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

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.

A close-up of a tray with four stemmed glasses of assorted beer at one of the best breweries in Frederick MD, each bearing the “Elder Pine” logo. The rustic, modern brewery features wood and metal décor with drinks ranging from red to amber and yellow.

An Outing from Frederick to Elder Pine Brewing is a Chance to Try Maybe the Best Craft Beer in Maryland.

Read all about the Distilleries Near Frederick, Maryland. See how these Frederick Distilleries represent Maryland's proud history in distilling spirits.

A person with light brown hair walks alone on a sunlit dirt trail through a tall, dense Mt Airy MD forest. They wear a black jacket tied around their waist. Sunlight filters through the pine trees, and a trail sign stands on the right.

Patuxent River State Park near Frederick is Lovely Area for Hiking or Mountain Biking. Read All You Need to Know.

The Frederick Keys Schedule for 2025, Plus Everything You Need to Know About Attending a Game at Nymeo Field.

Gravel and Grind in downtown Frederick, MD is a local coffee shop where you can both get breakfast and rent a bike

Everything to Know About Visiting McClintock Distilling in Frederick, MD. This Craft Distillery is a Showcase for Maryland Spirits.