Introduction
This December, the stunning Sunriver Resort in Oregon served as the backdrop for the 2024 Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit and Trails Summit. Areté Structures was honored to be an exhibitor at the event. It gave us the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, enthusiasts, and land managers who are passionate about recreational infrastructure.
Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the country. From dense forests to towering mountains and meandering rivers, the state is a wealth of natural beauty. Thousands venture out each year to hike, bike, fish, hunt, and explore the vast network of trails and parks. The Summit brought together a diverse group of outdoor recreation professionals to discuss how to maintain and enhance these outdoor spaces for future generations.
Areté Structures in Oregon
At Areté Structures, we take pride in providing durable and long-lasting solutions for outdoor infrastructure. Over the past several years, we have provided several FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Polymer) bridges and boardwalks to customers in the State of Oregon. These bridges are especially suited for the demanding conditions of the Pacific Northwest.
The region’s diverse weather and rugged terrain require infrastructure that can withstand harsh conditions without diminishing the natural beauty. Our FRP bridges and boardwalks are lightweight, making them easier and more cost-effective to transport and install. Their durability and longevity allow them to withstand continued use and extreme weather while requiring minimal maintenance and remaining faithfully in service for generations to come.
Our Oregon bridges range geographically from Crater Lake (https://aretestructures.com/project/frp-i-beam-stringer-bridges-for-crater-lake-national-park/) to Sunset Bay, to the Columbia River Gorge (https://aretestructures.com/project/pa-dcnr-snowmobile-bridge-tioga-state-forest/.) Whether small stringer boardwalks or large truss bridges, our structures provide safe and functional connections to the outdoors.
Oregon’s Natural Beauty
Central Oregon’s natural beauty was on full display during the Summit, from the majestic Cascade Mountains to the crystal-clear waters of the Deschutes River. On my way to the final morning of the summit, I walked past a heard of dozens of elk grazing nearby. The location allowed attendees to experience that which makes Oregon one of the country’s premier outdoor recreation destinations.
The Summit reminded us of how important it is to preserve these landscapes. Infrastructure like FRP bridges and boardwalks can help protect the environment while enhancing access. Our structures can help reduce traffic impact in sensitive areas, providing safe, lasting solutions for outdoor enthusiasts.
A Big Thank You to Sunriver Resort
None of this would have been possible without the fantastic hosts at Sunriver Resort. Their hospitality, combined with the resort’s prime location, made for an unforgettable experience. Sunriver is a true hidden gem with an interesting history. In the early days of World War Two, the U.S. Army Claimed the land that is now Sunriver Resort as Camp Abbot and turned it into an Army Engineer’s training facility. Army Engineers in training originally constructed the breathtaking Great Hall, where the summit’s plenary sessions were held, in 1943 as the Officer’s Club. It is crafted of locally harvested timbers and features an enormous fireplace made of locally quarried volcanic rock. I highly recommend Sunriver’s accommodations to anyone considering a Central Oregon vacation.
Looking Forward
As we look ahead to 2025, Areté Structures remains committed to offering innovative, functional crossing solutions. Our FRP structures are designed to enhance outdoor recreation spaces across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit and Trails Summit gave us the chance to showcase how our bridges contribute to sustainable infrastructure. We’re excited to continue helping Oregon’s parks, trails, and recreation areas remain accessible for years to come.