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Michael Orwick – The Artist
In this episode of The Connection , we speak with Michael Orwick, an oil painter whose work is deeply inspired by the unique light and atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. Michael shares his artistic journey, from studying illustration at the Pacific Northwest College of Art to transitioning into landscape painting. He describes his creative process, which focuses on capturing fleeting moments of illumination during sunrise and sunset, using layers and a mix of warm
and cool colors. Michael also explains how his style leans towards impressionism, using optical mixing and broken brushwork to create energy and movement in his art.
He draws inspiration not only from the Pacific Northwest but from his global travels, including a year-long trip where he painted with children from orphanages around the world. We are thrilled to incorporate some of Michaels work in our upcoming ride guide and possible future collaborations with Michael and other artists alike.
Michael is the artist that provided the art in the Eastern Oregon All Access Gravel Guide and the Western Oregon All Access Guide.
Deschutes River Canyon Bighorn
Bighorn sheep in the Deschutes River area went extinct in the 1940s, but thanks to a reintroduction effort in the early 1990s, their population has grown to 600. Learn how to spot these muscular creatures among the basalt cliffs with wildlife biologist Jeremy Thompson in this 2-minute video.
Fish Lake and the Cascade Canal
In the early 20th century, the Rogue Valley in southern Oregon faced a pressing need for reliable irrigation to support its burgeoning agricultural industry. To address this, the Fish Lake Water Company was established in 1898, proposing an ambitious project to expand water storage by enlarging Fish Lake and creating Fourmile Lake. These efforts culminated […]
Rural Riding Etiquette
As cyclists, we are often guests in rural communities, enjoying the privilege of riding through working landscapes. Building positive relationships with locals not only enhances our experience but also ensures we are welcome for future adventures. Here are some things you can do to ensure your safety, the safety of farmers and ranchers, the well-being […]
Oakridge: Then & Now
A 4-minute video exploring Oakridge’s evolution from a timber town to a regional hub for outdoor recreation. This small town located in Central Oregon is a biking destination for gravel cyclists and mountain bikers.
Emigrant Wagon Train – 1853
The Wagon Train of 1853 left Fort Boise and split from the Oregon Trail near Vale, Oregon. Approximately 1,000 people and 250 wagons followed Elijah Elliott on a new and reportedly much shorter route to the southern Willamette Valley. After a grueling journey across the Oregon desert, they camped near Bend along the Deschutes River […]
Essential Bike Maintenance Recorded Webinar
This expert-led recorded webinar is with Andrew Murray, AKA “MacGyver,” who transforms how you handle unexpected on-the-go bike maintenance. We’ll kick things off by asking Andrew to share his biggest bike mechanical fail—yes, even the pros make mistakes! From there, he’ll reveal critical in-field fixes and game-changing maintenance hacks to save your ride. Discover the […]
Keeping the Wheels Rolling – Thriving as an Aging Cyclist
Here is an inspiring conversation with Kim Collier, a seasoned cyclist and fitness expert who proves the best rides of your life might still lie ahead! With over 30 years in the fitness industry, Kim brings an impressive array of expertise as a USA Level 2 Cycling Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach, […]
Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary
The Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary in Lake County Oregon is one of the few dark sky sanctuaries in the United States, offering exceptionally dark skies due to its remote location, minimal light pollution, and clear weather conditions. The sanctuary is part of the larger Oregon Outback region, which spans rugged, remote landscapes that include […]
Gravel Biking on the Oregon Coast
Gravel biking on the Oregon Coast isn’t just about the ride — it’s a chance to connect with the land and enjoy the unique charm of the region. Even in winter the Oregon Coast scenery is striking, with misty mornings, dramatic skies and variable weather to set the mood. When geared up appropriately, winter riding […]
January Newsletter from Dirty Freehub
What’s happening at Dirty Freehub as of January 2025.
Preserving the Harney Basin
This 5-minute video highlights the tremendous value of partnerships to enhance and preserve the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding private lands in Harney Basin. The issues facing th Basin are larger than any one person, group or agency can address alone, but together, Harney Basin Wetlands Collaborative is developing meaningful solutions to complex problems such as invasive carp and protecting wetland meadows.
Riding in the Desert Southwest
A word about Fall 2026 – Spring 2027 conditions. From Andy White of the Southern Arizona Gravel Grinders Group After riding some of our routes this Fall, it is clear the late summer monsoon thunderstorms have significantly altered the riding in some areas. On the lesser maintained backcountry routes that we most often host club […]
The M Crow General Store
In this 6-minute video, learn about the M Crow General Store located in Lostine, Oregon. Originally established as a cornerstone for rural commerce in 1906, it was revived by artist and designer Tyler Hays in 2013, who transformed it into a blend of local tradition and modern craftsmanship.
Wilson-Haun Wallowa River Project
Learn about this collaborative project between the Wilson-Haun family and Trout Unlimited to restore a section of the Wallowa river near Lostine, Oregon. Their work restored the river’s natural flow, slowing water, replenishing groundwater, and creating essential habitats for salmon, steelhead, lamprey, and other wildlife. Crews dug side channels, placed 500 logs, built 50+ beaver dam analogs, and planted thousands of native trees and plants.
The Ride! Whiskey & Gold 20
A quick 2+ minute video of what to expect on your ride.
The Ride! Butte Meadows
A video replay of the ride with Zach from Gravel Bike California.
The Ride: Drake Peak Lookout
A quick 2+ minute video of what to expect on your ride.
Greater Hells Canyon Region
This video highlights the importance of the Greater Hells Canyon Region for wildlife migration and climate resiliency. This special place is located in NE Oregon, right on the Idaho border.
Livestock Guardian Dogs: What Cyclists Should Know
Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) are special breeds trained to protect herds of sheep, goats, cattle, and other livestock from predators like wolves, cougars, and coyotes. Known for their strength, intelligence, and loyalty, LGDs are crucial to Oregon’s agricultural landscape. This guide helps cyclists recognize LGDs, navigate encounters with them, understand their behaviors and role in […]
Pelota (Basque Handball)
A 1-minute video showcasing the game of Pelota, Basque handball.
Basques in the West
This 1-hour video showcases the Basque people of Southern Idaho, Eastern Oregon, and Northern Nevada, highlighting their contributions to the culture and vitality of the West. It explores their role in the sheep industry and the central tension they encounter between preserving their traditions and adapting to the modern world.
Historic Ft Bidwell
A quick 2-minute video by Sidetrack Adventures talking about the places and history of Ft Bidwell.
Dirty Freehub Impact Report 2024
Our 2024 Impact Report provides a full picture of Dirty Freehub: survey results, financials, plans for the future, full recap of what we did last year and more. We are really proud of our accomplishments; we hope you take the time to review it.
The Modoc War
The Modoc War was one of the most dramatic American Indian wars in U.S. history.
The Modoc are a Native American people who originally resided in the area which is now northeastern California and central Southern Oregon. The Modoc War began in November 1872 when the military tried to force a small band of Modoc People, led by Captain Jack, to a reservation.
Dirty Freehub Spooky Gravel Routes
Spooky, spooky. Find your Halloween haunt at Dirty Freehub in our GHOSTS collection. Gravel routes like Devils Cashbox near Tucson, the BEAST near Oakland or Deadman Willis near the Columbia Gorge. Ride Skull Hollow in Central Oregon or Cannibal 5 on the Oregon Coast. Visit ghost towns, old cemeteries or places that are just downright haunted (Murderers […]
October Newsletter
Looking for a list of our latest Ride Guides and Podcasts? Check out our October Newsletter.
