any instructions or safety guidelines provided by Dirty Freehub ride leaders.
7. Personal Responsibility
I understand that I am solely responsible for my actions during the group ride, including my own route decisions, hydration, nutrition, and mechanical preparedness. I acknowledge that participation is at my own risk.
8. Binding Agreement
I understand that by registering for a Dirty Freehub group ride through [[MeetUp.com,](http://meetup.com,/)](http://meetup.com,/) this waiver and release is binding upon myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns. It is recommended that you print and retain a copy of this waiver for your records.
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Why do we charge for rides?
Running community rides takes resources:
- MeetUp platform: nearly $550 per year
- Liability insurance: ensuring we can host rides responsibly
- Event organization: planning, route design, and coordination
Altogether, hosting community rides costs $2,000–$3,000 each year. Right now, those expenses are carried by our generous donors. To keep things fair, we ask all riders to contribute—either through an annual donation or a per-event fee.
When you donate, you’re not just paying expenses—you’re fueling a movement. You’re helping Dirty Freehub build community, create unforgettable experiences, and highlight the beauty of gravel cycling.
We’d love for you to join the Dirty Freehub team—because together, we make these rides possible.