Enjoy the Summer Solstice in Redmond
It’s that time of the year we all look forward to in the High Desert. The crisp morning air makes the first cup of coffee taste that much better. The sun lingers a bit longer and lights up the sky with bright colors at sunset. Around here, the summer solstice isn’t just a date on the calendar. It’s an open invitation to see just how much exploring you can do in a single day. (Hint: a lot).
When you’re blessed with extra hours of sunlight in Redmond, you don’t feel a need to rush through an itinerary. The daylight isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so you move at a slower pace and take it all in. If you want to experience the longest day of the year like someone who lives here, grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure and see where curiosity takes you.
Start the Day Sunny Side Up
Every epic solstice day deserves a foundational breakfast, and around here, that means making tracks to Mo’s Egg House. This is the place where the locals start their day, too—though admittedly, some of the ranchers may have been up for a few hours already. The overall vibe is warm and inviting, as conversation fills the air along with the aroma of hashbrowns and fresh coffee. Whether you’re leaning toward a massive, loaded omelet or a stack of sweet pancakes, Mo’s serves up the kind of honest, hearty breakfast that will keep your energy up long past noon.
Big Sky, Deep Breaths
We’re known as Oregon’s Basecamp. But during the summer solstice, people use our location to find something else: their center. To that end, they head over to the SCP Redmond Hotel to join the folks from Love Bird Yoga as they host their traditional 108 Sun Salutations event. Don’t let the number intimidate you: this is all about moving at your own pace along with a community of open-minded people. Flow through the movements, inhale through your nose, and feel the warm sun on your skin. The rooftop deck is more than just a place to gather and find some peace. It’s an energizing springboard that launches you into the rest of your day.
Lunch for the Road Less Traveled
You’ve stretched, you’ve relaxed, and now the afternoon is calling. Before you head out of town, make a quick stop at Ollie’s Kitchen. They’re known for fresh, flavor-packed dishes that won’t weigh you down.Throw some of their signature wraps or fresh bowls into the cooler bag; you’ll want to fuel up for your next stop.
Cool Off in Lake Billy Chinook’s Waters
When the afternoon sun brings the heat, the locals know how to put it in its place: with water, and plenty of it. Just a short hour’s drive northwest of town, dramatic canyon walls split open to reveal the deep blue expanse of Lake Billy Chinook. There are two ways to enjoy it, depending on your speed. Cove Palisades Resort and Marina can outfit you for either excursion.
- The Quiet Route: Launch your kayak or stand-up paddle board along the Crooked River Water Trail and get ready for pure water bliss. As you dip your paddle into the water, leaving a quiet ring in its wake, you instantly find your peace. That is, until a buddy decides to splash you.
- The High Octane Route: If you want to feel the wind in your hair and water in your face, rent a couple of jet skis and set off in search of your own private cove. It’s the ultimate way to explore the massive reservoir.
Local Tip: Don’t forget the sunscreen and a hat. The reflection off the canyon walls makes the desert sun feel twice as bright on the water.
Go South of the Border for Dinner
After an afternoon on the lake, you’re probably quite refreshed by now. It’s time to spice things up back in the heart of Redmond. Pull up a chair at Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant and you’ll instantly feel at ease. If not, one of their homemade margaritas should do the trick. Pair that with a plate of rich, spicy enchiladas or sizzling fajitas and you’ll have just the right amount of summer heat. This is a place where you can completely be yourself, even if your hair is still a bit messy after all those high powered jet ski turns on the lake.
A Sunset and View That Keeps Going
You’ve wrapped up dinner and the clock will tell you it’s late. But this is the solstice after all and the sky is telling you a different story. It’s time to catch the grand finale of summer’s longest day with a short drive over to The View Tap and Grill at Juniper Golf Course.
Grab a seat on the patio, order a local craft pint, and settle into the scene with a front row seat for nature’s best show. As the sky slowly segues from brilliant gold to violet over the distant Cascade peaks, this may feel like the perfect ending to the day.
And the best part? This is summer just getting started, and there are plenty of more days like this waiting for you in Redmond.
