Outdoor enthusiasts will have the opportunity to paddle, bike and hike through the fertile farmlands of the Mid-Willamette Valley and past the rushing waterfalls of Silver Falls State Park as part of the inaugural “Salem River 2 Ridge Relay” – a unique, multi-sport event and environmental symposium taking place for the first time in Salem on September 16-17.
The Salem River 2 Ridge Relay is modeled after Japan’s SEA to SUMMIT events produced by Montbell outdoor clothing and equipment company, in which participants kayak across the sea, bicycle through the countryside and hike up a mountain, while also taking part in a symposium that highlights the important environmental and cultural aspects of the course.
SEA to SUMMIT encourages participants to reflect on the importance of the natural world while enjoying outdoor activities.
Former City of Salem Mayor Anna Peterson and Travel Salem CEO Angie Morris traveled to Kaike Daisen, Japan in 2015 to take part in SEA to SUMMIT and research the feasibility of producing the event in the Salem area. They returned with a plan for hosting the first Salem River 2 Ridge Relay as a unique way of showcasing the region’s outdoor assets.
“The Salem region is home to a wide array of accessible outdoor recreation opportunities and breathtaking natural beauty,” says Angie Morris. “River 2 Ridge is a unique way to showcase the beauty of our area and create a signature event that will draw both domestic and international visitors to our region.” The City of Salem and Travel Salem have committed to hosting the event in 2018 and 2019 as well.
To register for the Salem River 2 Ridge Relay and for more information about special lodging rates, go to www.SalemRiver2Ridge.com.
