Glenn VanLandingham

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Hello, I’m Glenn VanLandingham, and along with my wife Nicole, we are the adventure seekers behind EpicBend and EpicFrederick. I have been a travel enthusiast and outdoor lover for as long as I can remember.

I’ve combined these passions with my role as a digital storyteller, aiming to discover the best ways to enjoy life in these two amazing places and share these insights with others.

I spent my childhood living all over the United States and abroad, and also traveled extensively throughout my career as an adult. Today, I call Bend, Oregon, and Frederick, Maryland, home.

Local Insights on Bend, Oregon From Glenn

Twenty years ago, I discovered Bend while traveling in the Pacific Northwest, and I immediately fell in love with this Central Oregon paradise.

What draws me to Bend the most is its stunning scenery and the endless outdoor activities available.  But I also love the town of Bend, and I’m continually amazed by the community.

Glenn's Insider Knowledge of Frederick, Maryland

I’ve also called Frederick, Maryland home for four years.  I spent a significant part of my life in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic, so I am familiar with the region. 

Nicole and I moved to Frederick in 2021, and since then, we have visited nearly every venue, taken numerous day trips, and enjoyed various outdoor adventures throughout the region.

If you are a visitor or resident of Frederick, we can help you get the most out of this vibrant town.

Travel Junkie. Travel Expert.

As a child, my family traveled extensively around the world, and I have continued this habit into adulthood. I’ve visited every US state and over 30 countries, considering myself a “push the envelope” traveler.

This experience allows me to write articles about Bend and Frederick with visiting travelers in mind. I have a good understanding of the type of information you are likely seeking when visiting our towns.

Outdoor Enthusiast

Writing articles and being an influencer is enjoyable, but I would much rather be outdoors! Nicole and I stay busy with a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, and fly fishing.

This shared passion is one of the reasons we make a great couple and love living in both Bend and Frederick.

I’m also an avid (though somewhat mediocre – check my handicap) golfer.

For me, golf is more than just a game; it’s an experience. On this site, I share my reviews of Bend golf courses and Frederick golf courses for my fellow players.

Venue Reviews around Bend and Frederick

Another main reason we started this site to share with readers what we consider the BEST venues in Bend and Frederick. 

We love exploring new restaurants and bars around town, and Nicole and I have visited virtually every brewery, winery, and distillery in both areas.

On this site, I provide in-depth reviews of various venues, giving you insider knowledge from a local who has experienced these places firsthand.

Be sure to connect with me on social media for more adventures in Bend and Frederick, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Bend, Oregon Articles From Glenn

A clear, blue alpine lake is surrounded by green pine trees. Beyond the lake, a rugged mountain with patches of snow rises against a bright blue sky—classic scenery found on the best Bend hikes for those seeking peaceful wilderness.

Read Why the Green Lakes Hike Near Bend Oregon is the Can't Miss Hike in the Area. A Dreamy Mountain and

A calm lake in the foreground reflects a clear blue sky, with patches of green grass and scattered pine trees on the shore. In the background, two snow-patched mountains rise above dense forest—perfect for hikes near Bend Oregon in a serene, natural landscape.

Read about the best way to see Sparks Lake via the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail. This is a classic and stunning hike

A person climbs stone steps along a dry hillside under a clear blue sky—a classic scene from hikes near Bend Oregon. Below, a winding river flows past green grass, while tall, jagged rock formations and walking paths define the stunning landscape.

The Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park is one of the best day hikes around Bend Oregon.

On a recent flight to Bend Oregon, I connected in San Francisco. The flight from SFO to Redmond OR had some

Frederick, Maryland Articles From Glenn

A gray two-story house with a large brick chimney stands under a cloudy sky, resembling the charm of restaurants in Frederick MD. Outdoor tables with umbrellas and garden beds create an inviting patio, while glass doors reveal a warmly lit interior.

In This Article, We Share One Of Our Secret Places - Market Table Bistro in Lovettsville, Virginia

Everything Frederick LIVE is the home of Good Morning Frederick, a daily streaming show that recently hosted EpicFrederick!

Six bottles of Dangerous Summer spirits, featured at some of the best bars in Frederick, sit on a wooden barrel with vibrant labels. Barrels fill the background while a person in a gray shirt stands behind them, arms partially visible.

There's a New Rum Distillery in Fredrick That Everyone is Talking About - True Standard Distilling.

A blue wall with white text and baskets on it, creating a stylish backdrop often seen in unique restaurants in Frederick MD.

Read About the Joint We've Discovered With the Best Pupusas in Frederick - Que Chivo.

A wooden sign for Cunningham Falls State Park stands in a forested area near Mt Airy, MD. The sign features the Maryland Park Service logo, white oak leaves, and text for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, William Houck Area. Lush green trees surround it.

Cunningham Falls State Park is a Maryland Gem. Read our Ultimate Guide to This State Park Near Frederick.

If you plan on visiting Frederick, there's no shortage of great Airbnb, VRBO, and vacation rentals you can book. Check out

A weathered wooden post stands on a rocky forest trail, marking one of the best hikes around Frederick MD. Carved yellow text reads “CAT ROCK ELEV. 1562 FEET.” Green trees and tangled branches fill the background under soft daylight.

The Misery Trail up to Cat Rock is a Moderate Hike in Cunningham Falls State Park, with Rewarding Views at the Top.

The Must-Follow Social Media Accounts for Frederick, Maryland. Our list of the Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, Tiktok, and more accounts you MUST

A salad appetizer paired with Bordeaux Savignion Blanc wine. At The Tasting Room restaurant in downtown Frederick, MD.

The Tasting Room in Downtown Frederick, Maryland Delivers One of the Most Upscale Dining Experiences in Town.