Gravel Ride, Crook County 33 miles, 2,300 feet of gain

Ride the Skydog Loop With Us!
Big sky gravel, wild horses (maybe!), and a little wild west energy out in Crook County.

Skydog is a classic Ochoco-adjacent adventure—wide-open ranchlands, quiet gravel roads, and that feeling of being way out there. This version keeps things tight and fun with just the loop: 33 miles and ~2,300 ft of climbing.

Expect some smooth Cadillac gravel and a rugged stair-step climb. If you’ve been wanting a ride that feels remote without being over-the-top long, this is a really good one.

The plan:

• We’ll roll at the posted time and ease into a rhythm. The route starts mellow before building into a steady, step-like climb.
• There is a stretch of about 12 miles on the loop that can be a bit more rutted and technically demanding depending on recent conditions. It’s rideable, just a good spot to stay alert, pick lines, and maybe dial things back a notch if needed.
• There are some pitches up to 10%, maybe a bit more, rewarded with great views looking west to the Cascade Mountains.
• From there, things open up—big views, rolling terrain, and a fast, fun return.
• Conditions lately have been drier and without our typical spring mud

The vibe:

• A consistent, steady effort
• Riders may naturally settle into smaller groups based on pace
• Occasional regrouping for a few minutes as it makes sense
• And if you’re lucky, just beyond the entrance to Skydog ranch, you will see one of the herds of horses of the ranch.

Note that cyclists are not encouraged to stop at the ranch; this is to protect the mustangs and burros, to allow them to live in a sanctuary without being scared by cyclists. If you see horses, please just slow down.

Code
The cost is $10. If you’ve donated to Dirty Freehub in the past year, use code “Skydog” to waive the fee.

A quick reality check:
This is not a supported or no-drop ride—come ready to be self-sufficient and comfortable navigating the route.

That means:

• Route downloaded ahead of time (cell service is limited at the start)
• Comfortable riding your own pace if things spread out
• Flat kit, fuel, hydration—your usual ride essentials

Some Deets:

• Start location: intersection at 44.026584, -120.701782
• Intersection of Crooked River Highway and Salt Creek Road
• The Skydog route details including the GPX file are available here.
• We are doing the loop only (no lollipop stick)
• Questions are welcome up to the night before as cell service on the day at the start may be limited
• About Me: If I’m a new face to you, I hope to be a familiar one soon—learn a bit more about me here.

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/)](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,/)](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.

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.