What we’re about
Greetings and Welcome! Thank you for stopping by to check out Paulina Peak Social Group (PPSG)!
When I first started Paulina Peak Social Group in March 2020, quarantine hit the world. I had just moved to La Pine to care give for my mom with four days to spare before lock down. I had no idea what to do with myself because I knew no one. Thus began PPSG as a way to meet friends, maintain my longstanding sobriety (I have events where there's alcohol and it doesn't bother me if YOU drink) and to give back to the community. I moved to Bend at the end of 2020 and it was then that this group became the catalyst for myself and countless others to meet Like-Minded People.
PPSG is a small, friendly, diversified group of ages from 45-?. You will find down-to-earth members (a melting pot really) who enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, snowshoeing, snow and water sports along with experiencing Central Oregon’s food scene and breweries. Most of us have never felt more alive and fit than we do living in Bend. We explore Bend, Sunriver, La Pine, Sisters, Redmond, and surrounding areas.
Guidelines:
*Please Keep your RSVP current at all times. No-Shows are No-Go's and I have no tolerance for No-Shows.
*On any outdoor event I expect that you are prepared with The 10 Essentials (https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/).
ALWAYS bring water no matter WHAT! Know your physical limitations and please don't sign up for an event you question your ability. It's very taxing on the Sweep when individuals are much slower and have difficulty keeping up.
*Most of my hikes are at a MODERATE pace. We tend to be on the faster side. Please be aware of this prior to signing up. We do have STROLL events but generally they are faster paced.
*In almost all cases, I do not allow anyone to leave an outdoor event midstream and return back to the trailhead without being accompanied by another member. If you have tight plans, outdoor events can never be predicted and can last longer than what I had projected. PLAN ACCORDINGLY.
*Food Truck events: I have no issues with anyone arriving late. Just keep the RSVP current. I am aware of who's there and who's not on ALL of my events. wink wink.
*I will usually ask you arrive a little early to any outdoor events or any event that I request an early arrival. If the event starts at a certain time, that doesn't mean to ARRIVE at that time. It means we're LEAVING at that time.
*My motto: IF YOUR EARLY, YOUR ON TIME. IF YOUR ON TIME, YOUR LATE.
*Please keep your Photo Profile updated, with only YOURSELF.
*Dogs are not allowed on hikes unless specifically noted. Well behaved dogs are welcome at any food truck events but must be kept on a leash. Many of my food truck events are quite full so please take this into consideration.
*Thanks to each of you for making my life enriched and progressively better! Hands down this is the best group in town! BECAUSE OF EACH ONE OF YOU!
*If you have any questions, comments or complaints...please message me
* BEND PLEDGE*
1. Smile, say please and thank you, give right-of-way, and simply slow down.
2. Adventure and explore in a manner that is respectful to the land, wildlife and the people you share it with.
3. Plan and prepare for your time on the trails, in the mountains and on the water.
4. Walk more, drive less, and stick to established trails, routes and parking areas.
5. We must take care of the places that take care of us; we are all visitors hereEVENTS
Hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing: All skill levels are welcome. Each event will disclose the location, skill level, distance and approximate duration, and gear and equipment required. PPSG recommends you pack the “Ten Essentials” for all hiking events: https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/
Pets are only allowed when noted on the event.
ATTENDING EVENTS
Please read the entire event description before signing up and only sign-up for events within your capabilities. If you RSVP and can't make it...UNRSVP!
All events have an attendee limit. Attendee limits are determined by the nature of the event and the number of Event Hosts attending an event.
Events fill-up quickly. Members are encouraged to download the Meetup app to receive notifications for events as soon as they are posted.
When an event is full (reached its attendee limit), you may be assigned to the Waitlist. If spots open up, members are automatically RSVPed to the event in the order that they joined the Waitlist. Please be patient if you’re on the Waitlist. It's common for the head count to fall as an event gets closer, and most likely you will be RSVPed.
If you are unable to attend an event, please unRSVP prior to the event. This allows members on the Waitlist to be RSVPed. I don't need a reason or explanation as to WHY you can't attend.
No shows will be marked as such and after three no shows you will be a “no go.”
