Day 3 took us out east of Bend. The terrain was quite different and a good portion was the high plains desert. Being we had just completed a couple days of fairly tough riding some of the team turned back at the 28.5 mile mark as a halfway point. This is also where the remaining 5 of us, (Phil, Rick, Michael, Meagan and Brent), dove into the deep Prineville canyon and I'll say it was an absolute blessing! About halfway down the canyon we went across the earthen dam with Prineville reservoir behind. Down further the DeShutes River flows beautifully through the remainder of the canyon. At the end of the canyon we hit Prineville for a nutrition stop. A short, steep climb out of Prineville put us back on the high plains desert for the return home. I really applaud all the riders today as it was extremely windy!! What doesn't kill us builds character eh!
See photos.