NM2007 - Transportation------ Central Oregon has a number of convenient transportation options for skiers from throughout North America. Air Travel: Official AXCS Travel Agent Diana Lynn Rau (The Travel Society) has crafted some special airfare rates with both United and Northwest with leeway of up to three days on either side of the NM2007. Significantly, these discounts apply to any fare...including special sales...so it is really worth your time to find out more info!. Contact Diana at: 970.887.3095 or 866.RKY.MTNS...or email: Dianalrau@cs.com. The majority of recommended Bend-area hotels are an easy 20-25 minute drive from the airport. Ground Travel: Due to sheer wealth of natural and recreational attractions in the Central Oregon area, having access to a vehicle while you visit for the National Masters is highly recommended for all out-of-area participants. The host city for the National Masters -- Bend, Oregon -- is located a very easy 30km drive from the race venue of Mt Bachelor. Bus service is provided by the ski area for a reasonable daily fee...but AXCS anticipates most competitors driving this route on all race days. Note: If you do opt for the Mt Bachelor shuttle, please note that for the Thursday race the shuttle leaves too late to make the skiathon race start. The start time is determined by average weather patterns...hence, for Thursday you may wish to search for a ride partner amongst registered skiers before the event. The most economical (and enjoyable) way to travel to the NM is by partnering with other skiers from your local area for both ground transportation and lodging. You can share costs, enter the NM Team Competition, and enjoy local attractions/amenities together...making the event week a truly social occasion. The National Masters also makes for a wonderful family vacation opportunity with tons of things to do for all ages. Bend, Oregon is approximately a 3-hour drive from Portland, Oregon, 6-7 hours from Seattle, 5-6 hours from Boise, 6-9 hours from Sacramento/Reno/Bay Area, and 10-11 hours from Salt Lake City. A very moderate mountain pass is crossed from Portland and generally low ridges from the north, south, and east. Driving is generally very easy into Central Oregon in the latter half of March regardless of what direction you are coming from. Canadian skiers from B.C. and Alberta will find Bend within a day's drive crossing the border via Highway 95 into the panhandle of Idaho/Spokane or on I-5 from Vancouver. Several major rental companies have outlets at the Bend/Redmond airport with competitive rates.
Even more options for rental cars are available by flying in/out of Portland...but please note the additional drive time in planning your flights. |
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