Before I share our experience at this year’s Northwest Tandem Rally, it’s worth mentioning what makes this event so special. The Northwest Tandem Rally (NWTR) has been bringing tandem cyclists together since 1986, traveling to different communities throughout the Pacific Northwest each year. Organized entirely by volunteers and designed to be family-friendly and affordable, the rally combines scenic riding, social events, and a shared love of tandem cycling.
The 2026 rally was held in Cottage Grove, Oregon, known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon.” The theme, “Wine & Covered Bridges,” showcased some excellent riding in the southern Willamette Valley, with routes winding through farmland, quiet country roads, and several of Oregon’s historic covered bridges. Riders could choose from a variety of route options ranging from leisurely scenic rides to challenging hill-filled roads, making the event accessible to tandem teams of all experience levels.
This year, Mudslinger Events hosted the rally, and Mike did an excellent job showcasing everything Cottage Grove has to offer. When I received the invite to host an Aid Station, I knew I couldn’t say no. I love being part of local events. It literally takes a village to put one on and I was excited to help make it a success. A weekend looking at cool bikes, hanging out with my PNWRN team, and my favorite bicycle shop, Bicycle Way of Life. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my weekend.
We arrived on Friday, riders were checking in and picking up their packets, reconnecting with old friends and toasting the start of another NWTR weekend. From there, many headed over to Coast Fork Brewing Company for good food, local beer, and live music. We spent the evening there soaking in the excitement before heading back to camp for the night.
Saturday’s ride took participants west of town on a route that offered either a lollipop loop or an out-and-back option. Our aid station was located at the historic Lorane Grange, operated by a sweet man named Gary. This gave us the opportunity to greet riders around mile 13 and then welcome them back again later in the day. It was a busy stop, but a fun one.
This was my second time experiencing the Northwest Tandem Rally, and I have to say that tandem riders are a special breed. We saw an incredible variety of bikes throughout the weekend, from beautifully designed Co-Motion’s to some truly unique custom builds. One rider even let me climb aboard a particularly interesting tandem, and I honestly have no idea how she descends on that thing. She’s far braver than I am! If there had been a vote for my favorite bike of the weekend, that one would have won. The fact that the couple riding it were such lovely people only made it better.
We met so many wonderful people throughout the weekend. While we were busy keeping the aid station running, we still had plenty of opportunities to chat with riders as they stopped to refuel. Tandem riders know how to enjoy a good snack break, and we made sure their bellies stayed full. After all, moving a tandem takes a little extra fuel!
Sunday’s route headed east toward Dorena Lake, following the scenic trail system and surrounding roads. Our aid station was located at Dorena School, and I think Sunday ended up being my favorite day. With a smaller field and a more spread-out start, we had a chance to reconnect with riders we’d met the day before and spend a little more time getting to know them.
All in all, we had a fantastic weekend. Mike and the Mudslinger Events team did a great job highlighting the beauty and charm of Cottage Grove. Riders experienced some of the area’s best roads, enjoyed time in Bohemia Park, and participated in an expo that coincided with Cottage Grove’s Saturday Market. The combination gave rally participants a chance to explore local vendors, artists, and businesses while enjoying everything the community had to offer.
The Northwest Tandem Rally is about much more than riding bikes. It’s about community, connection, and sharing unforgettable experiences on two wheels. After another great weekend, it’s easy to see why riders keep coming back year after year.
I’d like to shoutout my incredible team for helping me out this weekend: Alyssa, Eric, Kyle, and Mckenzie. Thank you so much! Also a special shoutout to Mike Ripley with Mudslinger Events for asking us to be a part of the magic!
