Pole Pedal Paddle in Bend, Oregon, is a unique multi-sport race that charges you through a combination of cross-country skiing or running, mountain biking, running again, and finally, paddleboarding—each leg pushing a different set of muscles against a fiercely independent natural backdrop. The race collectively demands about 24 miles of effort, split across varied terrain that refuses to settle into predictability. Whether you jump in as a racer or a spectator, the route offers a vivid introduction to Central Oregon’s fiercely alive landscapes.

Starting in the crisp air of early morning just outside Bend, the first leg takes you on cross-country skis or running trails around the Wanoga Sno-Park area when snow is absent. Here, the forest leans in close, trees whispering wind-driven secrets. The terrain is a mix of gentle rises and rolling descents, covering roughly 5 miles with an elevation gain nearing 1,000 feet. Trails are packed dirt or snow, depending on the season, and demand steady footing and momentum.

Next comes the pedal—mountain biking along singletrack that commands sharp control. The 8-mile bike section threads through pine-dotted hills and smooth open ridges where the wind dares riders to push harder. Elevation swings moderately but keep the heart rate up. Bikes need to be agile enough to handle some rocky patches without losing pace.

Then, it’s back to running on a 6-mile trail that integrates forest road and native turf. The running here is formed by the pulse of the land, with subtle elevation changes that avoid abrupt climbs but ask for endurance. The path edges streams that seem to call runners forward with their steady murmur.

Finally, the paddle segment on the Deschutes River demands balance and deliberate strokes. Covering roughly 5 miles downstream, it’s less a race and more a reckoning with the water’s will. Currents push firmly, bending your route and testing your resolve. Paddleboards need solid stability and efficient paddling technique. The river can be chilly and swift, a clear reminder of nature’s unyielding pace.

Preparation is practical: helmet and gloves for biking, layered clothing for temperature swings, sturdy running shoes with good traction, and a well-fitted paddleboard or ski gear depending on time of year. Hydration is non-negotiable; water stations are sparse, so carry supplies. Timing the event between late spring and early fall maximizes dry trail conditions and river levels conducive to safe paddling.

Pole Pedal Paddle isn’t a casual stroll. It demands respect for each element’s distinct challenge and the way they combine into an endurance test that’s as mentally gripping as physically taxing. Early mornings invite crisp shadows; mid-race stretches flush with sun. This race is a dynamic handshake with Central Oregon’s wild heart, accessible to anyone ready to meet the land on its terms.