DISCLAIMER: PAULINA PEAK SOCIAL GROUP Waiver of liability You agree when you join this group and attend any of our organized hikes/events that you have read and understand the terms below. If you join PAULINA PEAK SOCIAL GROUP for a hike (or any other event), please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, Event Organizers or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. You are responsible to research the event, know the area, your level of fitness, and bring the proper gear. This release extends and applies to, and also covers and includes, all unknown, unforeseen, unanticipated and unsuspected injuries, damages, loss and liability. Your attendance on a hike/or other event signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver. By joining this group and attending any of our hikes/or other events you understand that you are attending all events AT YOUR OWN RISK. Organizers and Assistant Organizers of this group are just that, we organize the events and hike together as friends.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- !LIVE MUSIC, CHOW & BREW! Discovery West Food Carts, Bend MEET-N-GREETDiscovery West Food Carts, Bend, OR
ANOTHER NEW VENUE TO CHECK OUT! I discovered this when I was searching for new venues. I will continue to keep the head count small so we can enjoy the music, each other's company and a meal. Please keep your RSVP current. (I POSTED AUG 16, 2025 8:32PM)
# September 26: Food Cart Friday Featuring Peter Kartsounes with Alicia Viani
Mark your calendars—Food Cart Fridays at Discovery Corner! Enjoy a rotating lineup of local musicians bringing the perfect toe-tapping soundtrack to your Friday night. Savor delicious eats from some of Bend’s favorite food carts, including El Sancho, Dump City Dumplings, Pizza Cart, and Saute Korean Bowls, and Cuppa Yo!
With games for the kids, a welcoming vibe, and plenty of space to relax, it’s the perfect spot to catch up with neighbors and friends.
Limited seating is available, so bring your low-back chairs and settle in for a casual evening under the Central Oregon sky.
Everyone’s welcome—see you at Discovery Corner!Enjoy a rotating lineup of local musicians bringing the perfect toe-tapping soundtrack to your Friday night.
Savor delicious eats from some of Bend’s favorite food carts, including El Sancho, Dump City Dumplings, Pizza Cart, and Saute Korean Bowls, and Cuppa Yo!
With games for the kids, a welcoming vibe, and plenty of space to relax, it’s the perfect spot to catch up with neighbors and friends.
Limited seating is available, so bring your low-back chairs and settle in for a casual evening under the Central Oregon sky. Everyone’s welcome—see you at Discovery Corner!ATTENDING EVENTS
Please read the entire event description before signing up and only sign-up for events within your capabilities. If you RSVP and can't make it...UNRSVP!
All events have an attendee limit. Attendee limits are determined by the nature of the event and the number of Event Hosts attending an event.
Events fill-up quickly. Members are encouraged to download the Meetup app to receive notifications for events as soon as they are posted.
When an event is full (reached its attendee limit), you may be assigned to the Waitlist. If spots open up, members are automatically RSVPed to the event in the order that they joined the Waitlist. Please be patient if you’re on the Waitlist. It's common for the head count to fall as an event gets closer, and most likely you will be RSVPed.
If you are unable to attend an event, please unRSVP prior to the event. This allows members on the Waitlist to be RSVPed. I don't need a reason or explanation as to WHY you can't attend.
No shows will be marked as such and after three no shows you will be a “no go.”
RISKS AND WAIVER
No activity is without risk. Please read the entire event description before signing up and only sign up for events within your capabilities. PPSG members are responsible for making their own decision on acceptable risks.
PPSG event hosts are volunteers and not trained professionals. Anyone attending any posted event assumes all personal risk to themselves and releases Paulina Peak Social Group, its Organizers, Event Hosts, and its members from all liability. - !MUSIC!House Concert w/Ben Miller and Fall Harvest potluck WITH NEW FRIENDS CONNEd & Cindy's Farm, Redmond, OR
***PPSG HAS BEEN INVITED TO SHARE IN HOSTING A SPECIAL EVENT WITH CENTRAL OREGON NEW FRIENDS CONNECTIONS. IT'S AN HONOR AND A PLEASURE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS WITH THEM! PLEASE ONLY SIGN UP ONCE.
## Details
1. suggested donations accepted at the event -$10.
Additionally Ben will have a merch table setup.
2. There is a suggested donation for meetup expenses of $5. This will go towards supplies, Porta Potty Rental, nametags, ice, etc.
***
Ben Miller is coming back to the Rinker Farm for another Fabulous House Concert!! He is blessing us with a fantastic blend of Americana/Bluegrass/Country/Rock/more.. and of course the always entertaining stories. Join us!
$10+ Donation for live music with the Ben Miller
Join us at Ed and Cindy's farm for fall concert / potluck. Bring a tasty dish to share with the group - bonus points for homemade harvest goodies! Bring a camp chair for the lawn.
