Trekdianna, I think it must be the location, and just not the splendor and challenge that Crater Lake was. I love Eastem Oregon as well. And I'm with you, it is for fun. First year we did it we were often the last into camp, which was just as fun as being nearly last the second time round. As long as we made lunch without them running out of food, we counted it as a success. So beautiful and wonderful wherever to be able to ride a bike all day for a week!