Spring Sunriver

We planned to ski at Bachelor for Spring break well in advance. It turned out to be a record-low snow season, so as the date got closer, we weren't sure the plan would come to fruition.

April is an off-peak time in Sunriver, so we secured a beautiful rental house for a very modest price. The house came with resort perks, so we were able to access the Sunriver pool and amenities. To my delight, both the indoor and outdoor pools were open, and a sunny 50 degrees is quite lovely for outdoor swimming in a warm pool and cold plunging down the water slide. 

Though this was our fifth or sixth visit to Sunriver, most trips have been dominated by time on the mountain. With a full seven days and ski plans uncertain, we leaned into other activities the town has to offer. We spent lots of time hanging around the village and were able to secure the highly sought-after Needohs for the kids. We visited the alpacas and hiked at Smith Rock, an iconic rock-climbing location. We also hiked to a lookout tower at the top of Lava Butte and hit the High Desert Museum. The boys rented fancy bikes they dream of owning and logged many miles in their 24 hours with them. We did a combination of cooking at the house and eating at restaurants, and ended every night with a movie in the epic kids' bunk room.

Wednesday night, Mt. Bachelor got a big spring storm, so we hit the mountain Thursday and Friday. After a really disappointing ski season, it was great to get some sunny laps in. Wes fulfilled his dream of skiing in shorts, and Owen did a run with his shirt off. Skiing from the summit is the best skiing I've done, and this third time was no exception.

On vacation, our kids really are the best versions of themselves. They get along and lean into the experiences. On the six-hour car ride home (which included a shopping detour and a visit with Nana), nobody used an electronic. They read books, played with their Needohs, and looked out the window. I'm certainly not claiming all car rides are like that, but I felt very proud.

Time together and outdoor adventures are the Rallo family love language.