We will have ice in the community cooler, as well as hot apple cider (and adult additives!)
4:00 Social Time / Corn hole / Bocce Ball - Concert to start around 515pm.
***
Hailing from the Midwest with Appalachian roots and blood harmonies, the Miller Twins are new to the Oregon music scene. Their music is pure acoustic and 100% entertaining. They perform an eclectic mix of songs for your listening pleasure. Covering a wide range of songs from the Grateful Dead to Outlaw Country, there is something for everyone. You can find the Miller Twins at https://www.facebook.com/themillertwinsmusic and @themillertwinusic on Instagram. - HIKE!! Blue Pool via Tamolitch Falls trail (4mile RT moderate/rocky)Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool), McKenzie Bridge, OR
Hi all, just wanted to update you on some changes for this hike. We are just going to do the 4 mile total out and back on the Tamolitch trail to the Blue Pool and falls. The initial event was logistically more complex and I want to make sure I only lead trails that I've done myself. Once finished with the hike anyone who wants to stop off at Sahalie falls and see it on the way back is more than welcome to, but that's just optional.
Please see the comments section on this hike for more details, especially carpooling info. Thanks!!! Tom
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/tamolitch-blue-pool-via-
mckenzie-river-trailBring BUG SPRAY, SUN SCREEN, LUNCH, WATER, PROPER HIKING SHOES AND ATTIRE, POLES. PASS NEEDED, ARRIVE EARLY!
CARPOOL RECOMMENDED AND I WILL HELP ARRANGE WHEN IT GETS CLOSER.
TIME COULD CHANGE AND THIS EVENT IS WEATHER PERMITTING.### Details Blue Pool:
While it is a relatively short hike, the rough, rocky terrain can be challenging so sturdy, closed-toed footwear is recommended.
- Length: From Carmen Smith Reservoir (3.3 miles); from Trailbridge Reservoir (2.1 miles)
- Elevation: begins at 2200 ft. elevation and ends at 2450 ft. elevation (south to north)
- Difficulty: Moderate
The beauty of Tamolitch Falls (also known as Blue Pool) has always made it a popular spot. This cliff-rimmed basin was renamed “Tamolitch,” in 1933 by William Parke, a recreational engineer for the Willamette National Forest, inspired by the Chinook jargon word for “bucket.” Although the flow of the falls is typically only seen in spring, the pool continues to be fed by underground springs. Today, this rocky section of the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail from Trail Bridge Reservoir north along the McKenzie River and the stunningly clear water of the pool draw hundreds of hikers, photographers and mountain bikers.
A lava flow from Belknap Crater 1,600 years ago buried a 3 mile (4.8 km) stretch of the McKenzie River between Carmen Reservoir and Tamolitch Falls. The river resurfaces at Tamolitch Pool at the base of dry Tamolitch Falls, seeping up to the surface through the porous lava, creating a pristine turquoise blue colored pool. The water, a chilly 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.8 C) on average, reflects the surrounding cliffs covered with alder and evergreen trees. While the falls are dry the majority of the time, during wet winters the river can flood over the lava bed and Tamolitch Falls will flow.
With the popularity of Blue Pool, please help protect this area and preserve the experience for you and for future visitors. Practice Leave No Trace Principles during your visit. There are no services or facilities such as garbage or restrooms so please pack-it-in pack-it-out.
The loop trail connects the two waterfalls and the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, and offers up close views of the wild McKenzie river.HOST: Tom Kraus
BUG SPRAY IS A MUST!
RISKS AND WAIVER
No activity is without risk. Please read the entire event description before signing up and only sign up for events within your capabilities. PPSG members are responsible for making their own decision on acceptable risks.
PPSG event hosts are volunteers and not trained professionals. Anyone attending any posted event assumes all personal risk to themselves and releases Paulina Peak Social Group, its Organizers, Event Hosts, and its members from all liability.
EVENTS
Hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing: All skill levels are welcome. Each event will disclose the location, skill level, distance and approximate duration, and gear and equipment required. PPSG recommends you pack the “Ten Essentials” for all hiking events: https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/
Event will be outdoor
Respect personal space
The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. Meetup is not responsible for ensuring, and will not independently verify, that these precautions are followed.
COVID-19 safety measures
COVID-19 vaccination required
Event will be outdoor
Masks are optional, no judgement. Respect each person's space.
The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. Meetup is not responsible for ensuring, and will not independently verify, that these precautions are followed.
The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. Meetup is not responsible for ensuring, and will not independently verify, that these precautions are followed.
